1997 Buick Century

Introduction

The 1997 Buick Century is a full-size sedan that offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliable performance. It comes standard with a 3.1-liter V6 engine that produces 160 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, and can be paired with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. Other available engine options include a 3.8-liter V6 that produces 190 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.8-liter supercharged V6 that produces 240 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

People who own the 1997 Buick Century appreciate its comfort, reliability, and affordability. However, the vehicle has also been reported to have some issues.

Engine

• 3.1L V6
  • Valve cover gasket leak: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, causing a burning oil smell and reduced engine performance. Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket. Cost: $100 - $200+
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold gasket, causing overheating and reduced engine performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Cost: $200 - $300+
  • Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner fails, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damaging the engine. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner. Cost: $500 - $1,000+
• 3.8L V6
  • Intake manifold gasket leak: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold gasket, causing overheating and reduced engine performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Cost: $200 - $300+
• 3.8L Supercharged V6
  • Supercharger bearing failure: The supercharger bearings fail, causing the supercharger to make noise and potentially seize up. Solution: Replace the supercharger bearings. Cost: $500 - $1,000+

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission slipping: The transmission slips gears, causing the vehicle to lose power and accelerate slowly. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Cost: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Torque converter failure: The torque converter fails, causing the transmission to overheat and lose power. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Cost: $500 - $1,000+
• 5-Speed Manual
  • Clutch failure: The clutch wears out, causing the vehicle to slip and lose power. Solution: Replace the clutch. Cost: $300 - $500+

Suspension

• Front suspension: The front suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rods, and struts, wear out, causing the vehicle to handle poorly and make noise. Solution: Replace the worn suspension components. Cost: $200 - $500+
• Rear suspension: The rear suspension components, such as shocks and springs, wear out, causing the vehicle to handle poorly and ride rough. Solution: Replace the worn suspension components. Cost: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery drains quickly, leaving the vehicle unable to start. Solution: Diagnose and fix the electrical component that is causing the drain. Cost: Varies depending on the issue
• Alternator failure: The alternator fails, preventing the battery from charging and causing electrical problems. Solution: Replace the alternator. Cost: $200 - $500+
• Starter failure: The starter fails, preventing the engine from starting. Solution: Replace the starter. Cost: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Headlight switch failure: The headlight switch fails, causing the headlights and other lights to malfunction. Solution: Replace the headlight switch. Cost: $100 - $200+
• Tail light gasket failure: The tail light gasket fails, allowing water and dirt to enter the tail light housing. Solution: Replace the tail light gaskets. Cost: $50 - $100+

Interior

• Climate control failure: The climate control unit fails, causing the heater and air conditioner to malfunction. Solution: Replace the climate control unit. Cost: $300 - $500+
• Power window switch failure: The power window switch fails, preventing the windows from operating. Solution: Replace the power window switch. Cost: $100 - $200+
• Headliner sagging: The headliner sags due to poor adhesive. Solution: Replace or repair the headliner. Cost: $200 - $500+

Summary

The 1997 Buick Century is a reliable and comfortable vehicle but can experience several issues. The most common problems include engine oil leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, transmission slipping, and suspension wear. Repairs for these issues can be costly, ranging from $100 to over $2,500. However, the vehicle’s overall reliability and value make it a popular choice among owners.