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How do you reset the TPMS sensor on a Acura?

The TPMS reset on most Acura models is accomplished by calibrating the system through the vehicle’s TPMS settings and then driving so the sensors can relearn. Exact steps vary by model year and trim, but the general process remains consistent across recent Acura vehicles.


In detail, you typically re-learn the system after tire changes, rotations, or when a tire pressure warning light comes on. Newer Acura models usually offer an onboard TPMS calibration option in the infotainment or instrument cluster menus. If your model doesn’t show a calibration option or the light stays on after a DIY reset, you may need a professional relearn with a specialized tool at a dealership or tire shop.


What TPMS does in Acura vehicles


TPMS, or tire pressure monitoring system, uses sensors in each wheel to monitor air pressure and alert you if a tire is underinflated. Acura vehicles typically use direct TPMS sensors in the wheels, and when tires are rotated, replaced, or have a pressure change, the system may need to relearn to correctly map sensor IDs to wheel positions. A successful relearn helps ensure accurate readings and warning indicators.


In-car calibration: how to reset on most Acuras


Use this list if your model supports an onboard TPMS calibration option and you want to do it without tools. The steps can vary slightly by year, so consult your owner’s manual if you can’t find the exact path.



  1. Ensure all tires are inflated to the recommended cold pressures shown on the door jamb placard or in the owner’s manual.

  2. Turn the ignition to ON (the engine can be off for some models) and access the TPMS calibration option in the vehicle’s settings. The path is typically: Settings or Vehicle Settings > TPMS > Calibrate or Reset.

  3. Select Calibrate (or Reset) and confirm your choice. The system will begin the relearn process.

  4. Drive at highway speeds (approximately 50 mph / 80 km/h or higher) for 10–20 minutes or until the TPMS light goes out. A shorter drive might suffice on some models; others may take longer.

  5. After the light goes out, recheck tire pressures to ensure they remain at the correct specifications. If the light returns, there may be a sensor issue or a tire leak.


Calibrating via the car’s TPMS menu is the preferred method on many newer Acura models, but if you don’t see a calibration option or the light persists, the steps above may not apply exactly to your vehicle.


What to expect during the relearn


During the relearn, you may see the TPMS warning light flash briefly or remain illuminated until the system completes the process. After the relearn, the light should extinguish. If it does not, you should verify tire pressures again and consider inspecting or testing the sensors for faults.


When the in-car method doesn’t work: professional relearn and sensor checks


If the calibration option isn’t available, or the warning light stays on after attempting a DIY relearn, professional service is recommended. A dealer or tire shop can perform a TPMS relearn using specialized equipment and may check or reprogram sensor IDs to vehicle ECU data.



  1. Bring the vehicle to a dealership or tire shop that offers TPMS relearn service with the appropriate tool.

  2. The technician will connect a TPMS relearn tool or scan tool and identify each wheel’s sensor ID, then perform the relearn procedure for the vehicle.

  3. After the relearn, the technician may drive the vehicle or instruct you to drive at a specific speed to confirm the system completes the process and the warning light turns off.


Professional relearn is also recommended if you recently installed new TPMS sensors, replaced tires with sensors, or suspect a dead sensor or wheel temperature issue. A faulty sensor or a damaged valve stem can prevent the system from relearning correctly.


Model-year caveats and how to check your manual


While most Acura models from the past decade support onboard TPMS calibration, exact menu names and procedures can differ by year and trim. If you can’t locate a TPMS Calibration option or if the light persists after a relearn attempt, check the owner’s manual for model-specific instructions. Dealership service bulletins and online owner forums for your exact model year can also provide model-specific steps.


Common caveats include variations such as needing to have the ignition in a particular position, requiring the engine to be running, or needing to drive with the vehicle in a straight line at steady speeds. If you’re unsure, a quick call to your local Acura dealer or a qualified tire shop can save time and ensure the relearn is performed correctly.


Summary


Resetting the TPMS on an Acura typically involves calibrating the system through the vehicle’s TPMS settings and then driving at highway speeds to complete the relearn. If your model supports onboard calibration, follow the exact menu path and drive requirements; if not, or if the light remains on after attempting a relearn, professional service using a TPMS tool is the recommended next step. Keeping tires inflated to the correct pressure and ensuring sensor integrity are key to reliable TPMS performance.

