2005 Buick Century

The 2005 Buick Century is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and affordability. It came standard with a 3.1L V6 engine producing 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4T65-E four-speed automatic transmission. There were no other engine or transmission options for this model year. Owners often appreciate the Century’s smooth ride and reliability, while some common dislikes include its somewhat dated styling and less-than-stellar fuel economy.

Engine

3.1L V6 (LG8)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks externally from the intake manifold gasket area, often resulting in a sweet coolant smell and low coolant levels. Can lead to overheating if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, resulting in oil burning smells and potentially oil dripping onto the exhaust manifold.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall intermittently, run rough, or not start at all. A check engine light will usually illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E Four-Speed Automatic

• Hard Shifting or Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates or shifts harshly between gears, especially when cold. Can sometimes be accompanied by a “Check Engine” light.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change may help. If the problem persists, more extensive repairs such as valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter) - $2500+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at highway speeds when the torque converter is supposed to lock up. Can also cause poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, and potentially the transmission if damage is extensive.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can also cause vague steering.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (for both front struts)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the car sits lower than normal, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. Can cause a rough ride and decreased handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows operate slowly, erratically, or not at all. A grinding or clicking noise may be heard when attempting to operate the window.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turn Signal Bulb Socket Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent turn signal operation or failure. The bulb socket may show signs of corrosion.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the turn signal bulb socket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become cloudy or yellowed, reducing visibility at night.
  • Solution: Polish the headlight lenses or replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50 (polishing kit) or $100 - $300+ (headlight replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents. One side may blow hot air while the other blows cold, or no temperature adjustment is possible. Clicking noises may be heard behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Information Display (Radio/Climate Control) Dimming or Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The digital display for the radio and climate control system becomes dim or completely fails.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the radio/climate control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Buick Century is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues such as intake manifold gasket leaks, transmission problems, and suspension wear. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others like transmission rebuilds can be costly. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially significant expenses, so thorough inspection and maintenance are important.