The 1999 Buick Century is a classic American mid-size sedan, part of its sixth generation produced from 1997 to 2005. Available primarily in Custom and Limited trims, it was initially priced between approximately $18,000 and $22,000. It stood out for its remarkably smooth, quiet ride, spacious interior, and traditional comfort, making it a popular choice for buyers prioritizing value and a relaxed driving experience over sportiness or cutting-edge technology.
The Good
The 1999 Buick Century offers robust reliability, especially from its V6 engine, and a wonderfully comfortable, quiet ride—a "living room on wheels" appealing emotionally. Practically, it boasts decent efficiency for its class, a spacious cabin, and excellent used market value, making it an economical and dependable choice for everyday use and long cruises.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 1999 Buick Century include common intake manifold gasket failures on the 3.1L V6, leading to coolant leaks. Power window motors are prone to failure, and some electrical gremlins can emerge. Rust can be an issue in salt-prone regions, and handling is generally soft, lacking sporty dynamics.
1999 Buick Century: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1999 Buick Century offered a single, dependable engine choice: a 3.1-liter V6 (LA1 designation).
- Horsepower: This V6 engine produced approximately 170 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 195 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, providing adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel efficiency ratings were respectable for its era, typically around 19 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. Combined estimates often landed in the low to mid-20s, depending on driving conditions.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was leisurely but sufficient, usually falling in the 8.5 to 9.5-second range, reflecting its comfort-oriented design rather than a performance focus.
- Towing Capacity: When properly equipped, the 1999 Buick Century had a modest towing capacity, typically rated around 1,000 to 1,500 pounds, suitable for light utility trailers or small recreational items.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Custom: The base trim included essential features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, an AM/FM stereo, cloth upholstery, dual front airbags, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). It prioritized practicality and affordability.
- Limited: The upmarket Limited trim added a host of convenience and comfort features. These often included remote keyless entry, cruise control, a tilt steering column, an upgraded audio system (sometimes with a cassette or CD player), alloy wheels, a power-adjustable driver's seat, automatic climate control, and often optional leather-trimmed seating surfaces, enhancing the sense of luxury and convenience.
- Custom: The base trim included essential features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, an AM/FM stereo, cloth upholstery, dual front airbags, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). It prioritized practicality and affordability.
1999 Buick Century Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Century |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | STE. THERESE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.1 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.1L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1999 Buick Century Have?
The 1999 Buick Century, while generally considered reliable for its powertrain, has several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns, primarily centering around certain components. The most notorious issue is the failure of the lower intake manifold gaskets on the 3.1L V6 engine. This is a very common GM W-body platform problem and often leads to external coolant leaks, but can also result in internal leaks, causing coolant to mix with oil or be burned in the combustion chambers. If not addressed, this can lead to serious engine damage.
Another common complaint involves the power window regulators and motors, which are prone to failure, requiring replacement to restore window functionality. Electrical issues, while often minor, can manifest as flickering dashboard lights, erratic gauge readings, or problems with accessories like the radio or climate controls.
Due to its age and construction, rust is a significant long-term concern, particularly in regions where road salt is used. Rust can appear around wheel wells, rocker panels, and underbody components. The cooling system, beyond the intake manifold gaskets, can also experience issues with water pumps, radiators, and heater cores over time.
While the 4T65-E automatic transmission is generally robust, some units may develop hard shifts or solenoid issues at higher mileages. Brake components, such as rotors and pads, are sometimes reported to wear prematurely. Recalls for this specific model year often relate to general W-body platform issues, such as ignition switch problems affecting power or lower control arm issues, although specific recall applicability should always be verified by VIN. Regular maintenance, especially addressing the intake manifold gaskets preemptively, is crucial for mitigating these long-term concerns.
Another common complaint involves the power window regulators and motors, which are prone to failure, requiring replacement to restore window functionality. Electrical issues, while often minor, can manifest as flickering dashboard lights, erratic gauge readings, or problems with accessories like the radio or climate controls.
