1998 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 1998 Buick Century problems
The Buick Century, produced from 1936 to 2005, has had its share of issues. For the 1998 model, the following problems have been reported by owners:
- Transmission Slipping: This issue is the most reported problem for the 1998 Buick Century. The average cost to fix this problem is around $2,100, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 78,000 miles. Transmission slipping can be caused by a variety of issues, including low fluid levels, worn out clutch plates, or a faulty torque converter.
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: This problem is prevalent in the 1998 Buick Century, with the average cost to fix being around $900 and occurring at an average mileage of 90,000 miles. The intake manifold gasket is responsible for sealing the intake manifold to the engine block, preventing coolant and engine oil from leaking. A leaking intake manifold gasket can cause the engine to run poorly, overheat, or even fail.
- Power Window Switch Failure: This issue is common in the Buick Century, with the 1998 model being no exception. The power window switch is responsible for controlling the window's movement. When it fails, the window may not move at all or move intermittently. This problem can be frustrating, especially if it occurs while driving.
- Engine Overheating: This issue is common in the Buick Century, with the 1998 model being no exception. Engine overheating can be caused by a variety of issues, including low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat, or a damaged radiator. If left unchecked, engine overheating can cause severe engine damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets.
- Leaking Coolant: This issue is common in the Buick Century, with the 1998 model being no exception. Leaking coolant can be caused by a variety of issues, including a leaking intake manifold gasket, a damaged radiator, or a faulty water pump. If left unchecked, leaking coolant can cause the engine to overheat, leading to severe engine damage.
These issues are common in the Buick Century, and the 1998 model is no exception. If you own a 1998 Buick Century, it's essential to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to avoid more significant problems down the line. Regular maintenance, such as checking fluid levels and inspecting the engine for leaks, can help prevent these issues from occurring.
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.
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.
What causes a Buick Century to overheat?
The most common reasons a Buick Century is overheating are a coolant leak (water pump, radiator, hose etc.), the radiator fan, or a failed thermostat.
What engine does a 98 Buick Century have?
3.1 L V61998 Buick Century / Engine
While the Regal gets Buick's smooth, silky 3.8-liter V6, the Century makes do with the corporate 3.1-liter V6. This workhorse engine pumps out an adequate 160 horsepower, 35 less than the Regal's mill.
Does a 1998 Buick Century have airbags?
What features does the Buick Century 1998 have? 1998 Buick Century features include AM/FM Radio, Driver Airbag, and Passenger Airbag.
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 ...
When did they stop making Buick Century?
2005
In the Buick Centurys final production year in 2005, a Special Edition Package delivered dual-zone climate control, 16-inch aluminum wheels as well as four-wheel disc braking. The Century was retired to make room for the LaCrosse.
How big is the gas tank on a 1998 Buick Century Custom?
17.5 gal
Fuel Tank
| Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx | 17.5 gal |
|---|---|
| Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx | N/A gal |
1998 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Buick Century vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Buick Century
The NHTSA has received 251 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Buick Century. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Buick Century vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-28
- VIN: 2G4WS52M3W1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY VEHICLE'S WINDOW CONTROLS AND LOCK CONTROLS ARE NO LONGER WORKING, WHEN LOCKING THE DOOR OR THE WINDOW WILL GO DOWN BUT WILL NOT COME UP. THE REST OF THE WINDOWS CONTROL THROUGHOUT THE CAR WILL NOT WORK AS WELL. THE LIGHTING IN THE CAR FLICKERS IF YOU WOULD PUSH THE LOT OR THE WINDOW CONTROL. ANTERIOR LIGHT IS NO LONGER WORKING. NONE OF THIS WORKS EVEN WHEN PARKED OR DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD.
