1987 Buick Century Reliability ReportKeepScore 75/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 1987 Buick Century
- Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1988 Buick Century earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: rust and corrosion (major severity).
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline.
1987 Buick Century: Buy or Avoid?
The 1987 Buick Century represents a sturdy, no-frills slice of 80s American engineering that, while durable in its prime, now requires a highly pragmatic approach to ownership. Expect routine age-related issues, primarily electrical and rubber component degradation, but its simple mechanics and readily available parts make it a feasible project for the budget-conscious enthusiast. If you're looking for dependable, basic transportation, this car can deliver, provided you meticulously inspect for rust and prepare for proactive maintenance.
The 1987 Buick Century can be a charming and economical classic, but its age dictates that buyers must approach with a realistic expectation of immediate and ongoing maintenance. It's not a 'buy and forget' vehicle; rather, it's a solid platform for someone willing to invest time and modest funds into keeping it run…
Best Model Years
1986-1991 (this generation, particularly with the 3.8L V6)
Years to Avoid
No specific years to avoid within this generation; condition and maintenance history are paramount over specific model year differences.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust Buick 3.8L V6 engine (if equipped)
- Simple, common mechanical systems
- Excellent parts availability and low cost
1987 Buick Century — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Buick Century, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Severe rust commonly affects rocker panels, wheel wells, subframe mounts, brake lines, and fuel lines, compromising structural integrity and safety. This is particularly prevalent in northern climates.
Aging wiring harnesses, poor grounds, failing power window motors, intermittent dash lighting, and faulty sensors are widespread issues. This can lead to various non-critical but frustrating failures.
The 200-4R automatic transmission, while adequate, can develop shifting issues, slipping, or fluid leaks if not regularly serviced. Solenoid failures and wear on internal clutches are common with high mileage.
1987 Buick Century Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Buick Century most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, assuming proper prior maintenance, the car should operate largely as intended, with minimal age-related wear beyond basic fluid changes and tire rotations. Focus on ensuring service records are present for its early life.
Maintenance Zone
Standard preventative maintenance becomes more critical. Transmission fluid and filter changes, comprehensive inspection of belts and hoses, and addressing any minor suspension creaks are key. Age-related rubber component fatigue may begin.
Elevated Risk Zone
This mileage often heralds the onset of more significant age and wear-related issues. Electrical gremlins often appear, and major component services like a transmission fluid flush (if not done) or a complete cooling system overhaul beco…
High Risk Zone
At this point, most original wear items are well past their prime. Expect to budget for potential transmission rebuilds, significant rust remediation (if present), or extensive electrical diagnosis. A full assessment of all systems is im…
1987 Buick Century Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Buick Century on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., suspension refresh, electrical diagnosis)
How Long Does the 1987 Buick Century Last?
For a vehicle of this age, focus heavily on the car's overall condition and service history rather than just the odometer reading. A meticulously maintained 150,000-mile example is vastly preferable to a neglected 75,000-mile one.
What 1987 Buick Century Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Extremely comfortable, 'boulevard ride' suspension
- Very easy for DIY mechanics to work on; simple systems
- Parts are plentiful and remarkably inexpensive
- Spacious interior for its class with a large trunk
Common Frustrations
- Vague steering and significant body roll in corners
- Prone to rust, especially in colder climates
- Frequent, minor electrical annoyances (windows, gauges)
- Dated styling and interior aesthetics
Who Should Buy the 1987 Buick Century?
Best For
- Budget-conscious individuals seeking basic, comfortable transportation
- DIY mechanics looking for an easy project car
- Collectors on a tight budget who appreciate 80s American cars
Not Ideal For
- Drivers in heavy salt-belt regions without garage parking
- Anyone seeking modern refinement, performance, or fuel economy
How the 1987 Buick Century Compares to Rivals
The Century offers a traditional American comfortable ride and simple mechanics, making it easier and cheaper to repair than many imports. However, it lags behind Japanese competitors in terms of initial build quality, rustproofing, and electrical robustness, while not matchin…
More Reliable Than
- Chrysler K-Car derivatives (Dodge Aries, Plymouth Reliant)
- Ford Tempo/Topaz
- Many European sedans of the era (parts cost/availability)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Celebrity
- Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera
- Pontiac 6000
Safety Recalls on the 1987 Buick Century
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
What breaks on the 1987 Buick Century?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Buick Century — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Buick Century. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 1987s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Buick Century
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Buick Century
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Frequently Asked Questions
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