Why does my Acura say check TPMS system?
Your Acura’s Check TPMS System message indicates a problem or needed action with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It most often points to underinflated tires, a faulty sensor, or a needed relearn after tire work. Addressing it promptly helps preserve tire life and safe driving performance.
What the TPMS warning means
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) keeps an eye on the air pressure in each tire and alerts you when a tire falls outside the recommended range. When the system detects an issue it can display a warning or a message such as “Check TPMS System.” This can be triggered by normal pressure changes, but it also flags potential faults that should be checked to avoid tire damage or unsafe driving conditions.
Possible causes of the message include the following:
- One or more tires are underinflated or overinflated to a level outside the recommended range.
- A TPMS sensor or its battery is failing or has died in one or more wheels.
- A tire has a slow leak due to puncture, nail, or bead seal issue.
- Wheels were recently rotated or tires replaced and the TPMS requires relearning/calibration.
- There is a fault in the TPMS control module or its wiring, or a related electrical issue.
- Extreme temperature changes are altering tire pressures enough to trigger the warning.
After listing these causes, it’s important to verify pressures first and then decide on next steps. If pressures are within spec and the message persists, there may be a sensor or system fault that requires service.
How to diagnose and fix the issue
If you’ve just inflated tires or rotated them, you may need to reset or recalibrate the TPMS. Different Acura models may use slightly different steps, but the general process helps the system relearn the current tire pressures and sensor positions.
- Check all tires with a reliable tire gauge and inflate to the vehicle’s recommended pressure listed on the door jamb label or in the owner’s manual. Don’t forget the spare in some models if it’s a monitored system.
- After inflating to spec, drive the car at a moderate speed (often around 30–50 mph) for several minutes to allow the system to relearn. In some models, a longer drive or a specific drive cycle is required.
- Use the TPMS reset or calibration option if your Acura provides it. This may appear in the instrument cluster menu (Settings > Vehicle > TPMS or Tire Pressure Monitoring System) or on the infotainment screen as “Calibrate” or “Reset TPMS.” Follow the on-screen prompts.
- If your model has a dedicated TPMS button, it may be located under the steering wheel, near the hood release, or in the center console. Press and hold as directed by the owner’s manual until the indicator blinks or a confirmation message appears, then drive to complete relearn.
- If you notice a tire with a slow leak, or if the TPMS light stays on after inflating and attempting a relearn, have the tire inspected for punctures, leaks, or damage. A failed sensor or a damaged wheel rim can also cause the warning.
After following these steps, monitor the warning. If the message disappears and pressures stay in the recommended range, you’re likely fine. If the warning persists or recurs, schedule service with an Acura dealer or a qualified tire shop to inspect sensors, the TPMS control module, and related wiring.
Tips for common scenarios
Some drivers see TPMS alerts after seasonal temperature changes. While this can be normal, it’s still wise to confirm all tires are at the correct pressure and look for signs of slow leaks or damaged valves. If you’ve recently replaced tires or wheels, a relearn or calibration is typically required and will resolve the message once completed correctly.
Note: Exact steps to reset or calibrate TPMS can vary by year and model of Acura. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions or contact an Acura service center for guidance.
Summary
The “Check TPMS System” message on an Acura signals that the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is detecting an issue or needs a relearn after tire work. Start with a thorough tire pressure check, inflate to spec, and attempt a TPMS recalibration or drive-cycle relearn per your model’s instructions. If the warning persists, have the TPMS sensors, wiring, or control module inspected by a professional to prevent unsafe driving conditions and tire damage.
