Used 2002 Buick Century Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Love It
I have had it for 12 years and have put about 100,000 on it. As far as reliability, the car has failed to start only one time-when the original battery gave out after six years. It has never been in a shop for repairs. A few things have gone wrong such as power windows, a blower resistor, led resistor in gauge cluster, and a/c clutch coil. I fixed all those things myself. The cost and level of difficulty were low, though. I have done all of the regular maintenance such as oils, filters, brake pads,coolant, tune up, -again cheap and easy. This year (2015), the car was showing some signs of wear, and since it ran and drove quite well still, I decided to do a semi restoration. I repaired the rusted rocker panels. New tires, brakes, struts, motor/tranny mounts, tires, headlights,exhaust system, wheel bearings, paint touch up, a few other piddly things. It runs and drives like brand new no issues at all. In 12 years time I have spent under 4000 on maintenance and 2500 of it was on the semi restoration this year. It has spent most of it's life outside, but the paint still looks very good. It has been a great car for 12 years and it will most definitely last another 12. Good solid reliable car.
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I wish they still made this car
I bought my 02 Century in late 03. Have loved it ever since. Reliable, quiet, smooth comfortable ride, and has been cheap to own. Just routine maintenance. Not even a muffler. I did have the drivers side power window motor replaced several years ago. Car is now old. 160K miles, rocker panel rust, and things are starting to break. The gas guage has some kind of electrical problem. Hubby and mechanic said it's not worth fixing. It's time to replace the car. I still get 25-27 mpg. That is impossible to match in a car with this kind of comfort and quiet. I wish they still made this model. I test drove a 2011 Lucerne but the backup visibility is terrible for me. Maybe a 2011 LaCrosse or a Camry.
- Custom SedanMSRP: $7,990274 mi away
- Limited SedanMSRP: $3,900565 mi away
- Limited SedanMSRP: $5,6881,107 mi away
Comfortable and reliable
This was the best car I ever owned. I just got rid of mine after 200,000 miles and a rusted undercarriage made me begin looking toward the future. Before myself it had two other owners, and yet it had hardly any issues. The car was comfortable to drive and to sit in, and it was heavy so wind was never an issue. At college, multiple people backed into the car and slammed into me at red lights (go figure), but the car hardly sustained damage. It accelerated like a dream, and it was great on gas considering its size. The only complaint I had was that its maneuverability was not fantastic, but these cars are literally tanks so that's to be expected. The day I got rid of it, I bawled. I've never felt so attached to a car, but this model kept me safe and made driving to any destination stress free. If you're considering buying a Century, definitely do!
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The engine Buick Century Custom stinks!
I bought this car from a deal in June 2007 at 52000 miles. I am now in the process of flusing out oil from the radiator that came from the engine. There is at least 1/2 pint oil in the coolant reservior. Service Engine soon ligh comes on all the time, tire low light is always on, check coolant light never goes off. The tires, coolant and engine have all been serviced. My mechanic discovered that the engine oil leaked into the coolant. The engine will freeze soon if I don't replace it soon.
5 1/2 years since last review
I reviewed my Century in Oct.03 and very little has changed. The car now has 107K and has been the most reliable car I've owned. It's great in the snow with Tractional Control and FWD. The AC is still ice cold and has never needed to be recharged. I replaced the original battery before last winter even though it still started the car fine (I changed it at 7yrs/100K because I didn't want it to fail on a cold day). Except for routine maintenence the only work I've done was a replacement intake manifold gasket and bolts. I did this as a precaution (not because I was losing coolant) because the 3.1 is known for eventually leaking. I still get great mpg. This car will do another 100-150K easily.
Don't buy one!
Every time I breathe this car breaks down. First manifold gaskets, then wheel speed sensor, then speed sensor harness, then a/c goes out then other wheel speed harness, then I have dash lights coming on like a Christmas tree on the dash! Check engine light, service engine light, abs light, traction control light! Digital odometer quit working, gear indicator no longer visible! Its one thing after another! Never ever will buy another one of these! If spent more in repairs in last 3 years then I spent for car!