Due to its age and construction, rust is a significant long-term concern, particularly in regions where road salt is used. Rust can appear around wheel wells, rocker panels, and underbody components. The cooling system, beyond the intake manifold gaskets, can also experience issues with water pumps, radiators, and heater cores over time.
While the 4T65-E automatic transmission is generally robust, some units may develop hard shifts or solenoid issues at higher mileages. Brake components, such as rotors and pads, are sometimes reported to wear prematurely. Recalls for this specific model year often relate to general W-body platform issues, such as ignition switch problems affecting power or lower control arm issues, although specific recall applicability should always be verified by VIN. Regular maintenance, especially addressing the intake manifold gaskets preemptively, is crucial for mitigating these long-term concerns.
How long will the 1999 Buick Century last?
Based on owner data and diligent maintenance habits, a 1999 Buick Century can easily achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles, with many examples exceeding 250,000 miles. It's not uncommon for these vehicles to remain in service for 15-20 years. Its long-term durability primarily stems from its robust 3.1L V6 engine and reliable 4T65-E transmission, which are generally stout if properly maintained.
However, weaknesses emerge over time. Rust, especially on body panels and subframes, becomes a major concern in areas exposed to road salt. Suspension components like bushings, struts, and tie rods will wear out, affecting ride quality. Electrical gremlins can become more frequent, and the common intake manifold gasket issue, if not previously addressed, will almost certainly present itself, potentially leading to costly engine damage. Regular fluid changes and proactive component replacement are key to maximizing its lifespan.
However, weaknesses emerge over time. Rust, especially on body panels and subframes, becomes a major concern in areas exposed to road salt. Suspension components like bushings, struts, and tie rods will wear out, affecting ride quality. Electrical gremlins can become more frequent, and the common intake manifold gasket issue, if not previously addressed, will almost certainly present itself, potentially leading to costly engine damage. Regular fluid changes and proactive component replacement are key to maximizing its lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Buick Century reflects the technology standards of its era, prioritizing functionality and comfort over advanced digital interfaces. Built-in tech was relatively basic, featuring analog gauges and straightforward climate controls. The entertainment system typically included a standard AM/FM stereo, often with a cassette player, and an optional single-CD player on higher trims. Sound was delivered through a modest four-speaker setup, without any sophisticated infotainment screens or connectivity options common in modern vehicles.
Driver-assistance features were minimal. Standard equipment included power steering and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Cruise control was often standard on the Limited trim and optional on the Custom. Traction control (TCS) was an available option, offering some assistance in slippery conditions, but more advanced systems like stability control, blind-spot monitoring, or parking sensors were nonexistent.
Safety features, while fundamental, provided a decent level of protection for the time. All 1999 Buick Century models came standard with dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was also standard, aiding in controlled stopping. Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) were a factory inclusion, enhancing visibility. Child safety door locks were present on the rear doors. Side airbags were not an option for this model year.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 1999 Buick Century indicated:
Driver-assistance features were minimal. Standard equipment included power steering and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Cruise control was often standard on the Limited trim and optional on the Custom. Traction control (TCS) was an available option, offering some assistance in slippery conditions, but more advanced systems like stability control, blind-spot monitoring, or parking sensors were nonexistent.
Safety features, while fundamental, provided a decent level of protection for the time. All 1999 Buick Century models came standard with dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was also standard, aiding in controlled stopping. Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) were a factory inclusion, enhancing visibility. Child safety door locks were present on the rear doors. Side airbags were not an option for this model year.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 1999 Buick Century indicated:
- Frontal Driver: 4 out of 5 Stars
- Frontal Passenger: 4 out of 5 Stars
- Side Driver: 3 out of 5 Stars (without side airbags)
- Side Rear Passenger: 3 out of 5 Stars
- Rollover ratings were not typically conducted for sedans in this manner by NHTSA during this period.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1999 Buick Century Prices and Market Value
When new in 1999, the Buick Century Custom started around $18,500, with the Limited trim closer to $21,000-$22,000, depending on options. Today, as a used vehicle, its value has significantly depreciated. Current used market prices typically range from $1,000 to $3,500, with exceptionally well-maintained, low-mileage examples possibly fetching slightly more. Most of its depreciation occurred years ago, meaning its current value is relatively stable at the lower end of the market.
