2002 Buick Century

The 2002 Buick Century is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. It was offered with a single engine option, the 3.1L V6 (LG8) engine, rated at 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission available was the 4T65-E four-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the Century for its reliability and affordability, while common complaints revolve around its relatively bland styling and somewhat dated interior.

Engine

3.1L V6 (LG8)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, coolant loss without external leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E Four-Speed Automatic

• Hard Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, transmission slipping between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Transmission flush and filter change, valve body repair or replacement, or full transmission rebuild depending on severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush) - $2500+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, bottoming out over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replace window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on/off properly, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, loss of ABS function, potential braking issues.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Rocker Panels and Quarter Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on rocker panels, quarter panels, and wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair and bodywork.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control air temperature properly, clicking noises from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2002 Buick Century is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car of its age, it has its share of common issues. Engine-related problems like intake manifold gasket leaks are common and can be moderately expensive to fix. Transmission issues can range from minor shifting problems to more serious failures requiring a rebuild. Suspension and electrical problems are also typical of older vehicles. Rust is a significant concern in areas with harsh winters. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems when considering a 2002 Buick Century.