2002 Buick Century Tire Pressure Light Won't Go Off (TPMS)

Resolve persistent TPMS light in 2002 Buick Century with effective solutions.

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Tire Leaking Air
0%
30% chance it's the
Wheel Leaking Air
0%
15% chance it's the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2002 Buick Century tire pressure warning light stays on are a leaking tire, a wheel that no longer holds air, or a faulty tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Tire Leaking Air: A puncture, valve stem issue, or rim damage can cause a tire to leak air, leading to loss of pressure.
  • Wheel Leaking Air: A puncture or damage to the tire or rim can cause air to leak, resulting in a loss of tire pressure.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system can be caused by faulty sensors or a dead battery in the sensor units.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2002 Buick Century tire pressure warning light stays on?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Wheels offer very few symptoms, but these symptoms should never be ignored. Visible cracks on the wheels may appear, especially after hitting a large bump, Most often, this will also be accompanied by loss of air from the tire on that wheel. Also, vibration in the steering wheel is very common when the tire is out of balance, and improper wheel nuts or bolts can cause creaking and popping noises to develop. Again, there are very few symptoms, but they should not be ignored.

The only symptoms requiring diagnosis for the tire pressure monitoring system warning lamp is if the warning lamp has illuminated while the tires have correct air pressure, or if the air pressure for the tires is out of specification and the warning lamp is off. This is because the overwhelming majority of cases where the TPMS lamp illuminates is due to the change in ambient temperature.

What steps should I take to diagnose and resolve the tire pressure light issue on my 2002 Buick Century?

To effectively diagnose and resolve the tire pressure light issue on your 2002 Buick Century, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels specified on the tag inside the driver's side door or in the owner's manual. If any tire is underinflated, inflate it accordingly, as uneven pressure can trigger the warning light. Once the tires are properly inflated, proceed to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by locating the reset button in the fuse panel on the passenger side. With the ignition on but the engine off, press and hold the reset button until the low tire indicator light flashes, indicating a successful reset. After this, take your vehicle for a drive at various speeds for about thirty minutes to allow the TPMS to recalibrate and recognize the new tire pressures. If the light remains illuminated, it may signal a faulty tire pressure sensor, which can be checked and replaced at a tire service center. Additionally, rule out other potential issues, such as mismatched tires or recent rotations, that could affect the system's readings. If the problem persists despite these efforts, consulting a mechanic or tire service professional is advisable, as they can diagnose deeper issues using specialized equipment. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively address the tire pressure light concern and ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

What could be causing the tire pressure light to stay on in a 2002 Buick Century?

When the tire pressure light stays on in a 2002 Buick Century, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers can troubleshoot. First, it's essential to check the tire pressure in all four tires, ensuring they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, which can be found on the tire information placard. If the pressures are correct but the light persists, the issue may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could require replacement. Additionally, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) might need a reset; this can be done by locating the reset button in the fuse panel and following the proper procedure to recalibrate the system. Electrical issues, such as faulty connectors or problems with the instrument panel, can also trigger the light, especially if multiple warning lights are illuminated. Lastly, if the light returns after a reset, it may indicate unresolved issues like a tire leak or other underlying problems, which can be diagnosed using an OBD2 scan tool. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the tire pressure light concern in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure light that won't turn off in a 2002 Buick Century?

Addressing the tire pressure light that won't turn off in a 2002 Buick Century is a matter of urgency that should not be overlooked. A persistent warning light can indicate that your tires are underinflated, which poses significant safety risks such as reduced traction and an increased likelihood of blowouts. Ensuring that all tires are properly inflated is essential for safe driving and optimal fuel efficiency. Moreover, if the light remains illuminated after you have checked the tire pressures, it may signal a malfunction within the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), such as a faulty sensor. Ignoring this issue could lead to incorrect pressure readings in the future, compromising your vehicle's safety. To reset the light, make sure all tire pressures are at the recommended levels and use the reset button located in the fuse panel on the passenger side of the dash. If the light does not turn off after this procedure, it is crucial to seek professional assistance, as neglecting the problem could result in more severe consequences, including tire failure while driving or additional strain on other vehicle systems. Timely intervention is key to maintaining both your safety and the integrity of your vehicle.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.