Mazda RX-8 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8 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.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Mazda RX-8

When faced with a tire pressure warning light in your Mazda RX-8, start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended 32 PSI when cold. If the pressure is correct, inspect each tire for visible signs of damage or punctures that could be causing air loss. If no issues are found, consider resetting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by turning off the ignition, inflating the tires to the correct pressure, and pressing the brake pedal to clear any faults. If the light remains illuminated, disconnecting the negative battery terminal for a minute may help reset the vehicle's computer system. Understanding the difference between a solid and blinking TPMS light is also crucial, as it can indicate varying levels of urgency regarding tire issues. By systematically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively troubleshoot the warning light and maintain the safety and performance of your Mazda RX-8.

Troubleshooting Tire Pressure Warning Light in a Mazda RX-8

When dealing with a tire pressure warning light in your Mazda RX-8, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be causing the alert. One of the primary culprits is a leaking tire, which can lead to a gradual loss of air pressure. Additionally, if a wheel is unable to hold air, it may trigger the warning light even if the tire appears inflated. Another frequent issue is a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor, which can erroneously signal low pressure despite the tires being adequately inflated. To ensure your tires are at the correct pressure, check that they are set to 32 PSI when cold, as the TPMS is designed to activate if the pressure drops below 26 PSI or exceeds 49 PSI. If the light remains illuminated after confirming proper tire pressure, consider resetting the TPMS by disconnecting the negative battery terminal for about a minute. This can help clear any faults in the system. However, if the warning light persists, it may be necessary to use a diagnostic tool to scan the TPMS sensors for any defects. By understanding these common issues and following the appropriate troubleshooting steps, you can effectively manage the tire pressure warning light and maintain the safety and performance of your Mazda RX-8.

Why is the Tire Pressure Warning Light Staying On in a Mazda RX-8?

When the Tire Pressure Warning Light remains illuminated in your Mazda RX-8, it is essential to address the issue promptly to avoid potential safety hazards and costly repairs. Ignoring this warning can lead to driving on under-inflated tires, which increases the risk of tire blowouts and can compromise vehicle handling. Start by checking the tire pressure with a reliable gauge and inflate the tires to the manufacturer's recommended levels. If the light persists after adjusting the pressure, it may indicate a malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) or a faulty sensor. In such cases, resetting the TPMS may be necessary, which can often be done by following specific procedures outlined in your vehicle's manual. Remember, tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes, so regular checks are crucial, especially after long drives or significant temperature shifts. Taking these steps not only ensures your safety but also prolongs the life of your tires and enhances overall vehicle performance.

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