Acura TSX (2014 year). Manual - part 14

215

uu 

When Driving 

u 

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) - Required Federal Explanation



14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  215 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it 
is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-
inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire 

pressure telltale.

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to 
indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction 
indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system 

detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and 
then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon 

subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists.

When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to 
detect or signal low tire pressure as intended.

TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation 
of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS 
from functioning properly.

Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or 
wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and 

wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

216





Braking

Brake System

Use the parking brake to keep the vehicle stationary when parking.

To apply:
Pull the lever fully up without pressing the 
release button.

To release:
1. Pull the lever slightly, and press and hold 

the release button.

2. Lower the lever down all the way, then 

release the button.

■

Parking Brake

1

Parking Brake

NOTICE

Release the parking brake fully before driving. The 
rear brakes and axle can be damaged if you drive 
with the parking brake applied.

If you start driving without fully releasing the parking 
brake, a buzzer sounds as a warning, and RELEASE 
PARKING BRAKE appears on the multi-information 
display.

Always apply the parking brake when parking.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  216 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

217

uu 

Braking 

u 

Brake System



Your vehicle is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A vacuum power assist 
helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The brake assist system increases 
the stopping force when you depress the brake pedal hard in an emergency 
situation. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps you retain steering control when 
braking very hard.

2 Brake Assist System P. 219
2 Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) P. 218

■

Foot Brake

1

Foot Brake

Check the brakes after driving through deep water, 
or if there is a buildup of road surface water. If 
necessary, dry the brakes by lightly depressing the 
pedal several times.

If you hear a continuous metallic friction sound when 
applying the brakes, the brake pads need to be 
replaced. Have the vehicle checked by a dealer.

Constantly using the brake pedal while going down a 
long hill builds up heat, which reduces the brake 
effectiveness. Apply engine braking by taking your 
foot off the accelerator pedal and downshifting to a 
lower gear.

Do not rest your foot on the brake pedal while 
driving, as it will lightly apply the brakes and cause 
them to lose effectiveness over time and reduce pad 
life. It will also confuse drivers behind you.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  217 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

218

uu 

Braking 

u 

Anti-lock Brake System (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 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.

■

ABS

1

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)

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 the ABS:

•

When driving on rough road surfaces, including 
when driving on uneven surfaces, such as gravel or 
snow.

•

When tire chains are installed.

You 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.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  218 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

219

uu 

Braking 

u 

Brake Assist System



Brake Assist System

Designed to assist the driver by generating greater braking force when you depress 
the brake pedal hard during emergency braking.

■

Brake assist system operation

Press the brake pedal firmly for more powerful braking.

When brake assist operates, the pedal may wiggle slightly and an operating noise 
may be heard. This is normal. Keep holding the brake pedal firmly down.

■

Brake Assist System

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  219 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

220





Parking Your Vehicle

When Stopped

1. Depress the brake pedal firmly.

2. Firmly apply the parking brake.

3. Move the shift lever from 

 (

D  to 

 (

P .

4. Turn off the engine.

Always set the parking brake firmly, in particular if you are parked on an incline.

1

Parking Your Vehicle

Do not park your vehicle near flammable objects, 
such as dry grass, oil, or timber.
Heat from the exhaust can cause a fire.

1

When Stopped

NOTICE

The following can damage the transmission:

•

Depressing the accelerator and brake pedals 
simultaneously.

•

Holding the vehicle in place when facing uphill by 
depressing the accelerator pedal.

•

Moving the shift lever into 

 (

P 

 before the vehicle 

stops completely.

Raise the wiper arms when snow is expected.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  220 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

221

Continued



Refueling

Fuel Information

■

Fuel recommendation

Use of lower octane gasoline can cause occasional metallic knocking noise in the 
engine and will result in decreased engine performance.
Use of gasoline with a pump octane less than 87 can lead to engine damage.

■

Top tier detergent gasoline

Because the level of detergency and additives in gasoline vary in the market, Acura 
endorses the use of “TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline” where available to help 
maintain the performance and reliability of your vehicle. TOP TIER Detergent 
Gasoline meets a new gasoline standard jointly established by leading automotive 
manufacturers to meet the needs of today’s advanced engines.

Qualifying gasoline retailers will, in most cases, identify their gasoline as having met 
“TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline” standards at the retail location. This fuel is 
guaranteed to contain the proper level of detergent additives and be free of metallic 
additives. The proper level of detergent additives, and absence of harmful metallic 
additives in gasoline, help avoid build-up of deposits in your engine and emission 
control system.

For further important fuel-related information for your vehicle, or on information on 
gasoline that does not contain MMT, visit Acura Owners at owners.acura.com for 
additional information on gasoline. For more information on top tier gasoline, visit 
www.toptiergas.com.

Unleaded premium gasoline, pump octane number 91 or higher

1

Fuel Information

NOTICE

We recommend quality gasoline containing 
detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and 
engine deposits. In addition, in order to maintain 
good performance, fuel economy, and emissions 
control, we strongly recommend the use of gasoline 
that does NOT contain harmful manganese-based 
fuel additives such as MMT, if such gasoline is 
available.

