2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata for Optimal Tire Health

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2018 Mazda MX-5 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 2018 Mazda MX-5 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.

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 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

To effectively diagnose a persistent tire pressure warning light on your 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata, begin with the simplest and most accessible steps. First, manually check the tire pressure of all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring that each tire is inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. This information can typically be found in your owner's manual or on a sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb. Next, conduct a thorough visual inspection of each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, or bulges, as these can lead to air loss and trigger the warning light. Additionally, look for any foreign objects embedded in the tire tread, like nails or screws, which may cause slow leaks. If the tire pressure is correct and no visible damage is found, consider resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to recalibrate the sensors; instructions for this can be found in your vehicle's manual. If the warning light remains illuminated, it may indicate a malfunctioning TPMS sensor, which would require further inspection. By following these initial steps, you can effectively troubleshoot the issue and determine whether a simple fix is possible or if professional assistance is needed.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata, it’s crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. The most frequent cause is low tire pressure, which can easily be checked with a tire pressure gauge. Ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, as even a slight deficiency can trigger the warning light. If the pressure is adequate, consider the possibility of a faulty tire pressure sensor; these sensors can malfunction and fail to provide accurate readings. In some cases, the sensors may require recalibration, which can often be done at home with the right tools or may necessitate a visit to a mechanic. Additionally, inspect the vehicle’s electrical system and wiring connected to the tire pressure monitoring system, as any issues here can also lead to persistent warning lights. Lastly, if you’ve recently replaced your car battery, the system may need a reset to clear the warning. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot the tire pressure warning light and ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

What immediate steps should be taken if the tire pressure warning light remains on in a 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata, it is crucial to act promptly to avoid serious safety risks and potential damage to your vehicle. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased handling, increased tire wear, and even blowouts, which can compromise your safety on the road. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires with a reliable gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels found in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb. If you discover any tires are underinflated, use an air compressor to bring them up to the correct PSI. Additionally, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges, as these issues can exacerbate the problem. Once you have adjusted the tire pressure and addressed any visible damage, reset the tire pressure monitoring system according to your vehicle's manual. If the warning light persists despite these efforts, it is essential to seek professional assistance to prevent further complications. Taking these immediate steps not only enhances your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety while driving.

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