tire type Acura TSX 2011 Owner's Manual

204Driving
When Driving
VSA
® (Vehicle Stability Assist), aka ESC (Electronic Stability Control), System
VSA
® (Vehicle Stability Assist), aka ESC (Electronic
Stability Control), System
VSA
® helps to stabilize the vehicle during cornering if the vehicle turns more or less
than what was intended. It also assists in maintaining traction on slippery surfaces.
It does so by regulating engine output and selectively applying the brakes.
VSA
® Operation
VSA
® (Vehicle Stability Assist), aka ESC (Electronic Stability
Control), System
The VSA
® may not function properly if tire type and
size are mixed. Make sure to use the same size and
type of tire, and the air pressures as specified.
When the VSA
® indicator comes on and stays on
while driving, there may be a problem with the
system. While this may not interfere with normal
driving, have your vehicle checked by a dealer
immediately.
VSA
® cannot enhance stability in all driving
situations and does not control the entire braking
system. You still need to drive and corner at speeds
appropriate for the conditions and always leave a
sufficient margin of safety.
The main function of the VSA
® system is generally
known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The
system also includes a traction control function.
When VSA
® activates, you may notice
that the engine does not respond to the
accelerator. You may also notice some noise
from the hydraulic system. You will also see
the indicator blink.
VSA
® System
Indicator

Braking
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
212Driving
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
ABS
Helps prevent the wheels from locking up, and helps you retain steering control by
pumping the brakes rapidly, much faster than you.
The electronic brake distribution (EBD) system, which is part of the ABS, also
balances the front-to-rear braking distribution according to vehicle loading.
You should never pump the brake pedal. Let the ABS work for you by always
keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. This is sometimes referred to as
"stomp and steer."
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) NOTICE The ABS may not function correctly if you use an
incorrect tire type and size.
When the ABS indicator comes on while driving,
there may be a problem with the system.
While normal braking is not affected, there is a
possibility of the ABS not operating. Have the
vehicle checked by a dealer immediately.
The ABS does not reduce the time or distance it
takes to stop the vehicle. It only helps with steering
control during hard braking.
In the following cases, your vehicle may need more
stopping distance than a vehicle without ABS:
When driving on rough road surfaces, including twhen driving on uneven surfaces, such as gravel
or snow.
When tire chains are installed. tYou may hear a motor sound coming from the
engine compartment while system checks are being
performed immediately after starting the engine or
while driving. This is normal.
ABS operation
The brake pedal may pulsate slightly when the ABS is working. Keep holding the
pedal firmly down. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal
very hard before the ABS activates. However, you may feel the ABS activate
immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.
When the vehicle speed goes under 6 mph (10 km/h), the ABS stops.

Before Performing Maintenance
222Maintenance
Inspection and MaintenanceFor your safety, perform all listed inspections and maintenance to keep your
vehicle in good condition. If you become aware of any abnormality (noise, smell,
insufficient brake fluid, oil residue on the ground, etc.), have your vehicle inspected
by a dealer. (Note, however, that service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep
your warranties in effect.) Refer to the separate maintenance booklet for detailed
maintenance and inspection information.
Types of Inspection and Maintenance Daily inspections
Perform inspections before long distance trips, when washing the vehicle, or when
refueling. Periodic inspections
Check the automatic transmission fluid level monthly. t
Automatic Transmission Fluid

P. 2 4 2
Check the brake fluid level monthly. t
Brake/Clutch Fluid

P. 2 4 4
Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign t
objects.
Checking and Maintaining Tires

P. 2 5 9
Check the operation of the exterior lights monthly. t
Replacing Light Bulbs

P. 2 4 7
Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every six months. t
Checking and Maintaining Wiper Blades

P. 2 5 7
Inspection and Maintenance U.S. models Maintenance, replacement, or repair of
emissions control devices and systems may be
done by any automotive repair establishment
or individuals using parts that are "certified"
to EPA standards.

According to state and federal regulations, failure
to perform maintenance on the maintenance main
items marked with # will not void your emissions
warranties. However, all maintenance services
should be performed in accordance with the
intervals indicated by the multi-information display.
Maintenance Service Items


P. 2 2 7
If you want to perform complex maintenance tasks
that require more skills and tools, purchase the
service manual.
Authorized Manual


P. 3 13

If you want to perform maintenance yourself, make
sure that you have the necessary tools and skills
first.
After performing maintenance, update the records
in the separate maintenance booklet.

