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2017 MX-5 Miata Random Dash Warning Lights & Power Window Glitch

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Steve N. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:50 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring

My 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring has developed some strange electrical quirks. Occasionally, while driving, I'll get a flurry of warning lights on the dash – ABS, Traction Control, and even the power steering light sometimes. They usually go away after a few minutes or after restarting the car.

Also, the driver's side power window sometimes stops working or goes down very slowly. It's not consistent, but it's annoying when it happens. Could this be a ground issue, a failing battery, or something with the main computer? I'm worried about driving it if these systems are intermittently failing.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:50 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Random multiple warning lights on the dash, especially involving ABS, Traction Control, and Power Steering, coupled with power window issues, strongly suggest a common underlying electrical problem. This often points to issues with the vehicle's power supply, grounding, or communication between modules.

Here are the most likely causes:

  1. Weak Battery or Alternator: A failing battery or an alternator that isn't consistently providing enough voltage can cause all sorts of electrical gremlins. Modern cars are very sensitive to voltage fluctuations. When voltage drops, modules can lose communication or report errors. You might see codes like P0562 (System Voltage Low).
  2. Poor Ground Connections: Corroded, loose, or damaged ground straps/wires are a very common cause of intermittent electrical problems. A poor ground can lead to erratic behavior in multiple circuits, including sensors and power windows.
  3. Wheel Speed Sensors: The ABS and Traction Control systems rely heavily on wheel speed sensors. If one or more sensors are faulty, dirty, or have damaged wiring, it can trigger these warning lights. While this might not directly cause the window issue, it's a common cause for those specific dash lights.
  4. Module Communication Issues (CAN Bus): All these systems communicate over the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN bus). If there's an issue with the CAN bus wiring or a specific module is failing and disrupting communication, it can cause a cascade of warning lights. You might see 'U' codes (e.g., U0121 - Lost Communication with ABS Control Module).
  5. Power Window Motor/Regulator: The slow or intermittent power window could be a separate issue with the motor or regulator itself, or it could be related to the general electrical instability.

When to see a shop:

  • Immediately: Intermittent ABS and power steering warnings are safety concerns. You should have this diagnosed as soon as possible.
  • For Comprehensive Diagnosis: A professional shop or Mazda dealership can perform a thorough electrical system check, including:
    • Battery load test and alternator output test.
    • Inspection of main ground points and wiring harnesses.
    • A full scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from all modules (not just the engine). The 'U' codes and 'C' codes (chassis codes like C1119 for wheel speed sensor issues) will be crucial for diagnosis.

Given the multiple, seemingly unrelated issues, a systematic approach to diagnosing the core electrical system is necessary.

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