2003 Buick Century Owner's Manual

2003 Buick Century owners manual
Year:
2003
Make:
Buick
Model:
Century
Rating:
(10)

Online manual

Size:
16.88 MB

Table of Contents

Table of Contents
2
Seats and Restraint Systems
8
Front Seats
9
Manual Seats
10
Six-Way Power Seats
10
Reclining Seatbacks
10
Head Restraints
12
Rear Seats
13
Split Folding Rear Seat
13
Safety Belts
14
Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone
14
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts
18
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
19
Driver Position
19
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
28
Right Front Passenger Position
28
Center Passenger Position
29
Rear Seat Passengers
31
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults
34
Safety Belt Extender
36
Child Restraints
37
Older Children
37
Infants and Young Children
39
Child Restraint Systems
43
Where to Put the Restraint
46
Top Strap
47
Top Strap Anchor Location
49
Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System)
49
Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System
52
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position
52
Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position
55
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position
57
Air Bag Systems
60
Where Are the Air Bags?
63
When Should an Air Bag Inflate?
65
What Makes an Air Bag Inflate?
66
How Does an Air Bag Restrain?
66
What Will You See After an Air Bag Inflates?
67
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
69
Restraint System Check
70
Checking Your Restraint Systems
70
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash
70
Features and Controls
72
Keys
73
Remote Keyless Entry System
75
Remote Keyless Entry System Operation
76
Doors and Locks
81
Door Locks
81
Power Door Locks
82
Programmable Automatic Door Locks
82
Lockout Protection
83
Leaving Your Vehicle
83
Trunk
84
Windows
86
Power Windows
87
Sun Visors
87
Theft-Deterrent Systems
88
PASS-Key II
88
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
90
New Vehicle Break-In
90
Ignition Positions
90
Starting Your Engine
91
Engine Coolant Heater
92
Automatic Transaxle Operation
94
Parking Brake
97
Shifting Into Park (P)
97
Shifting Out of Park (P)
100
Parking Over Things That Burn
100
Engine Exhaust
101
Running Your Engine While You Are Parked
102
Mirrors
103
Manual Rearview Mirror
103
Manual Rearview Mirror with OnStar
103
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror
104
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with OnStar
104
Outside Power Mirrors
105
Outside Convex Mirror
105
OnStar System
106
Storage Areas
108
Glove Box
108
Front Storage Area
108
Center Console Storage Area
108
Convenience Net
108
Sunroof
109
Instrument Panel
110
Instrument Panel Overview
111
Hazard Warning Flashers
112
Other Warning Devices
113
Horn
113
Tilt Wheel
113
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
114
Exterior Lamps
120
Interior Lamps
123
Auxiliary Power Connection (Power Drop)
125
Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter
125
Climate Controls
126
Dual Climate Control System
126
Dual Automatic Climate Control System
129
Outlet Adjustment
134
Passenger Compartment Air Filter
134
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators
136
Instrument Panel Cluster
137
Speedometer and Odometer
138
Safety Belt Reminder Light
138
Air Bag Readiness Light
139
Charging System Light
140
Brake System Warning Light
140
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
141
Enhanced Traction System Warning Light
142
Low Traction Light
143
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
143
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
144
Tire Pressure Light
144
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
145
Oil Pressure Light
148
Low Oil Level Light
149
Change Engine Oil Light
149
Security Light
150
Cruise Control Light
150
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light
151
Door/Trunk Ajar Warning Light
151
Service Vehicle Soon Light
151
Fuel Gage
152
Low Fuel Warning Light
152
Audio System(s)
153
Setting the Time
153
AM-FM Radio
154
Radio with Cassette (Base Level)
156
Radio with Cassette (Up Level)
160
Radio with Cassette and CD
164
Theft-Deterrent Feature
170
Audio Steering Wheel Controls
172
Understanding Radio Reception
173
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player
173
Care of Your CDs
174
Care of Your CD Player
174
Fixed Mast Antenna
174
Driving Your Vehicle
176
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle
177
Defensive Driving
177
Drunken Driving
178
Control of a Vehicle
181
Braking
181
Enhanced Traction System (ETS)
185
Steering
186
Off-Road Recovery
188
Passing
189
Loss of Control
190
Driving at Night
191
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
193
City Driving
196
Freeway Driving
197
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
198
Highway Hypnosis
199
Hill and Mountain Roads
199
Winter Driving
201
If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow
206
Towing
207
Towing Your Vehicle
207
Recreational Vehicle Towing
207
Loading Your Vehicle
208
Towing a Trailer
210
Service and Appearance Care
218
Service
220
Doing Your Own Service Work
221
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle
221
Fuel
222
Gasoline Octane
222
Gasoline Specifications
222
California Fuel
223
Additives
223
Fuels in Foreign Countries
224
Filling Your Tank
224
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
226
Checking Things Under the Hood
227
Hood Release
228
Engine Compartment Overview
229
Engine Oil
230
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
235
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
236
Engine Coolant
239
Radiator Pressure Cap
242
Engine Overheating
242
Cooling System
245
Power Steering Fluid
252
Windshield Washer Fluid
254
Brakes
255
Battery
259
Jump Starting
260
Headlamp Aiming
266
Bulb Replacement
268
Halogen Bulbs
268
Headlamps
268
Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps
269
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL)
270
Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps
271
Back-up Lamps
272
Replacement Bulbs
272
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
273
Tires
274
Inflation - Tire Pressure
274
Tire Pressure Monitor System
275
Tire Inspection and Rotation
277
When It Is Time for New Tires
278
Buying New Tires
279
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
280
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
281
Wheel Replacement
281
Tire Chains
283
If a Tire Goes Flat
283
Changing a Flat Tire
284
Compact Spare Tire
295
Appearance Care
296
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
296
Care of Safety Belts
299
Weatherstrips
299
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
299
Sheet Metal Damage
301
Finish Damage
301
Underbody Maintenance
302
Chemical Paint Spotting
302
GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
302
Vehicle Identification
304
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
304
Service Parts Identification Label
304
Electrical System
305
Add-on Electrical Equipment
305
Headlamp Wiring
305
Windshield Wiper Fuses
305
Power Windows and Other Power Options
305
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
306
Capacities and Specifications
311
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
312
Maintenance Schedule
314
Maintenance Schedule
315
Introduction
315
Your Vehicle and the Environment
315
Maintenance Requirements
315
How This Section is Organized
316
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services
317
Using Your Maintenance Schedule
317
Scheduled Maintenance
318
Part B: Owner Checks and Services
323
At Each Fuel Fill
323
At Least Once a Month
323
At Least Twice a Year
324
At Least Once a Year
324
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections
327
Steering, Suspension and Front Drive Axle Boot and Seal Inspection
327
Exhaust System Inspection
327
Fuel System Inspection
327
Engine Cooling System Inspection
327
Throttle System Inspection
328
Brake System Inspection
328
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
329
Part E: Maintenance Record
330
Customer Assistance Information
334
Customer Assistance Information
335
Customer Satisfaction Procedure
335
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users
337
Customer Assistance Offices
337
GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities
338
Roadside Assistance Program
338
Courtesy Transportation
340
Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government
342
Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government
342
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors
343
Service Publications Ordering Information
343
Index
346

