1997 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 1997 Buick Century problems
The Buick Century, particularly the 1997 model, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues span across various components of the car, including the engine, transmission, and power window assemblies.
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Another common problem with the 1997 Buick Century is leaking coolant due to a failed intake manifold gasket.
- Window Falls Into Door: A design flaw in the power window assemblies of the 1997 Buick Century is the use of cheap plastic clips that can break, causing the window to drop into the door.
- Recall Issues: The 1997 Buick Century has been subject to numerous recalls, with the largest recall occurring in 2000, affecting over 5.8 million vehicles. These recalls cover a wide range of issues, including fuel system problems, steering issues, brakes, suspension, lighting, electrical, and even airbags. These recalls highlight the potential for significant safety concerns and the need for ongoing maintenance and repairs.
- Engine Issues: Owners have reported numerous engine issues with the 1997 Buick Century, with 87 complaints filed specifically for engine problems. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to significant safety concerns, depending on the specific problem and its severity.
- Electrical Issues: Electrical problems have also been reported with the 1997 Buick Century, with 30 complaints filed specifically for electrical issues. These problems can affect various aspects of the car's functionality, from the power windows to the dashboard instruments.
In summary, the 1997 Buick Century has several common problems that can affect its safety, reliability, and overall functionality. These issues include transmission slipping, intake manifold gasket leaks, window assembly design flaws, recall issues, engine problems, and electrical issues. Owners of this model year should be aware of these potential problems and consider regular maintenance and repairs to ensure their car remains safe and reliable.
How reliable are Buick centuries?
Comfortable and reliable
I've driven Buick Centuries for the last 15 years, and they have been very reliable. Everything works. The seats are comfortable, as is the ride. Mine rusted out beginning at 9 years of age.
What is the value of a 1997 Buick Century?
How much is a 1997 Buick Century worth? The value of a used 1997 Buick Century ranges from $208 to $989, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
How many miles can you get out of a Buick Century?
A buick century should be able to last over 150,000 miles with proper care. 202,000 Miles and still going strong.
Why was the Buick Century discontinued?
The Century was discontinued at the end of the abbreviated 1942 model year due to World War II, when production of passenger vehicles stopped on February 4, 1942, during which total model production only accounted for about 10% of Buick's total output.
How reliable are Buick centuries?
Comfortable and reliable
I've driven Buick Centuries for the last 15 years, and they have been very reliable. Everything works. The seats are comfortable, as is the ride. Mine rusted out beginning at 9 years of age.
What is the value of a 1997 Buick Century?
How much is a 1997 Buick Century worth? The value of a used 1997 Buick Century ranges from $208 to $989, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What is the top speed of the Buick Century?
While the Special was powered by Buick's OHV 233 cu in (3.8 L) straight-8 engine, rated 93 hp (69 kW) at 3200 rpm, Centurys produced between 1936 and 1942 were powered by the OHV 320 cu in (5.2 L) straight-8 producing 141 hp (105 kW), making them the fastest Buicks of the era and capable of sustained speeds of 100 mph ...
What car replaced the Buick Century?
Buick LaCrosse
The Buick Century is a car made from the 1936–1942, 1954–1958 and 1973–2005 model years. It is a full-size car from 1936–1942 and 1954–1958 and a mid-size car from 1973–2005. In 2005, it was succeeded by the Buick LaCrosse.
1997 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
- Visibility problems
- Steering problems
- Seat belts problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Buick Century vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Buick Century
The NHTSA has received 120 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Buick Century. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Buick Century vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2G4WS52M7V1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-22
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WITHIN 43 DAYS OF PURCHASING COOPER GRAND TOURING CS5 TIRES FOR MY 1997 BUICK CENTURY, ONE DEVELOPED A LARGE SIDEWALL BULGE. THE RETAILER FORCED ME TO BUY ANOTHER NEW TIRE FOR $72. AND COOPER REFUSED TO PAY FOR IT! I HAVE BEEN DRIVING CARS FOR 40 YEARS AN NEVER HAD A NEW TIRE OR ANY TIRE DEVELOP A SIDEWALL BULGE. I HAD A SPIRITED CONVERSATION WITH A COOPER REP AND SHE GOT VERY RUDE WITH ME. THEY HAD ONE RECALL FOR THE SAME PROBLEM AND NEVER FIXED THE PROBLEM OBVIOUSLY. PLEASE HELP!
