1997 Buick Regal Tire Pressure Light Won't Go Off (TPMS)

Resolve the persistent TPMS warning light in your 1997 Buick Regal.

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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 1997 Buick Regal 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 1997 Buick Regal 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 the persistent tire pressure light on my 1997 Buick Regal?

To effectively diagnose the persistent tire pressure light on your 1997 Buick Regal, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the tire pressure of all tires, including the spare, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels specified in your owner's manual or on the vehicle's decal. If the pressure is correct, locate the reset button for the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), usually found in the fuse box or under the dashboard, and reset the system by holding the button until the warning light blinks and turns off. If the light remains illuminated, inspect the tires and wheels for any physical damage or corrosion that could interfere with the ABS sensors, as your vehicle relies on this system for tire pressure readings. Additionally, use a tire pressure gauge to confirm accurate tire pressure readings, as faulty gauges can lead to misleading warnings. If issues persist, consider whether a TPMS relearn procedure is necessary, especially after tire rotations or sensor replacements, and consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions. Should the light continue to be a problem after these steps, it may be time to consult a service center for a thorough diagnosis using specialized tools to identify any faults in the TPMS or ABS system.

What could cause the tire pressure light to remain on in a 1997 Buick Regal?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 1997 Buick Regal, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers can investigate. One primary cause is a leaking tire or wheel, which can prevent proper air retention and trigger the warning light. Inspecting the tires for visible damage or signs of air loss is a crucial first step. Additionally, the vehicle's indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) relies on the ABS system to gauge tire pressure, so any malfunction in the ABS sensors or the vehicle's computer can lead to erroneous readings. Ensuring that all tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure is also essential, as inconsistent tire pressure can activate the warning light. Furthermore, road impacts may cause sensor errors, affecting the system's ability to accurately monitor tire conditions. While resetting the TPMS is less common for this model, checking the owner's manual for any specific procedures can be beneficial. By systematically addressing these potential issues, DIY enthusiasts can effectively diagnose and resolve the tire pressure warning light problem in their 1997 Buick Regal.

What should I do if the tire pressure light on my 1997 Buick Regal won't turn off?

If the tire pressure light on your 1997 Buick Regal remains illuminated, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this warning can lead to unsafe driving conditions, including reduced traction and increased tire wear, which may ultimately result in a blowout. Start by checking the tire pressure of all four tires, including the spare, to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s specifications. If the pressure is adequate, inspect each tire for visible leaks or damage, as these can also trigger the light. After correcting any issues, you may need to reset the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to turn off the warning light. This involves locating the reset button in the fuse box and following the proper procedure. Additionally, be aware that extreme weather conditions can affect tire pressure readings, so consider resetting the system if you’ve recently experienced significant temperature changes. If the light persists despite your efforts, it’s advisable to seek a professional diagnosis to rule out any underlying problems with the ABS system or other components, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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