Acura TPMS Relearn / Reset Instruction Manual

How to Reset and Relearn the TPMS on Your Acura

Learn how to reset and relearn the TPMS on your Acura in just a few minutes with this comprehensive guide. The TPMS light on your dashboard indicates that one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated, which can lead to various issues such as reduced fuel economy and uneven tire wear. This article explains the two types of TPMS systems used in Acura models, provides step-by-step instructions for resetting the TPMS on both Direct and Indirect systems, and offers expert tips for maintaining proper tire pressure. By following these instructions, you can ensure optimal safety and performance for your Acura.

If the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light is illuminated on your Acura’s dashboard, it means one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Driving on under-inflated tires can reduce fuel economy, cause uneven tire wear, and even lead to tire failure.

Fortunately, resetting the TPMS on your Acura is a straightforward process that you can do at home in just a few minutes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the TPMS reset and relearn procedure for popular Acura models. We’ll also provide expert tips to ensure your tires are always properly inflated for optimal safety and performance.

What is TPMS and How Does it Work?

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system in your Acura that monitors the air pressure in your tires. If the pressure in one or more tires drops 25% or more below the recommended pressure, the system will alert you by illuminating the TPMS warning light on the dashboard.

There are two types of TPMS:

Direct TPMS: This system uses physical pressure sensors mounted on the wheels to measure tire pressure. The sensors transmit this data wirelessly to a central computer which then displays the pressure for each tire. If any tire’s pressure drops below a pre-determined level, the system triggers a warning on the dashboard. Direct TPMS is more accurate but the sensors can be damaged during tire service and may need to be replaced periodically.
Indirect TPMS: This system doesn’t use physical pressure sensors. Instead, it relies on the wheel speed sensors of the anti-lock brake system to compare the rotational speed of the wheels. If one tire is low on pressure, it will roll at a different speed than the others. The computer detects this and triggers the dashboard warning light. Indirect TPMS is less expensive and requires less maintenance, but it’s also less accurate, especially if all four tires are low on pressure.

Most Acura models 2007 and newer are equipped with Direct TPMS. However, some models like the 2014-2019 Acura MDX use Indirect TPMS. Check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure which system your vehicle has. Understanding your TPMS type is important, as the reset procedures differ between Direct and Indirect systems.

Why You Need to Reset Your Acura’s TPMS

There are a few reasons why you may need to reset and relearn your Acura’s TPMS:

You’ve added air to your tires. If the TPMS light was on because a tire was low and you’ve since inflated it to the proper pressure, you’ll need to reset the system to turn off the light.
You’ve rotated your tires. Rotating tires is important for even wear, but it means the TPMS needs to relearn the position of each sensor. On some Acura models, the TPMS automatically relearns the sensor positions after driving a short distance. But on others, you’ll need to initiate a manual relearn procedure.
You’ve replaced a tire or TPMS sensor. The system needs to be reset anytime you change a tire/wheel or replace a TPMS sensor so it can learn the new sensor ID code.
It’s been a while. Even if you haven’t had a low tire or changed anything, it’s a good idea to check your tire pressures and reset the TPMS periodically (like when you change your oil) to ensure everything is working properly. TPMS sensors have batteries that can fail over time.

Acura Models with Direct TPMS

The following Acura models are equipped with Direct TPMS and use a 315MHz sensor frequency:

2007-2014 Acura MDX
2007-2014 Acura RDX
2007-2014 Acura TL
2009-2014 Acura TSX
2010-2013 Acura ZDX
2013-2020 Acura ILX
2015-2020 Acura TLX
2016-2020 Acura RDX
2017-2020 Acura MDX

If you have one of these models, you’ll follow the Direct TPMS reset procedure outlined below. Note that 2007 was the first year Acura implemented TPMS across its model line to comply with the TREAD Act. So if you have an Acura older than 2007, it likely does not have a TPMS system.

Resetting Direct TPMS on Acura Models

There are two methods to reset Direct TPMS on an Acura: a manual relearn procedure using a magnet tool, or an OBD relearn procedure using a TPMS scan tool with an OBD-II module. The manual method can be done at home, while the OBD method is more commonly done by tire shops and dealers that have the proper tools. We’ll cover both.

Manual TPMS Relearn Procedure

This method uses a magnet tool to trigger each sensor in a specific sequence so the TPMS control module can relearn their positions. No special tools are required beyond a magnet and a tire pressure gauge. Here are the steps:

Park your Acura in a safe location and turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine.
Adjust the tire pressures to the recommended cold inflation pressure listed on the placard inside the driver’s door jamb. Use a quality tire pressure gauge.
Press and release the TPMS reset button located under the left side of the dashboard. The light will blink slowly indicating it’s in relearn mode.
Starting with the left front tire, place the magnet against the sidewall near the valve stem to activate the sensor. You should hear a horn chirp confirming it received the sensor signal.
Proceed clockwise to the other three sensors in this order: right front, right rear, left rear. Wait for the horn chirp each time before moving to the next.
After activating the left rear sensor, wait 20 seconds. The TPMS light should blink and then go off indicating the relearn was successful.
Turn the ignition off, then start the engine to verify the TPMS light is no longer illuminated.

