Model Years Covered:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Generation:
Third Generation (1997-2005)
Platform:
GM W-body Platform
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Cost Savings:
Inexpensive way to keep your vehicle working properly and save money on repairs.
Manual Purpose:
Repair, maintain, rebuild, refurbish, or restore the Buick Century.
Engine:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings
Brakes:
Brakes, Brake Servicing Procedures
Drivetrain:
Transmission Removal and Installation, Transmission In-Car Servicing, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures
Suspension Steering:
Suspension, Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Computer Diagnostic Codes
HVAC:
Air Conditioning Service and Capacities
Chassis:
Frame, steering, suspension, wheels, tires
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, injectors
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, wires (if applicable)
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim
Maintenance:
Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts for common drivability issues, electrical system faults.
Repair:
Repair Procedures, Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Timing Belt Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive (Do-it-yourself to experienced mechanic level)
Specifications:
Detailed specifications for all listed components and systems.
Special Tools:
Identification of necessary special tools for specific repairs.
Included Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed illustrations, diagrams, and wiring schematics
Diagram Type:
Wiring schematics covering all electrical circuits.
Vacuum Diagrams:
Included for engine and HVAC systems.
Instruction Style:
Step-by-step instructions based on complete disassembly
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac, Linux OS, iPhone, iPad, Android
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip
Searchability:
Searchable and Bookmarked
Printability:
Printable, zoomable pages
Completeness Guarantee:
100% Complete and Intact, no missing/corrupt pages/sections
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
Common Engine Options:
3.1L V6 (L82/LG8), 3.8L V6 (L36, Series I/II)
Typical Horsepower Range:
Approx. 150-170 hp (depending on engine and year)
Typical Torque Range:
Approx. 180-200 lb-ft (depending on engine and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Timing Drive:
Timing belt (3.1L V6), Timing chain (3.8L V6)
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Station Wagon
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3200-3500 lbs (depending on body style and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Available within the manual specifications for each configuration.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Four stars (1997-2004 models, varies by year/test)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Four stars (1997-2004 models, varies by year/test)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (1997-2004 models, varies by year/test)
ABS Availability:
Available, often standard on higher trims or later years.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific recommendations (typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Consult manual for specific engine (crucial for 3.1L V6 due to interference design).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30 based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or equivalent specification as per manual).
Coolant Type:
GM specified engine coolant (typically green, ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.
Common Problems:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (3.1L V6), power steering pump leaks, radiator leaks, exhaust system corrosion, occasional transmission issues (e.g., torque converter shudder).
Completeness:
Complete torque specifications for all major components included.
Air Filter Part Number:
Refer to manual or parts catalog for specific applications (e.g., Wix 42545, Fram CA8006).
Oil Filter Part Number:
Refer to manual or parts catalog for specific applications (e.g., Wix 51042, Fram PH3562).
Buick Legacy:
Buick has a long history of producing comfortable, refined, and well-equipped American sedans and wagons.
Century Positioning:
The Century served as Buick's entry-level to mid-size offering, known for its comfortable ride and value proposition.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily built in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, and Fairfax, Kansas, USA.