2012 Mazda 6 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2012 Mazda 6: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 6 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 6 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 are the initial steps to diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on a 2012 Mazda 6?

To effectively diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on your 2012 Mazda 6, start with the most straightforward step: checking the tire pressure. Ensure that all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, as low pressure is a frequent culprit for triggering the warning light. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could also be contributing to the issue. If the tires appear to be in good condition, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) following the manufacturer's instructions; this can often recalibrate the sensors and resolve minor glitches. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any leaks or damage that might be causing the warning light to activate. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider using a diagnostic tool to scan for fault codes related to the TPMS, as this can provide more insight into the underlying problem. By following this structured approach, you can systematically address the warning light and ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

What are the common problems that could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2012 Mazda 6?

When the tire pressure warning light remains on in your 2012 Mazda 6, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue. One of the primary culprits is low tire pressure, which can occur due to a slow leak, temperature fluctuations, or natural air loss over time. Before diving deeper, check each tire's pressure with a reliable gauge to ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate, the problem may lie with the tire pressure sensor itself. A faulty sensor can give inaccurate readings, keeping the warning light on even when tire pressure is normal. Additionally, consider the sensor batteries; if they are low or dead, this can lead to sensor malfunctions. In some cases, the sensor may simply need recalibration or a reset, especially if the light persists after addressing tire pressure. Lastly, electrical issues within the tire pressure monitoring system or the vehicle's broader electrical system can also trigger the warning light. By systematically checking these potential issues, you can often identify the cause and take appropriate action, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and efficient on the road.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2012 Mazda 6?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2012 Mazda 6 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. When this warning light remains illuminated, it indicates that your tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This lack of proper tire pressure can lead to dangerous driving conditions, especially during sudden stops or sharp turns. Furthermore, neglecting to check your tire pressure can result in uneven tire wear, significantly shortening the lifespan of your tires and increasing the risk of a blowout while on the road. Additionally, underinflated tires can negatively impact your fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. Therefore, it is essential to regularly monitor your tire pressure and make necessary adjustments or consult a professional if the warning light persists. Ignoring this warning not only jeopardizes your safety but can also lead to costly repairs and replacements down the line.

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2012 Mazda 6 Tire Pressure Warning Light Guide | RepairPal