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2G4WS52M9W1
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING OPERATED, THE BRAKES AND STEERING COLUMN SEIZED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT END CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND DEEMED DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SHORT TERM MEMORY LOSS, A CONCUSSION, AND SEVERAL UNKNOWN INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 09E005000 (STEERING) AND 03V527000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT PROVIDED.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-01
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: MULTIPLE CRACKING ON SIDEWALLS OF 4 MICHELIN HARMONY TIRES BEING USED 3000 MILES A YEAR. TIRES BOUGHT IN 2007 AND HAVE 99% OF TREAD STILL PRESENT ON TIRE. FEEL MICHELIN USED INSUFFICIENT UV/OZONE INHIBITOR CHEMICALS IN RUBBER COMPOUND MANUFACTURING THESE TIRES. TIRES MAY BE UNSAFE AND NOT DUE TO CAR OWNER'S FAULT. FEEL MICHELIN SHOULD REPLACE THESE AT THEIR EXPENSE, NOT MY MOTHER'S EXPENSE. TIRES SHOULD LAST MUCH LONGER THAN 7-8 YEARS AT 3000 MILES A YEAR WHEN 80,000 IS ADVERTISED FOR THESE TIRES.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-16
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WAS DRIVEN OFF THE ROAD BY ANOTHER VEHICLE I THEN HIT A POTHOLE AT THE SAME TIME MY PASSENGER DASH AIRBAG DEPLOYED. *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-08
- VIN: 2G4WS52M9W1
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE WAY TO UNLOCK THE TRUNK. THE CONTACT LOCKED THE KEYS IN THE TRUNK OF THE VEHICLE AND WAS UNABLE TO ACCESS THE TRUNK. THE CONTACT HAD TO GO HOME TO RETRIEVE A SPARE SET OF KEYS TO UNLOCK THE TRUNK. THE CONTACT FELT THIS WAS A SAFETY RISK FOR CHILDREN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-25
- VIN: 2G4WY52M9W1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL * THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG WAS STARTING TO DETACH FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 144,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 162,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-06
- VIN: 2G4WS52M1W1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I FIRST NOTICED THE ENGINE SHUTTING OFF IN JANUARY OF 2014, ESPECIALLY GOING DOWN A HILL. THE ENGINE SHUTS DOWN AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS AND THE AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON. AT FIRST I THOUGHT THAT THERE WAS MOISTURE IN MY GAS TANK, BUT AFTER FILLING UP A COUPLE OF TIMES AND PUTTING IN SOME GAS DRYER, THE PROBLEM CONTINUED. I USUALLY SHIFT TO NEUTRAL AND START THE ENGINE WHILE THE CAR IS STILL MOVING. I TOOK MY REMOTE AND OTHER KEYS OFF THE KEY RING. IT STILL SHUTS OFF THE ENGINE WITH JUST ONE KEY IN THE IGNITION SWITCH, BUT NOT AS MUCH. CAN YOU TELL ME HOW I CAN REMEDY THIS PROBLEM WITH MY 1998 BUICK CENTURY? WILL THIS BE AT MY OWN EXPENSE? *TR
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-25
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: NO TOP TETHER ANCHOR AVAILABLE FOR CHILD CAR SEAT. GM REFUSES TO RETROFIT AND SAYS THAT THERE IS NO RETROFIT KIT AVAILABLE, EVEN THOUGH THERE WAS A BULLETIN IN MARCH 2012 THAT SAYS THAT THEY WILL RETROFIT ONE FOR FREE. UNABLE TO SAFETY TRANSPORT MY CHILD. *TR
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-28
- VIN: 2G4WY52M1W1
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: AFTER A SNOWFALL, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD NOT PARK, STOOD STRAIGHT UP AND OBSTRUCTED MY VIEW. I CALLED BUICK AND WAS TOLD TO TAKE IT TO MY DEALERSHIP AND IT WOULD BE REPAIRED. WHEN I PICKED UP THE CAR, THEY TOLD ME THAT THE PREVIOUS YEAR'S MODEL HAD BEEN RECALLED FOR THIS PROBLEM. THEY WOULD NOT REPAIR THE WIPERS. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY TWO MECHANICS THAT MY CAR HAS THE EXACT ISSUE AS THE PREVIOUS MODEL. I FIND THAT THIS IS A DANGER TO MYSELF, MY CHILDREN AND OTHER DRIVERS/PASSENGERS AND FEEL THAT IT SHOULD BE ON THE RECALL LIST. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-02
- VIN: 2G4WY52M4W1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE POWER STEERING WAS NOT FUNCTIONING. HOWEVER, THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAINED CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-17