Use of gasoline with these additives may adversely 
affect performance, and cause the malfunction 
indicator lamp on your instrument panel to come on. 
If this happens, contact a dealer for service.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  221 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

uu 

Refueling 

u 

How to Refuel

222





■

Gasoline containing ethanol

Some gasoline today is blended with oxygenates such as ethanol. Your vehicle 
is designed to operate on oxygenated gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol 
by volume. Do not use gasoline containing methanol. If you notice any 
undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to 
another brand of gasoline.

■

Fuel tank capacity: 18.5 US gal (70 liters)

How to Refuel

1. Stop your vehicle with the service 

station pump on the left side of the 
vehicle in the rear.

2. Turn off the engine.

3. Unlock the driver’s door using the master 

door lock switch.

u

The fuel fill door on the outer side of the 
vehicle will unlock.

1

How to Refuel

3 

WARNING

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. 
You can be burned or seriously injured 
when handling fuel.

• Stop the engine, and keep heat, sparks, 

and flame away.

• Handle fuel only outdoors.
• Wipe up spills immediately.

To Lock

To Unlock

Master Door Lock Switch

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  222 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

223

uu 

Refueling 

u 

How to Refuel



4. Press the area indicated by the arrow 

to release the fuel fill door. You will hear 
a click.

5. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. If you hear a 

release of air, wait until this stops, then turn 
the knob slowly to open the fuel fill cap.

6. Place the fuel fill cap in the holder.

7. Insert the fuel filler nozzle fully.

u

When the tank is full, the fuel nozzle will 
click off automatically. This leaves space 
in the fuel tank in case the fuel expands 
with a change in the temperature.

8. After filling, replace the fuel fill cap, 

tightening it until you hear it click at 

least once.

u

Shut the fuel fill door by hand.

1

How to Refuel

Use the master door lock switch to unlock the fuel fill 
door.

The vehicle doors and fuel fill door automatically 
relock if the remote unlock function is used. This can 
be deactivated by briefly opening then closing the 
driver’s door.

NOTICE

The fuel fill door and its latching mechanism can be 
permanently damaged if the fuel fill door is forced 
closed when the driver’s door is locked.

The filler nozzle automatically stops to leave space in 
the fuel tank so that fuel does not overflow as a result 
of changes in air temperature.

If the fuel nozzle keeps turning off when the tank is 
not full, there may be a problem with the pump’s fuel 
vapor recovery system. Try filling at another pump. If 
this does not fix the problem, consult a dealer.

Do not continue to add fuel after the nozzle has 
automatically stopped. Additional fuel can exceed 
the full tank capacity.

Fuel Fill Door

Press

Cap

Cap

Holder

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  223 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

224





Fuel Economy

Improving Fuel Economy

Fuel economy depends on several conditions, including driving conditions, your 
driving habits, the condition of your vehicle, and loading. Depending on these and 
other conditions, you may or may not achieve the rated fuel economy of this vehicle.

You can optimize your fuel economy with proper maintenance of your vehicle. 
Always maintain your vehicle in accordance with the messages displayed on the 
multi-information display.

• Use the recommended viscosity engine oil, displaying the API Certification Seal.

• Maintain the specified tire pressure.

• Do not load the vehicle with excess cargo.

• Keep your vehicle clean. A buildup of snow or mud on your vehicle’s underside 

adds weight and increases wind resistance.

■

Maintenance and Fuel Economy

1

Improving Fuel Economy

Direct calculation is the recommended method to 
determine actual fuel consumed while driving.

Miles driven

Gallons of 

fuel

Miles per 

Gallon

100

Liter

Kilometers

L per 100 km

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  224 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

225



Accessories and Modifications

Accessories

When installing accessories, check the following:

• Do not install accessories on the windshield. They can obstruct your view and 

delay your reaction to driving conditions.

• Do not install any accessories over areas marked SRS Airbag, on the sides or backs 

of the front seats, on front or side pillars, or near the side windows. Accessories 
installed in these areas may interfere with proper operation of the vehicle’s 
airbags or may be propelled into you or another occupant if the airbags deploy.

• Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits or interfere with 

proper operation of your vehicle.

2 Fuses P. 303

• Before installing any electronic accessory, have the installer contact a dealer for 

assistance. If possible, have a dealer inspect the final installation.

Modifications

Do not modify your vehicle or use non-Acura components that can affect its 
handling, stability, and reliability.

Overall vehicle performance can be affected. Always make sure all equipment is 
properly installed and maintained, and that it meets federal, state, province, 
territory, and local regulations.

1

Accessories and Modifications

Acura Genuine accessories are recommended to 
ensure proper operation on your vehicle.

3 

WARNING

Improper accessories or modifications can 
affect your vehicle’s handling, stability, and 
performance, and cause a crash in which 
you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s 
manual regarding accessories and 
modifications.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  225 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Dri
vin
g

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

228







Maint

e

nance

Before Performing Maintenance

Inspection and Maintenance

For 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.

