2012 Acura TL Owners Manual

problem and not due to a variation between gauges.

569

2012 TL11/01/14 19:33:56 31TK4630_575

Tires

Recommended Tire Pressures The following chart shows the recommended cold tire pressures for most normal driving conditions.

TLandTLwithTechnology Packagemodels

Tire Size

P245/50R17 98V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

TLwithAdvancePackage andCanadianElitePackagemodels Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

Tire Size

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

P245/45R18 96V

Rear:

570

SH-AWDandSH-AWDwith Packagemodels Technology Tire Size

P245/45R18 96V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

The compact spare tire pressure is: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

For convenience, the recommended tire sizes and cold tire pressures are on a label on the driver’s doorjamb.

For additional technical information, see page

619

SH-AWDwithAdvancePackage and CanadianSH-AWDElite Package models

Tire Size

P245/40R19 94V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for Normal Driving Front:

34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm ) 34 psi (235 kPa , 2.4 kgf/cm )

2012 TL11/01/14 19:34:11 31TK4630_576

High Speed Driving We strongly recommend that you do not drive faster than the posted speed limits and conditions allow. If you ever drive in a sanctioned competitive event at sustained high speeds, be sure to adjust the cold tire pressures as shown below. If you do not, excessive heat can build up and cause sudden tire failure.

TLwithAdvancePackage,Canadian ElitePackage,SH-AWD,andSH-AWD withTechnologyPackagemodels For speeds over 118 mph or 190 km/h:

Tire Size

P245/45R18 96V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for High Speed Driving Front:

33 psi (230 kPa , 2.3 kgf/cm ) 32 psi (220 kPa , 2.2 kgf/cm )

SH-AWDwithAdvancePackage and CanadianSH-AWDElite Package models For speeds over 99 mph or 160 km/h:

Tire Size

P245/40R19 94V

Rear:

Cold Tire Pressure for High Speed Driving Front:

39 psi (270 kPa , 2.7 kgf/cm ) 39 psi (270 kPa , 2.7 kgf/cm )

TLandTLwithTechnology Package models Tire pressure for high speed driving is the same as for normal driving.

Tires

Tire Inspection Every time you check inflation, you should also examine the tires for damage, foreign objects, and wear.

You should look for:

Bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find either of these conditions.

Cuts, splits, or cracks in the side of the tire. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.

Excessive tread wear.

CONTINUED

571

2012 TLThe last four digits of the TIN (tire identification number) are found on the sidewall of the tire and indicate Tire the date of manufacture (See Labeling

on page

619

).

11/01/14 19:34:21 31TK4630_577

Tires

INDICATOR LOCATION MARKS

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR

Your tires have wear indicators molded into the tread. When the tread wears down, you will see a 1/2
inch (12.7 mm) wide band across the tread. This shows there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread left on the tire.

A tire this worn gives very little traction on wet roads. You should replace the tire if you can see three or more tread wear indicators.

572

Tire Maintenance The service life of your tires is dependent on many factors, including, but not limited to, driving habits, road conditions, vehicle loading, inflation pressure, maintenance history, speed, and environmental conditions (even when the tires are not in use).

In addition to your regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance, it is recommended that you have annual inspections performed once the tires reach five years old. It is also recommended that all tires, including the spare, be removed from service after 10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of their condition or state of wear.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:34:34 31TK4630_578

Tire Maintenance In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.

Have your dealer check the tires if you feel a consistent vibration while driving. A tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel. When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This increases riding comfort and tire life. For best results, have the installer perform a dynamic balance.

Improper wheel weights can damage your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use only Acura wheel weights f or balancing.

Tire Rotation

Front

Front

(For Non-directional Tires and Wheels)

(For Directional Tires and Wheels)

To help increase tire life and distribute wear more evenly, rotate the tires according to the maintenance messages displayed on the multi-information display. Move the tires to the positions shown in the illustration each time they are rotated. If you purchase directional tires, rotate only front-to-back.

When the tires are rotated, make sure the air pressures are checked.

Tires

Replacing Tires and Wheels Replace your tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure rating (as shown on the tire’s sidewall).

Mixing radial and bias-ply tires on your vehicle can reduce braking ability, traction, and steering accuracy. Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the ABS and vehicle stability assist system (VSA) to work inconsistently.

The ABS and VSA system work by comparing the speed of each wheel. When replacing tires, use the same size originally supplied with the vehicle. Tire size and construction can affect wheel speed and may cause the system to activate.