Cheap Always Means "Cheap"!
We've tried to drive this car for two years, but I've already spent almost $1,000 in brake work, and now the famous intake gasket is screwing me out of decent trade-in value by leaking water out the tail pipe. This is a hidden leak that some drivers may not be aware of. Check all your fluids regularly. The 3.1 engine is nothing like the two previous Pontiacs we've owned, which gave no trouble at all. It does get the same excellent 27 mpg, though. Save your gas money and buy an import that will last. GM should go out of business.
Buick Century 02
We have had our Century for 4.5 years and for the most part we have been very happy. I am considering selling it now (almost 100k) and my wife does not want to sell it. We have had a warranty since we bought it and have gotten our money our of it. Mainly electric seat and power window. There was also gaskets, something with rear brake, and catalatic converter. The confort and ease of driving is definitely something that we will miss. It is nice that you can for a short distance fit 7 people (well mostly children). We have averaged about 27 mpg and I do not consider that bad for that car.
Hank the Tank
bought my buick from an older couple about 2 years ago with 120,000 miles on it for $800... this would be my third car since i started driving. BEST USED CAR IVE EVER BOUGHT. It definitely has its moments, but its been there for me more than it hasn't...No major repairs on it so far.. I hit a deer head on going 45 mph and it didn't even leave a scratch! I was also involved in a head on collision (that wasn't my fault) going 25 mph... still NOTHING! cant say the same for the other driver! Best $800 i've ever spent!
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Awesome Car!
I have a 2002 buick century that has 199,000 miles on it. The suspension is super smooth. I have had no problems with the engine or transmission. Its a solid car to last amost 200,000 mile and being over 17 years old.
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Not just a retiree's car
I bought this Buick as I needed a quick replacement for another car. A local dealer found this car with 86K at a very reasonable price. Must have been a salesman's car. Minus a new starter and a gasket seal replacement this car has been a pleasant surprise. I would have NEVER considered driving this car previously, but my circumstances dictated a low cost replacement. The car obtains excellent mileage and is very comfortable to drive. (Even handles fairly well!) The sound system is superb with the concert sound speakers. Steering wheel radio controls are a nice feature too! For the money, insurance cost and room this car fits the bill. I may actually keep this car longer than I planned!
Never again! Shame on you, GM!
I treated this car better than any of my previous "rides". After 30 years on the road, I've found I get fewer & fewer miles on GM cars before parts fail. 32,000 and the Intake Manifold Gasket failed. I have a BIG problem with religiously taking my car into dealerships that will only suggest every form of maintenance except the one they know is suspicious. I'm too late for the DEX-COOL suit, but I did have a Chevy (62K) that was eligible. Submitted my documentation and rec'd a form letter that my car was a year older than it was, so it wasn't eligible. I also owned (before dealer exchanged) a Buick Skyhawk that had the same part fail at 40K before I bought it.
Welcome to dullsville
I recently rented one for a weeklong roadtrip. The car is compentent and best on the highway, but I would never buy one. The interior is soft and comfy, the controls are mostly in the worng places. At one point we seated 6, but not comfortably. Five works fine. The ride is soft and spongy, typical American car feel. The engine cruises on the highway but sputters when you try to pass or climb hills. The ride is quiet and smooth. Driving on tight turns in this thing is a nightmare.
high quality excellent value
purchased the 2002 in february to replace a 2000 century purchased new in feb. 2000. I planned to keep the 2000 a long time but my son needed a newer car so we sold him the 2000 and replaced it with an identical 2002. The 2000 had 34000 trouble free miles. My wife loves the car. Its comfortable on long trips (3 to 8 hours) you arrive relaxed and not worn out.