259
Checking and Maintaining Tires
Maintenance
Checking TiresTo safely operate your vehicle, your tires must be of the proper type and size, in
good condition with adequate tread, and properly inflated.
Inflation guidelines
Properly inflated tires provide the best combination of handling, tread life, and
comfort. Refer to the driver’s doorjamb label or specification’s page for the
specified pressure.
Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy,
and are more likely to fail from overheating.
Overinflated tires make your vehicle ride harshly, are more prone to road hazard,
and wear unevenly.
Every day before you drive, look at each of the tires. If one looks lower than the
others, check the pressure with a tire gauge.
At least once a month or before long trips, use a gauge to measure the pressure in
all tires, including the spare. Even tires in good condition can lose 1 to 2 psi (10 to
20 kPa, 0.1 to 0.2 kgf/cm
2) per month.
Inspection guidelines
Every time you check inflation, also examine the tires and valve stems.
Look for:
Bumps or bulges on the side or in the tread. Replace the tire if you find any t
cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace it if you see fabric or cord.
Remove any foreign objects and inspect for air leaks. t
Uneven tread wear. Have your dealer check the wheel alignment. t
Excessive tread wear. t
Wear Indicators

P. 2 6 4
Cracks or other damage around valve stem. t
WARNING
Using tires that are excessively worn or
improperly inflated can cause a crash
in which you can be seriously hurt or
killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner’s
manual regarding tire inflation and
maintenance. Checking Tires
Measure the air pressure when tires are cold. This
means the vehicle has been parked for at least
three hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km).
If necessary, add or release air until the specified
pressure is reached.
If checked when hot, tire pressure can be as mush
as 4 – 6 psi (30 – 40 kPa, 0.3– 0.4 kgf/cm
2) higher
than if checked when cold.
Have a dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent
vibration while driving. New tires and any that have
been removed and reinstalled should be properly
balanced.

Checking and Maintaining Tires
Tire and Loading Information Label
260Maintenance
Tire and Loading Information LabelThe label attached to the driver’s doorjamb provides necessary tire and
loading information.
124
3
Label
Example

  







 
  
Tire SizeFollowing is an example of tire size with
an explanation of what each component
means.
P225/50 R17 93V
P: Vehicle type (P indicates passenger
vehicle).
225: Tire width in millimeters.
50: Aspect ratio (the tire’s section height
as a percentage of its width).
R: Tire construction code (R indicates
radial).
17: Rim diameter in inches.
93: Load index (a numerical code
associated with the maximum load the
tire can carry).
V: Speed symbol (an alphabetical code
indicating the maximum speed rating).
Tire Labeling
The tires that came on your vehicle have
a number of markings. Those you should
be aware of are described below.
Tire Size
Whenever tires are replaced, they should be replaced with tires of the
same size.
Tire and Loading Information LabelThe tire and loading information label
attached to the driver’s doorjamb
contains:1 The number of people your vehicle can
carry.2 The total weight your vehicle can carry.
Do not exceed this weight.3 The original tire sizes for front, rear and
spare.4 The proper cold tire pressure for front,
rear and spare.

Checking and Maintaining Tires
Tire Labeling
261
Maintenance
Tire Identification Number (TIN)
The tire identification number (TIN) is a group of numbers and letters that
look like the example in the side column. TIN is located on the sidewall of
the tire.
Glossary of Tire Terminology
Cold Tire Pressure – The tire air pressure when the vehicle has been
parked for at least three hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km).
Load Rating – Means the maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a
given inflation pressure.
Maximum Inflation Pressure – The maximum tire air pressure that the
tire can hold.
Maximum Load Rating – Means the load rating for a tire at the
maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire.
Recommended Inflation Pressure – The cold tire inflation pressure
recommended by the manufacturer.
Treadwear Indicators (TWI) – Means the projections within the principal
grooves designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the
tread.
Tire Identification Number (TIN)DOT B97R FW6X 2209
DOT: This indicates that the tire meets all
requirements of the U.S. Department of
Transportation.
B97R: Manufacturer’s identification mark.
FW6X: Tire type code.
2209: Date of manufacture.
Ye a r
Week

Checking and Maintaining Tires
Tire and Wheel Replacement
265
Maintenance
Tire and Wheel Replacement
Tire and Wheel Replacement
Replace your tires with radials of the same size, load range, speed rating, and
maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall). Using tires of a
different size or construction can cause the ABS and VSA
® (vehicle stability assist)
system to work incorrectly.
It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that isn’t possible, replace the
front or rear tires in pairs.
If you replace a wheel, only use TPMS specified wheels approved for your vehicle.
Make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.
WARNING
Installing improper tires on your vehicle
can affect handling and stability. This can
cause a crash in which you can be seriously
hurt or killed.
Always use the size and type of tires
recommended in this owner’s manual.