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-17
- VIN: 2G4WS52M5V1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE MANIFOLD GASKET WAS DETERIORATING AND CAUSED THE ENGINE TO OVERHEAT. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY THE DEX COOL ANTIFREEZE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOWER MANIFOLD GASKET NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 02/09/15*LJ
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-30
- VIN: 2G4WS52M6V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN I BACKED OUT OF PARKING SPACE, I TURNED STEERING WHEEL WITH A "HARD LEFT." CAR MADE CLICKING NOISE. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-05
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DRIVING ON I-95 SOUTHBOUND WHEN I EXPERIENCED A CATASTROPHIC TREAD SEPARATION TO MY DRIVER'S SIDE REAR TIRE. I WAS ABLE TO GET MY VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND SIGNAL HELP. FORTUNATELY, I ESCAPED THIS FAILURE UNINJURED. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-01
- VIN: 2G4WS52M2V1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 65 MPH WHEN THE TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS FAILED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THEY WOULD NOT REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO A PERSONAL MECHANIC WHO NOTICED THAT THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM THE WIRING OF THE TURN SIGNALS. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 89,887. ... UPDATED 08-07-12 *BF THE TURN SIGNAL SWITCH INSIDE THE STEERING COLUMN WAS REPLACED. UPDATED 08/09/12*JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-14
- VIN: 2G4WS52M4V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN AND THE STEERING LOCKED AND THERE WAS A LOUD BANG. I WASN'T ABLE TO COMPLETE THE TURN CAUSING ME TO DRIVE OFF THE ROAD AND ONTO A LAWN. THE STEERING WHEEL WOULDN'T GO BACK TO THE CORRECT POSITION AND IT SEEMED TO BE IN MANUAL STEERING MODE. I COULD BARELY MOVE THE WHEEL. THE CAR IS NOT DRIVABLE AT THIS TIME. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-12
- VIN: 2G4WY52MXV1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK CENTURY. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH THE RPM'S INCREASED EXCESSIVELY. THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESUME NORMALLY. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN RESPIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLIANT. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 75,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-01
- VIN: 2G4WS52M1W1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK CENTURY. SHE STATED THAT THERE WAS A LOUD CLUNKING NOISE IN THE VEHICLE. UPON HAVING HER WHEEL BEARINGS REPAIRED, SHE FOUND THE STABILIZER BAR HAD BROKEN OFF OF THE TIRE. SHE THEN ATTEMPTED TO ORDER THE PART FROM AN AUTOMOTIVE STORE AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A DEFECT IN THE REPLACEMENT PART. NO REPAIRS WERE MADE TO THE VEHICLE TO CORRECT THE FAILURE TO DATE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 188,376.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-27
- VIN: 2G4WY52M4V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 1) CAR NEEDED TOWED TO GARAGE FOR STARTER FAILURE. AS IT LEFT THE GARAGE THE STEERING LOCKED UP AND SENT CAR ALMOST INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC WITH 2 CHILDREN IN THE CAR. THERE HAD BEEN NO OTHER WARNINGS OF A PROBLEM. 