1998 Buick Century
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Buick › Century › 1998
These records cover every 1998 Buick Century. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 1998 Buick Century. Newest first.
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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the owner manuals do not contain the requirement information pertaining to the vehicle headlamp aiming device. this does not comply with requirements of fmvss no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the headlamp assemblies are replaced, customers may not be able to properly aim the headlights.
Remedy
Owners will be mailed an owner manual's insert which contains the appropriate information.
Owner complaints
218 complaints9 involved a crash9 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
My vehicle's window controls and lock controls are no longer working, when locking the door or the window will go down but will not come up. The rest of the windows control throughout the car will not work as well. The lighting in the car flickers if you would push the lot or the window control. Anterior light IS no longer working. None of this works even when parked or driving down the road.
- Service brakes · Steering
TL* the contact owned a 1998 buick century. While the vehicle was being operated, the brakes and steering column seized. As a result, the vehicle was involved in a front end crash. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and deemed destroyed. A police report was filed. The contact…
TL* the contact owned a 1998 buick century. While the vehicle was being operated, the brakes and steering column seized. As a result, the vehicle was involved in a front end crash. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and deemed destroyed. A police report was filed. The contact sustained short term memory loss, a concussion, and several unknown injuries that required medical attention. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign numbers: 09e005000 (steering) and 03v527000 (steering); however, the vin was not included. The failure mileage was not provided.
- Tires
Multiple cracking on sidewalls of 4 michelin harmony tires being used 3000 miles a year. Tires bought in 2007 and have 99% of tread still present on tire. feel michelin used insufficient uv/ozone inhibitor chemicals in rubber compound manufacturing these tires. Tires may be unsafe and not due to…
Multiple cracking on sidewalls of 4 michelin harmony tires being used 3000 miles a year. Tires bought in 2007 and have 99% of tread still present on tire. feel michelin used insufficient uv/ozone inhibitor chemicals in rubber compound manufacturing these tires. Tires may be unsafe and not due to car owner's fault. Feel michelin should replace these at their expense, not my mother's expense. Tires should last much longer than 7-8 years at 3000 miles a year when 80,000 IS advertised for these tires.
- Air bags
Was driven off the road by another vehicle I then hit a pothole at the same time my passenger dash airbag deployed. *tr
- Latches/locks/linkages › Trunk lid › Lock
TL* the contact owns a 1998 buick century. The contact stated that there IS no alternative way to unlock the trunk. The contact locked the keys in the trunk of the vehicle and was unable to access the trunk. The contact had to go home to retrieve a spare set of keys to unlock the trunk. The contact felt this was a safety risk for children. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Air bags
TL * the contact owns a 1998 buick century. The contact stated that the driver side air bag was starting to detach from the steering wheel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 144,000 and the current mileage was 162,000.
- Air bags · Electrical system
I first noticed the engine shutting off in january of 2014, especially going down a hill. The engine shuts down at different speeds and the air bag light stays on. At first I thought that there was moisture in my gas tank, but after filling up a couple of times and putting in some gas dryer, the…
I first noticed the engine shutting off in january of 2014, especially going down a hill. The engine shuts down at different speeds and the air bag light stays on. At first I thought that there was moisture in my gas tank, but after filling up a couple of times and putting in some gas dryer, the problem continued. I usually shift to neutral and start the engine while the car IS still moving. I took my remote and other keys off the key ring. It still shuts off the engine with just one key in the ignition switch, but not as much. Can you tell me how I can remedy this problem with my 1998 buick century? Will this be at my own expense? *tr
- Seats
No top tether anchor available for child car seat. gm refuses to retrofit and says that there IS no retrofit kit available, even though there was a bulletin in march 2012 that says that they will retrofit one for free. unable to safety transport my child. *Tr
- Visibility/wiper
After a snowfall, the windshield wipers would not park, stood straight up and obstructed my view. I called buick and was told to take it to my dealership and it would be repaired. when I picked up the car, they told me that the previous year's model had been recalled for this problem. they would…
After a snowfall, the windshield wipers would not park, stood straight up and obstructed my view. I called buick and was told to take it to my dealership and it would be repaired. when I picked up the car, they told me that the previous year's model had been recalled for this problem. they would not repair the wipers. I have been told by two mechanics that my car has the exact issue as the previous model. I find that this IS a danger to myself, my children and other drivers/passengers and feel that it should be on the recall list. *tr
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 1998 buick century. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 mph the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. The power steering was not functioning. However, the driver was able to maintained control the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
TL* the contact owns a 1998 buick century. The contact stated the anti-lock braking system was activated indicating a brake malfunction. The contact took the vehicle to a local mechanic who stated the ABS motor pack needed to be replaced. The contact stated the vehicle does not have anti-lock…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 buick century. The contact stated the anti-lock braking system was activated indicating a brake malfunction. The contact took the vehicle to a local mechanic who stated the ABS motor pack needed to be replaced. The contact stated the vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes and she does not feel safe driving the vehicle. The contact did not call the manufacturer regarding the failure. the failure mileage was 83,000.
