2002 Buick Century
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Buick › Century › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Buick Century. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2002 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.
Owner complaints
154 complaints9 involved a crash4 involved a fire11 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Service brakes · Steering
UNKNOWN; The issues started around 6 months ago. Just casually driving like usual, and my steering wheel would lock up and be ridiculously hard to turn, which is scary because its happened while turning through lights and intersections and trying to even just park my car. And on some of those occations the trac and abs sensors would come on, but not all the time.
- Tires › Bead · Tires › Sidewall
Right front Cooper GS5 Grand Touring 205/70 R15 96T with only 862 miles on it had a complete air loss/went completely flat when car was turning into a parking lot. This is one of a set of brand new tires on the car. The car was never driven on a highway after these were purchased. Only local…
Right front Cooper GS5 Grand Touring 205/70 R15 96T with only 862 miles on it had a complete air loss/went completely flat when car was turning into a parking lot. This is one of a set of brand new tires on the car. The car was never driven on a highway after these were purchased. Only local driving at 45 to 50 MPH max. Tire was taken to a tire shop in hopes of getting it plugged/repaired. They found nothing had penetrated the tire. They could not pressurize the tire. Air was blowing out all around the outside bead and could not be seated. They put lubricant around the bead inside and out and gave it some rapid shots of air on the machine. It started to hold pressure but immediately had a roughly 4 inch section of the sidewall start to balloon out. Technician said he was afraid it was going to blow up in his face. He chalk marked the defective area on the tire and said the bead and sidewall had failed in that ballooning area and the tire was defective and not repairable.
- Fuel/propulsion system
While letting off the gas in order to break, the accelerator pedal went to the floor on its own for about 3 seconds. Pushing on the break stopped the accelerator.
- Exterior lighting · Service brakes · Unknown or other
I was driving at night switched headlights to high beams - few minutes later switched back to low beams and ALL LIGHTS dash and head lights went completely out . Tried to pull head light knob and nothing - pitch black . Luckily i was a short distance from my home. This is EXTREMELY DANGEROUS…
I was driving at night switched headlights to high beams - few minutes later switched back to low beams and ALL LIGHTS dash and head lights went completely out . Tried to pull head light knob and nothing - pitch black . Luckily i was a short distance from my home. This is EXTREMELY DANGEROUS ! I have found 33 complaints (so far) about this same problem. This definitely should qualify and be recalled . PLEASE take IMMEDIATE action . Thank you.
- Service brakes
Both front sides has been repaired, but the ABS, service soon, also the traction off lights . Comes on and stay while the vehicle IS in motion. Once I turn vehicle off it goes off.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owned a 2002 buick century. While the contact's vehicle was stationary, it was rear ended by another vehicle. As a result, the contact rear ended the preceding vehicle. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was filed. The contact sustained injuries to the back, neck, both…
TL* the contact owned a 2002 buick century. While the contact's vehicle was stationary, it was rear ended by another vehicle. As a result, the contact rear ended the preceding vehicle. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was filed. The contact sustained injuries to the back, neck, both legs, and arms. There were three minors in the back seat who sustained injuries to their heads, both legs, arms, and backs. Medical attention was needed for all occupants. The vehicle was towed and deemed a total loss. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
- Electrical system · Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
I was at the gas station tried to start my vehicle and it caught on fire at the gas station many could of been killed and or injured
- Fuel/propulsion system
Fuel IS leaking from the fuel pressure regulator
- Electrical system · Engine · Vehicle speed control
Intake leaking antifreeze - cost too much to repair for me. My only car to get to work. Replacing bearings today for sticking back brakes. all interior accessories are broken; cosmetic mirror, ashtray, center console, passenger windshield wiper stripped motor, 1 window working. still owe on car but cannot fix everything. any help ????
- Exterior lighting
Traveling at night, once in heavy traffic with lights on low beam and other times in light or no traffic with lights on high beam, all outside lights go out creating a very dangerous situation. Does not matter if the manual switch IS used or if the lights are on automatic. The only thing that…
Traveling at night, once in heavy traffic with lights on low beam and other times in light or no traffic with lights on high beam, all outside lights go out creating a very dangerous situation. Does not matter if the manual switch IS used or if the lights are on automatic. The only thing that makes them come back on IS switching the high/ low beam switch. Miles traveled or length of time traveling makes no difference ...random occurrence. Replaced the headlight switches at a auto repair shop made no difference.
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2002 buick century. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal noise coming from the engine. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Exterior lighting
While driving, when high-beams were turned on the entire headlight system would shut down leaving driver with absolutely no visibility. Fortunately the headlights did come back on as the dimmer switch was activated and the low-beams did come back on. I can only use my low-beam headlights as this issue happens most times the switch IS activated.
- Steering · Unknown or other · Wheels
My lights are on the dashboard and it's saying anit-lock brakes and trac-off. There's a noise in the steering column.
