What does check TPMS system mean on my Acura?
In short, the message signals a problem with your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): either a tire is underinflated or there’s a fault in the sensors or control unit. It calls for immediate attention to prevent tire damage or unsafe driving.
Beyond a simple low-tire warning, the message can indicate sensor failures, battery depletion in one or more wheel sensors, or a calibration issue after tire changes. This article explains what TPMS is, common causes of the warning on Acura vehicles, and what you should do next.
Understanding TPMS and how Acura uses it
TPMS detection methods on Acura models primarily fall into two categories: direct TPMS, which uses sensors in each tire, and indirect TPMS, which uses wheel-speed data from the ABS system to estimate pressure. Knowing which system your car uses helps you diagnose and act appropriately.
- Direct TPMS uses wireless sensors embedded in each wheel’s valve stem (or mounted in the wheel). It measures actual tire pressure and transmits data to the vehicle’s control module. A warning appears if any tire is below the specified pressure or if a sensor fails. In most Acura configurations, the spare tire is not monitored by TPMS.
- Indirect TPMS does not use wheel-pressure sensors. Instead, it relies on ABS wheel-speed data and tire circumferences to infer underinflation. It requires periodic calibration after tire rotations or changes and may show a warning if the system disagrees with the expected pressures.
- The “Check TPMS System” message can indicate a low-tire warning, a sensor fault (dead battery, damaged sensor, or loose sensor), or a problem in the TPMS control module itself.
Knowing whether your Acura uses direct or indirect TPMS helps you decide the next steps. If in doubt, start with inspecting tire pressures and consult your owner’s manual or dealer for model-specific details.
What to do when you see the message
When the indicator appears, follow these steps to verify tire pressure and rule out sensor problems. The process may vary by year and model, so use the owner's manual as the primary reference.
- Check tire pressures on all four tires (and the spare if your model monitors it). Use a reliable gauge and compare with the recommended cold tire pressure found on the driver’s door jamb sticker or in the owner's manual.
- If any tire is below the recommended pressure, inflate to the specified value and recheck. In many cases, the TPMS light will extinguish after driving a short distance at highway speeds.
- Inspect tires for punctures, cuts, or leaks. If you can’t locate a source of air loss, consider having the tire inspected by a professional as soon as possible.
- If all tires read at or above the recommended pressures and the light remains on, you likely have a TPMS sensor or system fault. A dealer or qualified shop can scan for codes and diagnose sensor health or module issues.
- After any tire service (rotation, replacement, or sensor work), the TPMS may require calibration or reprogramming. Check your vehicle’s manual for the exact reset procedure or have the dealership perform it.
These steps cover the typical homeowner workflow, but Acura models differ in procedure. If you’re unsure, a quick call to your local Acura dealer or a trusted shop can save time and ensure you don’t miss a hidden issue.
Resetting or calibrating TPMS on Acura models
Many Acura owners complete a reset or calibration after tires are rotated or replaced. The exact method varies by year and trim, so refer to the manual. Common approaches include performing a TPMS calibration via the vehicle’s infotainment or instrument cluster menu or driving the car above a certain speed for a set period to recalibrate in indirect systems. Some Direct TPMS setups allow a physical reset button behind the glove box or in the fuse box, but this is model-dependent.
As a rule of thumb: run a verified reset procedure after any tire service and confirm the light stays off once pressures are stable. If the light reappears, there is likely a sensor issue or a deeper system fault that requires professional diagnostic tooling.
When to seek urgent service
Seek urgent service if you notice any of these signs: a tire visibly underinflated or leaking air, unusual tire wear, a constant or rapidly blinking TPMS light, or if the warning persists after re-inflating all tires. A failed TPMS sensor means you may not be alerted to a dangerous underinflation in the future, which can pose a safety risk.
Summary
The message “Check TPMS System” on an Acura signals a potential issue with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System—most often a tire that’s underinflated, but it can also indicate a sensor fault or other hardware problem. Start by checking all tire pressures to the manufacturer’s recommended values, repair any leaks, and reset or calibrate the TPMS as required by your model. If the warning persists, have the system scanned by a qualified technician to identify sensor faults or other issues in the TPMS hardware.
