Looking to buy a 2003 Century

[paqman]

Hey all, I'm shopping around for a reliable beater for my daughter to drive. I have never owned a Buick, never really held them in high regards in the reliability category, but I digress. There is a 2003 3.8L Century for sale near me and I'm going to go check it out tonight. Reason I'm interested is it's only $1500, seller says it runs great, looks to be in good condition, and states that the AC blows nice and cold. (obviously my own test drive and inspection will be the judge of all that)

The biggest concern is that I've read about the cheap intake manifold gaskets on these, and looks like they are PITA to change. So I was wondering if there are any tips to tell if it is having issues with that or if maybe it's already been fixed earlier on in it's life. Initially I just plan on checking for coolant leaks, oil in the coolant reservoir, check the radiator cap, stuff like that. But is there anything else with this car specifically I can check for? Last thing I want to do is buy a $1500 car that needs a $1500 fix. I mean I do most repairs myself, but this one does not look fun lol. I plan on going to look at it this evening, so anything you can tell me to look out for would be helpful. Thanks!

[brcidd]

My MIL has a 2002 century- 3.0L-- does good..but terrible, terrible corrosion on both fuel lines and brake lines underneath- a real PITA to replace. Brake lines leaked early on, then fuel lines. The worst area was at bend up under firewall.

[paqman]

Originally Posted by brcidd

My MIL has a 2002 century- 3.0L-- does good..but terrible, terrible corrosion on both fuel lines and brake lines underneath- a real PITA to replace. Brake lines leaked early on, then fuel lines. The worst area was at bend up under firewall.

Good to know thanks for that. The guy never responded to me last night so I didn't go look at it, but there are a few others I'm looking at as well.