1990 Buick Century problems
Buick Century is the model name that was used by Buick for a line of upscale full-size cars from 1936 to 1942 and 1954 to 1958, as well as from 1973 to 2005 for mid-size cars.
The first Buick Century debuted as the Series 60 then renamed in 1936 as a shorter and lighter model featuring the same engine as the bigger Roadmaster and Limited series giving it more performance while using the shorter wheelbase body of the Buick Special. During the 1930s and 1940s it was Buick's companion to the top level Roadmaster and was offered as a 2-door and 4-door sedan and convertible. The Century name was used on six generations of cars of varying sizes as well as performance and trim levels. In 1969, Buick developed a concept car known as the Century Cruiser. In the 1970s, the Century Regal became a separate model and market positioning between the two products changed from year to year depending on sales. The Century was updated to front wheel drive in 1982 and was Buick's 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan and station wagon, with regular updates and feature upgrades as customer preferences changed over time.
Series 60 (1930–1935)
Originally, the Series 60 had the 331.4 cu in (5.4 L) OHV Buick Straight-6 engine from the Series 70, developing 99 bhp (74 kW) at 2,800 rpm. It had, at the beginning of the generation, a full-length running board denoting the top model for Buick at the time, shared with the short wheelbase, entry level Series 40. In 1930, GM built 38,180 cars. The bodystyles available were torpedo, sedan, coupe, and roadster convertible, using GM's "B-body" platform. Starting with this generation, all GM cars shared a corporate appearance as a result of the "Art and Colour Section" headed by Harley J. Earl and modest yearly changes were introduced to freshen the appearance.
In 1931, the running board was reduced and the OHV 220.7 cu in (3.6 L) Buick Straight-8 engine was introduced that developed 90 bhp (67 kW). Aesthetically, the Series 60 remained almost unchanged, and the same fact occurred also in the following year. In 1931 and 1932, a total of 55,135 were produced.
In 1933, the length of the body increased and the radiator was now concealed behind a façade with a grille. The engine power increased to 97 hp (72 kW), and 1933 was the first year all GM vehicles were installed with optional vent windows which were initially called “No Draft Individually Controlled Ventilation” later renamed "Ventiplanes". In 1934, the appearance was changed to a more rounded appearance, with a new OHV 278 cu in (4.6 L) eight-cylinder engine and 100 hp. In 1935, the model remained almost unchanged while the body style selections were similar to larger Buicks but more affordably priced. Six choices were available to include both 2- and 4-door convertibles using the term "phaeton" for the 4-door convertible with a listed price of US$1,675 ($37,224 in 2023 dollars ). Total production from 1933 to 1935 was 31,385. In 1936, the model changed its name to "Century".
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Common 1990 Buick Century problems
The 1990 Buick Century is known for a few common problems that owners have reported, including stalling issues, leaking transmission lines, and fuel system problems.
One of the most pressing concerns for Buick Century owners is the car's tendency to stall, especially while idling or when the headlights are on.
Another common problem with the 1990 Buick Century is leaking transmission lines. The car's rubber transmission cooler lines can deteriorate over time, leading to fluid leaks and potential transmission damage. This issue is common enough that it is listed as one of the top Buick Century problems based on car owner complaints.
Fuel system problems are also a concern for Buick Century owners. One owner reported that their car was running very rich, suggesting that the fuel pressure regulator may be malfunctioning. This issue can lead to poor fuel efficiency, reduced engine performance, and even engine damage if left unaddressed.
In summary, the 1990 Buick Century is known for a few common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. These issues include stalling, leaking transmission lines, and fuel system problems. If you own a Buick Century and are experiencing any of these issues, it is important to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the problem before it leads to more serious issues.
Is a Buick Century a reliable car?
Buick Century Reliability Problems
Century owners have made 326 complaints over 16 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 7th in overall reliability out of 14 Buick models , with real engine and windows concerns.
What is the value of a 1990 Buick Century?
The value of a used 1990 Buick Century ranges from $895 to $5,887, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What engine is in a 1990 Buick Century?
Used 1990 Buick Century Limited - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 2.5 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 110 hp @ 5,200 rpm |
How many miles can a Buick Century get?
A buick century should be able to last over 150,000 miles with proper care. 202,000 Miles and still going strong.
What engine is in a 1990 Buick Century?
Used 1990 Buick Century Limited - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 2.5 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 110 hp @ 5,200 rpm |
What is the value of a 1990 Buick Century?
The value of a used 1990 Buick Century ranges from $895 to $5,887, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Who made Buick engines?