Where is the Acura TPMS reset button?


The Acura TPMS reset button is typically found under the steering wheel on the left side, but some models use a process on the infotainment display instead. For models with a button, ensure your tires are properly inflated, then turn the ignition to the "ON" position (without starting the engine) and press and hold the button until the TPMS light blinks twice. For models with a display, navigate to "Settings" > "Vehicle" > "TPMS Calibration" and press "Calibrate". 
For models with a physical button

  1. Adjust tire pressure: Inflate all tires to the recommended pressure found on the sticker in the driver's side door jamb. 
  2. Turn ignition on: Turn the key to the "ON" position without starting the engine. 
  3. Locate the button: Find the button with the TPMS icon (a tire with an exclamation mark) to the left of the steering column. 
  4. Press and hold: Press and hold the button until the TPMS indicator light on the instrument panel blinks twice. 
  5. Drive to calibrate: The calibration process will begin once you start driving. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the TPMS on models with a physical button: 1mHondaYouTube · May 15, 2019
For models with a display audio system
  1. Adjust tire pressure: Inflate all tires to the recommended pressure. 
  2. Navigate the menu: Press the "Home" button on the display, then go to "Settings" > "Vehicle". 
  3. Calibrate TPMS: Select "TPMS Calibration" and then touch "Calibrate". 
  4. Wait for confirmation: The system will display a message and begin calibration. You may need to drive for about 30 minutes at speeds between 30 and 60 mph for the process to complete. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the TPMS on models with a display audio system: 57sFisher AutoYouTube · Mar 10, 2022
If the light remains on
  • Check your spare: If your spare tire has a TPMS sensor, ensure it is also properly inflated and has been reset. 
  • Drive to recalibrate: After adjusting tire pressure, the system often recalibrates automatically after you've been driving at highway speeds (above 50 mph) for about 10 minutes. 
  • Consult your owner's manual: If you cannot find the button or the light still won't turn off, refer to your owner's manual for model-specific instructions. 



How do you reset the TPMS on a 2005 Acura MDX?


(Only for Older Acura Cars With Turn-Key Ignitions): Turn the key to the “On” position, but don't start the car. Then, hold the TPMS light reset button, wait for the tire pressure light to blink three times, and then release it. After you start the car next, wait 20 minutes for the sensor to refresh itself.



How do I manually reset my TPMS sensor?


To manually reset your TPMS, first ensure all tires are inflated to the correct pressure, including the spare. Then, either hold down the TPMS reset button until the light blinks three times and drive for about 20 minutes, or disconnect the positive battery cable for a few seconds and reconnect it after honking the horn to discharge power. Many modern cars also allow you to reset the system through an option in the vehicle's infotainment or dashboard menu. 
This video demonstrates how to reset the TPMS light by using the infotainment system: 51sHondaYouTube · Aug 7, 2023
Method 1: Using the reset button or infotainment system

  • Inflate all tires to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. 
  • Locate the TPMS reset button, which is often under the steering wheel or in the glove box, or find the TPMS calibration option in your car's dashboard or infotainment system. 
  • With the ignition in the "On" position (but the engine not running), press and hold the reset button until the TPMS warning light blinks three times, or select "Calibrate" in the menu. 
  • Start the vehicle and drive for up to 20 minutes to allow the system to recalibrate. 

Method 2: Disconnecting the battery
  • Make sure the car is off, then use a wrench to disconnect the positive (+) battery terminal. 
  • Turn the car's ignition to the "On" position and honk the horn for about three seconds to drain any remaining power from the vehicle's electrical system. 
  • Reconnect the positive battery cable. 
  • Inflate your tires to the correct pressure, as this method may clear a warning light that came on after you correctly adjusted your tire pressure. 

Method 3: Driving to recalibrate
  • If your car has a specific TPMS reset button, use it first as described in Method 1. 
  • Drive at or above 50 mph for at least 10 minutes to allow the system to reset itself. 
  • If your vehicle has an option in the onboard menu, use it to start the calibration process, then drive for a few minutes at over 20 mph. 

You can watch this video to learn how to program TPMS sensors without a tool for certain vehicles: 59sGregg FestoYouTube · Sep 12, 2022



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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.