Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Buick owners seeking detailed repair information.
Advantage Over Print:
More convenient, less expensive than traditional printed manuals, easily accessible online.
Convenience:
Instant download and online access from any internet-connected device.
Cost Savings:
Enables significant savings by empowering owners to perform repairs and maintenance themselves.
Engine:
Complete diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants.
Transmission:
Service and repair for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, and internal components.
Brakes:
Detailed procedures for hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake service, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment procedures, shock absorber and strut service.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column service, tie rod end and ball joint replacement.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides for lighting, ignition, starting, charging, and accessory circuits.
Heating Air Conditioning:
AC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core service.
Body And Frame:
Exterior panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation.
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for common and complex issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic data.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including OBD-II system interpretation and sensor testing.
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Compatibility:
Web browser compatible (PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet)
Information Accuracy:
Licensed OE (Original Equipment) derived data for high accuracy.
Searchability:
Instant access via internet connection, facilitating quick information retrieval.
Displacement:
3.1 L (189 cu in)
Configuration:
V6, 60-degree bank angle
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.27 in (89 mm x 83 mm)
Horsepower:
160 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
185 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Pack arrangement.
Coolant Type:
GM Dex-Cool Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant.
Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic Engine Oil.
Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (4T60-E)
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for a fluid change, 7.7 quarts (7.3 L) for a complete refill.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
HVAC Features:
Manual or optional automatic climate control with recirculate function.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and voltmeter.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or as per severe driving conditions.
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (Dexron III/Mercon ATF is often an acceptable substitute for some GM systems of this era).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified by manufacturer, though less common for this model year) glycol-based brake fluid.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets, especially the Dex-Cool version, can lead to coolant leaks and potential engine overheating.
Transmission Control Module:
Intermittent transmission shifting issues or failure of the Transmission Control Module (TCM) can occur.
Idler Pulley:
Noise from the serpentine belt system can be attributed to a worn idler pulley or tensioner.
Fuel Pump:
Premature failure of the in-tank fuel pump.
Buick Legacy:
Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing comfortable and reliable American sedans.
Century Lineage:
The Century nameplate has been used by Buick for various models since the 1930s, evolving into a popular mid-size sedan by the late 20th century.
Generation:
This 1997 model belongs to the third generation of the GM W-body platform, which also underpinned other GM mid-size cars like the Chevrolet Lumina and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme.
