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
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
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)
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
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)
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.
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
