warning light MAZDA MODEL MX-5 MIATA RF 2021 Owners Manual

SignalWarning
Electronic Brake Force
Distribution System Wa r n i n g If the electronic brake force di
stribution control unit determines that some compo‐
nents are operating incorrectly , the control unit may illuminate the brake system
warning light and the ABS warni ng light simultaneously. The problem is likely to be
the electronic brake force distribution system.
WA R N I N G
Do not drive with both the ABS warning light and brake warning light illuminated.
Have the vehicle towed to an Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the brakes inspected as
soon as possible:
Driving when the brake system warning li ght and ABS warning light are illuminated
simultaneously is dangerous.
When both lights are illuminate d, the rear wheels could lock more quickly in an emer‐
gency stop than under normal circumstances.
Charging System Warn‐ ing Indication/Warning Light If the warning light illuminates while driving, it indicates a
malfunction of the alter‐
nator or of the charging system.
Drive to the side of the road and park off the right-of-way. Co nsult an Authorized
Mazda Dealer.
CAUTION
Do not continue driving when the charging system warning light is illuminated be‐
cause the engine could stop unexpectedly.
Engine Oil Warning Light This warning light indicates low engine oil pressure.
CAUTION
Do not run the engine if the oil pressure is
low. Otherwise, it could result in extensive
engine damage.
If the light illuminates or the w arning indication is displayed while driving:
1. Drive to the side of the road and park off the right-of-way o n level ground.
2. Turn off the engine and wait 5 minutes for the oil to drain b ack into the oil pan.
3. Inspect the engine oil level (p age 6-21). If it's low, add the appropriate amount of
engine oil while being careful not to overfill.
CAUTION
Do not run the engine if the oil level is low. Otherwise, it could result in extensive
engine damage.
4. Start the engine and check the warning light.

If the light remains illuminated even though the oil level is normal or after adding oil,
stop the engine immediately and have your vehicle towed to an Authorized Mazda
Dealer.
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
7-34
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01

SignalWarning
(Red)
High Engine Coolant
Temperature Warning Indication/Warning
Light The light flashes when the engine coolant temperature is extrem
ely high, and illumi‐
nates when the engine coolant temperature increases further.
Handling Procedure
Flashing light
Drive slowly to reduce engine l oad until you can find a safe place to stop the vehicle
and wait for the engine to cool down.
Illuminated light
This indicates the possibility of overheating. Park the vehicle in a safe place immedi‐
ately and stop the engine.
Refer to Overheating on page 7-27.
CAUTION
Do not drive the vehicle with the high engi ne coolant temperature warning light illumi‐
nated. Otherwise, it could resu lt in damage to the engine.
Power Steering Mal‐
function Indication*
The message is displayed if the electric power steering has a m alfunction.
If the message is displayed, stop the vehicle in a safe place a nd do not operate the
steering wheel. There is no probl em if the message in the display turns off after a
while. Contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer if the message is dis played continuously.
NOTE
If the message is displayed, the power steering will not operate normally. In this
case, the steering wheel can still be op erated, however, the operation may feel
heavy compared to normal, or the steer ing wheel could vibrate when turning.
Repeatedly jerking the steering wheel left and right while the vehicle is stopped or
moving extremely slowly will cause the power steering system to go into protective
mode which will make the steerin g feel heavy, but this does not indicate a problem.
If this occurs, park the vehicle safely and wait several minutes for the system to
return to normal.
Power Steering Mal‐ function Indicator
Light
*
The light illuminates/flashes if the electric power steering ha s a malfunction.
If the light illuminates/flashes, stop the vehicle in a safe pl ace and do not operate the
steering wheel. There is no problem if the light turns off afte r a while. Contact an Au‐
thorized Mazda Dealer if the lig ht illuminates/flashes continuously.
NOTE
If the indicator light illuminates/flashes, the power steering will not operate nor‐
mally. If this happens, the steering wheel can still be operated, however, the opera‐
tion may feel heavy compared to normal , or the steering wheel could vibrate when
turning.
Repeatedly jerking the steering wheel left and right while the vehicle is stopped or
moving extremely slowly will cause the power steering system to go into protective
mode which will make the steerin g feel heavy, but this does not indicate a problem.
If this occurs, park the vehicle safely and wait several minutes for the system to
return to normal.
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
*Some models.7-35
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01