2) IT HAPPENS EVERY TIME THE STEERING IS TURNED ONE DIRECTION THEN BACK TO THE OTHER. IT DOES NOT JUST COME BACK. ESPECIALLY TO THE LEFT. I ALMOST CRASHED 4 TIMES JUST TRYING TO GET IT HOME. 3) I FILED AN INSURANCE CLAIM ON THE TOW COMPANY THINKING THEY WERE RESPONSIBLE. THEY LOOKED AT IT AND SAID THEY FOUND NOTHING WRONG, THAT NOTHING WAS BENT. AFTER GETTING ON LINE AND INVESTIGATING, I LEARNED OF THIS STEERING PROBLEM. IT MATCHES IT PERFECTLY. I HAD SOMEONE KNOWLEDGEABLE OF MECHANICS LOOK AT THE CAR AND THEY SAID THE STEERING GEAR RACK NEEDS REPLACED AND NOT TO DRIVE THE CAR AS IT IS. IT IS TO DANGEROUS TO DRIVE. I ALSO JUST HAD NEW INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET FROM THE DECOOL PROBLEM GM HAS. NOW I HAVE A CAR THAT I CAN'T DRIVE AND CAN'T AFFORD TO FIX. NOBODY ASSUMES LIABILITY AND I THINK GM SHOULD HAVE HAD THIS RECALLED AND CORRECTED. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-09
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS HAVE BEEN STANDING STRAIGHT UP WHEN IN AN OFF POSITION FOR 6 OR 7 YEARS. FOUND THE CAMPAIGN AND THEN THE RECALL AND TRIED TO GET A REMEDY FROM THE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS AS WELL AS GM ,TO NO AVAIL..I WAS MADE TO BUY A MOTOR FOR THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND THAT WORKED FOR A LITTLE WHILE. THEN LAST SUMMER OR FALL I WENT BACK TO THE DEALER BECAUSE NOW THE ISSUE LOOKED TO BE A RECALL, AND THEY TOLD ME THERE WAS, BUT NOT FOR MY VIN#, AND I WAS MADE TO PAY $70 FOR THE ADJUSTMENT..IT IS NOW NOT WORKING AGAIN ,AND I AM VERY FRUSTRATED. IT IS A 1997 BUICK CENTURY. I HAVE TO KEEP THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS ON IN THE DELAY MODE ALL THE TIME, RAIN OR SHINE IN ORDER TO NOT HAVE THEM STAND STRAIGHT UP AND BLOCK MY VISION..I FEEL THIS IS DANGEROUS, BUT THAT THE DEALER AND GM WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY BECAUSE I FOUND THE INFORMATION ON MY PROGRESSIVE CAR INSURANCE SITE. THEY ALWAYS BRING UP RECALLS FOR YOUR CARS. *AK
VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-09
- VIN: 2G4WY52MXV1
- Components: VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: I WAS ON 275W. WHEN MY RIGHT WINDOW WIPER ARM STARTED TO STOP THEN IT DIED, MY HUSBAND TOLD TO SEE WHAT I COULD FIND OUT ON REPAIRING IT AND COST ON THE COMPUTER, I RAN ACROSS THIS LITTLE THING ON THE COMPUTER ABOUT 1997 BUICK CENTURY'S AND THE RIGHT WINDSHIELD {COMPONENT: VISIBILITY: WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER LINKAGES} WELL WHEN I READ ALL OF IT THAT DESCRIBES WHAT HAPPEN TO MY WIPER. WHEN I CALLED EVERYBODY SAID NO NOT YOUR CAR, AND I SAID I DON'T UNDERSTAND BECAUSE THE SAME THING IS WRONG WITH MIND. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-14
- VIN: 2G4WS52M5V1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATES THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 99V348000 CONCERNING THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGES. THIS VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL, BUT IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. THE VEHICLE IS BEING REPAIRED AT THE CONTACT'S EXPENSE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-10-25
- VIN: 2G4WS52M7V1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DT: 1997 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONSUMER HAS BEING HAVING PROBLEMS WITH SEAT BELTS JAMMING. THIS OCCURRED FOR 7 YEARS. T 2 OUT OF 4 SEAT BELTS WORK. THE 2 SEAT BELTS BACK SEAT WILL NOT WORK. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-03
- VIN: 2G4WY52M1V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 1997 BUICK CENTURY-STEERING LOCKS UP RANDOMLY CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-03
- VIN: 2G4WY52M1V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 1997 BUICK CENTURY-STEERING LOCKS UP RANDOMLY CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. *JB
CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-27
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: THE CHILD SEAT BUCKLE FAILED AND AS A RESULT THE CONSUMER'S GRANDSON WAS ABLE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR SEAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. *NM *SC *JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-20