Factors affecting its current resale value include overall mechanical condition, absence of rust, working power accessories, and documented maintenance history. Lower mileage is always a plus. As an older, mass-produced sedan, its value is highly sensitive to these factors, but it remains an incredibly affordable option for basic transportation.
Factors affecting its current resale value include overall mechanical condition, absence of rust, working power accessories, and documented maintenance history. Lower mileage is always a plus. As an older, mass-produced sedan, its value is highly sensitive to these factors, but it remains an incredibly affordable option for basic transportation.
1999 Buick Century Cost of Ownership
The 1999 Buick Century is generally an economical vehicle to own long-term. Insurance costs are typically very low due to its age, common safety features, and low market value. Fuel economy, requiring regular unleaded, is decent for its V6 powertrain at around 20-24 MPG combined. Maintenance costs are affordable, with readily available and inexpensive parts. Many common repairs can be handled by independent mechanics at reasonable rates. However, potential major repairs like the common intake manifold gasket failure or extensive rust remediation can be costly if neglected. Overall, its simplicity and widespread parts availability make it a budget-friendly option, provided its known issues are addressed proactively.
1999 Buick Century Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1999 Buick Century Safety Rating
NHTSA
1999 Buick Century Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
1999-12-17
Recall no.
99v356000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
Owner Notification Began July 20, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Buick AT 1-800-521-7300. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Recall date
1999-07-09
Recall no.
99v170000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Some OF These Vehicles With THE KEY IN THE "on" Position, Exhibit A Condition IN Which THE Antilock Brake System (Abs) Motor Shorts TO ITS Case and Grounds Through A Flexible Brake Fluid Pipe.
Consequence
This Short CAN Cause Extreme Heating OF THE Flexible Brake Pipe Where IT CAN Melt A Nearby Flexible Plastic Fuel Hose, Which Could Result IN AN Underhood Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Ground Cable From THE Electronic Brake Control Module (Ebcm) TO THE Engine Compartment Body Rail.
Notes
Owner Notification Began August 25, 1999. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Buick AT 1-800-521-7300. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
Recall date
2007-03-12
Recall no.
07e021000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed BY General Motors.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2004-08-10
Recall no.
04v375000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger Vehicles DO NOT Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." Some OF These Vehicles DO NOT Meet THE Overhead Sign Illumination Requirements.
Consequence
Less Illumination MAY Reduce THE Ability OF THE Driver TO Read Overhead Signs When Driving AT Night.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install NEW Low Beam Headlamp Bulbs IN Both OF THE Headlamp Assemblies. THE Recall Began ON September 8, 2004. Owners Should Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080. Note: IF THE Bulb Needs Replacement IN THE Future, GM Bulb Number 89024715 IS Available From A Dealer, or THE Equivalent Sylvania Bulb IS 9006hp, With Orange Lettering ON THE Bulb.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 04052.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering
Recall date
2009-02-17
Recall no.
09e005000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dorman IS Recalling 979 Steering Knuckles, Dorman P/Nos. 697-902 and 697-903, Sold Under Dorman's "OE Solutions<sup>tm</Sup>" 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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Dorman Steering Knuckles and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors Corporation.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1999 Buick Century Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Buick Century is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Buick Century Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1999 Buick Century competed in a crowded mid-size sedan segment against rivals like the Chevrolet Lumina, Pontiac Grand Prix, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme (its GM W-body cousins), the Ford Taurus/Mercury Sable, and Japanese stalwarts such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
In terms of performance, the Century's 170-hp 3.1L V6 provided adequate but uninspired acceleration, focusing more on smooth cruising than spirited driving. Rivals like the Pontiac Grand Prix GT/GTP offered sportier V6 options, while the Ford Taurus SHO provided a significant performance boost. The V6 options in the Camry and Accord often felt more refined and sometimes quicker.
