1989 Buick Century Limited review from North America

I had to replace the torque converter (TCC) solenoid. This cost $40, the dealership still had the part, and it took about two hours for me to do this in my driveway.

The exhaust system from the catalytic converter back needed to be replaced. It was the original exhaust, a one-piece welded assembly from the factory, and was badly rusted.

I replaced the oxygen sensor.

I replaced the alternator and drive belt. This went quickly.

The paint on the flat surfaces -- hood, roof, deck lid -- is fading badly, but this is common to GM cars of this era.

There is a rattling near the firewall which I believe to be resonance in the power steering lines. A new set of lines could fix this, but it is infrequent and not very annoying or mission-critical.

I flushed all of the fluids, transmission, radiator, changed oil, etc.

The brake rotors will eventually need replaced since they are rusty around the edges -- a common problem with GM cars of this vintage.

This is a great car. The 3.3L has more than enough power and acceleration to move the vehicle. Parts are cheap and plentiful -- example; 02 sensor, $17, brake rotors, $14, brake calipers, $12, etc. I could go on. The running costs are extremely low, reliability is high.

These cars can be had cheaply and will last a long time if maintained. I bought this car for $350. With less than $300 into it, I had a decent-running car getting approximately 23 mpg. around town -- higher on the highway.