- VIN: 2G4WS52M1V1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BOTH REAR PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELTS ARE INOPERATIVE. CONSUMER IS UNABLE TO PULL OUT THE SEAT BELTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE DRIVER THAT BOTH SEAT BELT RETRACTORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-15
- VIN: 2G4WY52M2V1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE WIPER ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE FRONT WINDSHIELD STOPPED OPERATING DURING INCLEMENT CONDITIONS. THE VEHICLE IS AT THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-08
- VIN: 2G4WS52M5V1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TAIL LIGHTS WILL NOT OPERATE CORRECTLY . DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AKI
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-08
- VIN: 2G4WS52MXV1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTS AFTER CLICKING THE SEAT BELT IN TO STAY CONNECTION. THE PASSENGER WOULD HOLD THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR. THIS CAUSED THE SEAT BELT TO TIGHTEN. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND THE MECHANIC TOLD THE CONSUMER THAT THE SEAT BELT WAS NOT RECALLED FOR THIS VEHICLE, AND THE WARRANTY EXPIRED. THE CONSUMER INFORMED THE MECHANIC OF THIS PROBLEM AND THEY ADJUSTED IT TWICE BUT THE PROBLEM RECURRED. *AK *NM *SC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-12
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: COOLANT WAS REPLACED AT @ 115,000 MILES. COOLANT WAS IN GLOBES IN OVER FLOW TANK. APPROXIMATELY 15,000 MILES AFTER REPLACEMENT, COOLANT LIGHT CAME ON (FIRST TIME EVER SINCE I HAVE OWNED CAR). COOLANT WAS @ 1 GALLON LOW. COOLANT HAS ALSO BECOME GLOBBY AGAIN. TOOK INTO REPLACE WITH DIFFERENT COOLANT (NOT DEX-COOL). UPON INSPECTION GARAGE FOUND THE ENGINE GASKET HAS BEEN LEAKING COOLANT. THEY CLAIM IT WAS CAUSED BY THE DEX-COOL COOLANT, THEY DID NOT DO THE FLUSH BECAUSE THEY DID NOT WANT TO CHANCE MAKING THE LEAK WORSE. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-04
- VIN: 5TENM92U822
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE STEERING WHEEL SHOOK UNCONTROLLABLY. CONSUMER DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, BUT MECHANIC COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-05
- VIN: 2G4WY52M6V1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: A MIXTURE OF WATER AND ANTI FREEZE SEEPED INTO THE OIL. WHEN THIS OCCURRED THE FLUIDS MIXED WITH THE OIL, AND WENT THROUGH THE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET. THIS KNOCKED THE CRANKSHAFT AND DESTROYED THE ENGINE. THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED 8 MONTHS LATER. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-28
- VIN: 2G4WS52M0V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING LOCKED UP WHEN MAKING LEFT TURNS. THE STEERING WHEEL EITHER LOCKED, DID NOT GO INTO THE FULL TURNS OR WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN. DEALERSHIP INDICATED THAT THERE WAS A DEFECT IN THE RACK AND PINION AS DESCRIBED IN STEERING GEAR BEARINGS RECALL 03V527000. HOWEVER, THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
1997 Buick Century recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 Buick Century.
- Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONSTM" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN THE STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING IN THE HUB AREA.
- Consequence: A BROKEN STEERING KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-2492 AND PRESS 5.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS MAY STOP WORKING DUE TO A SEPARATION BETWEEN THE DRIVE PIN AND CRESCENT IN THE CRANK ARM ASSEMBLY.
