How to fix TPMS on Acura?

The quickest path is to verify all tire pressures are correct, perform a TPMS relearn for your model, and replace any faulty sensors if the light stays on. If in doubt, consult a professional shop or your Acura dealer for model-specific steps.

Understanding and fixing TPMS issues on Acura vehicles involves confirming tire pressures, performing the relearn procedure when required, and diagnosing sensor health. Acura uses direct TPMS sensors in the wheels on most modern models, though some earlier configurations may rely on indirect sensing via wheel speed data. Because procedures vary by year and model, always check your owner’s manual or a dealer tool for the exact steps. Below is a practical guide to common scenarios, what to check, and how to proceed safely.

Understanding Acura TPMS: Direct vs Indirect Systems

Most newer Acura models use direct TPMS, which measures actual air pressure in each tire with a sensor mounted inside the wheel. Some models or configurations may rely on indirect TPMS, which estimates pressure via ABS wheel-speed data and math rather than a installed sensor in every tire. Knowing which system your car has will influence the relearn method and parts you may need.

Direct TPMS sensors in the wheels

Direct TPMS requires sensor batteries in each tire and a relearn when tires are rotated, replaced, or if a sensor is replaced. If a sensor fails, the warning light will stay on or flash and a professional tool is typically needed to program a new sensor to the vehicle.

Indirect TPMS considerations

Indirect TPMS doesn’t use wheel-mounted sensors. If your Acura uses this method, you generally won’t need to replace sensors, but you may still need a relearn or recalibration through the vehicle’s system or a scan tool to correct miscalibrations after a tire change or rotation.

DIY: Check Pressure and Relearn TPMS

Before attempting a relearn, gather the basic tools and information: a reliable tire gauge, a source of the recommended cold tire pressures (sticker on the door jamb or in the owner’s manual), and access to the TPMS relearn procedure for your exact model/year. Procedures vary, and some models require dealer tools.

1. Inflate all tires to the recommended cold pressures. Don’t forget the spare if your vehicle support system monitors it.


2. Inspect tires for visible damage or slow leaks (nails, punctures, or underinflation symptoms). If a tire is damaged, repair or replace before relearning.


3. Attempt the TPMS relearn for your Acura model:
   
   
   
   • If your model has a TPMS button, typically located somewhere on the dash or near the steering column, press and hold it until the indicator light for TPMS blinks or goes off, then release. Drive at speeds above ~30–50 mph for 10–20 minutes to complete the relearn.
   
   
   • If your model uses a menu option on the instrument cluster or infotainment screen, navigate to Vehicle Settings or TPMS, select Relearn or Calibrate, and follow the on-screen prompts.
   
   
   • Some Acura models require simply driving at highway speeds for a set period after inflating to spec; others require a manual relearn with a scan tool at a shop.
   
   
   
   


4. Check the TPMS light again after the relearn attempt. If it stays on, proceed to the next step.

After attempting these steps, a successful relearn will usually extinguish the TPMS warning within a few driving cycles. If the light remains illuminated, the problem may lie with a faulty sensor or a failed receiver, or there may be a leak you didn’t detect during the initial inspection.

When to Replace TPMS Sensors

TPMS sensor failure is common as vehicles age. Consider replacement if the warning persists after inflating tires and performing a relearn, or if you notice any of the following signs:

• The TPMS light stays on even after all tires are inflated to the correct pressure and a relearn has been attempted.


• Uneven or inconsistent tire pressure readings across wheels.


• Frequent false alarms or sensor errors on multiple tires.


• Visible damage to a sensor or wheel mounting area, or a corroded valve stem.

Direct TPMS sensor replacement typically involves removing the tire from the wheel, installing a new sensor, and programming the sensor to the vehicle. This work is usually performed by a tire shop, dealer, or qualified mechanic. Expect a cost in the ballpark of a few dozen dollars per sensor for the part, plus labor and programming fees. Indirect TPMS recalibration, if applicable, may be less costly but still requires specialized tools.

What to Expect at a Shop

If you’re unsure or the light won’t reset, a professional shop can diagnose and fix TPMS efficiently. Here’s what typically happens:

• Tech tests tire pressures and inspects for leaks, punctures, or tire wear that could trigger the light.


• Tech confirms whether the TPMS is direct or indirect on your specific Acura model.


• Tech performs the appropriate relearn or calibration using the correct tool or dealer scan tool. If a sensor is faulty, the part is replaced and programmed to the vehicle.


• After service, you’ll be asked to drive the vehicle for a set period at highway speeds to complete the relearn process and verify the light stays off.

