- Vapor lock: Vapor lock occurs when fuel vapor forms inside the fuel system, blocking the flow of fuel to the engine. This can happen when the engine is hot, especially if the fuel system is not properly maintained. When vapor lock occurs, the engine will run for a while and then suddenly shut off. It will not restart until the engine cools down and the vapor lock clears.
- Fuel injector issues: If the fuel injectors are not working properly, they may not be delivering the correct amount of fuel to the engine. This can cause the engine to run rough and eventually stall. When the engine cools down, the fuel injector may begin working properly again, allowing the engine to restart.
- Ignition system issues: Problems with the ignition system can also cause the engine to run for a while and then shut off. This could be due to a faulty spark plug, ignition coil, or distributor cap. When the engine cools down, the ignition system may begin working properly again, allowing the engine to restart.
- Engine overheating: If the engine is overheating, it may shut off to protect itself from damage. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as a coolant leak, a faulty water pump, or a clogged radiator. When the engine cools down, it may be able to restart, but the cause of the overheating should be addressed.
If you are having this issue with your Buick Century, it is important to have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to determine the cause and get it repaired.