Features in the Century prioritized comfort and basic amenities. It offered standard power accessories and optional amenities like a power driver's seat and automatic climate control. While competitive, Japanese rivals often had a reputation for slightly better interior material quality and fit-and-finish, though the Century offered a plush ride that many appreciated. The Taurus/Sable also provided a comprehensive list of features.
Reliability is where the Century faced a specific challenge: the notorious lower intake manifold gasket issue on its 3.1L V6. While the transmission and engine block itself were durable, this gasket failure was a widespread and costly problem. In contrast, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord of this era are often regarded as benchmarks for long-term, trouble-free reliability, though even they had some specific issues (e.g., V6 transmission problems on certain Honda/Toyota models). Its GM W-body siblings shared similar reliability profiles.
Regarding price, the Century was competitively priced new and is exceptionally affordable on the used market, often costing less than comparable Japanese models due to brand perception and the aforementioned reliability concerns. Used Camrys and Accords typically command higher prices.
Recommended Alternatives:
In terms of performance, the Century's 170-hp 3.1L V6 provided adequate but uninspired acceleration, focusing more on smooth cruising than spirited driving. Rivals like the Pontiac Grand Prix GT/GTP offered sportier V6 options, while the Ford Taurus SHO provided a significant performance boost. The V6 options in the Camry and Accord often felt more refined and sometimes quicker.
Features in the Century prioritized comfort and basic amenities. It offered standard power accessories and optional amenities like a power driver's seat and automatic climate control. While competitive, Japanese rivals often had a reputation for slightly better interior material quality and fit-and-finish, though the Century offered a plush ride that many appreciated. The Taurus/Sable also provided a comprehensive list of features.
Reliability is where the Century faced a specific challenge: the notorious lower intake manifold gasket issue on its 3.1L V6. While the transmission and engine block itself were durable, this gasket failure was a widespread and costly problem. In contrast, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord of this era are often regarded as benchmarks for long-term, trouble-free reliability, though even they had some specific issues (e.g., V6 transmission problems on certain Honda/Toyota models). Its GM W-body siblings shared similar reliability profiles.
Regarding price, the Century was competitively priced new and is exceptionally affordable on the used market, often costing less than comparable Japanese models due to brand perception and the aforementioned reliability concerns. Used Camrys and Accords typically command higher prices.
Recommended Alternatives:
- For similar value and comfort: A Chevrolet Lumina or Ford Taurus (later 1990s models) offer comparable experiences at similar price points.
- For better reliability and refinement: A Toyota Camry (especially with the 4-cylinder engine) or Honda Accord (also 4-cylinder) from the same era generally provides a more durable and refined ownership experience, albeit often at a slightly higher used price.
- For more performance: A Pontiac Grand Prix GT/GTP or an Oldsmobile Intrigue could offer a more engaging driving experience while retaining some GM W-body familiarity.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Buick Century a Good Sedan?
The 1999 Buick Century is ideal for budget-conscious drivers, first-time car owners, or anyone seeking a comfortable, quiet, and reliable daily driver without needing modern bells and whistles. It's perfectly suited for commutes, errands, or long-distance cruising, particularly appealing to those who prioritize ride comfort and low acquisition costs.
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle, provided it meets specific conditions. Look for models with a documented maintenance history, especially one where the notorious intake manifold gaskets have been replaced. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount to check for rust, particularly in critical areas, and to ensure all power accessories function correctly. The Limited trim offers a few more desirable creature comforts like cruise control and a power driver's seat for minimal extra cost. For those needing dependable, no-frills transportation, the 1999 Buick Century offers exceptional value in the used market.
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle, provided it meets specific conditions. Look for models with a documented maintenance history, especially one where the notorious intake manifold gaskets have been replaced. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount to check for rust, particularly in critical areas, and to ensure all power accessories function correctly. The Limited trim offers a few more desirable creature comforts like cruise control and a power driver's seat for minimal extra cost. For those needing dependable, no-frills transportation, the 1999 Buick Century offers exceptional value in the used market.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.