- VIN: 2G4WS52M0W1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONTACT STATED THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM WAS ACTIVATED INDICATING A BRAKE MALFUNCTION. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO STATED THE ABS MOTOR PACK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE DOES NOT HAVE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES AND SHE DOES NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DID NOT CALL THE MANUFACTURER REGARDING THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-28
- VIN: 2G4WS52MXW1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONTACT STATED HE INTERMITTENTLY HAD TO APPLY HEAVY FORCE TO THE STEERING WHEEL IN ORDER TO TURN THE WHEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS TOLD THE FAILURE WAS RESULTING FROM THE LOWER PINION BEARINGS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 132,500 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 133,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-04
- VIN: 2G4WS52M6W1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO ROLL UP ALL FOUR WINDOWS BUT ONLY THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW RESPONDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS TOLD THAT THE WINDOW MOTORS AND TRACKS WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 50,000. UPDATED 4/1/11 *CN UPDATED 1/13/2012 *LN *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-03
- VIN: 2G4WS52M7W1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS FAILURE. NOW 54,931 MILES ON ODOMETER.. 1998 BUICK CENTURY CUSTOM. I SENT A LETTER TO RAY LAHOOD SEVERAL WEEKS AGO, BUT HAVE NOT RECEIVED AN ANSWER FROM ANY ONE! THIS IS S SAFETY ISSUE! I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT GM ENGINEERS COULD NOT DESIGN AN ABS THAT WOULD LAST AT LEAST 100,000 MILES! HOW MANY FAILURES HAS GM EXPERIENCED? THE CONSUMER STATED A FEW WEEKS AGO, THE BRAKE AND ABS LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THE ABS PUMP HAD FAILED AND IT WOULD COST $800 TO REPLACE IT. UPDATED IVOQ 10/29/10.*JB *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-07
- VIN: 2G4WS52M8W1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: BROUGHT VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP FOR BRAKE INSPECTION. WAS INFORMED THE LOWER INTAKE GASKET WAS LEAKING COOLANT. HAD IT REPLACED BY DEALERSHIP ON 03/07/2006. ON 06/28/2010, THE SAME ISSUE SEEMS TO BE RE-OCCURRING. SHOULD AN INTAKE GASKET NEED REPLACING 2X'S UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS? *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-15
- VIN: 2G4WS52MXW1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: MY BRAKES STOPPED WORKING BECAUSE ALL THE FLUID SUDDENLY DRAINED OUT OF THE SYSTEM AND IT IS REPORTED TO ME BY A DEALER THAT THIS IS DUE TO CORROSION OF THE BRAKE LINES ON MY 1998 BUICK CENTURY. I AM TOLD THAT THE BRAKE LINES NEED TO BE REPLACED AND THAT MAKES SENSE TO ME, HOWEVER, IT WOULD SEEM THAT THIS MAY BE A SAFETY PROBLEM BEYOND MY CAR. WHY WOULD BUICK USE MATERIALS IN A BRAKE LINE THAT WOULD CORRODE SO BADLY THAT IT WOULD FAIL IN ONLY 11 YEARS WHEN THE CAR COULD EASILY LAST MUCH LONGER THAN THAT? I NOW HAVE MY CAR IN MY GARAGE WITH NO BRAKES. I WILL BE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO REPAIR MY BRAKE LINES BUT THOUGHT THAT IF THIS IS NOT UNIQUE TO MY CAR SOMEONE WOULD LIKE TO REVIEW THEIR CONDITION BEFORE I HAVE THE CAR REPAIRED. THANK YOU *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-23
- VIN: 2G4WS52M9W1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. WHILE DRIVING IN RAINY WEATHER APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH HE HAD TO APPLY THE BRAKES SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE THEY WOULD FUNCTION PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER OR A LOCAL MECHANIC. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 30,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-30
