2016 Mazda CX-3 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2016 Mazda CX-3 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2016 Mazda CX-3 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 2016 Mazda CX-3 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.

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 2016 Mazda CX-3?

When diagnosing the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2016 Mazda CX-3, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring that the readings align with the recommended PSI found in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb. Next, inspect each tire for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a leak. If you find that any tires are underinflated, add air accordingly, or release air from those that are overinflated to achieve the correct pressure. After adjusting the tire pressure, you may need to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) through your vehicle's settings or by following the instructions in the manual. To complete the process, take your vehicle for a short drive, allowing the TPMS to recalibrate and check if the warning light has turned off. If the light remains illuminated despite these efforts, it may be time to seek assistance from a professional mechanic or a Mazda dealership for further evaluation. This methodical approach not only helps in effectively diagnosing the issue but also ensures that you address the simplest fixes first, potentially saving time and resources.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2016 Mazda CX-3?

When the tire pressure warning light remains on in your 2016 Mazda CX-3, it’s essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. The most frequent culprit is low tire pressure, which can easily be checked and adjusted using a tire pressure gauge. If the pressure is within the recommended range and the light persists, the issue may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which might require replacement. Additionally, the sensors may need recalibration to ensure they are accurately reading the tire pressure; this is often a task best handled by a professional. Electrical faults within the tire pressure monitoring system can also trigger the warning light, necessitating a thorough inspection of the system’s wiring and connections. Lastly, external factors such as dirt or debris obstructing the sensors can interfere with their operation, so keeping the area around the sensors clean is crucial. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light concern in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on my 2016 Mazda CX-3?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on your 2016 Mazda CX-3 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to dangerous driving conditions, including reduced traction and an increased risk of tire blowouts, particularly in challenging weather or at high speeds. Furthermore, driving on improperly inflated tires can result in uneven wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also negatively impacts your vehicle's fuel efficiency, leading to higher costs over time. Proper tire inflation is essential for maintaining optimal vehicle performance, affecting everything from braking distance to overall handling. By promptly addressing the tire pressure warning light, you can prevent potential damage to your tires and wheels, ensuring a safer and more efficient driving experience. Therefore, it is crucial to take this warning seriously and act swiftly to maintain your vehicle's safety and performance.

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2016 Mazda CX-3 Tire Pressure Warning Light Causes & Fixes