- Exterior lighting
Headlights go out completely for a few seconds until the bright/dim IS switched and then come on. this has happened infrequently since fall of 2014. doesn't happen when at dealer service or when we test lights after returning home. dealer says can't be repaired until they can get the incident…
Headlights go out completely for a few seconds until the bright/dim IS switched and then come on. this has happened infrequently since fall of 2014. doesn't happen when at dealer service or when we test lights after returning home. dealer says can't be repaired until they can get the incident to repeat. lights are fine for a while & without warning the situation occurs again. very alarming! a friend with a buick regal 2002 has the same problem.
- Power train
Automatic transmission has very harsh shift between 1ST and 2ND gears and also between 2ND and 3RD. seems to happen after warmed up and on highway for awhile.
- Exterior lighting · Interior lighting
TL* the contact owns a 2002 buick century. The contact stated that the interior and exterior lighting intermittently failed without warning. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 51,000.
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2002 buick century. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 mph, the engine seized. The vehicle was not able to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to the contacts home. The failure recurred numerous times. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The vin was unavailable.
- Steering · Suspension
Driving thur ohio from mich ,hit large pot hole, did over one thousand dollars damage to the steering, could have been a lot worse, car must not be made properly to withstand hitting pot holes, this should be a safety issue there are hundreds of pot holes in all states . the state of ohio does not responsibility for there pot holes they are a drive at your risk state.... *tr
- Electrical system · Engine · Steering
I purchased the car from family auto easley sc, ive had several repairs on this car that didnt help, radiators, thermastat, water pump, hoses replace, alternator, coolant recovery tank has brown sludge inside, the windows didnt work, its moist inside from the floor being wet had a heating core…
I purchased the car from family auto easley sc, ive had several repairs on this car that didnt help, radiators, thermastat, water pump, hoses replace, alternator, coolant recovery tank has brown sludge inside, the windows didnt work, its moist inside from the floor being wet had a heating core put in didnt help, the carpet on the inside IS damaged, the paint IS coming off, had a alternator put in , run hot all the time, dosnt matter, buy coolant, oil put water in it, manifold gasket IS bad in it ive lost power several times, the last time I did it was on nov 6 this year on the way to work lost power while driving ran into a gurad gate right beside a dumpster, I had to get it towed, its in the shop getting the bumper fixed, I had to get a rental car, I had to get my car refinance with dilco of greenville sc he couldnt believe how much I was charge for this car over 13,000.00 dollars, so I was over charged and sold a lemon and its not fair to me and this car IS not safe for me or anyone to drive, I want to be able to drive a car without being afriad if im going to make it or not or get stranded
- Electrical system · Electrical system › Wiring
TL* the contact owns a 2002 buick century. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The technician diagnosed that the electrical wiring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 68,000.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 buick century. While driving 20 mph, the engine stalled. The dealer stated that the electrical system was faulty. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000. ..Updated 05/20/15 *bf updated 7/6/2015 *js
- Electrical system · Power train
The odometer cluster lights go out and sometimes come back on for a few minutes and back off while driving. Therefore you can not see mileage and the shifting of gears. The dealer recommends sending it back to the factory for 2 weeks while they repair it at a cost of $ 2000.00 or drive the car without repairing. *tr
- Service brakes
Applied brakes for the stop sign and the pedal went all the way to the floor. As it turned out the brake line had rusted out and fluid was lost. *tr
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2002 buick century. When reversing or making a u-turn, the ABS warning indicator illuminated intermittently. The failure occurred on multiple occasions. The contact diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the failure was related to the braking system. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage and vin were unavailable.
- Exterior lighting
When I bought my 2002 buick century in 2003, I asked the dealer to turn off the drl on the car. They insisted they could not because of manufacturer & highway safety laws, but said I could contact the mfg. But that it required much paperwork & an extensively satisfactory reason for this to be done…
When I bought my 2002 buick century in 2003, I asked the dealer to turn off the drl on the car. They insisted they could not because of manufacturer & highway safety laws, but said I could contact the mfg. But that it required much paperwork & an extensively satisfactory reason for this to be done, so I quit asking. Once again I have decided to try to get the drl on my car turned off, since it seems to cause so much confusion to on coming traffic when I am signaling to change lane or turn. I contacted buick & got customer support rep, that had no idea what drl even IS, & declined to escalate my case up. At best she told me to go to a dealer. So the dealer tells me to go the the mfg. Then the mfg tells me to go to the dealer. Can you do anything to help me? All I want IS to drive my car without the parking lights on! I thought it was illegal to drive with parking lights on. *tr
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.
- 11009156This 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.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242298This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10240793This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
- 10236164This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232811This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10230697This Preliminary information communicates to the technician the need to inspect the induction system for potential icing issues in very cold ambient temperatures. To allow the ice to melt so that it can be drained from the related components. That any of the listed DTC's may set with or without poor engine performance.
Every Buick Century model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.