🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Century

Year:

2005

Platform Code:

W-body

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional technicians, automotive repair shops, and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts seeking detailed, accurate repair information.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair procedures, saving time and money by enabling accurate self-servicing and troubleshooting. Offers a complete, searchable resource on a single platform.

Comparison To Generic Guides:

Significantly more detailed and vehicle-specific than generic aftermarket repair manuals. Employs factory-approved procedures and data.

Key Features:

Vehicle-specific, step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, comprehensive coverage (A-Z), printable pages, digital format convenience.

Illustrations Diagrams:

High-quality, detailed illustrations and exploded-view diagrams to visually guide users through complex procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2005 Buick Century (all models and trims)

Geographic Coverage:

North America

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (detailed, factory-level content implies several thousand pages if fully printed)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual (FSM)

Clarity Of Instructions:

Factory-level clarity with step-by-step instructions designed for professional use, making them highly effective for users with mechanical aptitude.

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download

Searchability:

PDF format allows for keyword searching, enabling quick location of specific information.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel, lubrication, cooling, ignition, starting, charging, exhaust, emissions control, automatic transmission, manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case (if applicable), drivetrain components (axles, drive shafts, differentials).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering (column and power steering), brakes (hydraulic, parking brake, ABS), wheels and tires.

Electrical Electronics:

Body electrical, instrument panel, gauges, lighting, power accessories, infotainment/audio, horn, wipers/washers, cruise control, supplemental restraint system (SRS), engine immobilizer, multiplex/CAN communication systems, wiring schematics.

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, glass, interior trim, seats, engine hood, HVAC system, climate control.

Emission Control:

Detailed information on the Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system, Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system, catalytic converter operation, and oxygen sensors.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, circuit testing.

Repair Rebuild:

Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation procedures for nearly all vehicle systems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters.

Wiring Schematics:

Detailed color-coded wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, power accessories, HVAC, SRS, and communications.

Body Repair:

Includes procedures for body panel alignment, door mechanism repair, glass replacement, and exterior trim installation.

Depth:

Factory-level, comprehensive for technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complex electrical diagnostics and engine/transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

While the manual covers extensive diagnostics, it implies the use of a GM Tech 2 scan tool for advanced electronic diagnostics and module programming.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible.

Reader Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader (free).

Extraction Requirements:

WinZip or equivalent (free online).

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Image Scalability:

Images and diagrams can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format, no physical binding)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format, print quality depends on user's printer and paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

LA1

Engine Type:

3.8L V6 (3800 Series II)

Displacement:

3791 cc (231.3 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

96.5 mm x 86.7 mm (3.80 in x 3.41 in)

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1

Horsepower:

200 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Cooling System Type:

Liquid-cooled

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (synthetic blend recommended)

Oil Capacity:

4.5 U.S. quarts (4.3 L) with filter change

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic overdrive

Transmission Model:

4T65-E

Transmission Type:

N/A for 2005 model year

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-VI (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

8.5 U.S. quarts (8.0 L) for complete fill, 5.0 U.S. quarts (4.7 L) for change with filter

📐 Dimensions

Length:

193.8 inches (4923 mm)

Width:

70.3 inches (1786 mm)

Height:

55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Wheelbase:

109.0 inches (2769 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg), varies by trim and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Driver: 5 Stars, Passenger: 5 Stars (for 2005 model year, specific test results should be verified via official NHTSA records).

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Good (for 2005 model year, specific test results should be verified via official IIHS records).

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) (often standard on higher trims or optional).

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims), front and rear crumple zones, reinforced safety cage construction, height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound systems, cassette player (early models), rear seat entertainment (rare).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; typically analog connections for audio. No Bluetooth or USB ports typically found on this model.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (using platinum or iridium tipped spark plugs).

Coolant Flush And Refill:

Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (using extended-life coolant).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron-III/VI automatic transmission fluid)

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Automotive windshield washer fluid

Coolant Type:

Dex-Cool (GM's orange extended-life coolant) or compatible equivalent.

Common Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially the '97-'03 3800 Series II engines, though the '05 is improved), lower intake manifold gasket failures, oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket), front suspension components (struts, ball joints, control arm bushings), power steering pump noise/leaks, occasional transmission solenoid issues, and window regulator failures.

Common Maintenance Points:

Regular inspection and replacement of serpentine belt, checking all fluid levels, inspecting brake pads and rotors, and ensuring proper tire inflation.

📚 Vehicle History

Buick Heritage:

Buick, a division of General Motors (GM), has a long-standing reputation for offering comfortable, quiet, and well-appointed vehicles, often positioned as a premium American brand.

Century Lineage:

The Buick Century nameplate has a long history, evolving through several generations and platform changes. The 2005 model represents the final iteration of the W-body platform Century, known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior.

Production Years:

1936-1942, 1954-1958, 1973-1977, 1982-1996 (as Century/Special), 1997-2005 (as a separate model).

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily assembled in North America (e.g., Fairfax, Kansas; Oshawa, Ontario).