The 2000 Buick Century is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and affordability. Part of the sixth generation (1997-2005), it offered a practical and reliable option for families and commuters. The Century was available in a single body style: a four-door sedan. Key trims included the base Century and the Custom. When new, its pricing ranged from approximately $18,000 to $22,000. Its popularity stemmed from its reputation for dependability and value for money.
The Good
The 2000 Buick Century offers a comfortable and spacious interior, appealing to those seeking a relaxed driving experience. Its proven reliability provides peace of mind. While not a performance vehicle, its adequate power is suitable for daily commuting. The Century's value proposition, with its affordable price point and low running costs, makes it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Bad
The 2000 Buick Century's weaknesses include its somewhat dated styling and handling that's not particularly sporty. The interior materials can feel cheap. Potential issues to watch out for include problems with the intake manifold gasket, which can lead to coolant leaks, and transmission issues, especially in higher mileage examples. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters.
2000 Buick Century: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
3.1L V6 (LA1) - Horsepower:
175 hp @ 5200 rpm - Fuel Economy:
EPA estimated 19 mpg city / 29 mpg highway - 0-60 Times:
Approximately 9.5 - 10 seconds - Towing Capacity:
Not recommended or officially rated for towing - Trim-Level Features:
- Base Century:
Cloth upholstery, air conditioning, AM/FM radio, power windows and locks, driver-side airbag, anti-lock brakes (ABS), automatic transmission. - Custom:
Builds upon the base model with added features such as: upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control, remote keyless entry, cassette player, and optional alloy wheels. - Optional Features (available on both trims):
CD player, leather upholstery (rare), sunroof, upgraded sound system, side airbags, traction control.
- Base Century:
- Detailed Feature Breakdown:
The 3.1L V6 engine provides adequate power for everyday driving. Fuel economy is reasonable for its class and era. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. The interior is spacious enough for five passengers, with a decent-sized trunk. Safety features are limited compared to modern vehicles but include standard ABS and driver-side airbag. Optional side airbags were available on later model years. The available options allowed buyers to personalize the car to some extent, enhancing comfort and convenience.
2000 Buick Century Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Century |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | OSHAWA #2 |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3368 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L67 |
| Engine Size | 3.1L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| 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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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Buick Century Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2000 Buick Century often revolve around the 3.1L V6 engine. A common issue is the intake manifold gasket failure, which can cause coolant leaks and overheating. This problem is frequently seen as the vehicle ages and requires replacement of the gasket. Transmission issues, such as slipping or rough shifting, are also commonly reported, especially in higher-mileage examples. These can sometimes be attributed to lack of proper maintenance, such as infrequent fluid changes.
Electrical problems, including issues with the power windows, door locks, and other accessories, can occur. Rust is a significant concern, particularly in regions that use road salt during winter. The lower body panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage are especially susceptible.
Recalls for the 2000 Buick Century were issued for issues such as faulty seat belt retractors and potential problems with the fuel system. Long-term reliability concerns include the aforementioned intake manifold gasket and transmission issues, as well as general wear and tear on suspension components and brake systems. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigating these issues and extending the vehicle's lifespan. Overall, while generally considered reliable, certain components are prone to failure over time, requiring attention and repair.
Electrical problems, including issues with the power windows, door locks, and other accessories, can occur. Rust is a significant concern, particularly in regions that use road salt during winter. The lower body panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage are especially susceptible.
Recalls for the 2000 Buick Century were issued for issues such as faulty seat belt retractors and potential problems with the fuel system. Long-term reliability concerns include the aforementioned intake manifold gasket and transmission issues, as well as general wear and tear on suspension components and brake systems. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigating these issues and extending the vehicle's lifespan. Overall, while generally considered reliable, certain components are prone to failure over time, requiring attention and repair.
How long will the 2000 Buick Century last?
With good maintenance, a 2000 Buick Century can reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners have reported exceeding this mileage with regular oil changes, fluid top-offs, and timely repairs. Poor maintenance habits, however, will significantly shorten its lifespan. Key to longevity is addressing the common issues like the intake manifold gasket and transmission problems.
The engine itself is generally robust, but neglect can lead to premature wear. Rust is a major factor determining long-term durability, especially in colder climates. Ultimately, diligent upkeep is crucial for maximizing the years of service from a 2000 Buick Century.
The engine itself is generally robust, but neglect can lead to premature wear. Rust is a major factor determining long-term durability, especially in colder climates. Ultimately, diligent upkeep is crucial for maximizing the years of service from a 2000 Buick Century.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2000 Buick Century's built-in tech and entertainment features are fairly basic by today's standards. Standard features included an AM/FM radio and cassette player. A CD player was an available option. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring.
Safety features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Standard safety equipment included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and a driver-side airbag. A passenger-side airbag was also standard. Side airbags were optional, but not widely equipped.
Driver-assistance features were essentially non-existent. Power windows and locks were standard, but features like automatic headlights or parking sensors were not available. The focus was on providing basic comfort and convenience features.
Crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2000 Buick Century typically ranged from 4 to 5 stars for frontal impact protection for the driver and passenger. Side-impact crash test ratings were lower due to the lack of standard side airbags. These ratings should be considered in the context of safety standards at the time, which were less stringent than today's standards.
Safety features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Standard safety equipment included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and a driver-side airbag. A passenger-side airbag was also standard. Side airbags were optional, but not widely equipped.
Driver-assistance features were essentially non-existent. Power windows and locks were standard, but features like automatic headlights or parking sensors were not available. The focus was on providing basic comfort and convenience features.
Crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2000 Buick Century typically ranged from 4 to 5 stars for frontal impact protection for the driver and passenger. Side-impact crash test ratings were lower due to the lack of standard side airbags. These ratings should be considered in the context of safety standards at the time, which were less stringent than today's standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Light Bronzemist Metallic
Dark Cherry Metallic
White
Black
Navy Blue Metallic
Silver Mist Metallic
Light Driftwood Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Gray
Neutral
2000 Buick Century Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2000 Buick Century had a base price ranging from approximately $18,000 to $22,000 depending on the trim and options. As a used vehicle, the current market price is significantly lower, typically ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The Buick Century has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, high production numbers, and dated technology. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, service history, and location (demand for older, affordable vehicles can vary regionally). Well-maintained examples with lower mileage tend to command slightly higher prices, but even then, the market is limited.
The Buick Century has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, high production numbers, and dated technology. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, service history, and location (demand for older, affordable vehicles can vary regionally). Well-maintained examples with lower mileage tend to command slightly higher prices, but even then, the market is limited.
2000 Buick Century Cost of Ownership
The 2000 Buick Century is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to the vehicle's age and value. Fuel economy is decent for its class. Maintenance and repair costs are relatively affordable, as parts are readily available and labor rates are generally reasonable.
However, the age of the vehicle means that unexpected repairs can occur, potentially increasing long-term ownership costs. Addressing common issues like the intake manifold gasket and transmission problems is essential for keeping costs down. Overall, it's an affordable option, provided it's properly maintained.
However, the age of the vehicle means that unexpected repairs can occur, potentially increasing long-term ownership costs. Addressing common issues like the intake manifold gasket and transmission problems is essential for keeping costs down. Overall, it's an affordable option, provided it's properly maintained.
2000 Buick Century Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
17.5 gallons
City Mileage
18 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
27 miles/gallon
2000 Buick Century Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2000 Buick Century Insurance
Insurance for a 2000 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 2000 Buick Century Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2000 Buick Century competed with mid-size sedans like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Malibu. In terms of performance, the Century's 3.1L V6 was adequate but not as refined or powerful as some rivals' engines, especially compared to the Camry's V6 options or the Accord's sporty handling. Feature-wise, the Century lagged behind, offering fewer standard and optional amenities compared to the Camry or Accord.
Reliability-wise, the Century was generally considered reliable, though it had its known issues, like the intake manifold gasket. The Camry and Accord often enjoyed a reputation for superior reliability. Price was where the Century stood out, typically being more affordable than the Camry and Accord. The Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Malibu were closer competitors in terms of price and features.
Alternatives to the 2000 Buick Century include the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, which offer better overall reliability and more features, though at a higher price point. The Chevrolet Malibu provides a similar driving experience and features at a comparable price. If reliability and features are paramount, the Camry or Accord are better choices. If budget is the primary concern, the Malibu or Century are viable options.
Reliability-wise, the Century was generally considered reliable, though it had its known issues, like the intake manifold gasket. The Camry and Accord often enjoyed a reputation for superior reliability. Price was where the Century stood out, typically being more affordable than the Camry and Accord. The Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Malibu were closer competitors in terms of price and features.
Alternatives to the 2000 Buick Century include the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, which offer better overall reliability and more features, though at a higher price point. The Chevrolet Malibu provides a similar driving experience and features at a comparable price. If reliability and features are paramount, the Camry or Accord are better choices. If budget is the primary concern, the Malibu or Century are viable options.
Ranks #2092 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 2092 | 2000 Buick Century | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Buick Century a Good Sedan?
The 2000 Buick Century is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and comfortable, albeit basic, mode of transportation. It's a good option for those who prioritize affordability over performance and advanced features. Whether it's worth buying depends on its condition and price.
Buying a used 2000 Buick Century can be a decent option *if* it has been well-maintained and is priced accordingly. Look for examples with a documented service history and evidence of preventative maintenance, especially regarding the intake manifold gasket and transmission. Given its age, buying one with exceptionally low mileage is preferable. Ultimately, a thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic is crucial before making a purchase.
Buying a used 2000 Buick Century can be a decent option *if* it has been well-maintained and is priced accordingly. Look for examples with a documented service history and evidence of preventative maintenance, especially regarding the intake manifold gasket and transmission. Given its age, buying one with exceptionally low mileage is preferable. Ultimately, a thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic is crucial before making a purchase.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.