General Motors
The Buick V8 is a family of V8 engines produced by the Buick division of General Motors between 1953 and 1981. The first version replaced the Buick straight-eight. Displacements vary from 215 cu in (3.5 L) (for the division's unique all-aluminum early 1960s engine) to 455 cu in (7.5 L) for its last big block in 1976.
What were the Buick models in 1990?
Select a 1990 Buick Model
- 1990 Century.
- 1990 Electra.
- 1990 Electra T-Type.
- 1990 Estate Wagon.
- 1990 LeSabre.
- 1990 Reatta.
- 1990 Regal.
- 1990 Riviera.
1990 Buick Century car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Century problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Structure problems
- Seats problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Buick Century vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1990 Buick Century
The NHTSA has received 46 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Buick Century. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Buick Century vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4AH54N7L6
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE'S STEERING.*MR STIFFNESS IN STEERING, SOMETIMES CONSUMER HAVE TO STEER IN NEUTRAL AS IT DOESN'T COME BACK BY ITSELF. SOMETIMES IT SQUEAK WHILE TURNING, NO LOCK UP HAS OCCURRED YET. *PH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G4AL547164
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING AND WITHOUT WARNING THE ENGINE BLEW AND THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SMOKE UNDER THE HOOD CAUSING THE CONSUMER TO PULL OVER. DEALER NOTIFIED. MR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-13
- VIN: 3G4AL54N0LS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: ON WEDNESDAY 6/13/2002 MY 1990 BUICK CENTURY LOST STEERING CONTROL DUE TO A FAILURE IN THE CRADLE BOLTS.I COULD HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED.I HAVE FOUND THE FOLLOWING RECALL WHICH INCLUDES THE 1990 BUICK REGAL, NHTSA RECALL NO. 97V058/GM RECALL NO. 97016. MY VEHICLE IS A 1990 BUICK CENTURY WITH 3300 V6 AND IS NOT LISTED IN THIS RECALL.I BELIEVE THE CRADLE BOLT'S IN 1990 BUICK CENTURY'S ARE ALSO SUBJECT TO FAILURE, CAUSING THE SAME SAFETY RELATED ISSUE MOTIONED IN THIS RECALL.MY VEHICLE DOES HAVE 202000 MILES ON IT, BUT THIS IS THE KIND OF FAILURE SHOULD NEVER HAVE HAPPENED. I BELIEVE BUICK SHOULD REPAIR MY VEHICLE AT THEIR COST. I HAVE FOUND TWO OTHER COMPLAINT ABOUT THE SAME PROBLEM. I TRIED TO ISSUED A COMPLAINT THE HNTSA ON 6/21/2002 OVER THE PHONE BUT IT FAILED TO GET ENTERED SO HERE A TRY BY EMAIL. HOME EMAIL [email protected], WORK EMAIL [email protected], HOME PHONE 765-447-2782, WORK PHONE 765-429-1387. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-18
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G4AH5YN7L6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CIRCUIT BREAKER FOR SEAT IN FUSE COMPARTMENT OVERHEATED, CAUSING POWER SEATS AND POWER DOOR TO BE INOPERATIVE. DRIVER IS UNABLE TO REPLACE FUSE BECAUSE IT WAS SO HOT, IT BURNED. *AK. CONSUMER STATES WHEN HE TOUCHED THE CORRECT FUSE HE WAS BURNED LEAVING A BLISTER ON HIS FINGER AND THUMB, CONSUMER STATES HE DISCOVERED THERE WAS A RECALL, HOWEVER THE DEALER KNEW OF THE CAMPAIGN BUT COULD NOT FIND CONSUMERS VEHICLE IN THE SYSTEM.*JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-04
- VIN: 1G4AH54N1L6
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, I NOTICED THAT THE FRONT OF CAR LURCHED AND THE STEERING WHEEL POSITION CHANGED. PULLED CAR TO SIDE AND SAW THAT PART OF FRAME WAS HANGING DOWN. TOOK TO DEALER WHO SAID THAT THE CRADLE BOLT HAD PULLED THROUGH THE SUPPORT AND WAS HANGING DOWN. WHY WASN'T MY CAR ON THE RECALL CAMPAIGN AS THE REGAL WAS? I AM AFRAID THAT THE OTHER BOLTS WILL PULL THROUGH AND I WILL LOSE MY DIRECTIONAL STEERING ABILITY. I HAVE KEPT ALL DEFECTIVE PARTS FOR THE NHTSA REVIEW. IT APPEARS THAT THE METALS FUSSED OR MIGRATED TOGETHER. DID BUICK USE THE TWO WRONG METALS IN THIS AREA, CAUSING THIS PROBLEM? IS THEIR AN ACTIVE CAMPAIGN FOR THE CENTURY? PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-04
- VIN: 3G4AH54N1LS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MOTOR FELL TO GROUND WHILE PULLING OUT. THIS DAMAGED STEERING AND CAR WAS OUT OF CONTROL. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-26
- VIN: 1GFAH54N6L6
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: NONE OF THE POWER WINDOWS WOULD OPEN OR CLOSE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP. TWO BROKEN WIRES WERE RECONNECTED AT OWNER'S EXPENSE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
