2012 Acura RL Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2012 Acura RL for Safe Driving Conditions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2012 Acura RL 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 2012 Acura RL 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 in my 2012 Acura RL?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2012 Acura RL, start by checking the recommended tire pressure, which can be found on the sticker located inside the driver’s side door. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in all four tires, ensuring they meet the specifications indicated on the sticker. If any tires are under-inflated, inflate them to the correct pressure. Should the tire pressure be adequate yet the warning light remains illuminated, the next step is to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). If the light persists after resetting, it may indicate a malfunctioning TPMS sensor, which could require further investigation or replacement. Remember, it’s essential to address the warning light promptly to avoid potential tire failure, so always stop safely to check your tire pressure when the warning appears. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the issue with your tire pressure warning light.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2012 Acura RL?

When the tire pressure warning light stays on in a 2012 Acura RL, it can signal several common issues that DIY enthusiasts should be prepared to address. The primary reason is often low tire pressure, which can be easily checked with a tire pressure gauge; ensuring all tires are inflated to the recommended levels is a simple yet crucial first step. If the tire pressure is adequate, the problem may stem from a faulty tire pressure sensor that might need replacement. Additionally, the sensors could require recalibration, a task that can sometimes be done at home with the right tools or by a professional. Electrical problems, such as damaged wiring or blown fuses, can also cause the warning light to remain illuminated, making it essential to inspect the vehicle's electrical system thoroughly. Lastly, a malfunction within the tire pressure monitoring system itself could be the culprit, which may necessitate specialized diagnostic equipment for resolution. By being aware of these potential issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the persistent tire pressure warning light in their Acura RL, ensuring both safety and optimal vehicle performance.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2012 Acura RL?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light that remains illuminated in a 2012 Acura RL is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks and potential vehicle damage associated with neglecting this issue. When tire pressure is insufficient, it can severely compromise the vehicle's handling and braking capabilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, driving on underinflated tires accelerates uneven wear, which not only shortens the lifespan of the tires but also raises the risk of a blowout, posing a serious threat to both the driver and other road users. Furthermore, low tire pressure can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, resulting in higher fuel costs over time. To ensure optimal performance and safety, it is crucial to promptly check and inflate the tires to the manufacturer's recommended levels, as well as investigate any underlying issues that may be causing the warning light to remain on. Regular monitoring of tire pressure is essential for maintaining the overall health and performance of your vehicle.

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