2004 Buick Century

The 2004 Buick Century is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. It was only offered with one engine option, the 3.1L V6 producing 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4T65-E 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the Century for its reliability, affordability, and ease of maintenance. Common dislikes include its somewhat dated styling, lack of advanced features, and modest fuel economy.

Engine

3.1L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, often external, leading to overheating. Milky oil can be present if coolant mixes internally with engine oil. Rough running, misfires, or decreased performance may also occur.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around the valve covers, leading to burning oil smell and oil drips.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Temperature Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Incorrect temperature readings on the dashboard gauge, poor engine performance, trouble starting, and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the coolant temperature sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifting, or failure to shift into certain gears. Transmission may get stuck in a single gear.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling at stops, shuddering at highway speeds, and poor fuel economy. Trouble engaging the TCC lockup.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can also affect alignment and tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly, erratically, or not at all. Grinding or clicking noises from inside the door panel.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminates on the dashboard. Reduced effectiveness of ABS, longer stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become cloudy or yellowed, reducing headlight output and visibility at night.
  • Solution: Polish the headlight lenses or replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges stop working, the display fades, or the entire cluster goes blank.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: AC blows warm air, unusual noises from the compressor.
  • Solution: Replace the AC compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2004 Buick Century can have some common issues, with engine-related leaks and transmission solenoid failures being among the most prevalent. While these issues are generally not catastrophic, they can lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. Suspension and electrical problems like strut mounts and window regulators are also reported. Overall, while the Century is a reliable vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problem areas and factor them into their purchasing decision. The average cost of repair can range from minor fixes under $100 to more significant repairs exceeding $1000.