If the light is still on after this procedure, there may be an issue with one or more sensors that requires professional diagnosis. It’s best to visit your Acura dealer at this point.

OBD TPMS Relearn Procedure

The OBD relearn procedure is faster and easier than the manual method, but it requires a specialized TPMS scan tool with an OBD-II module to interface with the vehicle’s computer. This is the method most tire shops use. To do it yourself, you’ll need a quality TPMS tool like the ATEQ VT56 or Autel MaxiTPMS TS508.

Adjust the tire pressures to the proper specification.
Connect your TPMS tool to the OBD-II port under the dash and turn the ignition on.
Use the tool to scan each sensor in a counterclockwise order starting with the left front. The Acura TPMS requires this specific order: LF, LR, RR, RF.
Once all sensor IDs are captured, use the tool to write this data to the vehicle’s TPMS control module. The horn should chirp to confirm a successful relearn.
Disconnect the tool, turn the ignition off, and start the vehicle to confirm the TPMS light is out.

The OBD method is preferred since it’s faster, less prone to errors, and allows you to get sensor IDs and battery life data. But both procedures achieve the same result of resetting the TPMS.

Acura Models with Indirect TPMS

Starting in the 2014 model year, some Acura models switched to an Indirect TPMS system to reduce cost and complexity. Models with Indirect TPMS include:

2014-2020 Acura MDX
2014-2020 Acura RLX
2016-2020 Acura ILX

If you have one of these newer Acura models, the TPMS reset procedure is different and easier. Indirect TPMS uses the anti-lock brake wheel speed sensors to estimate tire pressure, so there are no batteries or sensors to worry about servicing.

Resetting Indirect TPMS on Acura Models

Resetting the Indirect TPMS after adjusting tire pressures or rotating tires is a simple process that can be done right from the driver’s seat using the multi-information display controls on the steering wheel. Here’s how:

Park the vehicle and make sure the parking brake is applied.
Adjust the tire pressures to the proper cold specification.
Turn the ignition to ON, but do not start the engine.
Using the steering wheel controls, navigate to “Vehicle Settings” in the multi-information display.
Select “TPMS Calibration”.
Select “Initialize” then press and hold the SEL/RESET button.
The display will show “TPMS Calibration Started” to indicate the process has begun.
Start the engine and drive the vehicle at 30 mph or more for at least 30 minutes to complete the calibration.
The TPMS light should go off once calibration is finished. If it remains on, repeat the process or have the system checked by your Acura dealer.

Since Indirect TPMS relies on the wheel speed sensors to infer tire pressure, the system needs to be recalibrated after any changes that affect tire diameter, such as pressure adjustments, tire rotations, or new tire installation. But there are no sensors to service or replace which makes maintenance easier.

Tips for Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure

Monitoring and maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the most important things you can do to keep your Acura performing and handling safely. Here are some tips to live by:

Check tire pressure monthly. Tires can lose about 1 psi per month naturally, so it’s important to check them regularly even if the TPMS light is not on. Always use a quality tire pressure gauge and check the pressures when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. The proper tire pressures for your Acura model are listed on a placard inside the driver’s door jamb. Do not use the “max pressure” number molded on the tire sidewall, as that is not the recommended pressure for your vehicle.
Rotate tires every 5,000 miles. Regular tire rotations promote even tread wear and help your tires last longer. Refer to your Acura owner’s manual for the recommended tire rotation pattern and schedule. Remember to reset the TPMS after any tire rotation.
Don’t ignore the TPMS light. If the tire pressure warning light comes on while driving, safely pull over as soon as possible to check your tire pressures. Driving on significantly underinflated tires can cause overheating and sudden tire failure.
Replace TPMS sensors when needed. The batteries in TPMS sensors typically last 5-10 years. If the low tire pressure light starts coming on frequently, it may be time to replace the sensor. Always use OEM-quality TPMS sensors for reliable performance.

By understanding how your Acura’s TPMS works and following these simple maintenance tips, you can enjoy a safer, smoother ride and get the most life out of your tires. If you have any questions about your vehicle’s TPMS or need assistance with a reset or relearn procedure, don’t hesitate to contact your local Acura dealer for expert service.

Key Takeaways

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an important safety feature on all 2007 and newer Acura models that alerts you when a tire is significantly underinflated.
Acura uses two types of TPMS: Direct (with wheel-mounted sensors) on most 2007-2016 models, and Indirect (uses ABS wheel speed sensors) on some 2014 and newer models.
If the TPMS warning light is on, check and adjust your tire pressures to the proper specification as soon as possible. Driving on underinflated tires is dangerous.
After inflating tires, rotating tires, or replacing a sensor, the TPMS needs to be reset in order for the light to go off and resume normal operation.
The TPMS reset and relearn procedure varies depending on the Acura model and year. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions or follow the general procedures outlined in this guide.
For Direct TPMS, a manual relearn can be done with a magnet tool to activate the sensors in a specific order. An OBD relearn requires a special TPMS scan tool to program the sensor IDs into the vehicle.
For Indirect TPMS, a simple calibration procedure can be done through the multi-information display using the steering wheel controls.
Check tire pressures monthly, rotate tires regularly, and replace TPMS sensors as needed to ensure your tires are always properly inflated for the best performance, safety, and longevity.

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