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Maintenance Information Buick Century V

Procedures 9 illustrations ~2490 words

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 1

Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation
Scheme 1: VIN Code ID Explanation

SHORT TRIP/CITY & LONG TRIP/HIGHWAY SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Starting in the 1996 model year, General Motors has renamed their maintenance schedules; One is referred to as the Short-Trip/City and the other is the Long Trip/Highway schedule. These schedule requirements are similar to the familiar Severe Service and Normal schedules and can be used in place of one another.

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions

Severe Service

  1. Short Trips (4 Miles Or Less)
  2. When Most Trips Are Less Than 10 Miles And Outside Temperatures Remain Below Freezing.
  3. Towing Or Heavily Loaded
  4. Severe Dust Conditions
  5. Hot Weather, Stop-And-Go Driving
  6. Extensive Idling Conditions (Taxi Or Delivery Type Service)

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. No Severe Service Operating Conditions

Scheme 2

Scheme 2: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS
Scheme 2: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS

Scheme 3

Scheme 3
Scheme 3

Scheme 4

Scheme 4
Scheme 4

Scheme 5

Scheme 5
Scheme 5

Scheme 6

Scheme 6
Scheme 6

Note. For more information regarding jacking or hoisting the vehicle, refer to the JACKING & HOISTING article in the WHEEL ALIGNMENT section.

Scheme 7

Scheme 7: INFORMATION LABEL LOCATIONS
Scheme 7: INFORMATION LABEL LOCATIONS

Scheme 8

Scheme 8
Scheme 8

SERVICE LABOR TIMES

Note. For 1990 and newer vehicles, labor times are provided, where available, within appropriate SERVICE INTERVAL table in SCHEDULED SERVICES article.

TIRE INFLATION

The tire specification decal is located on rear of the driver's door.

WHEEL TIGHTENING

Tighten all standard wheel lug nuts to 100 ft. lbs. (135 N.m).

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See the COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section.

1987-90

Models with VIN Code "R" and Heavy Duty models use Group 75A-72 batteries. Models with VIN Code "T" and "W" use Group 75-60 batteries.

1991

2.5L, 3.1L and 3.3L engines use Group 75-630 batteries.

1993-96

2.2L, 2.5L and 3.3L engines use Group 75-A-72 batteries.

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) AIR BAG SYSTEM

Note. See the AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Section.

The SRS has no user-servicable parts. Always have servicing done by an authorized dealer.

WARNINGTo avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT section.
CAUTIONDisconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system, steering column or passenger side dash component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of accidental air bag inflation

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)

CAUTIONNever mix different diameter tires. On loose or uneven surfaces, the ABS system may require longer stopping distances than conventional brake systems. Exercise caution when removing mud or snow from the wheels so as not to damage the ABS wiring or speed sensors.

BATTERY WARNING

WARNINGWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See appropriate COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section below.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR

Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

Continued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and vehicle.

COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)

CAUTIONTo avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C).
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C); Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C).
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

WARNINGMany solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.

ENGINE OIL

CAUTIONNever use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

WARNINGRelieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component (fuel injection models).

HALOGEN BULBS

WARNINGHalogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.

RADIATOR CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

RADIATOR FAN

WARNINGKeep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONDue to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options.

BUMPER TO BUMPER PLUS COVERAGE LIMITED WARRANTY

Everything covered for 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Covered by this warranty are any repairs to vehicle which have proven defective during material and workmanship in normal use (tires excluded). Warranty repairs (parts and labor) will be made by the Dealer at no charge using new or remanufactured parts by the Dealer. This warranty is subject to a 100 deductible for each repair visit after the first year or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Maintenance items are covered up to their first scheduled replacement interval only.

Note. 1992-93 vehicles are covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles with no deductible.

CORROSION COVERAGE

Covers any body sheet metal panel that rusts through due to corrosion. Begins at warranty start date and lasts 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first (with no deductible).

EMISSIONS DEFECT WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Warrants that the vehicle is free from defects in materials and workmanship which cause the car to fail to conform with EPA regulations for a period of use of 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Begins on the date the car is delivered to the first retail purchaser. Emission related defects in the genuine GM components listed below including reasonable related diagnostic costs, are covered by this warranty.

  1. Engine Control Module, Associated Sensors And Parts
  2. Fuel Injection System
  3. Thermostatic Air Cleaner System
  4. Ignition Parts And Associated Controls, Including Spark Plugs And Ignition Wires
  5. Catalytic Converter And Associated Parts
  6. Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve And Associated Parts
  7. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve And Associated Controls
  8. Air Pump, Air Distributor And Valves
  9. Vapor Storage Canister And Associated Controls, Fuel Tank Filler Cap And Restrictor
  10. Miscellaneous Items Used In The Above Systems Such As Hoses, Clamps, Belts, Pulleys, Tubes, Fittings, Mounting Hardware, Sealing Devices, Etc.