Checking and Maintaining Tires
Winter Tires
267
Maintenance
Winter TiresIf driving on snowy or frozen roads, mount all season marked ”M+S” tires, snow
tires, or tire chains; reduce speed; and maintain sufficient distance between
vehicles when driving.
Be particularly careful when operating the steering wheel or brakes to prevent
skidding.
Use tire chains, snow tires, or all season tires when necessary or according to the
law.
When mounting, refer to the following points.
For winter tires:
Select the size and load ranges that are the same as the original tires. t
Mount the tires to all four wheels. t
For tire chains:
Install them on the front tires only. Because your vehicle has limited tire t
clearance, Acura strongly recommends using the chains listed below:
4-cylinder models Cable-type: SCC Radial Chain SC1034 6-cylinder models Cable-type: SCC Radial Chain SC1038 Follow the chain manufacturer’s instruction when installing. Mount them as t
tightly as you can.
Check that the chains do not touch the brake lines or suspension. t
Drive slowly. t
Winter Tires NOTICE Traction devices that are the wrong size or
improperly installed can damage your vehicle's
brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels. Stop
driving if they are hitting any part of the vehicle.
When tire chains are mounted, follow the chain
manufacturer's instructions regarding vehicle
operational limits.
WARNING
Using the wrong chains, or not properly
installing chains, can damage the brake
lines and cause a crash in which you can
be seriously injured or killed.
Follow all instructions in this owner's
manual regarding the selection and use of
tire chains.

Handling the Unexpected
This chapter explains how to handle unexpected troubles.
To o l s ..................................................... 276
Types of Tools .....................................276
If a Tire Goes Flat ................................ 277
Changing a Flat Tire ........................... 277
Engine Does Not Start
Checking the Engine .......................... 283
Jump Starting ..................................... 284
Shift Lever Does Not Move ............... 287
Overheating ........................................ 288
How to Handle Overheating .............. 288Indicator, Coming On/Blinking
If the Low Oil Pressure Indicator
Comes On ........................................ 290
If the Charging System Indicator
Comes On ........................................ 290
If the Malfunction Indicator Lamp
Comes On or Blinks .......................... 291
If the Brake System Indicator
Comes On ........................................ 292
If the EPS Indicator Comes On ........... 292
If the Low Tire Pressure/ TPMS Indicator
Comes On or Blinks .......................... 293Fuses
Fuse Locations ................................... 294
Inspecting and Changing Fuses .......... 297
Emergency Towing ............................. 298
When You Cannot Unlock the Fuel
Fill Door ............................................. 299
When You Cannot Open the
Trunk .................................................. 300
275

277
If a Tire Goes Flat
Continued
Handling the Unexpected
If a tire goes flat while driving, grasp the steering wheel firmly, and brake gradually
to reduce speed. Then, stop in a safe place. Replace the flat tire with the compact
spare tire. Go to a dealer as soon as possible to have the full size tire repaired or
replaced.
1. Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Automatic transmission models 2. Put the shift lever in P
.
Manual transmission models 2. Put the shift lever in R
.
All models 3. Set the parking brake.
4. Turn on the hazard warning lights and turn the ignition switch to LOCK 0
.
Changing a Flat Tire
Periodically check the tire pressure of the compact
spare. It should be set to the specified pressure.
Specified Pressure: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm
2)
When driving with the compact spare tire, keep
the vehicle speed under 50 mph (80 km/h). Replace
with a full size tire as soon as possible.
The compact spare tire and wheel in your vehicle
are specifically for this model.
Do not use them with another vehicle.
Do not use another type of compact spare tire or
wheel with your vehicle.
Do not mount tire chains on a compact spare tire.
If a chain-mounted front tire goes flat, remove one
of the full-size rear tires and replace it with the
compact spare tire. Remove the flat front tire and
replace it will the full size tire that was removed
from the rear. Mount the tire chains on the front
tire.
Do not use a puncture-repairing agent on a flat tire,
as it can damage the tire pressure sensor.
Changing a Flat Tire