What is the TPMS system on an Acura?
Acura's Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) monitors the air pressure in each tire and alerts you if any tire becomes underinflated, helping you drive safely and efficiently.
In Acura models, TPMS may be direct (with wheel-mounted sensors that report actual pressures) or indirect (which infers pressure from wheel-speed data). Federal law has required TPMS on new cars since 2007, and Acura applies this technology across its lineup, including the ILX, TLX, MDX, and RDX. Knowing how it works and how to maintain it can prevent unnecessary warnings and ensure accurate readings.
Direct TPMS versus indirect TPMS
Here's a quick breakdown of the two main approaches used in Acura vehicles and how they affect maintenance and readings.
Direct TPMS
Direct TPMS uses a pressure sensor mounted inside each tire (often integrated with the valve stem) to measure actual tire pressure and transmit data to the vehicle's computer. When any tire falls below the preset threshold—typically around 25% underinflated or below the recommended cold pressure—the system triggers a warning in the instrument cluster. Direct TPMS provides real-time, precise pressure readings for each tire.
Indirect TPMS
Indirect TPMS does not measure actual pressure with a sensor in the tire. Instead it uses the ABS wheel-speed sensors and ECU to detect differences in tire circumference and rotation that occur when a tire is underinflated. It then triggers the same warning indicator as direct TPMS. Indirect TPMS relies on proper calibration and regular wheel speed data and does not provide per-tire pressures on the dash.
Maintaining and calibrating TPMS in Acura models
Keeping TPMS accurate is essential, especially after tire changes, rotations, or pressure adjustments. The following steps outline typical maintenance and calibration practices you may encounter on Acura models.
- Check all tires with a gauge and inflate to the vehicle's recommended cold pressure, printed on the door jamb sticker or in the owner's manual.
- If you adjust tire pressures, recheck all tires to ensure they are at the recommended levels.
- Perform TPMS calibration/relearn after rotating tires or replacing tires. This is usually available in the vehicle's settings menu (for example, Settings > Vehicle > TPMS Calibration) or may require driving at highway speeds for a period to relearn.
- If the warning light persists after correcting pressures and calibration, inspect for leaks, damaged sensors, or a failing sensor. Direct TPMS sensors use a battery that can degrade over time and may require replacement; indirect TPMS issues typically involve calibration or data integrity problems.
Following these steps helps ensure accurate readings and reduces nuisance warnings. For model-specific steps, refer to your owner's manual or consult Acura service.
Specific notes for Acura models
While general TPMS principles apply across Acura's lineup, model-specific procedures can vary. For example, recent Acura sedans and SUVs typically provide access to TPMS calibration within the vehicle settings, and some models may relearn sensors automatically after driving at steady highway speeds. Always consult the exact owner's manual for your model (TLX, MDX, RDX, ILX, etc.) for precise steps, sensor replacement procedures, and part numbers.
Summary
Acura's TPMS protects you from underinflated tires by monitoring pressure with either direct sensors or indirect inference from wheel speeds. Regularly check tire pressures, perform calibration after tire work, and seek professional service if warnings persist. Proper maintenance helps safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.