EMISSIONS PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Owner may be eligible for Emissions Performance Warranty if all of the following conditions apply

  1. Vehicle has been maintained in accordance with the instructions for proper maintenance and use set forth in Owner's Manual.
  2. Vehicle fails to conform for a period of 5 years or 50,000 miles whichever occurs first, to the applicable emission standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as judged by an EPA-approved I/M test.
  3. The failure to conform results or will result in the owner of the vehicle having to bear a penalty or other sanctions under local, state or federal law.

If these conditions are met, GM warrants that dealer will replace, repair or adjust to GM specification, at no charge, any of the above listed components which may be necessary to cause your car to conform to applicable emission standards. Non-GM parts labeled "Certified to EPA Standards" are also covered by this warranty.

EMISSIONS PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

Warrants that the car is free from defects in materials and workmanship which cause the car to fail to pass a California smog check test for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Dealer will replace, repair or adjust to GM specification any genuine GM components which may be necessary to ensure that your car passes the smog test.

EMISSIONS DEFECT WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

Warrants that specific emission-related parts (listed above) are free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

FUSES & CIRCUIT BREAKERS

WARNINGAlways disconnect battery ground cable before servicing "high-current fuses. It is recommended that "high-current" fuses be replaced by a qualified technician.

Scheme 9

Scheme 9: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1987-89 CENTURY)
Scheme 9: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1987-89 CENTURY)

Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification

  1. 10 Amp (Red) Electronic Control Module
  2. 10 Amp (Red) Throttle Body Ignition, Oil Pressure Switch, Fuel Pump Relay
  3. 10 Amp (Red) Computer Command Control, Electronic Control Module
  4. 20 Amp (Yellow) Choke Heater
  5. 15 Amp (Light Blue) Turn Flasher, Back-Up Lights, Trunk & Tailgate Release
  6. 25 Amp (White) Starter Signal to ECM
  7. 20 Amp (Yellow) Taillights
  8. 25 Amp (White) Heater & Air Conditioner, Electric Trunk Release
  9. 10 Amp (Red) Electric Rear Window Defogger, Electronic Chimes, Gauges, Vehicle Speed Sensor, Air Conditioner Relay Transaxle Converter Clutch Brake Switch, Indicator Lights, SERVICE ENGINE SOON Light, Vacuum Warning Module, Automatic Level Control (1987), Illuminated Entry (1987), BRAKE Warning Light
  10. 25 Amp (White) Windshield Wiper Motor
  11. 20 Amp (Yellow) Dome Lights, Horn Relay, Cigarette Lighter, Glove Box, Air Conditioner Relay, Power Locks, Power Antenna, Automatic Level Control (1987)
  12. 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Window, Washer/Wiper, Tailgate On Wagons
  13. 5 Amp (Tan) Instrument Panel Lights
  14. 10 Amp (Red) Radio, Cruise Control
  15. 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Seats, Electric Rear Window Defogger, Power Door Locks, Washer/Wiper, Tailgate On Wagons
  16. Blank
  17. 20 Amp (Yellow) Stoplight Switch, Hazard Flasher, Electronic Tone
  1. 1 - 15 Amp (Blue) Electronic Control Module
  2. 2 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Injector/Coil
  3. 3 - 20 Amp (Yellow) (1990-92) A/C, Vapor Canister 10 Amp (Red) (1993) A/C Relay, EGR, Canister Purge Solenoid
  4. 4 - 10 Amp (Red) Fan/Alternator, DRL Module
  5. 5 - 15 Amp (Light Blue) Turn Flasher, Back-Up Lights, Trunk & Tailgate Release
  6. 6 - 25 Amp (Clear) Fog/ABS 15 Amp (Blue) Remote Lock Control 10 Amp (Red) Air Bag System
  7. 7 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Taillights, Parking Lights (1992-93), Side Marker Lights 1992-93), License Plate Light (1992-93), Stoplights & Turn Signals (1992-93)
  8. 8 - 25 Amp (Clear) (1990-92) Heater & Air Conditioner, Electric Trunk Release (1990-91) 20 Amp (Yellow) (1993) Heater & Air Conditioner
  9. 9 - 10 Amp (Red) Electric Rear Window Defogger, Electronic Chimes (1990-91), Gauges, Vehicle Speed Sensor, Air Conditioner Relay 1990-91), Transaxle Converter Clutch Brake Switch, Indicator Lights, SERVICE ENGINE SOON Light, Vacuum Warning Module, BRAKE Warning Light, Audible Warning System (1992-93), Computer Command Control (1992-93), Trunk Release (1992-93)
  10. 10 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Stoplights, Hazard Lights
  11. 11 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Dome Lights (1990-91), Horn Relay, Cigarette Lighter 1990-91), Glove Box (1990-91), Air Conditioner Relay, Power Locks, Power Antenna, Interior Lights (1992-93), Underhood Light (1992-93), Ashtray/Courtesy Lights (1992-93), Instrument Panel Lights (1992-93), Trunk Light (1992-93), Passive Restraint System (1992-93), Deck Lid Release (92-93)
  12. 12 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Window, Washer/Wiper, Tailgate On Wagons
  13. 13 - 5 Amp (Tan) Instrument Panel Lights
  14. 14 - 10 Amp (Red) Radio, Cruise Control
  15. 15 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Power Seats, Electric Rear Window Defogger, Power Door Locks, Washer/Wiper, Tailgate On Wagons (1990-91)
  16. 16 - 25 Amp (Clear) Wiper Switch Assembly
  17. 17 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Cigarette Lighter
  1. 1 - 15 Amp Electronic Control Module, MAF Sensor (3100 Eng. only)
  2. 2 - 20 Amp (Yellow) ECM Injector/Coil
  3. 3 - 5 Amp Automatic Door Lock/Unlock (Remove this fuse to disable the automatic door unlock feature)
  4. 4 - 10 Amp Electric Fan, Starter and Generator, Cruise Control Sequential Fuel Injection (V-6), Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
  5. 5 - 15 Amp Turn Flasher, Back-Up Lights, Trunk & Tailgate Release
  6. 6 - 10 Amp Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (Air Bag)
  7. 7 - 20 Amp Taillights, Parking Lights, Side Marker Lights, License Plate Light, Stoplights & Turn Signals
  8. 8 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Heater & Air Conditioner
  9. 9 - 10 Amp I/P Gauges, Warning Indicator, Torque Converter Clutch, Audible Warning System, Computer Command Control, Trunk Release, Brake Warning Indicator, Rear Defog. Switch, Remote Keyless Entry, Speedometer, Air Bag (DERM)
  10. 10 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Stoplights, Hazard Lights
  11. 11 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Interior, Underhood, Courtesy, I/P, Trunk Lights, Door Locks, Horn Relay, Passive Restraint System, Deck Lid Release, Power Antenna, Remote Keyless Entry, Vanity Mirror
  12. 12 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Liftgate Release, Power Windows
  13. 13 - 5 Amp Illumination for: I/P, Radio, Pod Lights, Ashtray, Console Light, Heater-A/C Control, Defog Switch, Headlight Switch
  14. 14 - 10 Amp Radio, Cruise Control
  15. 15 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Seats, Door Locks, Rear Defogger, Power Seat Recliner, Rear Window Wiper, Trunk Release