■

Daily inspections

Perform inspections before long distance trips, when washing the vehicle, or when 
refueling.

■

Periodic inspections

• Check the automatic transmission fluid level monthly.

2 Automatic Transmission Fluid P. 244

• Check the brake fluid level monthly.

2 Brake Fluid P. 245

• Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects.

2 Checking and Maintaining Tires P. 259

• Check the operation of the exterior lights monthly.

2 Replacing Light Bulbs P. 247

• Check the condition of the wiper blades at least every six months.

2 Checking and Maintaining Wiper Blades P. 255

■

Types of Inspection and Maintenance

1

Inspection and Maintenance

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.

2 Maintenance Service Items P. 233

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

2 Authorized Manuals P. 321

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.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  228 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

229

uu 

Before Performing Maintenance 

u 

Safety When Performing Maintenance





Safety When Performing Maintenance

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here.
However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in 
performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform 
a given task.

• To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames 

away from the battery and all fuel related parts.
Never leave rags, towels, or other flammable objects under the hood.

u

Heat from the engine and exhaust can ignite them causing a fire.

• To clean parts, use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, 

not gasoline.

• Wear eye protection and protective clothing when working with the battery or 

compressed air.

• Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and can kill you.

u

Only operate the engine if there is sufficient ventilation.

• The vehicle must be in a stationary condition.

u

Make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground, the parking brake is set, and 
the engine is off.

• Be aware that hot parts can burn you.

u

Make sure to let the engine and exhaust system cool thoroughly before 
touching vehicle parts.

• Be aware that moving parts can injure you.

u

Do not start the engine unless instructed, and keep your hands and limbs away 
from moving parts.

■

Maintenance Safety

■

Vehicle Safety

1

Safety When Performing Maintenance

3 

WARNING

Improperly maintaining this vehicle or 
failing to correct a problem before driving 
can cause a crash in which you can be 
seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and 
maintenance recommendations according 
to the schedules in this owner’s manual.

3 

WARNING

Failure to properly follow maintenance 
instructions and precautions can cause you 
to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and 
precautions in this owner’s manual.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  229 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Maint

e

nance

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

230

uu 

Before Performing Maintenance 

u 

Parts and Fluids Used in Maintenance Service







Parts and Fluids Used in Maintenance Service

The use of Acura genuine parts and fluids is recommended when maintaining and 
servicing your vehicle. Acura genuine parts are manufactured according to the same 
high quality standards used in Acura vehicles.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  230 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Maint

e

nance

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

231

Continued





Maintenance Minder

TM

If the engine oil life is less than 15%, you will see the Maintenance Minder messages 
appear on the multi-information display every time you turn the ignition switch to 
ON 

 (

w . The messages notify you when to change the engine oil, or when to bring 

your vehicle to a dealer for indicated maintenance services.

1. Turn the ignition switch to ON 

 (

w .

2. Press the SEL/RESET button repeatedly until the engine oil life appears on the 

multi-information display.

The system message indicator (

) comes on along with the Maintenance Minder 

message.

■

Displaying the Engine Oil Life

1

Displaying the Engine Oil Life

Based on the engine operating conditions, the 
remaining engine oil life is calculated and displayed 
as a percentage.

Displayed Engine Oil 

Life (%)

Calculated Engine Oil 

Life (%)

100

100 to 91

90

90 to 81

80

80 to 71

70

70 to 61

60

60 to 51

50

50 to 41

40

40 to 31

30

30 to 21

20

20 to 16

15

15 to 11

10

10 to 6

5

5 to 1

0

0

SEL/RESET

 

Button

Maintenance 
Service Items

Remaining 
Engine Oil Life

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  231 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Maint

e

nance

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon

232

uu 

Maintenance Minder

TM 

u 







■

Maintenance Minder Messages on the Multi-Information Display

Maintenance Message

Oil Life Display

Explanation

Information

SERVICE DUE SOON

15%

The remaining engine oil life is 15 to 6 
percent. Once you switch the display 
by pressing the 

 (Information) 

button this message will go off.

The engine oil is approaching the 
end of its service life, and the 
maintenance items should be 
inspected and serviced soon.

SERVICE DUE NOW

5%

The remaining engine oil life is 5 to 1 
percent. Press the 

 button to 

switch to another display.

The engine oil has almost reached 
the end of its service life, and the 
maintenance items should be 
inspected and serviced as soon as 
possible.

SERVICE PAST DUE

Negative Distance

The remaining engine oil life has 
passed its service life, and a negative 
distance appears after driving over 10 
miles. Press the 

 button to 

switch to another display.

The engine oil life has passed. 
The maintenance items must be 
inspected and serviced immediately.

14 ACURA TSX 5D-31TL76300.book  232 ページ  ２０１３年６月１７日　月曜日　午後３時２１分

QRG

Index

Maint

e

nance

TOC

2014 TSX Sport Wagon