Problems with 2001 Buick Century SUSPENSION

Tl*the 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. *lj updated 10/25/10*jb

Front stabilizer bar broke off on the left side and cracked through on the right side. appears to be metal fatigue from the forming operation. *jb

Dt: contact went to purchase new tires and technician advised that new outer tie rods were needed. vehicle is regularly serviced. service records available.

When changing gears vehicle really feels rough. consumer can feel transmission moving like something is broken. *ak.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. consumer would like information of possible recalls on parts mentioned above, also the windshiled washer fluid disappears after filling. jg