2018 Acura RDX Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2018 Acura RDX and How to Resolve Them

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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 RDX 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 RDX 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 tire pressure warning light issue on my 2018 Acura RDX?

When diagnosing the tire pressure warning light issue on your 2018 Acura RDX, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring they are inflated to the levels recommended in your owner's manual. This initial step can often resolve the warning light if the pressure is simply low. Next, inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could indicate a more serious problem. If the tires appear to be in good condition, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system as outlined in your manual; this can help eliminate false alerts caused by system glitches. Additionally, examine the valve stems for any signs of leaks or damage, as faulty stems can also trigger the warning light. If, after these checks, the warning light remains illuminated, it may be time to consult a mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis of the tire pressure monitoring system. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively identify and address the issue, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

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

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2018 Acura RDX, it can indicate several common issues that are manageable for a DIY enthusiast. The first step is to check the tire pressure in all four tires, as low pressure is the most frequent cause of the warning light. If the pressure is within the recommended range, the next consideration should be the tire pressure sensors; a malfunctioning sensor may need replacement. Additionally, sensor calibration can sometimes be off, requiring professional recalibration to ensure accurate readings. It's also wise to inspect the tires for any visible leaks or punctures, as these can lead to air loss and trigger the warning light. If all else appears normal, consider checking the wiring connected to the tire pressure sensors and the control module for any faults. Lastly, remember that colder temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, so adjusting for seasonal changes is essential. By methodically addressing these potential issues, you can troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure warning light in your Acura RDX effectively.

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

Addressing the tire pressure warning light on a 2018 Acura RDX that remains illuminated is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, low tire pressure can significantly compromise vehicle safety, affecting handling and braking capabilities, which increases the risk of accidents, particularly in challenging driving conditions. Additionally, neglecting this warning can lead to uneven tire wear, resulting in the premature need for tire replacements, which can be costly. Furthermore, underinflated tires can negatively impact fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel expenses over time. Lastly, driving with low tire pressure poses a risk of tire damage, including the potential for blowouts, which can be dangerous. Therefore, it is essential to check and adjust the tire pressure according to the manufacturer's specifications as soon as the warning light activates, ensuring both safety and optimal vehicle performance.

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