Mazda Miata Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your Mazda Miata and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
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 Mazda Miata 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 Mazda Miata 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.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Mazda Miata

When troubleshooting the tire pressure warning light in your Mazda Miata, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the tire pressures of all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, typically around 29 psi when cold. If the pressures are correct, locate the TPMS reset button under the steering wheel and press it until the light blinks three times, then start the vehicle and let it run for about 20 minutes. If the light remains on, consider using a TPMS diagnostic scanner to identify any error codes or faulty sensors, which can provide deeper insights into the issue. Additionally, if you suspect the light is on erroneously, try driving at or above 50 mph for 10 minutes, as this can sometimes reset the system. By following these steps, you can effectively address the tire pressure warning light and ensure your Mazda Miata is safe and road-ready.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Mazda Miata

When dealing with the tire pressure warning light in your Mazda Miata, it's essential to understand the common problems that may trigger this alert. One frequent issue is tire leaks, which can occur due to punctures or valve stem failures, leading to a gradual loss of air pressure. Additionally, the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) itself can malfunction, often due to a dead battery in the TPMS sensor or a faulty sensor that fails to communicate accurate pressure readings. Another common scenario is incorrect tire pressure settings; if your tires are not inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, the TPMS will activate the warning light. Furthermore, environmental factors such as temperature changes can affect tire pressure, causing fluctuations that may trigger the alert. By being aware of these potential issues, you can take proactive steps to diagnose and resolve the tire pressure warning light, ensuring your Mazda Miata remains safe and roadworthy.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Mazda Miata?

When the Tire Pressure Warning Light remains illuminated in your Mazda Miata, it is crucial to take immediate action. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, as low tire pressure can significantly affect traction and handling. Additionally, a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) may indicate deeper issues, such as a depleted sensor battery or a damaged pressure sensor, which could compromise your vehicle's safety features. Regularly checking your tire pressure and addressing any discrepancies not only enhances your driving experience but also prolongs the life of your tires. By prioritizing these checks, you can prevent increased tire wear and the risk of tire failure, ensuring that your Miata remains safe and reliable on the road.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.