Suspension complaints by model year
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, springs).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
Recently, in dec. 2008 my car had a suspension component part replaced. My 2004 Buick Century just 4 yrs. Old and 60,000 miles needed to have the front stabilizer bar replaced. It appears that a design defect May be the problem resulting in premature failure. The stabilizer bar actually cracked at both ends of the mounting plate. I did ask for the original part for future references. Most of us would agree that this suspension component should not have needed to be replaced at this point. My mechanic said "he has seen this before on these models" and is checking them during the safety inspection which is how mine was discovered. I do believe that general motors should issue a recall and that I should be reimbursed. This should not have to be replaced, at least not at such an early stage. …
While driving driver's side and passenger's side windows when rolled down or half way down a loud vibrating sound was heard coming from the rear. This caused pressure to the ears. Consumer took vehicle to the dealer, and mechanic informed consumer that a problem existed, but a solution had not been determined at this time. Consumer has a second address for the winter 108 pine place, wildwood, fl 34785, [phone]. The violent vibration and pressure occurred when the rear window(s) were down and severely effected the consumer and passengers ears.
My vehicle was receiving a PA state required annual mechanical safety inspection by an ASE certified mechanic. I was informed that the "sway bar" which stabilizes the steering system had failed, and as a critical part of the steering operation, the vehicle could not pass a PA state mechanical safety inspection. I had the "sway bar" replaced with the GM re-designed part at considerable expense to pass the PA state safety inspection. The ASE certified mechanic advised me that he had replaced many mechanical failures like mine (broken lug ends) before GM changed the design to one that could withstand the application (a solid forging as opposed to a sheet metal fabrication). …
Service engine light and gas light came on. Code read at autozone indicated po135- oxygen sensor. Two days later, both check engine lights came on, security, battery and gas lights. Even revved up and had other issues with fuel economy and compressor kicking on and failing to start. Other issues, popping noise when turning steering wheel. The consumer stated the manufacturer was contacted. The manufacturer offered a loyalyty certificate a leased vehucle or a possible reimbursement of 500.00 for repairs. Neither of the remedies satisfied the consumer. The consumer requested to have the vehicle repaired at no cost or be reimbursed 3,500.
Driving thur ohio from mich ,hit large pot hole, did over one thousand dollars damage to the steering, could have been a lot worse, car must not be made properly to withstand hitting pot holes, this should be a safety issue there are hundreds of pot holes in all states . The state of ohio does not responsibility for there pot holes they are a drive at your risk state....
While performing maintenance (wheel bearing replacement) I discovered a through and through crack in the steering knuckle at the point of attachment of the tie rod end on the drivers side, the casting was split which would have allowed the tie rod to disconnect and potentially fatal consequences. The car is a 2002 Buick Century custom with 138,000 miles.
Tl contact owns a 2001 Buick Century. The contact stated that he took the vehicle to a repair shop to have the brakes repaired. He was informed that the front lower control arm, sway bar shaft and all of the bushings attached to the parts were covered with rust. The vehicle was repaired. The contact called the manufacturer but was offered no assistance since he did not take the vehicle to an authorized dealer for repairs. The current and failure mileages were 32,787. Updated 10/21/10. Updated 10/25/10
When changing gears vehicle really feels rough. Consumer can feel transmission moving like something is broken.when in first and reverse gear the vehicle will not hold on grade at idle. The engine races and disengages itself from the transmission and thunks into gear. The engine feels funny when resuming acceleration from coast speed as though it is moving on mounts. The engine feels as if it will cut off. There is a whine from the engine compartment. The engine cabin containers are impossible to open. Steering column and casing gives slight movement during acceleration and braking. This was partially corrected by replacement of the ball joint tie rod end (right side). There are exhaust fumes being emmitted into the cabin. Possible defect with the catalytic convertor. The oil drain plug shows signs of leaking. Also, the brakes seem under powered. …
Frequently asked questions
Which Buick Century years have suspension problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 1999 (10), 1998 (8), 2000 (8), 1996 (7) and 1995 (6) model years. Suspension complaints make up 4% of all complaints for the 1999.
Is there a recall for Buick Century suspension problems?
No. NHTSA lists no suspension recall for any Buick Century model year. A widespread problem may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin, so ask a dealer.
At what mileage do Buick Century suspension problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 76,000 miles; 44% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the front (19 mentions), followed by the rear (4).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.