CONTINUED

573

2012 TL11/01/14 19:34:46 31TK4630_579

Tires

It is best to replace all four tires at the same time. If that is not possible or necessary, replace the two front tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling.

If you ever replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s specifications match those of the original wheels.

Also be sure you use only TPMS specific wheels. If you do not, the tire pressure monitoring system will not work.

Replacement wheels are available at your dealer.

574

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.

Wheel and Tire Specifications Wheels: On2WDModels 17 x 8.0J 18 x 8.0J

(TPMS) (TPMS) ＊

OnSH-AWDModels 18 x 8.0J 19 x 8.0J

(TPMS) (TPMS) ＊

Tires: On2WDModels P245/50R17 98V P245/45R18 96V

＊

OnSH-AWDModels P245/45R18 96V P245/40R19 94V

＊

＊

: Advance Package and Canadian Elite Package

617

for DOT tire quality

See page grading information, and page 619
for tire size information.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:34:59 31TK4630_580

Winter Driving Tires marked ‘‘M S’’ or ‘‘All Season’’ on the sidewall have an all- weather tread design suitable for most winter driving conditions.

＋

For the best performance in snowy or icy conditions, you should install snow tires or tire chains. They may be required by local laws under certain conditions.

SnowTires If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels. The traction provided by snow tires on dry roads may be lower than your original tires. Check with the tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

TireChains Mount tire chains on your tires when required by driving conditions or local laws. Install them only on the front tires. Do not use chains on the rear tires.

Because your vehicle has limited tire clearance, we strongly recommend using this Quality Chain Corp. tire chain:

Tires

Premium Cobra Cable Chain ＃ adjusters

1042P with accessory

＊

This tire chain is available at many auto supply stores. To find a local store that carries the chain, call Quality Chain Corp at 1-800-843-8824. To order the tire chain online, go to , and enter www.qualitychaincorp.com your vehicle information. When you install the chains, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and mount them as tightly as you can. Drive slowly with the chains installed.

＊

Rubber chain adjusters, or tensioners, must be used to prevent the chains from contacting the body or the chassis.

CONTINUED

575

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:07 31TK4630_581

Tires

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.

If you ever hear the chains contacting the body or chassis, stop and investigate. If the chains have loosened, retighten them. Make sure they do not contact the brake lines or suspension.

Remove the chains as soon as you begin driving on cleared roads.

576

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.

Wheels Clean the wheels as you would the rest of the exterior. Wash them with the same solution, and rinse them thoroughly.

Aluminum alloy wheels have a protective clear-coat that keeps the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing. Cleaning the wheels with harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff brush can damage the clear-coat. To clean the wheels, use a mild detergent and a soft brush or sponge.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:18 31TK4630_582

The sensor on the negative terminal monitors your vehicle’s battery condition.

If there is a problem with the sensor, you will see a ‘‘CHECK BATTERY SENSOR’’ message on the multi- information display. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer.

To see the battery label, remove the left side engine compartment cover (see page

542

).

542

Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder) after removing all engine compartment covers (see page ). To remove corrosion, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent further corrosion.

Checking the Battery

If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle’s electrical system. Always disconnect the negative ( − reconnect it last.

) cable first, and

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your Acura dealer or a qualified technician.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Battery posts,

WARNING: terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled technician do the battery maintenance.

CONTINUED

577

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:33 31TK4630_583

Checking the Battery, Vehicle Storage

Onmodelswithoutnavigationsystem If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected, or goes dead, the time setting may be lost. To reset the time, see page

391

If your vehicle’s battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system may disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio, you will see ‘‘ENTER CODE’’ in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the code (see page 390

).

Onmodelswithnavigationsystem The navigation system will also disable itself. The next time you set to the ON mode, the system will require you to enter a PIN before it can be used. Refer to the navigation system manual.

578

Vehicle Storage If you need to park your vehicle for an extended period (more than 1
month), there are several things you should do to prepare it for storage. Proper preparation helps prevent deterioration and makes it easier to get your vehicle back on the road. If possible, store your vehicle indoors.

Fill the fuel tank.

Wash and dry the exterior completely.

Clean the interior. Make sure the carpeting, floor mats, etc., are completely dry.

Leave the parking brake off. Put the transmission in reverse (manual) or Park (automatic).

Block the rear wheels.

If the vehicle is to be stored for a longer period, it should be supported on jackstands so the tires are off the ground.

