2012 Mazda 5 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes of the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2012 Mazda 5 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Tire Leaking Air
0%
30% chance it's the
Wheel Leaking Air
0%
15% chance it's the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2012 Mazda 5 tire pressure warning light stays on are a leaking tire, a wheel that no longer holds air, or a faulty tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Tire Leaking Air: A puncture, valve stem issue, or rim damage can cause a tire to leak air, leading to loss of pressure.
  • Wheel Leaking Air: A puncture or damage to the tire or rim can cause air to leak, resulting in a loss of tire pressure.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system can be caused by faulty sensors or a dead battery in the sensor units.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2012 Mazda 5 tire pressure warning light stays on?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

When a tire pressure monitoring sensor fails, the tire pressure monitoring system control module will recognize a loss in communication and turn on the warning lamp which indicates the failure. This is most often the case. However, the tire pressure monitoring sensor may also fail by reporting incorrect tire pressures. This could cause a flat tire to go unrecognized, or a properly inflated tire to signal a low or high tire pressure warning.

When a relearn is needed, for any reason, the TPMS warning light will illuminate, and many vehicles will display a message relating to the TPMS system being inoperative or loosing communication. It is important to keep a watchful eye on tire pressures when this system is having issues because there is no warning available for underinflation or overinflation of the tires.

Wheels offer very few symptoms, but these symptoms should never be ignored. Visible cracks on the wheels may appear, especially after hitting a large bump, Most often, this will also be accompanied by loss of air from the tire on that wheel. Also, vibration in the steering wheel is very common when the tire is out of balance, and improper wheel nuts or bolts can cause creaking and popping noises to develop. Again, there are very few symptoms, but they should not be ignored.

The only symptoms requiring diagnosis for the tire pressure monitoring system warning lamp is if the warning lamp has illuminated while the tires have correct air pressure, or if the air pressure for the tires is out of specification and the warning lamp is off. This is because the overwhelming majority of cases where the TPMS lamp illuminates is due to the change in ambient temperature.

What steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in my 2012 Mazda 5?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2012 Mazda 5, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the levels recommended in your vehicle's manual. This initial step can often resolve the warning light if the pressure was simply low. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a more serious problem. If the tires appear to be in good condition, consider resetting the tire pressure monitoring system, as temporary fluctuations can sometimes trigger the warning light. Additionally, examine the valve stems for leaks or damage, as faulty stems can lead to pressure loss. If these steps do not resolve the issue and the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a mechanic for a professional diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the tire pressure warning light, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2012 Mazda 5?

When the tire pressure warning light remains on in a 2012 Mazda 5, it can be attributed to several common problems that are relatively easy to diagnose and address. The most frequent cause is low tire pressure, which can be quickly resolved by checking and inflating the tires to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the tire pressure is adequate, the issue may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could require replacement to restore proper functionality. Additionally, sensor calibration issues can arise, necessitating a recalibration process to ensure accurate readings. Electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system can also trigger the warning light, so inspecting the wiring and connections is advisable. Lastly, if the vehicle's battery has recently been replaced, it may be necessary to reset the system or relearn the sensors to extinguish the warning light. By systematically addressing these potential issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light concern in their Mazda 5.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2012 Mazda 5?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in a 2012 Mazda 5 is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. Low tire pressure can severely compromise vehicle handling and stability, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this warning can lead to uneven tire wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also raises the risk of a blowout while driving. Additionally, underinflated tires can negatively impact fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. Ensuring that your tires are properly inflated is essential for optimal vehicle performance, especially in emergency situations or challenging driving conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to check and adjust your tire pressure promptly or consult a professional if the warning light persists, as timely action can prevent serious safety hazards and costly repairs.

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