▼Contact Authorized Mazda Deal
er and Have Vehicle Inspected
If any of the following warning lights o r the indicator light turns on/flashes, the system may
have a malfunction. Contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer to have your vehicle inspected.
SignalWarning
Master Warning In‐
dication/Warning
Light
*
Type A instrument cluster
(Master warning indication)
Displays when notification of the system malfunctions is required.
Check the message indicated in th e display and consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
(Master warning light)
The master warning light display s when a warning message occurs.
This indicates a malfunction with the vehicle system. Check the message indicated in the
display and consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
For details, refer to the explanations for the warning/indicato r lights, in the warning/indi‐
cator lights section, which match the symbol in the upper part of the display.
If a message is not indicated in the display, operate the INFO switch to display the “Warn‐
ing” screen.
Refer to Message Indicated in Mu lti-information Display and INFO switch on page 4-19.
Type B instrument cluster
The light illuminates continuously if any one of the following occurs. Consult an Author‐
ized Mazda Dealer.
There is a malfunction in the battery management system.There is a malfunction in the brake switch.
Electric Vacuum
Pump Warning Light The light turns on if the electric vacuum pump system has a pro
blem. Have your vehicle
inspected at an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
ABS Warning Light If the ABS warning light stays
on while you're driving, the ABS control unit has detected
a system malfunction. If this occurs, your brakes will function normally as if the vehicle
had no ABS.
Should this happen, consult an A uthorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.
NOTE
When the engine is jump-started to charge the battery, uneven rpm occurs and the ABS
warning light may illuminate. If this occurs, it is the result of the weak battery and does
not indicate an ABS malfunction.
Recharge the battery.
The brake assist system does not operate while the ABS warning light is illuminated.
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
7-36*Some models.
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01

SignalWarning
Check Engine LightIf this light illuminates while dr
iving, the vehicle may have a problem. It is important to
note the driving conditions when the light illuminated and cons ult an Authorized Mazda
Dealer.
The check engine light may illumi nate in the following cases:
The engine's electrical system has a problem.The emission control system has a problem.The fuel tank level being very low or approaching empty.The fuel-filler cap is missing or not tightened securely.
If the check engine light remains on, or it flashes continuously , do not drive at high
speeds and consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.
Automatic Trans‐
mission Indication/
Warning Light
*
The indication/light illuminates when the transmission has a pr oblem.
CAUTION
If the automatic transmission warning indication/light illuminates, the transmission has an
electrical problem. Continuing to drive your Mazda in this condition could cause damage to
your transmission. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.
(Turns on)
TCS/DSC Indicator Light If the light stays on, the TCS, DSC or the brake assist system
may have a malfunction and
they may not operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an Authori zed Mazda Dealer.
Air Bag/Seat Belt
Pretensioner System Warning Light A system malfunction is indicated
if the warning light constantly flashes, constantly illu‐
minates or does not illuminate a t all when the ignition is switched ON. If any of these oc‐
cur, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible. The system may not operate
in an accident.WA R N I N G
Never tamper with the air bag/pretensioner systems and always have an Authorized Mazda
Dealer perform all servicing and repairs:
Self-servicing or tampering with the systems is dangerous. An air bag/pretensioner could
accidentally activate or become disabled causing serious injury or death.
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
*Some models.7-37
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01

SignalWarning
(Flashing)
Tire Pressure Moni‐ toring System
Warning Light If the tire pressure monitoring s
ystem has a malfunction, the tire pressure warning light
flashes. Have your vehicle check ed by an Authorized Mazda Deale r as soon as possible.
WARNING
If the tire pressure monitoring system warning light illuminates or
flashes, or the tire pres‐
sure warning beep sound is heard, decrease vehicle speed immediately and avoid sudden
maneuvering and braking:
If the tire pressure monitoring system warning light illuminates or flashes, or the tire pres‐
sure warning beep sound is heard, it is dang erous to drive the vehicle at high speeds, or
perform sudden maneuver ing or braking. Vehicle drivabilit y could worsen and result in an
accident.
To determine if you have a slow leak or a flat, pull over to a safe position where you can
check the visual condition of the tire and determine if you have enough air to proceed to a
place where air may be added and the system monitored again by an Authorized Mazda
Dealer or a tire repair station.
Do not ignore the TPMS Warning Light:
Ignoring the TPMS warning light is dangerous, even if you know why it is illuminated. Have
the problem taken care of as soon as possible before it develops into a more serious situa‐
tion that could lead to tire failure and a dangerous accident.
(Amber)
KEY Warning Indi‐
cation
*
“Keyless System malfunction” is displayed
This message is displayed if the advanced keyless entry & push button start system has a
problem.
Contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
CAUTION
If the message is indicate d, or the push button star t indicator light (amber)
flashes, the en‐
gine may not start. If the engine cannot be started, try starting it using the emergency oper‐
ation for starting the engine, and have the vehicle inspected at an Authorized Mazda Deal‐
er as soon as possible.
Refer to Emergency Operation for St arting the Engine on page 4-10.
“Ignition is on” is displayed
This message is displayed when the driver's door is opened with out switching the ignition
off.
“Key not detected” is displayed
This message is displayed when any of the following operations is performed with the key
out of the operational range or placed in areas inside the cabi n where it is difficult for the
key to be detected.
The push button start is presse d with the ignition switched offThe ignition is switched onAll doors are closed without switching the ignition off
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
7-38*Some models.
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01