A Stable Car for Anyone
I owned my Buick for nearly 7 years. Mechanically and functionality it was perfect. I gave 3 stars for exterior because it rusted out. The most common problems for all Centuries is the rocker panels under the doors. Once they rust out, they need replacing. I had some issues with the underbody as well such as the break lines. Hey, but living in New England will do this to a car. Overall, this car is a solid buy. There’s a reason they are popular, they get the job done...point A to Point B.
what a piece of crap!! Do not buy!!
I bought my 2002 Buick Centry as a program car in 2003 with about 13,000 miles on it. Within weeks it was in the repair shop. Repairs over time include motor mounts & king mounts replacement (there is still a "clicking" when braking, it was never fixed), complete dash replacment ( a year later, the odometer quit working again). The automatic windows roll down by themselves and do not roll back up. Anti lock brakes quit working with in a year of buying. Fuel pump replacement, brakes replacement. I take good car of my cars and do oil changes every 3,000 miles, tune ups, radiator flush,etc.
200,000+ and still going
This car has been a really reliable one. Have had it 8 years and now has over 200,000 on it. The care is just now giving me trouble. The intake gasket has broken, a transmission valve had to be replace, the dashboard odometer has to be replaced, as well as the selector switch for the heat/ac. Most everything else has ran well. My driver's side window switch has a short in it, but I won't spend the money for the whole panel, when I know it needs only a new switch.
still running strong at 114K
I wrote a review when the car had 30K and nothing has really changed as I approach 115K. I had the intake manifold gasket changed as a precaution (the 3.1 is known to leak). I had new struts installed at approximately 85K (NYC is tough on a car). This might be the best car I've ever owned and I see no problem hitting 200K.
Poor Value
I would not recommend purchasing a Buick Century. I have had several major problems with this vehicle (which I purchased new in 2002. When the car was two years old, the underside (rocker panel and near wheel wells) had damage (i.e. rust/ paint has come off- I believe that this is as result of a design flaw. I have had this fixed once when the car was under warranty, but now it needs to be done again (15 months later). I had to replace the battery at approx. 25K miles and had to replace the head gasket (at a cost of $1300) at 56K miles. Now, my air conditioning is no longer working. I feel that this vehicle was a very poor value and I can't wait to trade it in.
Century
This was my company car for a while. I put a lot of miles on her. I was very impressed with the century. I would buy one in a skinny minute.
Bessie the Buick
I bought this car from Enterprise rent a car sales in 2003. I've been reading all these reviews in looking for a new car, and I chose to submit a review on this car for those who may be looking for a great used car. This has been a great car over the last 60,000 miles that I've owned it. I put new tires on it when I got it - still look good. Oil changes and a set of brakes - that's all it's ever needed (and I'm really picky). I get 30 mpg on the highway all the time, and about 20 in the city. It's not flashy, but it runs great and is fairly comfortable until you hit the 3 hour mark on a drive. I highly recommend this model to those who are looking for dependable cheap transportation.
I love my Buick Century!
This is my second Century (car, not my age!) becaue I found it to be the most comfortable road car I had ever owned. It is the right size, efficient, a great value. I like to say, when I am on my frequent long business trips, "it drives itself!" First I buy a driver's seat, then a car around it - this is it!
My Old Friend
I bought my first car 20 years old. I bought a used '76 Century. I loved that car. I took a huge bath by trading in a '00 Volvo S40 that was mechanically unsound to come back to an old friend. I'm glad I did it. This car gets better mileage than the Volvo and I know it won't be in the shop every four months. I like the ride and have no problems with the handling. I guess it's what you're used to. I also have a '91 Reatta and have owned 2 other Buicks.
so far so good
ITS a nice car for the price,a little plain jane on the outside,but drives well and is very quite.
One of the Good Ones
Very few problems until last year, it seemed everything was going wrong at one time. Had leak in intake manifold gasket, Tie-Rod end went to include drive belt tensioner arm, one engine and transmission mount broke and a few other items, repairs were over $3,000; extended warranty helped, but still had to pay allot. Center brake lights shorted out few times. Inside lower door panel starting to rust. Now, getting noise after heavy rain when making steering corrections. Mileage is 14.8 city mid 20's highway. It is a bad feeling when you lose thrust in your cars reliability and those making repairs to your vehicle.