- Steering
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 buick century. The contact stated he intermittently had to apply heavy force to the steering wheel in order to turn the wheel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the contact was told the failure was resulting from the lower pinion bearings. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 132,500 and the current mileage was 133,000.
- Visibility › Power window devices and controls
TL* the contact owns a 1998 buick century. The contact attempted to roll up all four windows but only the rear driver's side window responded. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was told that the window motors and tracks would need to be replaced. The vehicle was…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 buick century. The contact attempted to roll up all four windows but only the rear driver's side window responded. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was told that the window motors and tracks would need to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The failure recurred intermittently on the front passenger side window. The failure mileage was 11,000 and the current mileage was 50,000. updated 4/1/11 *cn updated 1/13/2012 *ln *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
ABS failure. Now 54,931 miles on odometer.. 1998 buick century custom. I sent a letter to ray lahood several weeks ago, but have not received an answer from any one! This IS s safety issue! I can't believe that gm engineers could not design an ABS that would last at least 100,000 miles! How many…
ABS failure. Now 54,931 miles on odometer.. 1998 buick century custom. I sent a letter to ray lahood several weeks ago, but have not received an answer from any one! This IS s safety issue! I can't believe that gm engineers could not design an ABS that would last at least 100,000 miles! How many failures has gm experienced? the consumer stated a few weeks ago, the brake and ABS light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the consumer was informed the ABS pump had failed and it would cost $800 to replace it. Updated ivoq 10/29/10.*jb *tr
- Engine and engine cooling · Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Brought vehicle to dealership for brake inspection. Was informed the lower intake gasket was leaking coolant. Had it replaced by dealership on 03/07/2006. on 06/28/2010, the same issue seems to be re-occurring. Should an intake gasket need replacing 2X'S under normal driving conditions? *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 buick century. while driving in rainy weather approximately 10 mph he had to apply the brakes several times before they would function properly. The vehicle has not been diagnosed by a dealer or a local mechanic. The approximate failure mileage was 20,000. The current mileage was 30,000.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
My brakes stopped working because all the fluid suddenly drained out of the system and it IS reported to me by a dealer that this IS due to corrosion of the brake lines on my 1998 buick century. I am told that the brake lines need to be replaced and that makes sense to me, however, it would seem…
My brakes stopped working because all the fluid suddenly drained out of the system and it IS reported to me by a dealer that this IS due to corrosion of the brake lines on my 1998 buick century. I am told that the brake lines need to be replaced and that makes sense to me, however, it would seem that this may be a safety problem beyond my car. why would buick use materials in a brake line that would corrode so badly that it would fail in only 11 years when the car could easily last much longer than that? I now have my car in my garage with no brakes. I will be looking for someone to repair my brake lines but thought that if this IS not unique to my car someone would like to review their condition before I have the car repaired. thank you *tr
- Visibility
Power window and mirror issues in 1998 buick century. I have been dealing with this problem since 2004, I've been told by multiple mechanics that it's a known issue with the buick century, why IS there no recall? The windows keep coming off the track, I drive on smooth roads and follow the speed…
Power window and mirror issues in 1998 buick century. I have been dealing with this problem since 2004, I've been told by multiple mechanics that it's a known issue with the buick century, why IS there no recall? The windows keep coming off the track, I drive on smooth roads and follow the speed limit, so what IS going on???? My power mirrors haven't worked since 2004. Drivers side window IS the one that's given me the worst headache, put in a new motor thinking that's why it was sticking and then it quit working again. Please look into this issue, it's not safe. *Tr
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 1998 buick century. While attempting to merge onto a highway she crashed into another vehicle. She was hospitalized for injuries. None of the air bag deployed. The failure and current mileages were unknown.
