2018 TLX Battery Drain & "Check Charging System" Light

ClearTheCode guidance (Acura · Electrical & electronics)

Summary: For 2018 TLX Battery Drain & "Check Charging System" Light, work through these steps on your 2016+ vehicle:

1. Confirm the symptom — note when it happens (cold start, highway, after fuel fill, etc.).
2. Scan codes — save all pending/stored DTCs; don't clear until you've recorded them.
3. Check TSBs & recalls — look up your VIN for open campaigns and known fixes.
4. Inspect the obvious — related fuses, connectors, fluid level, and recent repairs.
5. Test the common fix — follow model-specific service procedures; one change at a time.
6. Escalate if needed — burning smell, no brakes, overheating, or stalling in traffic → shop visit.

Owner reported: My 2018 Acura TLX A-Spec has been having an intermittent battery drain issue. Sometimes after sitting overnight, it's completely dead. I've had to jump it a few times.

Recently, the "Check Charging System" light came on while driving, but then went off. I'm worried about getting stranded. Any ideas what could be causing this?

This is educational guidance, not a substitute for hands-on diagnosis.