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2003
Buick Century

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$21,235
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2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century 2003 Buick Century

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Expert 2003 Buick Century review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Posted on 10/23/2002
Vehicle Overview
Last reworked for the 1997 model year, Buick’s mainstay midsize front-wheel-drive sedan has been the company’s most popular model. Older buyers, in particular, tend to like the Century’s front bench seat, which offers space for three occupants.

Antilock brakes are no longer standard for the 2003 model year. The Century’s body gets a fresh look with a new graphite/chrome grille, chrome door-header openings, and new body-colored fascias and side molding. Additional interior trim padding aims to improve head-impact protection. New wood-grain switch plate covers are installed, and two new body colors will be offered.

Constructed from the same basic design as the sportier Regal, the four-door Century is more conservative in appearance, which helps account for its appeal to older buyers. Beneath the hood is a 3.1-liter V-6 engine, which differs from the Regal’s 3.8-liter power plant.

The Century has been a long-time rival of the full-size Buick LeSabre in the race to be the most popular Buick model. In its regular form, the Century’s front bench seat provides six-passenger capacity, which is offered on only a handful of midsize models.

Exterior
Although its styling is related to that of the jauntier Regal, the Century has a different grille, rear styling features, body trim and wheels. That makes it relatively easy to tell the two apart at a glance. Both Buick sedans are 72.7 inches wide, stand 56.6 inches tall and ride a 109-inch wheelbase, but at 194.6 inches long overall, the Century is a little shorter than the Regal.

Interior
Other than the Century’s bench seating — vs. the Regal’s sportier front bucket seats — these cars’ interiors are very similar. The Century comes in a single trim level, but Custom and Limited option groups are available. All versions of the Century have a three-place front bench seat with a folding center armrest that includes storage space. Trunk capacity totals 16.7 cubic feet.

Standard equipment includes dual-zone air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, remote keyless entry, an AM/FM radio, and power windows and door locks. The Custom package adds folding power mirrors, cruise control, a cassette stereo and a six-way power driver’s seat. The Limited sedan features leather-surfaced seat trim and chrome wheel covers. GM’s OnStar communication system is a factory-installed option.

Under the Hood
A 3.1-liter V-6 engine produces 175 horsepower and drives a four-speed-automatic transmission. The higher-performing Regal, by comparison, holds a 3.8-liter V-6.

Safety
Antilock brakes with traction control are optional. A side-impact airbag for the driver’s seat is optional with a leather-trimmed interior.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2003 Buying Guide

2003 Buick Century review: Our expert's take

Posted on 10/23/2002
Vehicle Overview
Last reworked for the 1997 model year, Buick’s mainstay midsize front-wheel-drive sedan has been the company’s most popular model. Older buyers, in particular, tend to like the Century’s front bench seat, which offers space for three occupants.

Antilock brakes are no longer standard for the 2003 model year. The Century’s body gets a fresh look with a new graphite/chrome grille, chrome door-header openings, and new body-colored fascias and side molding. Additional interior trim padding aims to improve head-impact protection. New wood-grain switch plate covers are installed, and two new body colors will be offered.

Constructed from the same basic design as the sportier Regal, the four-door Century is more conservative in appearance, which helps account for its appeal to older buyers. Beneath the hood is a 3.1-liter V-6 engine, which differs from the Regal’s 3.8-liter power plant.

The Century has been a long-time rival of the full-size Buick LeSabre in the race to be the most popular Buick model. In its regular form, the Century’s front bench seat provides six-passenger capacity, which is offered on only a handful of midsize models.

Exterior
Although its styling is related to that of the jauntier Regal, the Century has a different grille, rear styling features, body trim and wheels. That makes it relatively easy to tell the two apart at a glance. Both Buick sedans are 72.7 inches wide, stand 56.6 inches tall and ride a 109-inch wheelbase, but at 194.6 inches long overall, the Century is a little shorter than the Regal.

Interior
Other than the Century’s bench seating — vs. the Regal’s sportier front bucket seats — these cars’ interiors are very similar. The Century comes in a single trim level, but Custom and Limited option groups are available. All versions of the Century have a three-place front bench seat with a folding center armrest that includes storage space. Trunk capacity totals 16.7 cubic feet.

Standard equipment includes dual-zone air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, remote keyless entry, an AM/FM radio, and power windows and door locks. The Custom package adds folding power mirrors, cruise control, a cassette stereo and a six-way power driver’s seat. The Limited sedan features leather-surfaced seat trim and chrome wheel covers. GM’s OnStar communication system is a factory-installed option.

Under the Hood
A 3.1-liter V-6 engine produces 175 horsepower and drives a four-speed-automatic transmission. The higher-performing Regal, by comparison, holds a 3.8-liter V-6.