Leave one window open slightly (if the vehicle is being stored indoors).

Disconnect the battery.

Support the front wiper blade arms with a folded towel or rag so they do not touch the windshield.

To minimize sticking, apply a silicone spray lubricant to all door and trunk seals. Also, apply a vehicle body wax to the painted surfaces that mate with the door and trunk seals.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:39 31TK4630_584

Vehicle Storage, Interior Care

Cover the vehicle with a ‘‘breathable’’ cover, one made from a porous material such as cotton. Non-porous materials, such as plastic sheeting, trap moisture, which can damage the paint.

If possible, periodically run the engine until it reaches full operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle on and off twice). Preferably, do this once a month.

Leather 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.

579

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:42 31TK4630_585

580

2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:47 31TK4630_586

Taking Care of the Unexpected

This section covers the more common problems that motorists experience with their vehicles. It gives you information about how to safely evaluate the problem and what to do to correct it. If the problem has stranded you on the side of the road, you may be able to get going again. If not, you will also find instructions on getting your vehicle towed.

Compact Spare Tire Changing a Flat Tire If the Engine Won’t Start Jump Starting If the Engine Overheats Low Oil Pressure Indicator Charging System Indicator Malfunction Indicator Lamp Brake System Indicator Opening the Fuel Fill Door

...................... .................... ............. ................................ .............. ......... .......... ....... ...............

Manually

.................................... .............................................. .............................. ...................... ..........

Fuses Fuse Locations Emergency Towing If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck

. 582
. 583
. 588
. 591
. 593
. 595
. 596
. 597
. 598

. 599
. 600
. 604
. 607
. 609

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2012 TL11/01/14 19:35:58 31TK4630_587

Compact Spare Tire

Use the compact spare tire as a temporary replacement only. Get your regular tire repaired or replaced, and put it back on your vehicle as soon as you can.

Check the air pressure of the compact spare tire every time you check the other tires. It should be inflated to: 60 psi (420 kPa , 4.2 kgf/cm )

Follow these precautions:

Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

This tire gives a harsher ride and less traction on some road surfaces. Use greater caution while driving.

582

Do not mount snow chains on the compact spare tire.

Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle unless it is the same make and model.

INDICATOR LOCATION MARK

After the flat tire is replaced with the spare tire, the low tire pressure/TPMS indicator stays on. After several miles (kilometers) driving with the spare, this indicator begins to flash, then stays on again. You will also see a ‘‘CHECK TPMS SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display (see page

517

).

TREAD WEAR INDICATOR BAR

Replace the tire when you can see the tread wear indicator bars. The replacement tire should be the same size and design, mounted on the same wheel. The spare tire is not designed to be mounted on a regular wheel, and the spare wheel is not designed for mounting a regular tire.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:36:08 31TK4630_588

Changing a Flat Tire

If you have a flat tire while driving, pull over safely. Drive slowly along the shoulder until you get to an area far away from traffic lanes.

The vehicle can easily roll off the jack, seriously injuring anyone underneath.

Follow the directions for changing a tire exactly, and never get under the vehicle when it is supported only by the jack.

1.

2.

Park the vehicle on firm, level, and non-slippery ground. Put the transmission in Park (automatic) or reverse (manual). Apply the parking brake.

Turn on the hazard warning lights, and turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle while you change the tire.

＊

3.

Open the trunk. Raise the trunk floor lid by lifting up on the back edge.

＊ Models equipped with the keyless access system have an engine start/stop button instead of an ignition switch. VEHICLE OFF (LOCK) Mode is the equivalent of LOCK (0). For more information, see pages 184 and 187.

CONTINUED

583

2012 TL11/01/14 19:36:19 31TK4630_589

Changing a Flat Tire

JACK

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

EXTENSION

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

JACKING POINTS

4.

Take the tool case out of the spare tire.

8.

Loosen each wheel nut 1/2 turn with the wheel nut wrench.

5.

Unscrew the wing bolt and take the spare tire out of its well.

6.

Take the jack out of the tool kit case.

7.

Place blocks in front and back of the wheel diagonally opposite the tire you are changing.

584

9.

Place the jack under the jacking point nearest the tire you need to change. Turn the end bracket clockwise until the top of the jack contacts the jacking point. Make sure the jacking point tab is resting in the jack notch.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:36:27 31TK4630_590

Changing a Flat Tire

EXTENSION

WHEEL NUT WRENCH

10.

