What to do When the TPMS Light Starts Flashing on Your Mazda

When the TPMS light starts flashing on your Mazda, it’s important not to ignore it. Most modern Mazda’s such as the CX-5 come with TPMS sensors pre-installed. It is designed to warn you about issues that could affect safety and handling. The TPMS display on your screen illuminates a low tyre pressure telltale when one or more of your tyres is significantly under-inflated. If you see this, please inspect the tyre as soon as it is safe to do this for punctures or damage. In most, it will be fine unless the pressure drop is sudden. This is because tyres naturally lose air pressure over time. All you need to do is top up the air pressure to the recommended levels.

In other cases, the flashing TPMS light may indicate that the sensor batteries are running low. TPMS sensors are battery powered and naturally wear out over time. If this happens, it may be time to replace the affected sensors to restore accurate real-time tyre monitoring. In your Mazda, the TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tyre pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction (often due to low battery), the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated.

Can You Just Leave the TPMS Light On?

Technically, yes - you can choose to leave the TPMS warning light on if the issue is related to faulty sensors or low sensor batteries rather than an actual tyre problem. Many drivers continue using their Mazda without immediately replacing the sensors especially if the vehicle is driving normally and the tyres are regularly checked manually.

If you are mainly driving around town under normal conditions, you can generally manage without TPMS assistance. The risks are usually lower when you are not off-roading, towing loads or travelling at high highway speeds. However, it’s still important to routinely inspect your tyre pressures yourself, as underinflated tyres can reduce fuel efficiency, increase tyre wear and affect braking and handling performance.

For drivers who frequently travel long distances, tow caravans or trailers or drive in demanding conditions, having a working TPMS is strongly recommended for added safety.

Replacing the TPMS with OEM Sensors

The simplest ways to fix a flashing TPMS light on your Mazda is by replacing the faulty sensors with Mazda OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) sensors. OEM means they’re designed specifically for your vehicle so you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues.

Once done, the system will continue working exactly like it did before. The tyre pressure readings and warning alerts will feel completely factory standard, maintaining the original Mazda driving experience.

Using an Aftermarket TPMS

Another option is replacing the factory system with an aftermarket TPMS. Modern aftermarket TPMS kits are often cheaper than OEM replacements while still providing equal if not better accurate real-time tyre pressure and temperature monitoring.

One of the biggest advantages of aftermarket TPMS systems is the flexibility they provide. Unlike OEM systems that rely on internal sensors mounted inside the tyre, many aftermarket kits allow you to use external DIY sensors that simply screw onto the tyre valve stems. These are much easier to install, require no tyre removal and can be paired or replaced without specialist equipment.

Aftermarket TPMS systems also come with their own display monitor, allowing you to position it wherever is most convenient. This gives drivers more control over how they monitor their tyre data.