2012 Acura TL BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Symptom Troubleshooting Index

When the vehicle has one of these symptoms, check for VSA diagnostic trouble code (DTCs) with the HDS. If there are no DTCs, do the diagnostic procedure for the symptom, in the sequence listed, until you find the cause.

Symptom Diagnostic procedure Also check for
HDS does not communicate with the VSA modulator-control unit or the vehicle Troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING ).  
ABS indicator, brake system indicator, VSA indicator, or VSA OFF indicator do not come on at start-up (bulb check)
  1. Do the gauge control module self-diagnostic function (see SELF-DIAGNOSTIC FUNCTION ).
  2. Update the VSA modulator-control unit if it does not have the latest software (see VSA MODULATOR-CONTROL UNIT UPDATE  ). If the VSA modulator-control unit was updated and the symptom is still present, replace the VSA modulator-control unit (see VSA MODULATOR-CONTROL UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION  ).
  
VSA cannot be turned OFF
  1. Symptom troubleshooting (see VSA CANNOT BE TURNED OFF  ).
  2. Update the VSA modulator-control unit if it does not have the latest software (see VSA MODULATOR-CONTROL UNIT UPDATE  ). If the VSA modulator-control unit was updated and the symptom is still present, replace the VSA modulator-control unit (see VSA MODULATOR-CONTROL UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION  ).
  
VSA OFF indicator does not go off Do the VSA sensor neutral position memorization (see VSA SENSOR NEUTRAL POSITION MEMORIZATION  ).  
ABS indicator, brake system indicator, and VSA indicator do not go off
  1. Check for F-CAN DTCs, and troubleshoot and repair those first (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ).
  2. Symptom troubleshooting (see ABS INDICATOR, BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR, AND VSA INDICATOR DO NOT GO OFF  ).
  
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.