- Consequence: DRIVER VISIBILITY COULD BE REDUCED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES FOR THE PRESENCE OF A PLASTIC WATER DEFLECTOR AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE WIPER MOTOR CRANK ARM AND INSTALL A WATER DEFLECTOR. ON VEHICLES RECEIVING A REPLACEMENT CRANK ARM AND NEW WATER DEFLECTOR, DEALERS WILL ALSO APPLY ADDITIONAL SEALING MATERIAL TO IMPROVE WATER DEFLECTION AWAY FROM THE CRANK ARM ASSEMBLY AND WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF THE WIPER PARK MECHANISM.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE OWNER MANUALS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIREMENT INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE VEHICLE HEADLAMP AIMING DEVICE. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: IF THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES ARE REPLACED, CUSTOMERS MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY AIM THE HEADLIGHTS.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE MAILED AN OWNER MANUAL'S INSERT WHICH CONTAINS THE APPROPRIATE INFORMATION.
Negative 1997 Buick Century car reviews
Positive 1997 Buick Century car reviews
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You've owned this car for 10 years and it still looks and drives great! Although you had to replace the intake gasket and ABS module a couple of years ago, the car has been running smoothly ever since. You even put on some aftermarket wheels and Reggata II tires 6 years ago, which really added to the car's overall look. Recently, you had the car detailed and the cloth seats were thoroughly cleaned, along with the carpet and exterior. It's great to hear that you prefer cloth seats over leather, and the car still looks and runs like new! With a consistent 20mpg back and forth to work in city traffic, it's no wonder you're planning to run it for at least 2 more years.
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It feels like heaven, so to speak.
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I've owned this car for over a year now. As a young and enthusiastic driver, I tend to push it to its limits every day. Despite this, the car still runs smoothly and the engine sounds amazing. I may have noticed a slight decrease in power over time, but I could be mistaken. The only issues I've had so far are a broken cup holder and two malfunctioning windows. Additionally, the interior trim is not holding up in a few places due to a 1200 watt sound system that was not installed properly. Overall, I've enjoyed my time with this car, but I'm now looking for something faster. However, if you're looking for a reliable car that can handle daily use, I would definitely recommend this model.
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Your car is in excellent shape and drives well. It is dependable and luxurious. I would definitely consider buying another Buick, and in fact, I'm thinking of getting the Regal this time.
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It's great to hear that you haven't experienced any mechanical or electrical problems with your car, despite its reputation as an 'old man's car'. The ride is comfortable, especially in the front seats. However, the back seating can be a bit tight for larger teenagers or adults, as it is a mid-size sedan. On the plus side, it performs well in snowy conditions. While the handling is suitable for everyday driving, during a test drive, the Nissan Altima had an advantage when it came to going around curves. Nonetheless, the Century offers more rear headroom and softer seats. Overall, it sounds like you have a reliable and comfortable car that suits your needs.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Buick Century problems:
1997 Buick Century Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
Top 1997 Buick Century Problems · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil · Power Window Switch May Fail · Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid ...
Common 1997 Buick Century Problems - Q&A with Experts
Apr 22, 2013 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Buick Century Problems and Complaints - 46 Issues
Top Buick Century Problems · Rubber Transmission Cooler Lines Can Leak Fluid · Engine Control Module (ECM) Can Fail · Front Struts May Wear at 75,000 Miles · Oil ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 2002 Buick Century Engine ...
May 28, 2010 ... I have a 2002 Buick Century 3.1 V6 engine. The transmission has been acting kind of strange for about 2 weeks now.
What's Wrong with the Buick Century?
2 Common Buick Century Problems · Window Falls Into Door. Cheap plastic clips inside of Buick's power window assemblies is known to break and allow the window to ...
Other years of Buick Century
Are you having problems with your 1997 Buick Century?
Haleigh Reichert 2024-10-22
Your grandmother owned this car since new and kept it flawless and super clean. Although it had an electrical failure at first and all the gauges conked out, it was great after that. In December 2003, she was involved in an accident where she passed out and crashed through a red light, but thankfully she survived. The car was totaled, but it was not in as bad shape as I thought it would be.