- Seat belts
I have a 1998 buick regal with rear seatbelts that jam inside and cannot be re-extended. I have paid $200 to have the back seat removed and the seatbelts realigned so that they work. I was warned at time of repair that this was a common problem in this model car and it would probably reoccur.…
I have a 1998 buick regal with rear seatbelts that jam inside and cannot be re-extended. I have paid $200 to have the back seat removed and the seatbelts realigned so that they work. I was warned at time of repair that this was a common problem in this model car and it would probably reoccur. despite our great care in using the realigned belts, the problem did in fact reoccur and now both rear belts are jammed again, with the result that our children cannot be properly restrained in the car and we cannot use it when traveling with them (unless we pay to have it repaired again). my mother has a buick regal roughly the same age with similar problems. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
Buick century should be included in the recall list. *Tr
- Visibility
Windshield wipers are not functioning properly. My left wiper bangs a few inches up then smacks back down. This IS not snow related because I've learner to cover all aspects of the wipers and windshield because of my first time waiting for snow to melt. This has been ongoing since I acquired the…
Windshield wipers are not functioning properly. My left wiper bangs a few inches up then smacks back down. This IS not snow related because I've learner to cover all aspects of the wipers and windshield because of my first time waiting for snow to melt. This has been ongoing since I acquired the car from my grandmother in dec. 2008. She purchased the car, but IS too old too keep up with recalls and such. I see there are many other complaints and I was almost in a crash with my children due to a sudden rain shower causing the visibility to be awful. *Tr
- Suspension › Front
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 buick century. after purchasing the vehicle on september 7, 2008, the contact noticed the vehicle swaying from left to right. he took the vehicle to a local repair shop to replace the tires and the mechanic stated that the sway bar failed on the passenger side. the…
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 buick century. after purchasing the vehicle on september 7, 2008, the contact noticed the vehicle swaying from left to right. he took the vehicle to a local repair shop to replace the tires and the mechanic stated that the sway bar failed on the passenger side. the mechanic called the manufacturer and local part stores, but none of them had the necessary part for the repair because it was on back order. the current and failure mileages were 145,000.
- Electrical system · Seats
Dash board light where the mileage shows. Cannot see anything, the light suddenly went out and cannot see miles on car. Also, automatic button to push seat back and forth IS not working. I consider this a safety factor because the seat IS pushed up to close to the front . *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip · Structure › Body
The paint on my car keeps chipping off and the brakes have been replaced three times. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Power rack and pinion steering failure
Gm's letter to nhtsa dated december 11, 2003, expands its original recall (nhtsa 02v286) to include certain w-body vehicles: 96-97 olds cutlass supreme; 98 olds intrigue; 97-98 olds cutlass; 97-98 chevy lumina, monte carlo and malibu; 96 pontiac grand prix; and 96-98 buick regal.the number of vehicles recalled IS…
Gm's letter to nhtsa dated december 11, 2003, expands its original recall (nhtsa 02v286) to include certain w-body vehicles: 96-97 olds cutlass supreme; 98 olds intrigue; 97-98 olds cutlass; 97-98 chevy lumina, monte carlo and malibu; 96 pontiac grand prix; and 96-98 buick regal.the number of vehicles recalled IS 750,283.gm determined that failure of the rack and pinion IS related to damage of the lower pinion bearing and the level of the pinion bearing pre-load spring force.gm states, higher rack pre-load spring force (133 lb.) IS the design characteristic most closely associated with higher bearing damage rates in most of the vehicle applications that used the general bearing company (gbc) bearing.all of the vehicles covered in the expanded recall have the 133 lb spring force.the 96 lumina/monte carlo and 97-98 century w-body vehicles included in this investigation utilize a lower spring force and are not included in the recall.
- Power rack and pinion steering failure
Gm conducted a safety recall (nhtsa # 02v286) to address a steering defect pertaining to a lower pinion bearing (lpb) within the rack and pinion steering gear (r&p). The recall covered 1,159,156 model year 1997-1998 pontiac grand prix vehicles built between march 1, 1996 and october 31, 1997, 1996-1998 pontiac trans…
Gm conducted a safety recall (nhtsa # 02v286) to address a steering defect pertaining to a lower pinion bearing (lpb) within the rack and pinion steering gear (r&p). The recall covered 1,159,156 model year 1997-1998 pontiac grand prix vehicles built between march 1, 1996 and october 31, 1997, 1996-1998 pontiac trans sport, chevrolet lumina apv, chevrolet venture, oldsmobile silhouette minivans, and chevrolet cavalier and pontiac sunfire sedans built between january 1, 1996 and october 31, 1997.odi opened this rq after receiving reports that other vehicles were exhibiting the same symptoms as the recalled vehicles.based on odi's review of technical and complaint data collected during the rq, the w-cars are associated with either a higher steering complaint rate or a higher lpb failure rate than the other vehicles investigated under the rq and are above or near the rates for the recalled vehicles.thus, odi will further examine the w-cars (1996-1997 oldsmobile cutlass supreme, 1996-1998 buick regal, chevrolet lumina, chevrolet monte carlo, 1997-1998 buick century, and 1998 oldsmobile intrigue) under a new investigation, engineering analysis (ea)03-019.
