The starter on the 2001 Buick Century is mounted to the engine block at the bellhousing, on the passenger side of the engine (the right side when facing the car from the front).
Knowing its exact position helps you diagnose starting issues, swap the unit, or inspect wiring without guesswork. The Century from this year used a 3.1-liter V6, and the starter location follows GM’s transverse V6 layout: mounted low on the engine, near the transmission, and facing slightly toward the rear of the vehicle.
Where to look in the engine bay
To confirm the starter's location and begin inspection, look for a cylindrical motor with a solenoid mounted to the bellhousing side of the engine. You’ll typically see two large cable connections on the starter—the thick battery lead and a smaller trigger/solenoid wire—plus a couple of mounting bolts anchoring it to the transmission housing.
Visibility can be limited by other components such as the exhaust manifold, intake plenum, and wiring harness. Access from above is possible in some models, but you may need to momentarily jack up the car and remove the lower splash shield for a clearer view from underneath.
In all cases, the starter will be on the side of the engine that meets the transmission bellhousing; on a front-wheel-drive Buick Century this is the passenger side of the vehicle.
How to identify the starter quickly
- The starter is a small cylindrical device with a protruding gear (the pinion) that engages the flywheel when energized.
- It is bolted to the bellhousing where the engine block meets the transmission, usually on the lower portion of the engine bay.
- Two large battery cables plus a smaller control wire connect to the starter’s solenoid.
These visual cues help you distinguish the starter from the alternator and other components in the crowded engine bay.
What to do if you need to replace it
Disconnect the battery, secure the vehicle, and remove or reposition obstructing components to access the starter. Unbolt the two mounting bolts, disconnect the main power lead and the solenoid wire, and then remove the starter from the bellhousing. Fit the new unit, torque bolts to spec, reconnect the wiring, and reconnect the battery. Start the car to test operation and check for unusual noises or loose cables.
Replacement can be done with basic hand tools; however, if you are not comfortable working under a vehicle or handling electrical components, seek professional help.
Summary
On a 2001 Buick Century with a 3.1-liter V6, the starter is located on the engine’s bellhousing on the passenger side of the engine, near the transmission. It is a cylindrical unit with two large electrical connections and a smaller signal wire. Access may require removing or moving components or the front shield, but the location and wiring are consistent across this model year. If the car won’t turn over, the starter or its wiring is a likely suspect worth inspecting first.