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: POWER WINDOW AND MIRROR ISSUES IN 1998 BUICK CENTURY. I HAVE BEEN DEALING WITH THIS PROBLEM SINCE 2004, I'VE BEEN TOLD BY MULTIPLE MECHANICS THAT IT'S A KNOWN ISSUE WITH THE BUICK CENTURY, WHY IS THERE NO RECALL? THE WINDOWS KEEP COMING OFF THE TRACK, I DRIVE ON SMOOTH ROADS AND FOLLOW THE SPEED LIMIT, SO WHAT IS GOING ON???? MY POWER MIRRORS HAVEN'T WORKED SINCE 2004. DRIVERS SIDE WINDOW IS THE ONE THAT'S GIVEN ME THE WORST HEADACHE, PUT IN A NEW MOTOR THINKING THAT'S WHY IT WAS STICKING AND THEN IT QUIT WORKING AGAIN. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE, IT'S NOT SAFE. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MERGE ONTO A HIGHWAY SHE CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. SHE WAS HOSPITALIZED FOR INJURIES. NONE OF THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-15
- VIN: 2G4WY52M9W1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I HAVE A 1998 BUICK REGAL WITH REAR SEATBELTS THAT JAM INSIDE AND CANNOT BE RE-EXTENDED. I HAVE PAID $200 TO HAVE THE BACK SEAT REMOVED AND THE SEATBELTS REALIGNED SO THAT THEY WORK. I WAS WARNED AT TIME OF REPAIR THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM IN THIS MODEL CAR AND IT WOULD PROBABLY REOCCUR. DESPITE OUR GREAT CARE IN USING THE REALIGNED BELTS, THE PROBLEM DID IN FACT REOCCUR AND NOW BOTH REAR BELTS ARE JAMMED AGAIN, WITH THE RESULT THAT OUR CHILDREN CANNOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED IN THE CAR AND WE CANNOT USE IT WHEN TRAVELING WITH THEM (UNLESS WE PAY TO HAVE IT REPAIRED AGAIN). MY MOTHER HAS A BUICK REGAL ROUGHLY THE SAME AGE WITH SIMILAR PROBLEMS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-10
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAD BOTH 1999 AND 1998 INTRIGUES, BOTH HAD PROBLEMS WITH THEIR RUNNING LIGHTS AND BLINKING LIGHTS FAILING. REPLACE FUSES, REBLOW. SENT TO MECHANICS NUMEROUS TIMES, UNABLE TO RESOLVE. HOWEVER, THEY SAID THIS WAS ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE MAKE. MY SUPERVISOR SAID HE NOTICED MANY INTRIGUES ON ROAD WITH PROBLEMS, AND SINCE THEN, I NOTICE MANY INTRIGUES WITH SAME PROBLEM. MAYBE NOT IMMEDIATE DANGER, BUT WHEN BLINKER DOESN'T WORK, IT CREATES A DANGER OF BEING REAR-ENDED. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-11
- VIN: 2G4WS52M3W1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BUICK CENTURY SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL LIST. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-08
- VIN: 2G4WS52M3W1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS ARE NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY. MY LEFT WIPER BANGS A FEW INCHES UP THEN SMACKS BACK DOWN. THIS IS NOT SNOW RELATED BECAUSE I'VE LEARNER TO COVER ALL ASPECTS OF THE WIPERS AND WINDSHIELD BECAUSE OF MY FIRST TIME WAITING FOR SNOW TO MELT. THIS HAS BEEN ONGOING SINCE I ACQUIRED THE CAR FROM MY GRANDMOTHER IN DEC. 2008. SHE PURCHASED THE CAR, BUT IS TOO OLD TOO KEEP UP WITH RECALLS AND SUCH. I SEE THERE ARE MANY OTHER COMPLAINTS AND I WAS ALMOST IN A CRASH WITH MY CHILDREN DUE TO A SUDDEN RAIN SHOWER CAUSING THE VISIBILITY TO BE AWFUL. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-07
- VIN: 2G4WS52M4W1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK CENTURY. AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2008, THE CONTACT NOTICED THE VEHICLE SWAYING FROM LEFT TO RIGHT. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP TO REPLACE THE TIRES AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE SWAY BAR FAILED ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE MECHANIC CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL PART STORES, BUT NONE OF THEM HAD THE NECESSARY PART FOR THE REPAIR BECAUSE IT WAS ON BACK ORDER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 145,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-02
- VIN: 2G4WS52M2W1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
- Summary: DASH BOARD LIGHT WHERE THE MILEAGE SHOWS. CANNOT SEE ANYTHING, THE LIGHT SUDDENLY WENT OUT AND CANNOT SEE MILES ON CAR. ALSO, AUTOMATIC BUTTON TO PUSH SEAT BACK AND FORTH IS NOT WORKING. I CONSIDER THIS A SAFETY FACTOR BECAUSE THE SEAT IS PUSHED UP TO CLOSE TO THE FRONT . *TR
1998 Buick Century recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1998 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: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE VERTICAL HEAD LAMP ADJUSTING DEVICE MAY NOT BE CALIBRATED PROPERLY.