  16. 16 - 25 Amp Windshield Wiper/Wash
  17. 17 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Cigarette Lighter
  1. 1 - 10 Amp Electronic Fuel Injection (L4), Computer Command Control V6), Torque Converter Clutch
  2. 2 - 10 Amp Electronic Fuel Injection (L4), Air Conditioning Compressor, Fuel Pump
  3. 3 - 20 Amp Stoplights, Turn Signals, Parking Lights
  4. 4 - 20 Amp Choke Heater, Coolant Fan, Fuel Pump, Charging System, Vacuum Pump
  5. 5 - 15 Amp Turn Signals, Back-Up Lights, Trailer Adaptor, Power Rear Lid Release, Foglights
  6. 6 - 10 Amp Electronic Fuel Injection (L4), Alternator, Engine Cooling Fan
  7. 7 - 20 Amp Chimes, Electronic Instrument Cluster (1987), Exterior Lights (Except Head & Back-Up), Sound System, Underhood Light
  8. 8 - 25 Amp Heater & Air Conditioner, Power Rear Lid Release
  9. 9 - 10 Amp A/C Compressor (L4), Chimes/Buzzers, Brake Warning, System, Computer Command Control (V6), Rear Window Defogger, Digital Electronic Level Control, Torque Converter Clutch (1987), Fuel Injection (EFI & MFI), Auto-Calculator (1987)
  10. 10 - 25 Amp Windshield Wiper/Washer Motor
  11. 11 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Chimes/Buzzers, Lighter, Instrument Panel Clock, Horn, Interior Lights, Electronic Level Control, Power Antenna, Power Door Locks, Radio/Digital Clock, Power Rear Lid Release 1987), Auto-Calculator (1987)
  12. 12 - Blank
  13. 13 - 5 Amp Instrument Panel Lights, Instrument Panel Clock, Rear Window Defogger, Console Shift Indicator, Auto-Calculator (1987)
  14. 14 - 10 Amp Cruise Control, Power Antenna, Radio/Digital Clock
  15. 15 - Blank
  16. 16 - 10 Amp Computer Command Control, Fuel Pump Relay
  17. 17 - Blank
  1. 1 - 15 Amp ECM Injectors (1989-90), Ignition (1989-90), ECM, MAF Sensor LG7)
  2. 2 - 20 Amp ECM Injectors (C3I & LG7), Coil (1992)
  3. 3 - 20 Amp (1989-90) 10 Amp (1991-92) Engine A/C Relay, EGR Solenoid, Canister Purge Solenoid
  4. 4 - 10 Amp Fan/Electrical, Heat Resistor (1989-90), Alternator, DRL Module
  5. 5 - 15 Amp Turn Signals, Back-Up Lights, Trunk/Tailgate Release (With Automatic Transmission), Fog Lights Relay (1989-90)
  6. 6 - Blank (1989-90) 15 Amp (1991-92) Remote Lock Control
  7. 7 - 20 Amp Tail, Park Lights, Side Marker, License Plate Light, Stop/Turn Signal
  8. 8 - 25 Amp (1989-92) Heater & Air Conditioner
  9. 9 - 10 Amp Gauges, Warning Indicators, Torque, Convert Clutch, Audible Warning, System, Computer Command Control, Trunk Release, BRAKE Warning, Indicator, Rear Defogger Switch, A/C Relay 1989-90), Speedometer
  10. 10 - 20 Amp Stoplights, Hazard Flasher
  11. 11 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Interior Lights, Underhood Lights, Ashtray, Courtesy Lights, Instrument Panel, Trunk Lights, Passive Restraint (1989-91), Door Locks, Horn Relay
  12. 12 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Tailgate Release, Power Windows, Sun Roof (1989-90), Rear Wiper/Washer (1989-90)
  13. 13 - 5 Amp Illumination Lights for: Instrument Panel, Radio, Pod Lights, Ashtray Console, Heater-A/C Control, Driver Info System 1989-91), Defogger Switch, Foglights Switch (1989-90), Headlight Switch (1991-92)
  14. 14 - 10 Amp Radio, Cruise Control
  15. 15 - 15 Amp (Circuit Breaker) (1989-92) Seats, Door Locks, Rear Defogger, Rear Wiper (1989-91)
  16. 16 - 25 Amp Windshield Wiper/Washer
  17. 17 - Blank (1989-90) 20 Amp (1991-92) Seat Belt Light, Cigarette Lighter
  1. 1 - 15 Amp Electronic Control Module, MAF Sensor (3100 Eng. only)
  2. 2 - 20 Amp (Yellow) ECM Injector/Coil
  3. 3 - 5 Amp Automatic Door Lock/Unlock (Remove this fuse to disable the automatic door unlock feature)
  4. 4 - 10 Amp Electric Fan, Starter and Generator, Cruise Control Sequential Fuel Injection (V-6), Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
  5. 5 - 15 Amp Turn Flasher, Back-Up Lights, Trunk & Tailgate Release
  6. 6 - 10 Amp Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (Air Bag)
  7. 7 - 20 Amp Taillights, Parking Lights, Side Marker Lights, License Plate Light, Stoplights & Turn Signals
  8. 8 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Heater & Air Conditioner
  9. 9 - 10 Amp I/P Gauges, Warning Indicator, Torque Converter Clutch, Audible Warning System, Computer Command Control, Trunk Release, Brake Warning Indicator, Rear Defog. Switch, Remote Keyless Entry, Speedometer, Air Bag (DERM)
  10. 10 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Stoplights, Hazard Lights
  11. 11 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Interior, Underhood, Courtesy, I/P, Trunk Lights, Door Locks, Horn Relay, Passive Restraint System, Deck Lid Release, Power Antenna, Remote Keyless Entry, Vanity Mirror
  12. 12 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Liftgate Release, Power Windows
  13. 13 - 5 Amp Illumination for: I/P, Radio, Pod Lights, Ashtray, Console Light, Heater-A/C Control, Defog Switch, Headlight Switch
  14. 14 - 10 Amp Radio, Cruise Control
  15. 15 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) Seats, Door Locks, Rear Defogger, Power Seat Recliner, Rear Window Wiper, Trunk Release
  16. 16 - 25 Amp Windshield Wiper/Wash
  17. 17 - 20 Amp (Yellow) Cigarette Lighter

See also:
• JACKING & HOISTING