2018 Acura MDX Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2018 Acura MDX: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Tire Leaking Air
0%
30% chance it's the
Wheel Leaking Air
0%
15% chance it's the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Acura MDX tire pressure warning light stays on are a leaking tire, a wheel that no longer holds air, or a faulty tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Tire Leaking Air: A puncture, valve stem issue, or rim damage can cause a tire to leak air, leading to loss of pressure.
  • Wheel Leaking Air: A puncture or damage to the tire or rim can cause air to leak, resulting in a loss of tire pressure.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system can be caused by faulty sensors or a dead battery in the sensor units.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Acura MDX tire pressure warning light stays on?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

When a tire pressure monitoring sensor fails, the tire pressure monitoring system control module will recognize a loss in communication and turn on the warning lamp which indicates the failure. This is most often the case. However, the tire pressure monitoring sensor may also fail by reporting incorrect tire pressures. This could cause a flat tire to go unrecognized, or a properly inflated tire to signal a low or high tire pressure warning.

When a relearn is needed, for any reason, the TPMS warning light will illuminate, and many vehicles will display a message relating to the TPMS system being inoperative or loosing communication. It is important to keep a watchful eye on tire pressures when this system is having issues because there is no warning available for underinflation or overinflation of the tires.

Wheels offer very few symptoms, but these symptoms should never be ignored. Visible cracks on the wheels may appear, especially after hitting a large bump, Most often, this will also be accompanied by loss of air from the tire on that wheel. Also, vibration in the steering wheel is very common when the tire is out of balance, and improper wheel nuts or bolts can cause creaking and popping noises to develop. Again, there are very few symptoms, but they should not be ignored.

The only symptoms requiring diagnosis for the tire pressure monitoring system warning lamp is if the warning lamp has illuminated while the tires have correct air pressure, or if the air pressure for the tires is out of specification and the warning lamp is off. This is because the overwhelming majority of cases where the TPMS lamp illuminates is due to the change in ambient temperature.

What steps should I take to diagnose the persistent tire pressure warning light on my 2018 Acura MDX?

To effectively diagnose the persistent tire pressure warning light on your 2018 Acura MDX, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure of all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, as low pressure is a frequent culprit for triggering the warning light. Next, visually inspect each tire for any signs of damage or punctures that could lead to air leaks. If the tires appear to be in good condition, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system following the instructions in your vehicle's manual, as this can sometimes resolve the issue. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of wear or leaks, which could also contribute to the warning light. If, after these steps, the light remains illuminated, it may indicate a more serious problem with the tire pressure monitoring system itself, at which point consulting a mechanic or dealership for a professional diagnosis is recommended. This systematic approach not only helps in identifying the issue but also ensures that you address the most common problems first, saving time and effort in the troubleshooting process.

What could be causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Acura MDX?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2018 Acura MDX, it’s crucial to identify the underlying issues that may be causing this alert. The most prevalent reason is low tire pressure, which can stem from factors such as slow leaks, temperature changes, or the natural loss of air over time. To address this, start by checking the tire pressure and inflating the tires to the recommended levels. If the pressure is adequate, the problem may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could be malfunctioning and failing to provide accurate readings. Additionally, the sensors are powered by batteries that can wear out, requiring replacement to maintain proper operation. Calibration issues can also lead to the warning light remaining on; in such cases, resetting the tire pressure monitoring system may be necessary to ensure it accurately detects tire pressure levels. Lastly, inspect the wiring and connections related to the tire pressure monitoring system, as any damage or loose connections can disrupt communication and trigger the warning light. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light issue in your Acura MDX.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light on a 2018 Acura MDX that stays on?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on a 2018 Acura MDX that remains illuminated is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks and potential vehicle damage it poses. When tire pressure is insufficient, it can severely compromise the vehicle's handling and braking capabilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, driving on underinflated tires accelerates uneven wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of the tires but also raises the risk of a blowout, particularly at high speeds. Additionally, neglecting this warning can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, as improperly inflated tires require more energy to maintain speed, ultimately resulting in higher fuel costs. Furthermore, a persistent warning light may indicate a malfunction within the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), necessitating professional inspection to prevent further complications. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly check and adjust tire pressure to the manufacturer's specifications and seek expert assistance if the warning light does not turn off after addressing the tire pressure.

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