2003 Buick Century

The 2003 Buick Century is a reliable and comfortable mid-size sedan known for its smooth ride and spacious interior. It came standard with a 3.1L V6 engine producing 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4T65E 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate its affordability, comfortable ride, and simple, straightforward design. However, common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling and relatively uninspired performance compared to some competitors.

Engine

3.1L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, rough idle, and sweet smell of coolant.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks onto the exhaust manifold, burning smell, visible oil around the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, poor fuel economy, check engine light with codes related to specific cylinders (e.g., P0300, P0301, P0302).
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65E 4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Problems and Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, failure to shift into certain gears.
  • Solution: Could be caused by worn solenoids, a failing torque converter, or internal damage. A transmission rebuild or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Pressure Control Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh engagement of gears, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the pressure control solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll in corners, nose dive during braking.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle (depending on parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Stabilizer Bar Links and Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace worn stabilizer bar links and/or bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not working, slow or erratic movement, window falling off track.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dim or Flickering Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights are not as bright as they should be, flickering headlights.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs, check the headlight relay, or inspect the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust formation on the lower parts of the car.
  • Solution: Rust repair by cutting out the rust and welding new sheet metal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner detaches from the roof and sags down.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner or have it professionally re-glued.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control air temperature, air only blowing hot or cold, clicking noises from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Buick Century, while generally a reliable vehicle, has some common problem areas. Engine issues, particularly gasket leaks, and transmission issues with the 4T65E are fairly prevalent. Suspension components wear is also typical. Electrical and interior issues, like power windows and headliner sagging, are also common. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand for major engine or transmission work. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in the potential for repairs when considering purchasing a used 2003 Buick Century. The severity is generally moderate, but neglecting these issues can lead to more extensive and costly repairs down the line.