2002 Buick Centruy
One of the best cars I have driven in a while. I first drove this car as a rental on a 800 mile trip to the east coast and thru the blue mountains. I was quite impressed with the handling and ride comfort that I bought one. The ride is very comfortable. The layout of the dash/interior is good. Mileage is good also. I now have 115K miles on it and it still does a good job. Only repairs to car were to replace windshield wiper motor and then catalytic converter. Not bad.
Whatta Road Car
What a car for road trips. Set the climate control, stereo, cruise,then sit back and relax. A 17 gallon tank, and 30+mpg = great cruising range. Suspension is great... neither harsh, nor mushy. And you'll never be tired after a day on the interstate. I LOVE this car.
A lifer
Just drive car from Montana to Indiana and got 34.5 mpg! Running smooth easily has another 50,000 of trouble free driving ahead.
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My Lemon
My lemon lasted for 4983 miles and then had to be put to sleep. GM is still hassling us around with a refund or replacement after 50+ days. What a disgrace.
Adequate but not compelled to buy
Our family of four rented one during our two week stay in Colorado. The 12 years old constantly complained about the lack of room compared to Dad's Passat! Overall the engine/tranny are well optimized but still felt light on power. Handling and comfort - well it's a Buick - but the seats were exceptionally poor. I still have a lingering back ache from the lack of support. I've driven Fords (actually own one!) and Chryslers and think the General really has the domestic competitors beat. But he better start benchmarking German cars before I'll buy one.
The worst car I could have ever bought!!!!
It isn’t any words to describe this car at all lol it’s not funny but it is funny if it’s not one thing it’s another Do not buy this car every other month its breaking down i had a ford which lasted me longer this then this GM they really should be ashamed for making this car i see why they dont make them anymore
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Great Rental Car
Rented this car for 12 days and drove all over Washington, Oregon, and Montana's winding mountain roads at the typical traffic speeds. Very good handling touring car. Good comfort. We own a beloved LeSabre and were favorably impressed with the Century.
Not bad
Ok I'm 18 so I wasn't thrilled about the looks, but I have to say as far as performance and reliability goes, I'm impressed! It has had to have several things fixed and I have had a few problems with the breaks in the past, but the car is reliable, great stopping ability and can get to high speeds fairly quickly, nothing like a souped up sports car, but its good over my work to school then back home commute. I would definitely recommend!!!
Nothing Beats a Buick for Comfort!
I love Buicks because they are the most solid and comfortable ride than anything I've driven. Anyone who has driven my car says it "floats"! The only disappointment is the style..it never changes! In my book, Buick is top notch!
Buick Century
If the 2002 Buick Century is your first choice for a new car, you may want to reconsider. If a car's looks, interior ergonomics, handling, and performance characteristics are important, then you probably shouldn't bother with this Buick. The Century's six cylinder engine is anemic; its radio-tapedeck sound systen is awful; and its glove box is so small it barely holds a standard size road map. What were the designers thinking? The really sad part is that car makers design and build cars like these - lacking in every respect, and then have no qualms about expecting consumers to pay $20,000 for the experience. B. Randall
Surprise
Purchased this car new in 2002 for my wife, and as our primary vehicle for out of town trips. From the beginning the brakes squealed. A knock in the front end developed within the first year...EXACTLY like the previous 1999 Century we had. GM tried but never fixed it completely. Gotta be a design flaw for it to happen on both cars that we owned. Last week while my wife was driving to work a valve spring broke...major engine repair costs. This car has been babied and the oil religiously changed every 3000 miles. We are very disappointed as we thought we'd have this car many more miles. Will keep as second car and buy a good Honda for primary.
a very cool unexpensive car
It is an inexpensive car comparing with Toyota Camry, Honda Acord and it has similar performances. Drives smoothly, has power, comfort and high quality features.