SignalWarning
(Red)
(Turns on)
KEY Warning
Light
*
If any malfunction occurs in the keyless entry system, it illuminates continuously.
CAUTION
If the key warning indicator light illuminates or the push button start indicator light (amber)
flashes, the engine may not start. If the engine cannot be started, try starting it using the
emergency operation for starting the engine, and have the vehicle inspected at an Author‐
ized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.
Refer to Emergency Operation for Starting the Engine on page 4- 10.
(Turns on)
Lane Departure
Wa r n i n g S y s t e m
(LDWS) Warning
Indication/Warning
Light
*
The warning indication/warning light illuminates if there is a problem with the system.
Have your vehicle inspected at an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
The LDWS does not operate when the warning indication/warning l ight illuminates.
CAUTION
A problem in the system may be indicated under the following conditions. Have your ve‐
hicle inspected at an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
When the warning indication/warning light illuminates while driving the vehicle.
When the system is canceled automatically, the warning indication/warning light illu‐
minates. Normally, the system restores automatically and the warning indication/
warning light turns off, however, if the wa rning indication/warning light illuminates,
there may be a problem with the system.
 The warning indication/warning light does no t illuminate when the ignition is switch‐
ed ON.
 Always use tires for all wheels that are of the specified size, and the same manufacture,
brand, and tread pattern. In addition, do not use tires with significantly different wear
patterns on the same vehicle. If such improper tires are used, the LDWS may not operate
normally.
 When an emergency spare tire is used, the system may not operate normally.
NOTE
If the windshield area in front of the Fo rward Sensing Camera (FSC) is fogged or ob ‐
structed, the light turns on temporarily. If the light remains turned on, there may be a
problem with the system.
(Amber)
High Beam Control System (HBC)
Warning Indication/
Warning Light
*
The warning indication/warning light illuminates if there is a problem with the system.
Have your vehicle inspected a t an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
If the windshield area in front of the Fo rward Sensing Camera (FSC) is fogged or ob ‐
structed, the warning in dication/warning light illuminates temporarily. If the warning in ‐
dication/warning light illuminates, ther e may be a problem with the system.
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
*Some models.7-39
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01

SignalWarning
Blind Spot Monitor‐
ing (BSM) Warning
Indication
*
The message is displayed when the system has a malfunction. Have your vehicle inspect‐
ed by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
If the vehicle is driven on a road with less traffic and few vehicles that the radar sensors
can detect, the system may pause. How ever, it does not indicate a malfunction.
Blind Spot Monitor‐
ing (BSM) OFF In‐
dicator Light
*
A problem in the system may be indicated under the following co nditions.
Have your vehicle inspected at an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
The light does not tur n on when the ignition is switched ON.The light remains on even when the Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system can be oper‐
ated.
The light turns on while driving the vehicle.
NOTE
If the vehicle is driven on a road with less traffic and few vehicles that the radar sensors
can detect, the system may pause (The Blin d Spot Monitoring (BSM) OFF indicator light
in the instrument cluster illuminates). Ho wever, it does not indicate a malfunction.
Retractable Hardtop
Warning Indication*
The message is displayed when the system has a malfunction. Have your vehicle inspect‐
ed by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
LED Headlight Warning Light This light illuminates if there
is a malfunction in the LED hea dlight. Have your vehicle
inspected by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
▼ Taking Action
Take the appropriate action and verify that the warning light t
urns off.
SignalWarning Action to be taken
(Amber)
Smart City Brake Sup‐ port (SCBS) Warning
Light
*
The light turns on if the windshield is dirty
or there is a malfunction in the system. Verify the reason why the warning light is
illuminated on the center display.
If the reason why the warning light is illu‐
minated is due to a dirty windshield, clean
the windshield.
For any other reasons, have the vehicle in‐
spected at an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
7-40*Some models.
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old
2020-8-28 13:50:01