Use the extension and the wheel nut wrench as shown to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.

BRAKE HUB

11.

Remove the wheel nuts, then remove the flat tire. Handle the wheel nuts carefully; they may be hot from driving. Place the flat tire on the ground with the outside surface facing up.

12.

Before mounting the spare tire, wipe any dirt off the mounting surface of the wheel and hub with a clean cloth. Wipe the hub carefully; it may be hot from driving.

CONTINUED

585

2012 TL11/01/14 19:36:35 31TK4630_591

Changing a Flat Tire

13.

Put on the spare tire. Put the wheel nuts back on finger-tight, then tighten them in a crisscross pattern with the wheel nut wrench until the wheel is firmly against the hub. Do not try to tighten the wheel nuts fully.

14.

Lower the vehicle to the ground, and remove the jack.

15.

Tighten the wheel nuts securely in the same crisscross pattern. Have the wheel nut torque checked at the nearest automotive service facility. Tighten the wheel nuts to: 94 lbf·ft (127 N·m , 13 kgf·m)

16.

Remove the center cap before storing the flat tire in the trunk well.

586

2012 TL11/01/14 19:36:50 31TK4630_592

WING BOLT

For normal tire

For compact spare tire

SPACER CONE

17.

Place the flat tire face down in the spare tire well.

18.

Remove the spacer cone from the wing bolt, turn it over, and put it back on the bolt.

Changing a Flat Tire

SPACER CONE

20.

Store the jack and tools in the tool kit case. Place the tool kit case in the flat tire.

TAB

To remove the spacer cone, squeeze the tabs on the wing bolt to disengage it from the center of the spacer cone, then pull the bolt downward. To install the wing bolt to the spacer cone, reverse this procedure.

19.

Secure the flat tire by screwing the wing bolt back into its hole.

Loose items can fly around the interior in a crash and could seriously injure the occupants.

Store the wheel, jack, and tools securely before driving.

21.

Store the center cap in the trunk. Make sure it does not get scratched or damaged. Lower the trunk floor, then close the trunk lid.

22.

Your vehicle’s original tire has a tire pressure monitoring system sensor. To replace a tire, refer to Changing a Tire with TPMS page

518

).

(see

587

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If the Engine Won’t Start

Diagnosing why the engine won’t start falls into two areas, depending on what you hear when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position or on models with keyless access system, press the engine start/stop button to set START Mode (see page

184

):

You hear nothing, or almost nothing. The engine’s starter motor does not operate at all, or operates very slowly.

You can hear the starter motor operating normally, or the starter motor sounds like it is spinning faster than normal, but the engine does not start up and run.

588

Turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position or on models with keyless access system, press the engine start/stop button to set ON Mode (see page ). Turn on the headlights, and check their brightness. If the headlights are very dim or do not come on at all, the battery is discharged. See Jump Starting 591

on page

184

Nothing Happens or the Starter Motor Operates Very Slowly When you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position or on models with keyless access system, press the engine start/stop button to set START Mode (see page you do not hear the normal noise of the engine trying to start. You may hear a clicking sound, a series of clicks, or nothing at all.

184

),

Check these things:

Check the transmission interlock. If you have a manual transmission, the clutch pedal must be pushed all the way to the floor or the starter will not operate. With an automatic transmission, it must be in Park or neutral.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:37:08 31TK4630_594

If the Engine Won’t Start

184

Turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position or on models with keyless access system, press the engine start/stop button to set START Mode (see page ). If the headlights do not dim, check the condition of the fuses. If the fuses are OK, there is probably something wrong with the electrical circuit for the ignition switch or starter motor. You will need a qualified technician to determine the problem. See Emergency Towing

on page

607

If the headlights dim noticeably or go out when you try to start the engine, either the battery is discharged or the connections are corroded. Check the condition of the battery and terminal connec- tions (see page then try jump starting the vehicle from a booster battery (see page 591

). You can

577

).

The Starter Operates Normally In this case, the starter motor’s speed sounds normal, or even faster than normal, when you turn the ignition switch to the START (III) position or on models with keyless access system, press the engine start/stop button to set START Mode (see page does not run.

), but the engine

184

Are you using a properly coded key or keyless access remote (on models with keyless access system)? An improperly coded key or keyless access remote will cause the immobilizer system indicator in the instrument panel to blink rapidly (see page ).

