1991 Buick Century Problems & Reliability

If you’ve ever found yourself cruising down memory lane, you might recall the 1991 Buick Century—a staple of early ’90s American automotive design. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good throwback, the Century holds a special place in the hearts of many. But like any classic ride, it comes with its own set of quirks and challenges. In this blog post, we’re diving into the common problems faced by the 1991 Buick Century and taking a closer look at its overall reliability. So, buckle up as we explore what makes this car both a nostalgic gem and a mechanical puzzle. For those who grew up in the ’90s, the Buick Century might bring back memories of family road trips or the first car you learned to drive. While it was known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, it wasn’t without its issues. From transmission troubles to electrical gremlins, the 1991 model year had its fair share of headaches for owners. However, despite these problems, many still consider it a reliable vehicle for its time. We’ll break down the most common issues and discuss how they impact the car’s longevity, helping you decide if this classic is worth the investment or just a trip down memory lane.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

  • Inside Door Handles May Break

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century seems to have a common issue with its inside door handles breaking, which can be a bit of a hassle for owners. While this problem might not be a deal-breaker, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering this car. Overall, it’s a reminder that some parts might need a little extra attention or replacement over time.

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has a known issue with its intake manifold gaskets, which can lead to leaks of coolant or engine oil. This problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, as it may cause engine performance issues or overheating if not addressed. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to keeping this classic ride running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Power Window Switch May Fail

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century seems to have a common issue with the power window switch potentially failing. While this can be a bit annoying, its a relatively minor problem compared to more serious mechanical issues. Overall, if youre considering this car, just keep in mind that you might need to replace the power window switch at some point.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid Failure May Cause Erratic Shifting

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has a known issue with the transmission pressure control solenoid, which can lead to erratic shifting. This problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, as it may cause unpredictable driving experiences. While not every 1991 Buick Century will experience this issue, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering this model.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Power Window Motors May Fail From Overheating

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has a known issue with its power window motors, which can fail due to overheating. This problem can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you rely on your windows frequently. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering the overall reliability of this classic ride.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Leaking Water Pump May Cause Coolant Loss and Overheating

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century seems to have a common issue with a leaking water pump, which can lead to coolant loss and potential overheating. This problem can affect the car’s overall reliability, especially if not addressed promptly, as it might cause engine damage over time. Regular maintenance and keeping an eye on the coolant levels can help mitigate this issue and keep the car running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has a known issue with the high pressure power steering hose, which can leak fluid over time. This problem can lead to steering difficulties and potential damage if not addressed promptly. While it’s a common issue for this model year, regular maintenance and timely repairs can help maintain the car’s overall reliability.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Torque Converter Clutch Can Stick After Extended Freeway Driving

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has a known issue where the torque converter clutch can stick after extended freeway driving, which can be a bit of a hassle if you’re planning long road trips. While this problem doesn’t affect every vehicle, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering this model. Overall, the car has its quirks, but with regular maintenance, many owners find it to be a reliable ride for its age.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Failed Fuel Pump Can Cause Engine to Stall

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has a known issue with the fuel pump that can lead to the engine stalling, which can be a major inconvenience and safety concern. While this problem is significant, it’s important to consider it in the context of the car’s age and overall maintenance history. Regular check-ups and timely repairs can help mitigate this issue and improve the vehicle’s reliability.

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Steering rack can fail

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has its share of issues, with one of the notable problems being the potential failure of the steering rack. This can lead to difficulties in steering and might require a costly repair. While it’s not the most common issue, it’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this classic ride.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Front Brake Rotor Wear Can Cause Pulsations

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has a known issue with front brake rotor wear, which can lead to pulsations when braking. This problem can affect the overall driving experience, making it less smooth and potentially impacting safety if not addressed. While it’s a common issue for a car of its age, regular maintenance and timely rotor replacements can help maintain its reliability.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Rubber Transmission Cooler Lines Can Leak Fluid

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Engine Control Module (ECM) Can Fail

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century has a known issue with the Engine Control Module (ECM) that can lead to failures, which might affect the car’s overall reliability. While this problem isn’t universal, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering this model, as it could lead to unexpected repairs. If you’re looking at a used one, it might be worth checking if the ECM has been replaced or serviced recently.

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

  • Front Struts May Wear at 75,000 Miles

Analysis:

The 1991 Buick Century seems to have a common issue with the front struts wearing out around the 75,000-mile mark. While this isn’t an immediate deal-breaker, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering buying or maintaining one. Overall, aside from this strut issue, the car is generally reliable for its age.

Conclusion

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Picture of Flagship One

Flagship One

The world's top supplier of programmed OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Engine Control Modules (ECM), Injection Control Modules (IDM), Body Control Modules (BCM), Transmission Control Modules (TCM), Engine Control Units and all other car control units. With over a decade in the business, we are the most reliable source when it comes to programming services for replacement engine control modules.

What Customers Think About Us