Segment:
Mid-size sedan, family car
Target Audience:
Value-conscious families and individuals seeking comfortable and reliable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Dodge Intrepid, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord.
Convenience:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, accessible features for its time.
Value Proposition:
Offered a balance of size, comfort, and features at a competitive price point within the GM lineup.
Engine Management:
Basic operation, warning lights
Cooling System:
Coolant level check, basic advice
Fuel System:
Fuel cap operation, unleaded fuel recommendation
Electrical System:
Fuse box locations (general), battery care (basic)
Brakes:
Brake system warnings, ABS (if equipped) operation
Steering:
Power steering fluid check (general)
Suspension:
General ride characteristics
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if equipped) location and operation
HVAC:
Climate control operation, vent selection
Lighting:
Headlight operation, interior lighting
Wipers Washers:
Wiper speed control, washer fluid operation
Tires Wheels:
Tire pressure recommendations, basic tire care
Vehicle Operation:
Starting the engine, shifting gears, parking, driving advice
Maintenance Checks:
Checking engine oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid
Fluid Checks:
Identifying essential fluid reservoirs and their purpose
Tire Maintenance:
Basic tire pressure checks and inflation
Appearance Care:
Washing, waxing, interior cleaning recommendations
Troubleshooting Basic:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic driver guidance for common issues
Securing Vehicle:
Locking/unlocking doors, trunk operation
Fuel Economy Tips:
Driving techniques for better fuel efficiency
Depth Level:
Owner-level practical information, focusing on operation, basic checks, and scheduled maintenance guidance.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Limited to interpreting dashboard warning lights and understanding basic vehicle behavior.
Repair Instructions:
No detailed repair or disassembly instructions are provided, only general advice on when to seek professional service.
Transmission Model:
THM 125C (3-speed auto) was standard on base models, 4-speed 4T60-LE often paired with V6.
Type:
N/A (Automatic was standard for this generation Century)
Shift Modes:
Drive, Low gears, Reverse, Park
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not rated or not tested under current comprehensive protocols.
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Not rated or not tested under current comprehensive protocols.
ABS:
Available on some models
Traction Control:
Generally not available on this model year Century.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard; passenger airbag optional on some trims.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, shoulder belts for front occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
Not standard; manual may offer guidance on belt usage for child seats.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo radio, optional cassette player, optional CD player.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional, not standard on all models.
Bluetooth Usb:
Not available; this era predates widespread digital connectivity features.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical for this era).
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Transmission Fluid:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as per schedule (often around 50,000-100,000 miles depending on use).
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil:
API Service SG or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature (refer to manual for specific ranges).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with water. Dex-Cool was not common yet, so standard green antifreeze.
Transmission Fluid:
GM DEXRON-III Automatic Transmission Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or DEXRON-II/III ATF
Head Gaskets:
The 3.1L V6 (LD2) is known for potential head gasket issues, especially at higher mileage or if maintenance is neglected.
Transmission Reliability:
THM 125C could be prone to wear; 4T60-LE generally more robust but still requires proper maintenance.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets can be a common issue on GM V6 engines of this era, leading to coolant or vacuum leaks.
Electrical Components:
Aging electrical connectors, sensors, and ignition components can lead to various driveability issues.
Brand Focus:
Buick has historically focused on comfort, quietness, and a premium feel for the average American driver.
Century Lineage:
The Century nameplate has a long history with Buick, evolving through various iterations from compact to mid-size offerings. The 1993 model is part of the third generation, sharing the W-body platform with other GM vehicles.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily GM assembly plants)
Production Period:
Third generation: 1991-1996
Safety Awards:
No specific major safety awards noted for this model year; general compliance with federal standards.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Often received mixed reviews; praised for comfort and space, criticized for powertrain refinement and occasional reliability issues compared to Japanese competitors.
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA emissions standards for the 1993 model year.
