Acura TSX 2013 Owner's Manual

270Maintenance
Climate Control System MaintenanceDust and Pollen FilterThe climate control system is equipped with a dust and pollen filter that collects
pollen, dust, and other debris in the air. The Maintenance Minder
TM messages will let
you know when to replace the filter.
We recommend that you replace the dust and pollen filter sooner when using your
vehicle in areas with high concentrations of dust.
1 Dust and Pollen Filter
Using an air freshener may reduce the deodorizing
effect of the dust and pollen filter, and may reduce its
life.
If the air flow from the climate control system
deteriorates noticeably, and the windows fog up
easily, the filter may need to be replaced. Please
contact a dealer for replacement.

271
Continued
Maintenance
CleaningInterior CareUse a damp cloth with a mixture of mild detergent and warm water to remove dirt.
Use a clean cloth to remove detergent residue.
Use a soft brush with a mixture of mild soap and warm water to clean the seat belts.
Let the belts air dry. Wipe the openings of the seat belt anchors using a clean cloth.■
Cleaning Seat Belts
1Interior Care
Do not spill liquids inside the vehicle.
Electrical devices and systems may malfunction if
liquids are splashed on them.
Do not use silicone based sprays on electrical devices
such as audio devices and switches.
Doing so may cause the items to malfunction or a fire
inside the vehicle.
If a silicone based spray is inadvertently used on
electrical devices, consult a dealer.
Depending on their composition, chemicals and
liquid aromatics may cause discoloration, wrinkles,
and cracking to resin-based parts and textiles.
Do not use alkali solvents or organic solvents such as
benzene or gasoline.
After using chemicals, make sure to gently wipe them
off using a dry cloth.
Do not place used cloths on top of resin based parts
or textiles for long periods of time without washing.
Opening

uuCleaning uInterior Care
272Maintenance
The front floor mats hook over the floor
anchors, which keep the mats from sliding
forward. To remove a mat for cleaning, turn
the anchor knobs to the unlock position.
When reinstalling the mat after cleaning, turn
the knobs to the lock position.
Do not put additional floor mats on top of
the anchored mats.
Vacuum dirt and dust from the leather frequently. Pay close attention to the pleats
and seams. Clean the leather with a soft cloth dampened with a 90% water and
10% neutral soap solution. Then buff it with a clean, dry cloth. Remove any dust or
dirt on leather surfaces immediately.
■
Floor Mats
1 Floor Mats
If you use any floor mats that were not originally
provided with your vehicle, make sure they are
designed for your specific vehicle, fit correctly, and
are securely anchored by the floor anchors.
Position the rear seat floor mats properly. If they are
not properly positioned, the floor mats can interfere
with the front seat functions.
To unlock
Driver’s floor mat is shown.■
Maintaining Genuine Leather
*
* Not available on all models

273
uuCleaning uExterior Care
Continued
Maintenance
Exterior CareDust off the vehicle body after you drive.
Regularly inspect your vehicle for scratches on painted surfaces. A scratch on a
painted surface can result in body rust. If you find a scratch, promptly repair it.
Wash the vehicle regularly. Wash more frequently when driving in the following
conditions:
• If driving on roads with road salt.
• If driving in coastal areas.
• If tar, soot, bird droppings, insects, or tree sap are stuck to painted surfaces.
Fold in the door mirrors. Make sure to follow the instructions indicated on the
automated car wash.
• Keep sufficient distance between the cleaning nozzle and the vehicle body.
• Take particular care around the windows. Standing too close may cause water to
enter the vehicle interior. Do not spray water into the engine compartment.■
Washing the Vehicle
■
Using an Automated Car Wash
■
Using High Pressure Cleaners
1Washing the Vehicle
Do not spray water into the air intake vents or engine
compartment. It can cause a malfunction.
Air Intake Vents

uuCleaning uExterior Care
274Maintenance
A good coat of automotive body wax helps protect your vehicle’s paint from the
elements. Wax will wear off over time and expose your vehicle’s paint to the
elements, so reapply as necessary.
If you get gasoline, oil, engine coolant, or battery fluid on resin coated parts, they
may be stained or the coating may peel. Promptly wipe it away using a soft cloth and
clean water.
Wipe using a glass cleaner.
Aluminum is susceptible to deterioration caused by salt and other road
contaminants. Use a sponge and mild detergent to wipe away promptly.
Be careful not to use harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or
a stiff brush. They can damage the clear coat of the aluminum alloy wheels that
helps keep the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing.■
Applying Wax
■
Maintaining the Bumpers and Other Resin Coated Parts
■
Cleaning the Window
■
Maintaining Aluminum Wheels
1Applying Wax
NOTICEChemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage
the paint, metal, and plastic on your vehicle. Wipe up
spills immediately.1Maintaining the Bumpers and Other Resin Coated Parts
Ask a dealer about the correct coating material when
you want to repair the painted surface of the parts
made of resin.1Cleaning the Window
Wires are mounted to the inside of the rear window.
Wipe along the same direction as the wires with a
soft cloth so as not to damage them.

275
Handling the Unexpected
This chapter explains how to handle unexpected troubles.
Tools.................................................. 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 ............. 288 Indicator, Coming On/Blinking
If the Low Oil Pressure Indicator Comes
On.................................................. 290If the Charging System Indicator Comes
On ................................................. 290
If the Malfunction Indicator Lamp Comes On or Blinks ................................... 291If the Brake System Indicator Comes On .. 292If the EPS System Indicator Comes On ... 292If the Low Tire Pressure/TPMS Indicator Comes On or Blinks........................ 293 Fuses
Fuse Locations ................................. 294
Circuit Protected and Amps for Each Fuse............................................ 296Inspecting and Changing Fuses ........ 298
Emergency Towing ........................... 299
When You Cannot Unlock the Fuel Fill Door ................................................. 300
When You Cannot Open the Trunk .. 301

276Handling the Unexpected
ToolsTypes of Tools
1Types of Tools
The tools are stored in the trunk.
Wheel Nut Wrench/
Jack Handle
Jack
Jack Handle Bar
Tool Case

277
Continued
Handling the Unexpected
If a Tire Goes FlatChanging a Flat TireIf 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 a 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 surface and apply the parking
brake.
2. Move the shift lever in
(P
.
2. Move the shift lever in
(R
.
3. Set the parking brake.
4. Turn on the hazard warning lights and turn the ignition switch to LOCK
(0
.
1Changing 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.
Automatic transmission modelsManual transmission modelsAll models

278
uuIf a Tire Goes Flat uChanging a Flat Tire
Handling the Unexpected
1. Pull the handle on the trunk floor lid and
open the lid. Hook the handle to the edge
of the trunk opening.
2. Take the tool case out of the trunk. Take
the jack and wheel nut wrench out of the
tool case.
3. Unscrew the wing bolt, and remove the
spacer cone. Then, remove the spare tire.
4. Place a wheel block or rock in front and rear
of the wheel diagonal to the flat tire.
■
Getting Ready to Replace the Flat Tire
Tool Case
Spare Tire
Wheel
Blocks
The tire to be replaced.

279
uuIf a Tire Goes Flat uChanging a Flat Tire
Continued
Handling the Unexpected
5. Place the compact spare tire (wheel side up)
under the vehicle body, near the tire that
needs to be replaced.
6. Loosen each wheel nut about one turn
using the wheel nut wrench.