BuyingAnotherCentury
I have had two Buick Century : a 1989 model and a 1998 model. Both were great cars, very reliable and SAFE. The 89 model pulled a boat, ended up in the lake!, was wrecked once by me, then totalled several years later by my husband. Neither of us was hurt in either accident! We bought another Century in 1998. It never needed repair..I loved this car! Unfortunately I wrecked it a few weeks ago; it was totalled but I walked away without injury! This is the main reason that I want to buy my 3rd Century! ! Someone said it must be a bad-luck car for us, but I say no! We were well- protected in those accidents!
5 years later
It's been over 5 years (and about 75K) since I last rated this car and I'm still very happy with it. I now have 101K and she's running strong. Except for maintenance items the only things needed were new struts at 80K (driving in NYC can be tough). I also replaced the lower intake manifold gasket at 80K as a precaution (an $800 job) because the 3.1 is known to leak coolant into the oil eventually. I just replaced the original battery at 100K because I didn't want to chance getting stuck this winter. This car feels like 300K is doable. Mileage is still averaging about 25 mpg with over 30 on long trips. It has never let me down. A/C is still ice cold without ever being recharged.
Just my luck
I bought this car used from an Olds dealership and within the first 2 months I've had the battery changed and the head gasket replaced. Before I forget I too have paint chips under the wheelwells and I am waiting for my air conditiong to stop working. Overall a nice looking and very nice driving car but I guess I got stuck with one of those lemons that happened to come off the assembly line.
Lemon-aide!!
I bought my car from the Bishop of my church. The valves knock, the rear cylinders leak, the cv axle needs to be replaced, the rear speakers don't work, the driver's side electric window struggles to raise, the cheap tires are noisy, and the windshield has wiper blade scratches. All this can be YOURS if the Price Is Right!!
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Good car / good price
I bought this car with 11K and now have nearly 30K. No maintenence needed except oil changes. It is very economical averaging 26+ mpg (30 on all highway driving). It is very comfortable but it is not a sports car as far as handling. I would recommend it to any family wanting good,reliable transportation that is comfortable and a little luxurious.
I love my Buick
This is the most reliable car I have ever owned. It has not been in the shop for anything, other than oil changes every 4000 kilometers.
3rd Century owned
This is the 3rd Century we have purchased. 1st one new. Put 186000 on a 1986 model and 160000 on 1992 model. Other than normal maintenance no major problems. Just love this car.
Real Nice Car
I am really happy with my Buick Century Custom, for a mid-size luxury car, I don't think it can be beaten.
AWESOME
GREAT CAR!THIS IS WHAT I CALL AFFORDABLE LUXYRY!
My Daughter's Car
My dad gave this car to my daughter when she got her driver's license a few months ago. When she received it, it only had 10,000 miles on it. Overall, it is a great car. Good visibility and a very comfortable, quiet ride. The car has somewhat of a conservative look, which I like. Plenty of trunk space. Fuel economy is very good. The dashboard layout is conservative but functionable. The 3.1 litre V6 engine has done GM proud over the years. The only problem we have had with the car is an occasional brake pad rubbing sound in the left rear wheel. The car was taken to the local dealer, but they could not find a problem with it. This car should give my daughter many years of good service.
Comfortable middle size car
very roomy, easy to handle, stable, quite, especially on highway. a lot of features at such a low price.
Solid Car - Needs Fashion Revamp
First-time Buick owner, a rental car purchased from used car dealer with 27000 miles. It's been reliable starting in all weather especially in winter's worse. Before 36000 warranty expired, I had local Buick dealer do an overall check up. They replaced parts to correct brake problems. Brakes have squealed and continue to do so at random times when first engaged - does not affect performance.
Best Car I've owned so far
This is by far the best automobile I've owned so far. Had low mileage when I purchased it and I still think I got a deal! Gets great gas mileage for its size. Roomy trunk, lots of bells and whistles. Low tire light saved me from getting stuck on side of the road a couple of months ago. Always lets me know when to anticipate a problem, although there hasn't been anything major. We are very happy with it!