- Windshield wiper
By letter dated december 12, 1999, gm notified nhtsa of its plans to conduct a safety related defect campaign to remedy 155,149 of the subject vehicles.the vehicle population for the campaign includes the 1997 buick regal/century and pontiac gran prix models built during the period from the start of production through…
By letter dated december 12, 1999, gm notified nhtsa of its plans to conduct a safety related defect campaign to remedy 155,149 of the subject vehicles.the vehicle population for the campaign includes the 1997 buick regal/century and pontiac gran prix models built during the period from the start of production through may 1, 1997.gm determined that the wipers installed prior to this date could stop working, usually during heavy load conditions, due to separation between the drive pin and the crescent in the wiper crank arm assembly.effective may 1, 1997,gm corrected this problem in production by modifying the drive pin and strengthening the crescent.these same improved parts will be installed in the vehicles to be recalled.the scope of the campaign will include all vehicles produced prior to the may 1, 1997 correction (the oldsmobile intrique production did not start until after may 1, 1997, and IS therefore not included).vehicles with the scope of this investigation and produced after may 1, 1997, contain the more robust crescent and improved pin design and are not included in the recall campaign.odi will continue to monitor complaint reports on the vehicles produced after may 1, 1997 and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.based on gm's recall action (odi 99v-348) this investigation IS closed.
- Windshield wiper
Incidents of wiper failure (owner reports and warranty) are very high, and many of the reports indicate that the failures are still occurring in 1999.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10208027This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10171318This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10168979This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code. The PI update to version D is to advise the unlock procedure is temporarily unavailable. E version update is to add administrative details.
- 10165876This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code. The PI update to version D is to advise the unlock procedure is temporarily unavailable.
- 10157018This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10141381This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock center to retrieve the unlock code from the scrambled code.
- 10137901This informational bulletin provides the technician with information on what E85 fuel may due to a non E85 vehicle.
- 10135203This preliminary bulletin provides a way to aid the technician in diagnosing transmission fluid leaking from the trans breather vent.
- 10116612This informational bulletin provides information on wheel bearing P/N 13582664 being received new with visible rust and no action is needed as this does not affect the part performance.
- 10116564This informational bulletin provides information on wheel bearing P/N 13582664 being received new with visible rust and no action is needed as this does not affect the part performance.
- 10113443This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 10113258This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint lamp, Service Vehicle Soon lamp on and/or radio locked, possibly after module replacement. Technician will need to check for an incorrect or non-existent VIN number in modules that require them. Technician should ensure that all modules that are replaced are programmed per currently published Service Information. Technician should also check the Sensing and Diagnostic Module part number if it was replaced.
- 10023171ABS pump running when not needed.
- 10018133Tie rod specifications revised. Gm tech link.
- 10017568Intermittent chuggle or fishbite on light acceleration or a highway speeds with no diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs).
- 10017515Revised outer tie rod end nut tightening specification/tie rod end jam nut tightening specification added.
- 10016464Wire harness may be stretched, or the pcs may not be oriented in the same position, after installing a service replacement valve body assembly. Gm tech link.
- 10010202Hvac side to side temperature difference.
- 10007236Manual dual zone fan and mode knob replacement. Service vme.
- 10005588Poor radio reception or radio static/ increased interference with rear window defogger on or some rear window defogger grids may be inoperative.
- 10005145Some vehicles built prior to vin breakpoint 1f136536 may exhibit intermittent malfunction indicator lamp / service engine soon indicator illumination; anti-lock brake system warning light illumination; stall / no start condition; various electrical system failures; and / or various driveability concerns.
- 10004777Broken console or storage compartment lid latch. Updated
- 10004765Release of new outer tie rod ends for service.
- 10003684Center console and/or armrest storage lid will not remain closed due to a broken latch. Both latches are service separately and available through gm service parts.
- 10002878Parts availability for sunroof repairs.
- 10001121Sun visors may not stay in intended position.
- 10001112Poor radio reception or radio static/ increased interference with rear window defogger on or some rear window defogger grids may be inoperative.
- 10000782Revised piston pin removal / installation procedure.
- 6092333Some customers may comment that the black plastic housing around the outside rear view mirror turns chalky or IS dull in color.
- 6089996Some vehicles equipped with hydra-matic 3T40, 4T60 or 4t60-e transxales may comment on a grinding and / or growling noise that IS noticeable when in park on incline.
- 6088901Conditions with inaccurate fuel gauge / fluctuates, premature low fuel chime.
- 636650Subject regarding carpet pulling out from under from the rear door sill plate, left or right side.
- 636558A condition may exist where the prindle display IS not legible when moving form a dark area to a lighted area, when thevhecle IS started inside a garage, the headlamps are turned on automatically and then the vehicle IS backed into the sunlight.
- 636475Information on refinishing aluminum wheels.
- 636448Vehicles with the CJ2 automatic air conditioning and without the U20 cluster which IS the driver information center and the CJ2 automatic air conditioner displays the celsius and not fahrenheit.
- 634813Some owners may comment on a repeat engine oil pan leak.
- 634708Subject regarding revised lower intake manifold installation.
- 631274Subject regarding various driveability symptoms, malfunction indicator lamp illuminates intermittently, diagnostic trouble codes seat, engine will not start. *Slc
Every Buick Century model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.