Some Acura vehicles require a dealer-level tool for a precise relearn, especially after sensor replacement or battery service. If you recently replaced a tire or wheel, or if the TPMS light has been erratic, a quick diagnostic visit can prevent unnecessary tire service or misdiagnosed issues.

Maintenance and Best Practices

Keep your TPMS healthy with these practical tips:

• Regularly check tire pressures when tires are cold, at least once a month or before long trips.


• Rotate tires as recommended by your owner’s manual, and perform a TPMS relearn after rotations or tire changes.


• Replace tires in pairs or all four when necessary to maintain consistent sensing and calibration.


• Replace worn or damaged sensors promptly; sensor batteries have a finite life and can fail over time.

Always visually inspect tires for damage and wear; a TPMS warning is a signal that something needs attention, not a guarantee of a safe tire condition. When in doubt, consult a certified technician or Acura service center for model-specific guidance.

Summary

Fixing TPMS on an Acura starts with confirming proper tire pressures and performing the vehicle-specific relearn procedure. If the warning persists after inflation and relearn, a faulty or aging TPMS sensor may be the culprit, requiring sensor replacement and reprogramming. Relearn methods vary by model and year, so consult your owner’s manual or a dealer for precise steps. Regular tire maintenance and timely sensor replacement will help keep the TPMS warning from returning and ensure safe driving conditions.

Can I fix my own TPMS?

Replacing a tire pressure sensor (TPMS sensor) is a task that can be handled by most do-it-yourself enthusiasts with the right tools and safety precautions.

How much does it cost to repair a TPMS sensor?

The average cost to repair a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is between $70 and $250 per sensor, including parts and labor. Costs can vary depending on the vehicle, the type of sensor, and whether you choose a dealership, an independent mechanic, or a DIY approach. The total price depends on the number of sensors that need replacement, as it's common for other sensors to fail around the same time. 
Professional replacement

• Average cost: $70 to $250 per sensor 
• Dealership: Often more expensive due to higher labor rates, but uses certified technicians and OEM parts 
• Independent mechanic: Generally lower labor rates but ensure they have experience with TPMS systems 
• Other options: Some tire retailers like Costco or Sam's Club may offer lower prices, but costs can vary 

DIY replacement

• Cost: Significantly lower, only paying for the cost of the sensors 
• Sensor cost: Varies from $20 to $150 or more depending on the brand 
• Additional costs: May include the cost of tools, potting compound, valve stem mounting kits, and other parts 

Factors that affect the cost

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury or newer models may have more sophisticated and expensive sensors
• Type of sensor: Direct TPMS sensors are more expensive than indirect ones
• Number of sensors: Replacing multiple sensors can be cheaper per-sensor if you can get a package deal 

How do I fix my TPMS on my Acura?

Turn the key to “On” (one position to the right), but don't start the car. Now hold down the “TPMS Reset” button until the flashing tire pressure light blinks three times. Start the engine and wait 20 minutes. Check your owner's manual if you have trouble finding the reset button.

How to fix a malfunctioning TPMS sensor?

To fix a tire pressure sensor fault, first check and inflate all tires to the correct pressure, then attempt a manual reset using the button or infotainment system, or by driving for 10-15 minutes at a consistent speed like 50 mph. If the light persists, the sensor is likely faulty and needs replacement, which involves a professional mechanic dismounting the tire to access and replace the sensor, a process similar to the one described in this YouTube video.
 
1. Inflate your tires to the correct pressure 

• Check the recommended pressure on the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual. 
• Inflate all tires, including the spare if it has a sensor, to the correct pressure, ideally when the tires are cold. 

2. Attempt a TPMS reset 

• Manual reset: Turn the ignition to the 'ON' position without starting the engine. Press and hold the TPMS reset button (usually under the steering wheel or in the glove box) until the light blinks three times. Some vehicles may require navigating through the infotainment system to a "TPMS calibration" or "reset" option.
• Automatic reset: Drive the vehicle for at least 5-15 minutes at a consistent speed of 50 mph to allow the system to self-calibrate. 

3. Address a persistent fault 

• If the warning light remains on after resetting and driving, the sensor is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. 
• Faulty sensors are often due to a dead battery, which has a lifespan of about 7–10 years. 
• Replacing a TPMS sensor requires a professional to dismount the tire from the wheel, replace the sensor, and then likely use a specialized tool to program or relearn the new sensor to the vehicle's system. 
• A professional can also use a TPMS reset tool to diagnose the exact issue, which may be due to a faulty sensor or external interference. 

This video explains how to replace a TPMS sensor: 48sRepair GeekYouTube · Dec 25, 2020