🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Century

Year:

2003

Platform Code:

W-body

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan

Key Competitors:

Chevrolet Impala, Ford Taurus, Dodge Intrepid, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord

Target Demographic:

Families, commuters, value-conscious buyers

Historical Relevance:

Continuation of a long-standing nameplate known for comfort and practicality

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All 2003 Buick Century models

Estimated Page Count:

Varies (typically 300-600 pages for a full owner's manual; service manuals are significantly larger)

Type:

Owner's Manual / Service Repair Guide (as described in product info)

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, transmission, exhaust, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system, starting and charging system

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS), wheels and tires

Electrical:

12V battery system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and indicators, body electrical features (power windows, locks, mirrors), infotainment system, climate control system electrical components

Body:

Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tire rotation, battery maintenance

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guidance

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for major components and systems

Diagnostics:

Information on diagnostic codes, testing procedures for electrical and mechanical components

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers basic owner information to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures for professional technicians

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Delivery:

Instant PDF download

Compatibility:

Windows, Linux, Mac; requires PDF reader

Printability:

Printable on any computer and printer; no restrictions

Binding:

Not applicable (digital download)

Paper:

Not applicable (digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

3100 SFI V6 (RPO L82)

Displacement:

3.1 L (189 cu in)

Configuration:

V6

Horsepower:

175 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

195 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

17 gallons (approx.)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (4T65-E)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 2003 model year

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, overdrive, torque converter lock-up

📐 Dimensions

Length:

196.2 inches

Width:

70.3 inches

Height:

55.7 inches

Wheelbase:

109.0 inches

Curb Weight:

3,260 - 3,410 lbs (approx.)

Trunk Volume:

16.2 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

4 Stars (driver and passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

Not rated or 3 Stars (depending on specific configuration and testing era)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seat Belts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, optional premium sound system

Climate Control:

Manual climate control standard, optional automatic climate control

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Remote Keyless Entry:

Optional remote keyless entry system

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic blend or synthetic oil)

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles (typically platinum or iridium)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 3.10W-30 (API Service SG or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.0 quarts (with filter)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or Dexron-VI compatible)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

8.1 quarts (dry fill), 4.0-5.0 quarts (fluid change)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, orange color (GM P/N 1052877 or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Intake Manifold Gaskets:

Leaking intake manifold gaskets (especially on the 3100 V6) can lead to coolant and oil leaks.

Transmission Hard Shifts:

The 4T65-E transmission can sometimes develop hard shifting issues due to solenoid problems or fluid degradation.

Window Regulators:

Power window regulators are a common failure point.

Idler Arm:

Wear in the idler arm can lead to steering looseness and premature tire wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

American automotive brand founded by David Dunbar Buick in 1899

Generations:

The 2003 model is part of the fourth generation of the Buick Century, which began in 1997.

Platform Basis:

Based on General Motors' W-body platform, shared with other GM sedans like Chevrolet Impala and Lumina.

Manufacturing Location:

Mainly Fairfax Assembly in Kansas City, Kansas, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

Generally recognized for comfortable ride and quiet interior for its class and price point during its production run. Specific awards not widely documented.