The Buick Century was positioned as a comfortable, reliable, and affordable mid-size sedan, appealing to a broad demographic seeking practical transportation.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Chevrolet Lumina, focusing on comfort and a refined ride over sporty dynamics.
Key Features
Key Features:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride quality, V6 engine options, user-friendly controls, and the availability of a 'Touring' trim for enhanced luxury features.
Disc and drum brake service, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS system components and diagnosis, wheel speed sensors, control modules.
Electrical Coverage 1997-2002:
Wiring diagrams for all systems, component location, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body controls (power windows, locks, seats, mirrors), HVAC controls, cruise control, airbags, anti-theft systems.
Electrical Coverage 2003-2005:
Wiring diagrams for all systems, component location, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body controls (power windows, locks, seats, mirrors), HVAC controls, cruise control, airbags, entertainment systems, keyless entry.
Procedures Included
Procedures Included:
Detailed service and repair instructions, troubleshooting guides, component testing, diagnostic procedures, maintenance schedules, system component tests, electrical component location, wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, computer relearn procedures, maintenance light reset
Diagnostic Procedures:
OBD-II fault code retrieval and interpretation, component testing using multimeter and specialized tools, diagnostic flowcharts, troubleshooting guides for specific symptoms.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameter values, component specifications.
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and bodywork procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High Resolution Illustrations, Photos, and Diagrams
Binding Type
Binding Type:
Digital (Printable directly from CD/download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Primary Engine 1997-2002:
2.2L L4 (2198cc) Generation II 'Quad-4' OHV (often designated as the L61), 115-125 hp @ 5000 rpm, 130-145 lb-ft torque @ 3600-4000 rpm.
No manual transmission option was available for the Buick Century in these model years.
Features
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, overdrive, torque converter lock-up for improved fuel efficiency.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Exterior Length:
Approximately 196.5 inches (1997-2005 models)
Exterior Width:
Approximately 70.5 inches (1997-2005 models)
Exterior Height:
Approximately 55.5 inches (1997-2005 models)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200-3400 lbs (depending on engine and trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4400 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (1997-2002 models often received 'Good' ratings in frontal impacts)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (1997-2002 models often received 'Good' ratings in frontal impacts)
IIHS Offset Frontal Impact:
Acceptable to Good (depending on specific test year)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Antilock Braking System (ABS) standard on most trims, Traction Control (optional on some models), Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) on later models.
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, side-impact airbags (optional on some models), front and rear crumple zones, LATCH child seat anchors (introduced during this generation).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Features:
Aftermarket radio installations common; factory units typically included AM/FM stereo, cassette player, and optional CD player. Basic climate controls, manual or automatic temperature control for HVAC.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional traction control (on 3.8L models), optional power adjustable pedals (on some later models).
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Keyless entry system, power accessories (locks, mirrors, windows, seats).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil as recommended.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years, depending on coolant type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for platinum or iridium spark plugs, 30,000 miles for standard plugs (if applicable).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific engine and temperature range requirements).
Worn strut mounts, control arm bushings, ball joints, power steering fluid leaks, 'death wobble' or steering shimmy.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, dashboard warning light illumination (e.g., ABS, Check Engine), keyless entry system malfunctions.
Common Issues Chassis:
Rattles and squeaks from interior trim panels, issues with power antenna (if equipped), door lock actuator failures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing comfortable, well-appointed, and reliable American sedans.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The 1997-2005 Buick Century represented the third generation of the Century nameplate, built on the updated GM W-body platform. It offered a more aerodynamic design, improved safety features, and updated powertrain options compared to its predecessors.
Model Changes 1997:
Significant redesign from previous generation, featuring new styling, improved chassis dynamics, and updated powertrains. Introduction of the 2.2L L4 engine.
Model Changes 2000:
Minor cosmetic updates and feature enhancements for the 2000 model year.
Model Changes 2003:
Introduction of the more powerful 3.8L V6 engine as an option, replacing the 2.4L DOHC in some configurations. Styling tweaks and interior material updates.
Production
Production Location:
Oshawa Car Assembly, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada; Fairfax Assembly, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.
Production Years:
1997-2005 (for this generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Award Note:
While the Buick Century itself didn't receive major 'car of the year' awards, it was consistently praised for its comfortable ride and value in its segment by automotive critics and consumers.