65

CONTINUED

589

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If the Engine Won’t Start

Are you using the proper starting Starting the procedure? Refer to Engine and 487

on pages

489

You may need to hold the start/ stop button down or hold the key in the START (III) position until the engine starts. It can be held for up to 15 seconds. Do you have fuel? Check the fuel gauge; the warning indicator may not be working.

Onmodelswithkeylessaccesssystem Do you have your keyless access system remote with you? The vehicle will not start without the remote within operating range and with the keyless access main switch in the glove box turned on.

If you find nothing wrong, you will need a qualified technician to find the problem. See Towing on page

Emergency 607

If you are unable to stop the

NOTE: engine normally while in the Park Emergency Engine position, see Stop on page 192

There may be an electrical problem, such as no power to the fuel pump. Check all the fuses (see page

600

).

590

2012 TL11/01/14 19:37:29 31TK4630_596

Although this seems like a simple procedure, you should take several precautions.

A battery can explode if you do not follow the correct procedure, seriously injuring anyone nearby.

Keep all sparks, open flames, and smoking materials away from the battery.

You cannot start a vehicle with an automatic transmission by pushing or pulling it.

To jump start your vehicle: 1.

Open the hood, and check the physical condition of the battery. In very cold weather, check the condition of the electrolyte. If it seems slushy or like ice, do not try jump starting until it thaws.

If a battery sits in extreme cold, the electrolyte inside can f reeze. Attempting to jump start with a f rozen battery can cause it to rupture.

2.

Turn off all the electrical accessories: climate control, audio system, lights, etc. Put the transmission in neutral (manual) or Park (automatic), and set the parking brake.

Jump Starting

BATTERY TERMINAL COVER

3.

Pull up the battery terminal cover to remove. The battery terminal cover can be removed without removing the left side engine compartment cover.

CONTINUED

591

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Jump Starting

BOOSTER BATTERY

The numbers in the illustration show you the order to connect the jumper cables.

＋

) terminal on your

Connect one jumper cable to the positive ( battery. Connect the other end to the positive ( ) terminal on the ＋ booster battery.

4.

592

7.

8.

Start the vehicle. If the starter motor still operates slowly, check that the jumper cables have good metal-to-metal contact.

Once the vehicle is running, disconnect the negative cable from your vehicle, then from the booster battery. Disconnect the positive cable from your vehicle, and then from the booster battery.

9.

Install the battery terminal cover.

Keep the ends of the jumper cables away from each other and any metal on the vehicle until everything is disconnected. Otherwise, you may cause an electrical short.

5.

−

Connect the second jumper cable to the negative ( ) terminal on the booster battery. Connect the other end to the engine hanger as shown. Do not connect this jumper cable to any other part of the engine.

6.

If the booster battery is in another vehicle, have an assistant start that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.

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The pointer of the vehicle’s temperature gauge should stay in the midrange. If it climbs to the red mark, you should determine the reason (hot day, driving up a steep hill, etc.).

You will also see a ‘‘WATER TEMP HOT’’ message on the multi- information display (see page

77

).

If the vehicle overheats, you should take immediate action. The only indication may be the temperature gauge climbing to or above the red mark. Or you may see steam or spray coming from under the hood.

Driving with the temperature gauge pointer at the red mark can cause serious damage to the engine.

Steam and spray from an overheated engine can seriously scald you.

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

1.

Safely pull to the side of the road. Put the transmission in neutral (manual) or Park (automatic), and set the parking brake. Turn off all accessories, and turn on the hazard warning lights.

2.

If you see steam and/or spray coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until you see no more signs of steam or spray, then open the hood.

If the Engine Overheats

3.

If you do not see steam or spray, leave the engine running and watch the temperature gauge. If the high heat is due to overloading, the engine should start to cool down almost immediately. If it does, wait until the temperature gauge comes down to the midpoint, then continue driving.

4.

If the temperature gauge stays at the red mark, turn off the engine.

5.

Look for any obvious coolant leaks, such as a split radiator hose. Everything is still extremely hot, so use caution. If you find a leak, it must be repaired before you Emergency continue driving (see Towing ). 607

on page

CONTINUED

593

2012 TL11/01/14 19:38:04 31TK4630_599

If the Engine Overheats

6.

7.

If you don’t find an obvious leak, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Add coolant if the level is below the MIN mark (see on page

Adding Engine Coolant 546

).

If there was no coolant in the reserve tank, you may need to add coolant to the radiator. Let the engine cool down until the pointer reaches the middle of the tempera- ture gauge, or lower, before checking the radiator.