STEERING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-23
- VIN: 1G4AH84N3L6
- Components: STEERING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON ROAD NOTICED VEHICLE PULLING A SHARP LEFT. LOOKED AT THE CRADLES, AND THE RETAINER WASHER BROKE/WAS RUSTED THROUGH. REPLACED IT. ALSO, OTHERS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. IN ADDITION, RACK & PINION STEERING ASSEMBLY IS CONNECTED TO ENGINE CRADLE FRAME AND THE STEERING SHAFT, DROPPED. THIS MAY CAUSE ERRATIC STEERING PROBLEMS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-15
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ALL OF SUDDEN THE VEHICLE JUST SHUT OFF WHEN MAKING A STOP OR SLOWING DOWN. CONTACTED DEALER, AND HE WAS NOT ABLE TO FIND OUT WHAT WAS WRONG ON THE DIAGNOSIS MACHINE. *AK
SEAT BELTS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G4AH54NXL6
- Components: SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: DURING ACCIDENT FRONT BENCH SEAT LATCH FAILED CAUSING THE SEAT TO COLLAPSE, RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BELT ALSO BECAME UNLATCHED, RESULTING IN INJURY. NLM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4AH54N5L6
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED SEVERAL TIMES.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-01-01
- VIN: 1G4AL54N4L6
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PAINT STARTED PEELING AWAY SINCE 1993 AND HAS GOTTEN PROGRESSIVELY WORSE.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 3G4AH54N7LS
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE SPLIT SEAT IS COMING LOOSE FROM THE FLOOR. HAS NOT SEEN DEALER. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-02
- VIN: 3G4AH54N2LS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLED DUE TO FAILURE OF THE ALTERNATOR.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-09-26
- VIN: 3G4AH54N2LS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE NOT STARTING DUE TO ECM FAILURE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-02
- VIN: 3G4AH54N2LS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS TROUBLE STARTING DUE TO BATTERY FAILURE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTS DO NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4AL54N1L6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: EVERY SIX MONTHS THE ELECTRICAL BATTERY RUNS DOWN, HAVE TO REPLACE IT . *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-18
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR COOLING FAN REPLACED.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-22
- VIN: 1G4AH54N9L6
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: REAR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY FAILED TWICE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4AG55M5R6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RECALL ON THE SEAT BELT DENIED DUE TO WRONG INFORMATION (VIN #) ON THE MAIL OUT .
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G4AH54R6L6
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CARBURETOR BACKFIRED STARTING A FIRE, THE ELECTRICAL FUEL PUMP CONTINUES TO PUMP FUEL, CAUSING THE CAR TO COMPLETELY BURN.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-06
- VIN: 1G4AH54N5L6
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: FAILURE OF THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT, THE SEAT IS RECLINED TO THE BACK POSITION.*AK THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT TRAVELS ON RAILS BACK AND FOWARD, WHILE DRVING A METAL BRACKET ON THE LEFT SIDE, THAT ANCHORED THE SEAT TO THE FLOOR BROKE IN HALF, THEREFORE MAKING THE SEAT AS A WHOLE TILT BACKWARD.*JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-08
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, HEARD NOISE, WITHIN MINUTES, ALL POWER STOPPED, BLACK SMOKE POURED OUT FROM UNDERHOOD, FIRE STARTED COMING FROM UNDER VEHICLE, NO WARNING. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-15
- VIN: 1G4AH54RSL6
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DESIGN FLAW IN SEAT BELT THAT ATTACHES TO DOOR, LEAVING OCCUPANT FREE TO FALL OUT OF VEHICLE IF DOOR OPENS IN ACCIDENT. *DH
1990 Buick Century recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Buick Century.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: THESE VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH REAR OUTBOARD SAFETY BELT ANCHORAGES THAT MAY NOT WITHSTAND THE REQUIRED LOAD. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO.210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES."
- Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: IN A COLLISON, STRESS CAN CAUSE THE ATTACHMENT METAL TO TEAR AND ALLOW THE ANCHORAGE TO SEPARATE FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY BELT MAY NOT PROTECT AN OCCUPANT IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING ANCHOR BOLTS WITH A NEW SHOULDER BOLT AND THREAD LOCKING ADHESIVE. ADDITIONALLY, NOISE CONTROL PATCHES WILL BE APPLIED AT EACH ANCHORAGE.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: THE POWER SEAT OR RECLINER WIRING HARNESS CAN BE PINCHED OR CAN CHAFE ON THE SEAT FRAME OR SPRING SUPPORT ROD, WEARING THROUGH THE WIRE INSULATION AND CAUSING AN ELECTRICAL SHORT.
- Consequence: THE HIGH CURRENT CAUSED BY THE ELECTRICAL SHORT WELDS THECIRCUIT BREAKER ELEMENTS TOGETHER IN THE CLOSED POSITION, LEAVING THE CIRCUITUNPROTECTED AND GENERATING SUFFICIENT HEAT TO BURN THE WIRE INSULATION ANDIGNITE THE SEAT CUSHION MATERIAL.
- Remedy: REPAIR ANY ABRADED WIRING AND REROUTE THE WIRING HARNESS USING A WIRING HARNESS CLIP.
Negative 1990 Buick Century car reviews
Positive 1990 Buick Century car reviews
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I bought this car back in 2005 with only 63,000 miles on it for a great price of $1,500. It had barely been driven and was previously owned by an older couple. Since then, I've only had to put in $1,000 worth of maintenance and it now has 142,000 miles on it. The best part is that it still gets 30mpg and doesn't burn any oil. I can even go up to 5,000 miles between oil changes! I've been considering buying a new car, but I'm hesitant because I believe this Buick still has a lot of life left in it. The 3300 engine is incredibly reliable and I would definitely recommend a Buick to anyone looking for a long-lasting car.
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I had this car for 6 years and had very few problems with it. The key is to keep up with the oil changes and maintenance. It's an affordable car that gets you from A to B with minimal issues. If you don't care about fancy features, then this car is perfect for you.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that I've had this great car for a while now. Unfortunately, rust has been a bit of a factor, but on the bright side, the seats are really comfortable!
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I bought this from the original owner to upgrade my 2000 Dodge Caravan without breaking the bank.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Buick Century problems:
Q&A: 1990 Buick Century - V6 Fuel Issues | JustAnswer
Nov 7, 2011 ... On this car you should have 40-47 psi with the key on, engine off. If fuel pressure is lower than specified, replace the fuel pump. If fuel ...
1990 Buick Century Problems and Complaints - 25 Issues
Top 1990 Buick Century Problems · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil · Power Window Switch May Fail · Power Window Motors May Fail From ...
1990 Buick Century -- 15 year mechanic is stumped - Maintenance ...
Mar 3, 2009 ... Hello, all. I?m a first time poster who really needs some help. My wife and I own a 1990 Buick Century (1990 BUICK CENTURY LIMITED with 3.3L ...
1990 Buick Century - where is the ecm located and how do I replace ...
Mar 16, 2015 ... It is in my opinion that your timing chain is the problem. Take your oil cap off and manually turn the engine and see if there is any movement ...
power window problem - Buick Forum - Buick Enthusiasts Forums
Sep 30, 2008 ... I'm no mechanic, but have a 1990 Buick Century. The power windows didn't work at first, but I was able to get the drivers to work with some ...
Other years of Buick Century
Are you having problems with your 1990 Buick Century?
Adrien Fisher 2024-09-12
Pretty good shape, considering it's 13 years old. It still has a smooth ride, but the exterior is getting a bit shabby. However, for the price of $1800, it's a great car overall!
Eric Schoen 2024-01-27
I inherited this car from my Grandmother back in 2001. At the time, it had only 30,000 original miles. I was excited and thought to myself, 'Great, I should be able to get at least 70,000 miles on this car without too much trouble.' Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned. After putting over $2000 into maintenance over the past four years, I just sold it for $500 with 80,000 miles on the odometer. It was a tough decision, but I just couldn't keep up with the constant repairs. The AC parts, radiator, brake caliper, exhaust, transmission, water pump, alternator, crank angle sensor, and ignition control module all needed repairs at some point. Despite the challenges, I'm grateful for the memories I made with my Grandmother's car.