SignalWarning Action to be taken
Seat Belt Warning
Light The seat belt warning light turns on if the
driver or passenger's seat is occupied and
the seat belt is not fastened with the ignition
switched ON.
If the driver or passenger's seat belt is un‐
fastened (only when the passenger's seat is
occupied) and the vehicle is driven at a
speed faster than about 20 km/h (12 mph),
the warning light flash
es. After a short time,
the warning light stops flashing, but re‐
mains illuminated.
NOTE
The warning light flashes for about 6
seconds if the driver's seat belt is not fas ‐
tened when the ignition is switched ON.
To allow the passenger occupant classifi ‐
cation sensor to function properly, do not
place and sit on an additional seat cush ‐
ion on the passenger's seat. The sensor
may not function properly because the
additional seat cushion could cause sen ‐
sor interference.
If a small child is seated on the passeng ‐
er's seat, the warning light may not oper ‐
ate. Fasten the seat belts.
Door-Ajar/Trunk
lid-Ajar Warning Indi‐ cation/Warning Light The light turns on if any door/trunk lid is
not closed securely.
Close the door/tr
unk lid securely.
Low Fuel Warning
Light The light turns on when the remaining fuel
is about 9.0 L (2.3 US gal, 1.9 Imp gal).
NOTE
The light illumination timing may vary be
‐
cause fuel inside the fuel tank moves
around according to the driving conditions
and the vehicle posture. Add fuel.
Check Fuel Cap Warn‐
ing Light If the check fuel cap warning light illumi‐
nates while driving, the fuel-filler cap may
not be installed properly.
Stop the engine and rein
stall the fuel-filler
cap.
Refer to Refueling on page 3-25
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
7-41
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01

SignalWarning Action to be taken
Low Washer Fluid
Level Warning Indica‐
tion/Warning Light
*
This warning light indicates that little wash‐
er fluid remains. Add washer fluid (page 6-24).

Tire Pressure Monitoring Sys
tem Warning Light (Turns on)
Take the appropriate action and verify that the warning light t urns off.
Wa r n i n g
When the warning light illuminate s, and the warning beep sound is heard when tire pressure is too low in one or
more tires.
WA R N I N G
If the tire pressure monitoring system warning light illuminates or flashes, or the tire pressure warning beep sound
is heard, decrease vehicle speed immediately and avoid sudden maneuvering and braking:
If the tire pressure monitoring system warning light illumin ates or flashes, or the tire pressure warning beep sound
is heard, it is dangerous to drive the vehicle at high speeds, or perform sudden maneuvering or braking. Vehicle
drivability could worsen and result in an accident.
To determine if you have a slow leak or a flat, pull over to a safe position where you can check the visual condition
of the tire and determine if you have enough air to proceed to a place where air may be added and the system
monitored again by an Authorized Mazda Dealer or a tire repair station.
Do not ignore the TPMS Warning Light:
Ignoring the TPMS warning light is da ngerous, even if you know why it is illuminated. Have the problem taken
care of as soon as possible before it develops into a more serious situation that could lead to tire failure and a
dangerous accident.
If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
7-42*Some models.
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01

Action to be taken
Inspect the tires and adjust to the specified inflation pressur e (page 6-34).
CAUTION
When replacing/repairing the tires or wheels or both, have the work done by an Authorized Mazda Dealer, or the
tire pressure sens ors may be damaged.
NOTE
Perform tire pressure adjustment when the tires are cold . Tire pressure will vary according to the tire temper‐
ature, therefore let the vehicle stand for 1 hour or only drive it 1.6 km (1 mile) or less before adjusting the
tire pressures. When pressure is adjusted on hot tires to the cold inflation pressure, the TPMS warning light/
beep may turn on after the tires cool and pressure drops below specification.
Also, an illuminated TPMS warning light, resulting from the tire air pressure dropping due to cold ambient
temperature, may turn off if the ambient temperature rises. In this case, it will also be necessary to adjust the
tire air pressures. If the TPMS warnin g light illuminates due to a drop in tire air pressure, make sure to check
and adjust the tire air pressures.
After adjusting the tire air pressures, it may require some time for the TPMS warning light to turn off. If the
TPMS warning light remains illuminate d, drive the vehicle at a speed of at least 25 km/h (16 mph) for 10
minutes, and then verify that it turns off.
Tires lose air naturally over time and the TPMS cannot tell if the tires are getting too soft over time or you
have a flat. However, when you find one low tire in a set of four-that is an indication of trouble; you should
have someone drive the vehicle slowly forward so you can inspect any low tire for cuts and any metal objects
sticking through tread or sidewall. Put a few drops of water in the valve stem to see if it bubbles indicating a
bad valve. Leaks need to be addr essed by more than simply refilling the trouble tire as leaks are dangerous
― take it to an Authorized Mazda Dealer which has all the equipment to fix tires, TPMS systems and order
the best replacement tire for your vehicle.
If the warning light illuminates again even after the tire pressures are adjusted, there may be a tire puncture.

If Trouble Arises
Warning/Indicator Lights and Warning Sounds
7-43
MX-5_8JS9-EA-20K_Edition1_old 2020-8-28 13:50:01