594

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

8.

9.

Using gloves or a large heavy cloth, turn the radiator cap counterclockwise, without pushing down, to the first stop. After the pressure releases, push down on the cap, and turn it until it comes off.

Start the engine, and set the interior temperature to maximum heat (each temperature control sets to ‘‘ ’’). Add coolant to the radiator up to the base of the filler neck. If you do not have the

proper coolant mixture available, you can add plain water. Remember to have the cooling system drained and refilled with the proper mixture as soon as you can.

10.

Put the radiator cap back on tightly. Run the engine, and check the temperature gauge. If it goes back to the red mark, the engine needs repair (see Towing on page

Emergency 607

).

11.

If the temperature stays normal, check the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. If it has gone down, add coolant to the MAX mark. Put the cap back on tightly.

2012 TL11/01/14 19:38:13 31TK4630_600

This indicator should never come on when the engine is running. If it starts flashing or stays on, the oil pressure has dropped very low or lost pressure. Serious engine damage is possible, and you should take immediate action.

You will also see a ‘‘CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL’’ message on the multi-information display when this indicator comes on.

The indicator notifies you of low oil pressure and does not measure the oil level. Check your vehicle’s oil level at each refueling.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

4.

Running the engine with low oil pressure can cause serious mechanical damage almost immediately. Turn of f the engine as soon as you can saf ely get the vehicle stopped.

1.

2.

3.

Safely pull off the road and shut off the engine. Turn on the hazard warning lights.

Let the vehicle sit for a minute. Open the hood, and check the oil level (see page ). An engine very low on oil can lose pressure during cornering and other driving maneuvers.

474

If necessary, add oil to bring the level back to the full mark on the dipstick (see page

543

).

Start the engine, and watch the oil pressure indicator. If it does not go out within 10 seconds, turn off the engine. There is a mechanical problem that needs to be repaired before you can continue driving (see page

Emergency Towing 607

on

).

595

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Charging System Indicator

If the charging system indicator comes on brightly

when the engine is running, the battery is not being charged.

You will also see a ‘‘CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display.

596

Immediately turn off all electrical accessories. Try not to use other electrically operated controls such as the power windows. Keep the engine running; starting the engine will discharge the battery rapidly.

Go to a service station or garage where you can get technical assistance.

If you see a ‘‘REPLACE BATTERY’’ message on the multi-information display, along with this indicator on, you may need to replace the battery. Have your vehicle’s battery checked and replaced by your dealer.

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If this indicator comes on while driving, it means one

of the engine’s emissions control systems may have a problem. Even though you may feel no difference in your vehicle’s performance, it can reduce your fuel economy and cause increased emissions. Continued operation may cause serious damage.

If you have recently refueled your vehicle, the indicator coming on could be due to a loose or missing fuel fill cap. Tighten the cap until it clicks at least once. Tightening the cap will not turn the indicator off immediately; it can take several days of normal driving.

If the indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may go off as you continue driving, have the vehicle checked by your dealer as soon as possible.

If you keep driving with the malf unction indicator lamp on, you can damage your vehicle’s emissions controls and engine. Those repairs may not be covered by your vehicle’s warranties.

If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, the malfunction indicator lamp may also come on with the ‘‘D’’ indicator.

You will also see a ‘‘CHECK EMISSION SYSTEM’’ message on the multi-information display.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Readiness Code Your vehicle has certain ‘‘readiness codes’’ that are part of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. In some states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure these codes are set. If they are not set, the test cannot be completed.

If the battery in your vehicle has been disconnected or gone dead, these codes may be erased. It takes several days of driving under various conditions to set the codes again.

CONTINUED

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp, Brake System Indicator

U.S.

Canada

Brake System Indicator

＊

The brake system indicator normally comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position, and as a reminder to check the parking brake. It will stay on if you do not fully release the parking brake.

If the brake system indicator comes on while driving, the brake fluid level is probably low. Press lightly on the brake pedal to see if it feels normal. If it does, check the brake fluid level the next time you stop at a service station (see page

553

).

To check if they are set, turn the ignition switch to the ON (II) position (set the power mode to ON, on models with keyless access system), without starting the engine. The malfunction indicator lamp will come on for 20 seconds. If it then goes off, the readiness codes are set. If it blinks five times, the readiness codes are not set. If possible, do not take your vehicle for an emissions test until the readiness codes are set. Emissions Testing Refer to more information (see page

for 626

).