During each dip of the outside thermometer below freezing we receive a number of calls from concerned Acura owners who report that the low pressure symbol or the TPMS warning indicator has come on. The symbol may be one that shows the cross section of a tire or the letters TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System). Either one can be startling when it first appears, and when this happens, the calls to get the condition fixed come pouring in.
There is some important news about both of these indications. First, there may not be a problem. Second, problems with low tire pressures may correct themselves. Although we strongly believe that it is better to be safe than sorry, understanding that a variation in tire pressure of only 9 - 10% from it's recommended value may be enough to trigger the warning. The drop in tire pressure may be the result of nothing more than a decrease in the outside temperature. Similarly, tire pressures actually stay the same or rise slightly when the outside temperatures rise.
What to do: When you have a low tire pressure display on the dash, especially shortly after starting a cold engine, you may use the onboard TPMS system to read the actual tire pressures. Generally, Acura tire pressures should range between 30 and 33 lb./sq.in. If the required pressure is 30 for your Acura, and should the pressure drop to around 27 lbs. or lower, chances are the waring light will appear. If the readout is greater than 10% below the posted pressure, it is definately time to add air. Although normal driving for several miles will likely raise the pressures slightly, it is always better to add the correct amount of air and not rely on frictional forces within the tire to generate enough heat so as to cause the pressures to rise.
The owners manual does a thorough job of explaining how the system works, but if you have a question or a concern, please do not hesitate to call our service department at: 603-880-6550 or contact them by email at : sunnysideacura.com
Thank You
