Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan, positioned as a comfortable and affordable personal vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Chrysler Concorde/Intrepid.
Manual Benefits:
Provides dealership-level repair information, saves money on mechanic costs, empowers DIY repairs, offers comprehensive A-Z coverage, digital format eliminates physical wear and tear.
Major Systems:
Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel, Emission Control, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Driveline, Axle, Suspension, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Steering (Column & Power), HVAC, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper/Washer, Door Locks, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Seats, Body/Exterior/Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication.
Fuel Service Specifications:
Detailed fuel system component testing, fuel pressure specifications, injector testing, and related diagnostic procedures.
Emission Control:
Coverage of emission control systems, catalytic converter, EGR system, evaporative emission control (EVAP), and associated sensors and diagnostics.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system diagnostics, component replacement (master cylinder, calipers, lines), ABS system testing and repair.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, maintenance, servicing, component replacement, system adjustments, troubleshooting, wiring schematic interpretation.
Engine Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine overhaul instructions, including cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing inspection.
Depth Of Information:
Vehicle-specific, factory-level detail comparable to technician use at dealerships. Includes detailed instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications.
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive, vehicle-specific wiring schematics covering all electrical circuits, including power distribution, grounds, and component connections.
Engine Type:
3.1L (189 cu in) V6 (L82)
Horsepower:
Approx. 155 hp @ 4800 rpm (typical for 1999 L82)
Torque:
Approx. 185 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (typical for 1999 L82)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 3.1L V6
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Spark Plug Type:
Refer to manual for specific P/N (e.g., AC Delco Professional Iridium)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (4T65-E)
Optional Transmission:
No manual transmission was typically offered for the 1999 Buick Century in North America.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III (or equivalent specified by GM)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.2 quarts (7.8 L) for 4T65-E (dry fill)
Wheelbase:
109.0 inches (2769 mm)
Length:
198.9 inches (5052 mm)
Width:
70.3 inches (1786 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,200 - 3,400 lbs (1450 - 1542 kg), depending on trim and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate or manual for exact GVWR.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 16.0 cubic feet (0.45 m³)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Refer to NHTSA archives for specific 1999 ratings, but generally performed moderately.
IIHS Crash Test Performance:
Refer to IIHS archives for specific 1999 ratings.
ABS:
Standard on most trims, Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Optional, Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS).
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, with driver and front passenger pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD or cassette player, optional premium sound systems.
Display Technology:
Analog gauges with driver information center (DIC) on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional, depending on trim level.
Multiplex Communication:
Features Multiplex/CAN Communication for various control modules, detailed in the manual's electrical section.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic blend or synthetic oil. Refer to manual for precise recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Approximately every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km), or as per severe duty schedule. Filter replacement recommended.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial fill at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter with appropriate coolant.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified.
Coolant Specification:
GM P/N 12378510 (Orange) or compatible Dex-Cool™ antifreeze/coolant. Refer to manual for specific type.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Engine Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (3.1L V6), coolant leaks, potential for head gasket issues in some VIN ranges. Premature wear of harmonic balancer.
Common Transmission Issues:
Leaking transmission cooler lines, potential for torque converter shudder or failure in high mileage vehicles.
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn strut mounts, front control arm bushings, and sway bar links leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Common Electrical Issues:
Faulty body control module (BCM), window regulators, power lock actuators, and issues with the BCM multiplexing system.
Buick Brand Positioning:
Buick historically targeted a more mature demographic with comfortable, quiet, and well-appointed vehicles.
Century Lineage:
The Century nameplate has a long history within Buick, evolving through various platforms and design philosophies.
Third Generation Wbody:
The 1997-2005 Century was based on GM's W-body platform, shared with models like the Chevrolet Impala and Pontiac Grand Prix, emphasizing a smoother ride and larger interior space.
Production Location:
Primarily built in North America (e.g., Oshawa, Ontario, Canada; Fairfax, Kansas, USA).