2003 Buick Century Overview

Introduction

The 2003 Buick Century is a classic sedan that embodies elegance, comfort, and reliability. Positioned as an accessible entry into Buick's lineup, this model captures the essence of American automotive design and performance. With a strong emphasis on providing a smooth ride and a spacious interior, the Century is particularly appealing for families and those seeking a dependable vehicle for daily commuting. Its seasoned blend of style and functionality makes it a remarkable choice in the mid-size sedan market of its time.

Powertrains

Under the hood, the 2003 Buick Century is equipped with a robust 3.1-liter V6 engine that produces 175 horsepower, seamlessly paired with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain offers a refined driving experience, prioritizing comfort over aggressive performance. The engine’s efficiency provides commendable fuel economy, making the Century an appealing option for budget-conscious drivers without compromising on power or capability.

Trims

The 2003 Century is available in two primary trims: the base model and the more luxurious Custom trim. The base model offers essential features that ensure a comfortable driving experience, while the Custom trim adds upgrades like enhanced audio systems, leather upholstery, and additional safety features. This thoughtful tiering allows buyers to select a Century that best fits their lifestyle and preferences.

Features

The interior of the 2003 Buick Century is designed with passenger comfort in mind, featuring spacious seating for up to six people, ample legroom, and a user-friendly dashboard layout. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a CD player. Optionally, buyers can choose features like a premium sound system and a power-adjustable driver’s seat, providing added convenience and a touch of luxury to this practical sedan.

Owner's Manual

The owner's manual for the 2003 Buick Century is an essential resource for understanding the vehicle's operation and maintenance. It provides detailed information on the vehicle’s features, troubleshooting tips, and guidance on routine maintenance tasks. By following the recommendations in the manual, owners can ensure their Century remains in optimal condition, delivering reliability and comfort for years to come.

User manual download

The Buick Century owner manual for the 2003 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2003 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.

Posted by, John Mana author bio image
A passionate guy about car models, makes, and manuals.

Manual Questions

Do you have questions about the 2003 Buick Century owners manual?
Fill the form below and someone will help you!