2004 Buick Century

Introduction

The 2004 Buick Century is a mid-size sedan available with two engine options: a 3.1L V6 and a 3.8L V6. Both engines come standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Century offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior, but it’s not known for its performance or handling.

Engine

3.1L V6 (160 hp, 185 lb-ft torque)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6 (205 hp, 220 lb-ft torque)

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, hesitation when accelerating
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid and filter, or rebuild the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor ride quality, excessive bouncing, clunking noise
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise over bumps, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, loss of power while driving
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead after a short period of time
  • Solution: Test and replace the battery and alternator, check for parasitic drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hood Hinge Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion on the hood hinges
  • Solution: Replace the hood hinges
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of heat, coolant smell in the cabin
  • Solution: Replace the heater core
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Buick Century has a number of potential issues, including engine leaks, transmission problems, and electrical failures. These issues can be expensive to fix, especially the head gasket and timing chain tensioner problems. However, the Century is still a reliable vehicle overall, and many owners report being satisfied with their purchase.