1999 Buick Century - Replacement Parts

For non-junkyardable items (those things that wear or die of hidden failures) I usually hit Rockauto as they aggregate more OEM type parts than most suppliers.

Thanks, I'll have to look them up.

There are really only three sources for the replacement parts: A) Buick dealer, who will charge a high price B) an auto salvage yard that will charge less but sell you a used part; C) e-bay where the price could be whatever the buyer thinks he can get. However, first you need to determine whether the module and the fan don't function because of some internal fault or because of a broken electrical connection. Have you checked whether the module and fan are getting electric current?

Check if there is a Buick enthusiasts' website where you could post a question about these items

However, in light of your statement "I'm not very mechanically knowledgable when it comes to cars" you should think carefully about undertaking this task. With out a shop manual and some experience dealing with Buick electrical systems you may not be able to remove the non-functional parts and replace them without damaging other components.

Dennis Waller

1-there is current going to both parts. the odometer flickers on once in a very great while, and only for a second. I was thinking a possible loose connection.

2-the blower comes on briefly then in time begins to whine then scream. I was wondering about something possibly being stuck in the impeller. ( I do have a 6 year old son ).

3-I am very mechanically inclined and am very good at troubleshooting,am also an et. I just don't do much automotive work.

Thanks for your suggestions. I'll likely open the dash and check things out before trying to replace anything.

Wish me luck!

If the AC fan has sintered bronze bearings (not ball bearings) applying some oil might solve the problem, because it sounds like a dry bearing. But you still have to remove the fan from the car.

I strongly suggest you get a copy of the Buick shop manual because that will contain step by step instructions on how to remove and test these items.

Dennis Waller

If you find that the existing parts cannot be repaired try www.car-part.com

You can search the inventories of thousands of junk yards auto recycling centers nation wide and view part details, condition, price, etc.

Also on edit, you'll likely find that the cost to have a dealer or even reputable service center perform the repair will cost more than you could find a similar replacement auto in fully operational condition. I'd suggest to tackle it yourself if possible.

I've had an odometer stop working and checked with the dealer. $350. On the internet, $290 plus shipping. Junk yard, $20.

It was a lovely day. Birds chirping. Needed to find a '99 Mercury with about 50K on it to match my vehicle. What are the odds for a ten year old car? But there it was in all its splendor. A front ender with everything but the radio intact. 55K!! Must have been a garage queen only driven on Sundays. Had a repair manual with me as a guide for disassembly. You know how tricky some of these new snap together cars can be. I at least wanted to practice on a junker before I tried tearing mine up. Good thing I did. Apparently they assemble the dash without the steering column and wheel in place. (Actually, I think it is assembled on a bench as a separate assembly and installed complete). In order to get the cluster out, I had to disassemble the bezel, clear shield and gearshift indicator before the cluster was small enough to squeeze past the steering column housing/covering, which wasn't removable without removing the steering wheel, which I WAS NOT interested in doing.

Now I'm keeping an eye out for a Ford taxi cab/police car. They have larger sway bars, you know.

Thanks for all the great suggestions. Looks like I have my work cut out for me. The weather seems to be getting better so I suppose I'll get started soon. I'll try to let you all know how it turns out.