The 2001 Buick Century is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and reputation for reliability. Part of the Century's long production run, which spanned several decades, the 2001 model offered a practical and affordable option for families and commuters. It's a four-door sedan, offering roomy seating and a large trunk. Key trims included the base model and the Custom. When new, the pricing ranged from approximately $17,000 to $20,000. Its straightforward design and focus on comfort made it a popular choice.
The Good
The 2001 Buick Century excels in providing a comfortable and smooth ride, appealing to those seeking a relaxed driving experience. Its proven reliability offers peace of mind, a practical advantage. While not sporty, its adequate performance suits everyday commuting. The car offers excellent value for its price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
The Bad
The 2001 Buick Century isn't known for its sporty handling or cutting-edge technology. Some owners have reported issues with the intake manifold gasket, which can lead to coolant leaks. Rust can be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Additionally, the interior materials, while durable, may feel dated compared to newer vehicles. Watch out for transmission issues at higher mileage.
2001 Buick Century: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.1L V6
- Horsepower: 175 hp
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 19 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Around 9.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for significant towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo.
- Custom: Added features such as upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control, and sometimes alloy wheels. Specific features could vary based on options packages.
- Air conditioning
- Power windows and door locks
- Tilt steering wheel
- AM/FM radio
- Cloth upholstery
- Driver and passenger airbags
- Cruise control
- Alloy wheels
- Upgraded audio system
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Remote keyless entry
2001 Buick Century Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2001 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Century |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | OSHAWA #2 |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L67 |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| 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 | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
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History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2001 Buick Century Have?
The 2001 Buick Century, while generally reliable, has some frequently reported problems. One common issue is the intake manifold gasket failure, which can lead to coolant leaks and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. This issue is somewhat prevalent across the 3.1L V6 engine used in various GM vehicles. Transmission issues, such as slipping or hard shifting, can also occur, especially at higher mileage. Rust is another potential concern, particularly in regions with salted roads during winter. Some owners have also reported minor electrical problems, such as issues with the power windows or door locks. Check engine light illumination due to various sensor failures is also relatively common. Recalls for the 2001 Buick Century were issued mostly for safety concerns, such as faulty airbags. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned intake manifold gasket and transmission issues, as well as general wear and tear associated with an older vehicle. Regular maintenance, including timely fluid changes and addressing any leaks promptly, can help mitigate these concerns and extend the vehicle's lifespan. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to assess the condition of these key components.
How long will the 2001 Buick Century last?
With proper maintenance, a 2001 Buick Century can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners have reported surpassing this milestone with regular servicing. The key to longevity lies in diligent maintenance, including timely oil changes, coolant flushes, and transmission servicing. However, weaknesses emerge over time. The plastic components in the cooling system, such as the intake manifold gasket, become brittle and prone to leaks. Suspension components, like struts and bushings, may require replacement. Rust can also compromise structural integrity in regions with harsh winters. Overall, the Century's durability hinges on proactive maintenance and addressing issues as they arise.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2001 Buick Century offered basic tech and entertainment features typical for its time. Standard entertainment included an AM/FM radio, and a cassette player was often available. More advanced features like CD players were optional.
Driver-assistance features were limited, mainly consisting of standard power steering and optional anti-lock brakes (ABS). Cruise control was available on some trims.
Safety features included driver and passenger airbags as standard equipment. Side airbags were not available. ABS was an optional safety feature.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are publicly available and provide an indication of the vehicle's performance in simulated crash scenarios. The 2001 Buick Century generally received good ratings for frontal crash protection. Specific ratings may vary slightly depending on the model year and testing procedures.
Compared to modern vehicles, the 2001 Buick Century lacks advanced technology and driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Its tech and safety features were adequate for its time, focusing on providing a comfortable and safe driving experience within the technological constraints of the era.
Driver-assistance features were limited, mainly consisting of standard power steering and optional anti-lock brakes (ABS). Cruise control was available on some trims.
Safety features included driver and passenger airbags as standard equipment. Side airbags were not available. ABS was an optional safety feature.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are publicly available and provide an indication of the vehicle's performance in simulated crash scenarios. The 2001 Buick Century generally received good ratings for frontal crash protection. Specific ratings may vary slightly depending on the model year and testing procedures.
Compared to modern vehicles, the 2001 Buick Century lacks advanced technology and driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Its tech and safety features were adequate for its time, focusing on providing a comfortable and safe driving experience within the technological constraints of the era.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Light Beige Metallic
Medium Gray
Dark Bronzemist Metallic
White
Black
Light Bronzemist Metallic
Dark Blue
Interior Colors
Sand Beige
Neutral
Dark Gray
2001 Buick Century Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2001 Buick Century had a price range of approximately $17,000 to $20,000, depending on the trim level and options. As a used vehicle, its current market price typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Century has depreciated significantly over the years, which is typical for older vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition of the car, its maintenance history, mileage, and any major repairs that have been performed. Vehicles with low mileage and a well-documented maintenance record will generally command higher prices. The availability of spare parts and the vehicle's reputation for reliability also influence its resale value.
2001 Buick Century Cost of Ownership
The 2001 Buick Century is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and safety record. Fuel consumption is moderate. Maintenance costs are relatively affordable, with readily available and inexpensive parts. Repair costs can be higher if major components like the transmission or engine require attention, but overall, it's a cost-effective vehicle to maintain. Long-term ownership costs are manageable, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking reliable transportation.
2001 Buick Century Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2001 Buick Century Safety Rating
NHTSA
2001 Buick Century Insurance
Insurance for a 2001 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 2001 Buick Century Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2001 Buick Century competed with mid-size sedans like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Malibu. Compared to the Camry and Accord, the Century offered a lower price point but lacked their reputation for bulletproof reliability and resale value. Its performance was adequate but not as refined as the Japanese rivals. The Ford Taurus offered similar comfort and value, while the Malibu was a closely related GM product with similar strengths and weaknesses. In terms of features, the Century was fairly basic compared to some competitors, especially in the base trim.
Alternatives to the 2001 Buick Century depend on the buyer's priorities. If reliability is paramount, a slightly older Toyota Camry or Honda Accord might be a better choice, even if they cost more upfront. If budget is the primary concern, a Chevrolet Malibu of the same year could be a similar alternative. The Taurus offers comparable comfort and value. However, if a comfortable ride and a lower initial price are the main considerations, the Century remains a viable option, especially if it has been well-maintained.
Alternatives to the 2001 Buick Century depend on the buyer's priorities. If reliability is paramount, a slightly older Toyota Camry or Honda Accord might be a better choice, even if they cost more upfront. If budget is the primary concern, a Chevrolet Malibu of the same year could be a similar alternative. The Taurus offers comparable comfort and value. However, if a comfortable ride and a lower initial price are the main considerations, the Century remains a viable option, especially if it has been well-maintained.
Ranks #2064 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★) |
| 2064 | 2001 Buick Century | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Buick Century a Good Sedan?
The 2001 Buick Century is an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable and comfortable transportation. It's well-suited for commuters or small families who prioritize affordability over sporty performance or cutting-edge features. Whether it's worth buying depends on its condition and price. A well-maintained Century with reasonable mileage can be a good value, especially if purchased for under $5,000. Avoid models with significant rust or signs of neglect. The Custom trim offers slightly more features but the base model can be sufficient. It's best to buy used, as depreciation makes a new Century less sensible. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to assess its overall condition before committing to a purchase.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.