🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Century

Year:

2001

Platform:

W-body

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY car owners, independent repair shops, vocational training programs.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level technical information in a convenient, digital format, empowering users to perform maintenance and repairs accurately and efficiently, saving on labor costs.

Digital Convenience:

Single, easy-to-use PDF file, searchable content, printable pages for workshop use, no risk of greasy or lost paper manuals.

Accuracy And Detail:

Vehicle-specific, not generic, includes step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Covered:

Yes (All trim levels and configurations for the 2001 model year)

Repair Scope:

A-Z (Comprehensive service and repair for all vehicle systems)

Estimated Page Count:

N/A (PDF format, dynamic page count based on print selection)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Compatibility:

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

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online).

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, intake system, engine control system, automatic transmission, manual transmission (if applicable), drivetrain components (axles, driveshafts, differentials).

Chassis:

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

Electrical:

Starting and charging system, lighting, instrument panel, power windows, power door locks, wipers and washers, horn, audio/visual systems, HVAC controls, supplemental restraint system (SRS), engine immobilizer, cruise control, multiplex/CAN communication.

Body:

Exterior (hood, doors, glass, mirrors), interior (seats, instrument panel, trim), body hardware.

Emission Control:

Detailed information on emission control systems, including evaporative emission controls (EVAP), catalytic converters, and onboard diagnostics (OBD-II).

Supplemental Restraint System:

Comprehensive coverage of airbags, seat belt pretensioners, and related sensors and control modules.

Maintenance Procedures:

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

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring schematics for fault tracing, component testing.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major systems.

Wiring Schematics:

Extensive and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.

Depth:

Factory level detail, including torque specifications, tolerances, special tool requirements, and diagnostic strategies used by dealership technicians.

Special Tools:

Identification of required special tools for specific repairs and procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Printability:

Yes, all pages are printable.

Image Enhancement:

Images and diagrams can be blown up for enlarged viewing and printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF, no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF, no physical paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Overhead Valve (OHV), V6

Engine Displacement:

3.1L (189 cu in)

Engine Code Common:

L82

Horsepower Estimated:

150 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque Estimated:

170 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 Octane)

Oil Type:

API Service SG, SH, SJ, or SL, ILSAC GF-2 or GF-3

Oil Viscosity Recommended:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred for all temperature ranges)

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 (or equivalent orange coolant)

Coolant Capacity Estimated:

12.0 - 13.0 quarts (11.3 - 12.3 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Model Common:

4T65-E

Transmission Type Optional:

N/A (No manual transmission option available for 2001 Century in North America)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or Dexron-VI compatible)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Estimated:

7.5 - 8.5 quarts (7.1 - 8.0 liters) for a fluid change

📐 Dimensions

Length Estimated:

197.7 inches (5022 mm)

Width Estimated:

71.4 inches (1813 mm)

Height Estimated:

56.7 inches (1440 mm)

Curb Weight Estimated:

3300 - 3500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 2001 model year)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2001 model year)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Acceptable (for similar W-body vehicles)

ABS:

Standard on all models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (standard)

Seat Belts:

Front 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player, optional Monsoon premium audio system.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, electronically controlled.

Vehicle Communication:

Utilizes GM's multiplexed/CAN communication system for various modules, requiring specific diagnostic tools for advanced troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs, but consult manual for specific plug type and interval.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM P/N 1050017 or equivalent (Dexron-III/VI)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (GM P/N 12377967 or equivalent)

Intake Manifold Gaskets:

Leaking intake manifold gaskets, particularly the upper gaskets on the 3.1L V6, can lead to coolant or vacuum leaks.

Transmission Problems:

Some instances of transmission solenoid issues or torque converter clutch (TCC) shudder can occur, requiring diagnostic and potential repair.

Window Regulators:

Power window regulators can wear out and fail, leading to windows not operating.

Idler Pulley Bearing:

The bearing in the accessory drive belt idler pulley can fail, causing noise.

📚 Vehicle History

Buick Legacy:

Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing comfortable, quiet, and well-equipped vehicles, often targeting the premium mid-size sedan market.

Century Lineage:

The Buick Century nameplate has been used on various models since the 1930s. The 2001 model represents the third generation of the modern W-body platform Century, focusing on refinement and comfort.

Manufacturing Location:

Various GM assembly plants in North America (e.g., Oshawa, Ontario, Canada; Fairfax, Kansas, USA).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Perception:

The 2001 Buick Century was generally perceived as a comfortable, reliable, and value-oriented mid-size sedan, appealing to buyers prioritizing a smooth ride and quiet cabin.

Consumer Reports Typical Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by year and specific components, but generally positioned as average for its class during its production run.