🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Buick
Model:
Century
Year:
2003
Codes
Platform Code:
W-body
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Mid-size sedan
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Impala, Ford Taurus, Dodge Intrepid, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
Key Features
Target Demographic:
Families, commuters, value-conscious buyers
Historical Relevance:
Continuation of a long-standing nameplate known for comfort and practicality
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Vehicle Coverage:
All 2003 Buick Century models
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Varies (typically 300-600 pages for a full owner's manual; service manuals are significantly larger)
Manual Type
Type:
Owner's Manual / Service Repair Guide (as described in product info)
Language
Language:
English
Format
Digital Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, exhaust, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system, starting and charging system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and indicators, body electrical features (power windows, locks, mirrors), infotainment system, climate control system electrical components
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tire rotation, battery maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guidance
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major components and systems
Diagnostics:
Information on diagnostic codes, testing procedures for electrical and mechanical components
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic owner information to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures for professional technicians
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Delivery:
Instant PDF download
Compatibility:
Windows, Linux, Mac; requires PDF reader
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable on any computer and printer; no restrictions
Binding Type
Binding:
Not applicable (digital download)
Paper Type
Paper:
Not applicable (digital download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
3100 SFI V6 (RPO L82)
Displacement:
3.1 L (189 cu in)
Configuration:
V6
Horsepower:
175 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
195 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Performance
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II)
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
17 gallons (approx.)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (4T65-E)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A for 2003 model year
Features
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, overdrive, torque converter lock-up
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
196.2 inches
Width:
70.3 inches
Height:
55.7 inches
Wheelbase:
109.0 inches
Weights
Curb Weight:
3,260 - 3,410 lbs (approx.)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
16.2 cu ft
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 Stars (driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
Not rated or 3 Stars (depending on specific configuration and testing era)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, optional premium sound system
Climate Control:
Manual climate control standard, optional automatic climate control
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Connectivity
Remote Keyless Entry:
Optional remote keyless entry system
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic blend or synthetic oil)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (typically platinum or iridium)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 3.10W-30 (API Service SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 quarts (with filter)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or Dexron-VI compatible)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
8.1 quarts (dry fill), 4.0-5.0 quarts (fluid change)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, orange color (GM P/N 1052877 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets (especially on the 3100 V6) can lead to coolant and oil leaks.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
The 4T65-E transmission can sometimes develop hard shifting issues due to solenoid problems or fluid degradation.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators are a common failure point.
Idler Arm:
Wear in the idler arm can lead to steering looseness and premature tire wear.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origin:
American automotive brand founded by David Dunbar Buick in 1899
Model Evolution
Generations:
The 2003 model is part of the fourth generation of the Buick Century, which began in 1997.
Platform Basis:
Based on General Motors' W-body platform, shared with other GM sedans like Chevrolet Impala and Lumina.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly Fairfax Assembly in Kansas City, Kansas, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Awards:
Generally recognized for comfortable ride and quiet interior for its class and price point during its production run. Specific awards not widely documented.
Chevrolet Impala, Ford Taurus, Dodge Intrepid, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
Key Features
Target Demographic:
Families, commuters, value-conscious buyers
Historical Relevance:
Continuation of a long-standing nameplate known for comfort and practicality
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Vehicle Coverage:
All 2003 Buick Century models
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Varies (typically 300-600 pages for a full owner's manual; service manuals are significantly larger)
Manual Type
Type:
Owner's Manual / Service Repair Guide (as described in product info)
Language
Language:
English
Format
Digital Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, exhaust, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system, starting and charging system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and indicators, body electrical features (power windows, locks, mirrors), infotainment system, climate control system electrical components
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, orange color (GM P/N 1052877 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets (especially on the 3100 V6) can lead to coolant and oil leaks.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
The 4T65-E transmission can sometimes develop hard shifting issues due to solenoid problems or fluid degradation.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators are a common failure point.
Idler Arm:
Wear in the idler arm can lead to steering looseness and premature tire wear.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origin:
American automotive brand founded by David Dunbar Buick in 1899
Model Evolution
Generations:
The 2003 model is part of the fourth generation of the Buick Century, which began in 1997.
Platform Basis:
Based on General Motors' W-body platform, shared with other GM sedans like Chevrolet Impala and Lumina.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly Fairfax Assembly in Kansas City, Kansas, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Awards:
Generally recognized for comfortable ride and quiet interior for its class and price point during its production run. Specific awards not widely documented.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.