2002 Buick Century

Introduction

The 2002 Buick Century is a midsize sedan that offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior. It comes with a standard 3.1-liter V6 engine that produces 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A more powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine with 190 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque is also available, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Century received positive reviews for its roomy cabin, styling, and good performance, but it was criticized for its lack of interior quality and outdated infotainment system.

Engine

3.1L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting, engine misfires
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
• Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil pressure warning light, engine damage
  • Solution: Replace oil pressure sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

3.8L V6

• Timing Chain Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, burning oil smell
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $450

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifting
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission overheating, shuddering, slipping
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

5-Speed Automatic

• Leaking Transmission Pan Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks
  • Solution: Replace transmission pan gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Transmission Control Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifting erratically, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace transmission control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises from front, poor handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350

Electrical

• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draw and replace faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not opening or closing
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Plastic dashboard cracks over time
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from vents
  • Solution: Replace blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300

Summary

Overall, the 2002 Buick Century is a reliable vehicle with few major issues reported. The most common engine and transmission problems are relatively inexpensive to fix, but the timing chain issue on the 3.8L V6 can be quite costly. The interior and exterior issues are minor and do not significantly impact the drivability or reliability of the vehicle.