Safety
Antilock brakes with traction control are optional. A side-impact airbag for the driver’s seat is optional with a leather-trimmed interior.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2003 Buying Guide

Safety review

Based on the 2003 Buick Century base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
4/5
Frontal passenger
3/5
Nhtsa rollover rating
4/5
Side driver
3/5
Side rear passenger
3/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
3 years / 36,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / up to 75,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years / 100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Dealer certification
172-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.6 / 5
Based on 51 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.7
Interior 4.4
Performance 4.7
Value 4.7
Exterior 4.3
Reliability 4.7

Most recent

  • Understated Elegance

    All these years of me looking right through most any generations of Buick Century’s until I inherited this 2003 Century Custom. I was dumbfounded at the reliability, and believe it or not, the subtle styling & major comfort & ride. Aside from owner neglect, the car started right up after having sat for months and idle for weeks in literal sub-zero temps as if it were in a heated garage all this time. I expected a rough & rattling ride on my first drive home with it, but I was amazed at the quietness & the gliding of the suspension. These Century’s are certainly an under-appreciated vehicle.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Love her

    I have owned this car for more than 4 years now. I call her my "grandma car" but she kicks arse. Im a sungle mom amd my youngeat has special needs we do 2-5 hour trips for specialist, testing, surgeries and it is very reliable and comfortable too. I feel pretty safe in this vehicle vs so many others i have owned. She had never left me broke down or stranded the only issues was the under body being severely rusted most likely due to sitting in grass prior to me getting her. I've had to replace so many parts but that us just part of car ownership. She has less than 80,000 miles and runs like a champ. Her body will take a 💩 due to the reasoning stated above and the engine will still likely be a beast.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • If you can find a decent one purchase.

    The year is 2022. I'm driving a 2003 Buick century. With 73,000miles. This car has been to 2 mechanic for an oil change and radiator flush. Both of them said the car is in great shape for it's age. One issue is paint peeled off the bumper and of course is out of warranty. This car is my dad's but now belongs to me. Great sturdy dependable car decent gas mileage. Has lot of bells and whistles even had OnStar. You feel like you are in a luxury car
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Old, But Still Kickin'

    I inherited mine from my late Grandma. It was in pretty rough shape, but a little love got her running like new. She's got over 76k miles on her, but handles like when Gramps first drove it home. I've had some minor issues with my sensors displaying a random "service this-or-that" after a full diagnostic and major work, but otherwise no mechanical issues that weren't from the previous owner's neglect. If you need a reliable car that doesn't draw unwanted attention, this is it. Nice enough to drive in most places, discreet enough to not likely be targeted by thieves.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    10 people out of 11 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • I highly recommend this car.

    Very comfortable and easy to drive. It's also very reliable . Great car all in all ! No problems what so ever. I definitely recommend the Buick Century.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Buicks are a best kept secret....

    My mother bought a 2003 Buick before she passed away in 2011. I didn’t have a vehicle because of living overseas, so I inherited it. My brothers turned up their noses, so I started thinking it was considered an ‘old persons’ car. Now, I am the one to boast because it has treated me so well over the last 8 years. I drove 3,000 miles to N.C. and back to AZ and the only issue was that one of my tires blew, but I should have replaced it before the trip. I get yearly maintenance done on it, which is the key. I think it has great pick-up to getting on the freeway. At Lake Tahoe, I couldn’t remember where I had parked my car on the street. Two German men passed me and asked if they could help me find it. They asked what kind of car it was. When I told them it was a Century Buick they laughed and commented, “Oh, don’t worry about anyone stealing it.” Maybe that’s another plus. The thieves leave it alone.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great riding car.

    This would make a great everyday driver or excellent choice for 1st car. A lot of safety features and it is made of steel NOT plastic.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great shape for its age

    Car met all my needs. Needed a spare car while truck was being held hostage by Chevy strike lack of parts. Perfect car to have as a spare vehicle.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Reliable, comfortable, and inexpensive vehicle.

    Owned this car through college. Great for long distances (comfortable and decent mileage), great trunk space, and will drive 100-200k miles if maintenanced properly. Word content not long enough.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Has Had a GM "Doctor" its whole Life

    This vehicle is perfect for someone who needs reliable comfortable transportation that should last for many many years.. With only 94,500 after 15 years the car is just "broke in".. It is powerful---will take most Az highway hills at 70-75 mph in cruise control.. Passing up a good slew of the new "geared 4 bangers" in pure comfort--yes with the ac on. We did not plan onreplacing this car untiul we got a crazy deal on a new car. We just had brakes---les than 2k miles, Battery 3 months, new Pirelli tires less than 2000 on 90,000 mile rated worderful Pirelli's (better than Michelan Defenders
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Cared For By GM Mechanic & Garage Kept

    A well cared for vehicle---new tires, brakes, battery---cared for all it's lie by the same GM mechanic. Only 94,400 miles for a 15 yr old car---no performance, body issues. Sunroof is a nice feature for the milder weather
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Awesome vehicle!

    Bought this vehicle yesterday 6-7-2018, vehicle had approx. 12,800 miles like brand new! This car is awesome , had all the fluids changed and detailed, handles and drives perfect! This car will be in the family for many years to come!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Buick dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2003 Buick Century?

The 2003 Buick Century is available in 1 trim level:

  • Custom (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2003 Buick Century?

The 2003 Buick Century offers up to 20 MPG in city driving and 29 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2003 Buick Century?

The 2003 Buick Century compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2003 Buick Century reliable?

The 2003 Buick Century has an average reliability rating of 4.7 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2003 Buick Century owners.

Is the 2003 Buick Century a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2003 Buick Century. 94.1% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.6 / 5
Based on 51 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.7
  • Interior: 4.4
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 4.7
  • Exterior: 4.3
  • Reliability: 4.7
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