- Consequence: DRIVER VISIBILITY MAY BE IMPAIRED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN OWNER'S MANUAL INSERT CONTAINING INSTRUCTIONS FOR OPTICALLY AIMING THE HEADLAMPS.
- 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 1998 Buick Century car reviews
Positive 1998 Buick Century car reviews
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my Buick. I absolutely loved it! It was so reliable and trouble-free. I bought it brand new in '98 and only sold it in Oct. '03 because my wife wanted a different car. The ride was smooth and quiet, and it had great acceleration. The only minor issue I had was with the heater fan switch, which didn't work in the first position, but it was an easy fix for $100. The only thing I would suggest is a slightly firmer suspension to improve the handling. Thanks for listening!
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The Buick Century is such a great car! It has been so reliable and has given me five years of excellent service without any problems.
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You've got yourself an all-around excellent car! It's got undervalued styling and great performance, not to mention a very comfortable ride.
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This car has been such a reliable mode of transportation! The only major repair it needed was a front wheel bearing, and we had to replace the cassette/radio. My kids like to call it a 'grandma car', but honestly, it's really comfortable.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my vehicle. When I bought it new, everything was great. However, at around 84,000 miles, I started having some trouble with the transmission. Specifically, when going up steep grades in overdrive, there was some slight bucking. After taking it in, I was told that the 'torque converter' needed to be replaced. Despite this issue, I still loved the vehicle and recently purchased a new 2002 model.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Buick Century problems:
1998 Buick Century Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
Top 1998 Buick Century Problems · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil · Power Window Switch May Fail · Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid ...
Buick Century 1998 - keep? - Maintenance/Repairs - Car Talk ...
Apr 5, 2022 ... The car has various minor issues with it- slow coolant leaks, AC refrigerant leaks, ABS died a few years ago (brakes work fine). Otherwise the ...
Q&A: 1998 Buick Century Custom - Troubleshooting Common ...
Oct 8, 2011 ... Or anything else we should try? Buick Mechanic: Daryl.
1998 Buick Century: car overheating even with full coolant, new ...
Jan 16, 2017 ... They have common problems with both the lower intake manifold gaskets and the head gaskets. One way to check for head gasket issues is to ...
Q&A: 1998 Buick Century Problems - Power Windows Stopped ...
Jul 4, 2010 ... One of the most common problems I run into on alot of these is the wiring that passes through the drivers or passenger front door to the ...
Other years of Buick Century
Are you having problems with your 1998 Buick Century?
Arturo Langosh 2024-09-24
The car broke down with only 36k miles due to a bad engine, faulty brakes, and malfunctioning power windows, despite being regularly maintained at the dealership.
Tremayne Runolfsson 2024-06-09
Love the car! The seats are incredibly comfortable and the ride is so smooth. It's perfect for long trips. The only issue I've had so far is that after 4 years and 30,000 miles, the comfort control display began to fade. Luckily, it was replaced under warranty. I would definitely consider buying this car again!