What is the TPMS warning on my Acura?

The TPMS warning on an Acura signals that your tire pressure monitoring system has detected a change in tire pressure or a fault in the system. Start by checking all tires with a gauge and inflating to the recommended pressure; if the light stays on, it may involve a sensor issue or a relearn procedure.

What TPMS is and how it works

TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It continuously watches the air pressure in each tire and alerts you if any tire drops below the manufacturer’s recommended level or if there is a sensor fault. On Acura models, the warning typically appears as a tire-shaped icon with an exclamation mark or the letters TPMS on the instrument cluster.

Direct vs indirect TPMS

Most newer Acura vehicles use a direct TPMS, which includes a pressure sensor in each wheel that communicates pressure data to the vehicle’s computer. Some older or lower-cost setups use an indirect system that estimates pressure by monitoring wheel speeds through the ABS sensors. The symptoms are the same, but diagnostics differ.

Common reasons the TPMS warning appears

The warning can arise from a few common issues; here are the primary causes you’re likely to encounter:

• One or more tires are underinflated below the recommended level.


• A TPMS sensor is failing or its battery is dead.


• The system needs to relearn or reset after tire service, rotation, or replacement.


• Seasonal temperature changes can lower tire pressure enough to trigger the warning.


• A tire has a puncture or slow leak that’s not immediately obvious.

When the light goes away after inflation to spec and driving for a short period, the issue is resolved. If it remains, it points to a sensor fault or a relearn requirement.

What to do when the TPMS warning appears

When you see the TPMS light, take these steps to diagnose and address the issue:

• Check all tires’ pressures with a gauge when the tires are cold, and inflate to the Acura-recommended level found on the door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual.


• Look for obvious causes of leaks, such as nails, screws, punctures, or cracked valve stems, and repair or replace as needed.


• If all tires read at or near the recommended pressures, perform a TPMS relearn/reset if your model supports it (via a dedicated button, menu option in the instrument cluster, or through the settings display). You may need to drive at a steady speed for several minutes to complete the relearn.


• If the light stays on after inflation and a relearn, have the system inspected by a dealer or qualified shop; sensors can fail, or a wheel may have a faulty sensor or wiring.

Regular checks and proper reset procedures help keep the TPMS accurate and prevent unexpected warnings while driving.

Model-specific notes for Acura owners

Acura’s TPMS controls and relearn procedures vary by model and year. Here are general guidelines, but check your owner’s manual for exact steps for your car (for example, MDX, TLX, RDX, and ILX models may place the TPMS button in different locations and use different on-screen prompts).

• Many modern Acura models require a relearn after replacing tires or wheels; often you’ll see a message or indicator in the vehicle’s display guiding the relearn process.


• After rotating tires or adjusting pressures, allowing the vehicle to drive at highway speed for 10–20 minutes often completes the relearn for direct TPMS systems.


• If you have recently replaced a TPMS sensor or the valve stem, the light may illuminate until the new sensor is learned by the system.

When in doubt, a dealer visit or a tire shop equipped with TPMS diagnostic tools can verify sensor status and perform a relearn if needed.

Summary

The TPMS warning on an Acura is a safety alert about tire pressure or system health. Start with a cold tire pressure check and inflate to spec, then consider sensor issues or the need for a relearn. If the light persists, seek professional diagnostics to avoid underinflation risks and protect tire longevity.

Why does my Acura say check TPMS system?

Usually, the most common reason for the TPMS light is a tire that may be under-inflated and needs to be looked at immediately.

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.

Why is my TPMS light on but tires are fine?

Your TPMS light may be on despite your tires being properly inflated due to a malfunctioning sensor, a dead sensor battery, a recent tire rotation, or extreme weather conditions. A sensor can become damaged from impacts or age, a dead battery can prevent it from sending a signal, and in cold weather, air contracts, which can trigger the warning. A recent tire rotation might also cause a temporary alert that requires a reset. 
This video explains some common reasons why your TPMS light might be on even if your tires appear to be fine: 58sFixITYouTube · Jan 18, 2025
Common reasons for the TPMS light to stay on

• Sensor Malfunction: The sensor itself can be faulty due to age, damage from impacts, or corrosion, causing it to send false readings. 
• Dead Sensor Battery: Each TPMS sensor has a small battery that typically lasts 5 to 10 years before it needs replacement. 
• Weather Changes: Cold temperatures cause air to contract, leading to a drop in tire pressure that can trigger the light even if the tires appear fine. 
• Recent Tire Rotation or Replacement: If the tires were recently rotated or replaced, the system may need a few miles of driving or a manual reset to recognize the new tire positions. 
• Valve Stem Issues: A slow leak from the valve stem can cause the pressure to drop gradually, keeping the light on. 
• Improperly Inflated Spare: If you recently used your spare tire and didn't inflate it, the system may trigger the light. 

You can watch this video to learn how to check your TPMS settings and perform a manual reset: 52sHondaYouTube · May 15, 2019
What to do

1. Check all tires and the spare: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in all four tires and the spare. Inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb. 
2. Drive for a few minutes: After inflating the tires, drive the vehicle for 10-20 miles to give the system time to recalibrate. Some systems will reset automatically, while others may require a manual reset. 
3. Perform a manual reset: Some vehicles have a "TPMS Reset" button, often located in the glove box or on the dashboard. Pressing and holding this button for a few seconds may resolve the issue. 
4. Seek professional help: If the light remains on, take your vehicle to a professional to diagnose the problem. A mechanic can pinpoint a faulty sensor or a slow leak that is not immediately visible. 

Can I still drive my car if the TPMS light is on?

You can drive short distances with a TPMS light on, but you should not continue driving without addressing the issue, as it indicates low tire pressure which can be a safety risk. Driving with underinflated tires can lead to poor handling, reduced braking, uneven tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and in the worst case, a tire blowout. 
This video explains why it's dangerous to drive with the TPMS light on: 1mABC11YouTube · Dec 13, 2017
What to do when the TPMS light is on

• Reduce speed and pull over: As soon as it's safe, pull over to check your tires. 
• Check tire pressure: Use a reliable tire gauge to check the pressure in all four tires and compare it to the recommended pressure on the sticker on your driver's side doorframe or in your owner's manual. 
• Inflate tires: Add air to any tires that are low. The light should turn off after driving a short distance as the system resets. 
• If the light is blinking: A blinking light often means there is a malfunction with the TPMS system itself, not just low pressure. You should have the system inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as possible. 

Why you shouldn't ignore the TPMS light

• Safety: Low tire pressure affects your vehicle's handling and braking, making it more difficult to control, especially in emergencies. 
• Tire damage: Driving on underinflated tires can cause them to overheat and wear down unevenly and prematurely. 
• Fuel efficiency: Your car's fuel efficiency decreases when tires are not properly inflated. 
• Blowout risk: In severe cases, the stress and heat from driving on severely underinflated tires can lead to a catastrophic tire failure.