1989 Buick Century Limited from Mexico - Comments

Problem:

The transmission cover had a small crack and oil was leaking.

Solution:

A small soldering job. (about US$200).

Problem:

Leveling system wasn't working properly.

Solution:

Changed the sensor. (about US$50).

Problem:

The car started to "kick" when accelerating and shifting from first to second gear.

Solution:

Fuel Injectors needed to be replaced.

Problem:

I almost "sunk" the car on a storm (almost 50cm./19in. deep).

Not an actual issue of the car, it was entirely my lack of experience and foolishness.

Obviously, the engine didn't start anymore.

The air filter was soaking wet.

The battery was dead.

Water got mixed with oil inside the engine.

Solution:

Some electrical parts were changed, I don't know which ones, the air filter as well as the engine and transmission oil were changed.

The engine started as soon as the battery got replaced, even before the oil and the other parts were changed, fixed or replaced.

It has lots of power, specially to pass and step roads.

All the issues listed before aren't a big deal if you consider this is a 12 year-old car.

It may appeal your grandpa or grandma, but it can get you comfortably to your destination (and quite fast).

I've drive this car on a highway up to 180Kph/110mph, and it felt rock steady.

This guy looks really satisfied with his car, although I think that the speed he states is not accurate, but anyway, this is a great car for a great value.

To the poster of the first comment, no aggression intented: Do you refer to the 110mph claim, or the "rock steady" claim? Most GM's, even 89's, have a governor at 125mph (I assume that one had it), so the Century can indeed achieve that speed, if that's what you mean. As for the "rock steady" claim, my 92 Olds is very steady at 105mph (fastest I've had it), and could probably get to the governor with no problem or loss of stability.

Cars built in Mexico aren't required to have governors, but the thing could probably hoist itself to 115 if given enough room. Today the governors are based on the tires included on that model... usually 108mph for normal GM passenger cars, and 99mph for std trucks.

I don't think being built in Mexico (assuming you are talking about a car destined for America) has anything to do with governors as much as lawyers. As you point out, if the car can outrun its standard tires there will be lots of lawsuits floating around.