1997 BUICK LeSabre Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
440
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
104 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, IT EXHIBITED A NO-START CONDITION. SHE REPLACED THE BATTERY AND THEN SMOKE ENGULFED THE FRONT-END OF THE VEHICLE. A MECHANIC CONCLUDED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILED. SHE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF HAVING THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED, YET NO ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 99773. UPDATED 11/3/09 *CN UPDATED 11/06/09.*JB
Oct 13, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHEN THE CONTACT STARTED THE VEHICLE, IT SPUTTERED, JUMPED, BACKFIRED, AND SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE EMITTED A LARGE AMOUNT OF FUMES AND SMELLED OF GASOLINE. SHE NOTICED THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER WAS ORANGE AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE IGNITION MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MODULE WAS REPLACED, BUT ONLY LASTED FIVE DAYS. THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE MECHANIC TOWED HER VEHICLE TO THE SHOP. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HER VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL; THEREFORE, THE CONTACT WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 172,000.
Jun 01, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AND NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. WHEN THE VEHICLE FINALLY STARTED, IT BACKFIRED. ONCE THE CONTACT ARRIVED HOME, HE LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD AND NOTICED THAT THE COOLANT WAS LOW. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE REPAIR WOULD COST APPROXIMATELY $600 AND THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE RECALL NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,500 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 93,525.
Jul 02, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT ANTI-FREEZE WAS LEAKING ON THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 96V116000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM), ALTHOUGH THE FAILURES WERE IDENTICAL. THE CONTACT WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR COSTS. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 115,366.
Jul 01, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE APPROACHING A STOP, THE CONTACT SMELLED ANTIFREEZE AND NOTICED THAT THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS BECOMING HOTTER. HE THEN NOTICED STEAM UNDER THE HOOD, WHICH EVENTUALLY LED TO THE VEHICLE SHUTTING OFF. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 99,000.
May 20, 2008
+ 99 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
31 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE STARTING THE VEHICLE, IT SUDDENLY BACKFIRED AND WOULD NOT START. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALER AND REFERENCED RECALL 96V116000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM) BUT WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS NO RECORD OF THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER ALSO STATED THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 146,874.
Oct 14, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT NOTICED A COOLANT LEAK. AN AUTHORIZED DEALER STATED THAT THEY NEEDED TO REMOVE THE ENGINE IN ORDER TO REPAIR THE COOLANT LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY THE DEALER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED AND BEGAN TO STALL ONLY IN THE MORNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE AFTER TWO ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT PAID $850 TO HAVE THE VEHICLE REPAIRED AND WAS STILL EXPERIENCING THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT ALSO HAD THE VEHICLE INSPECTED BY A THIRD MECHANIC WHO ALSO STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 56,844. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 58,000.
Jul 23, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHEN THE CONTACT STARTED THE VEHICLE, HE HEARD A LOUD NOISE. AFTER EXAMINING THE VEHICLE, HE DISCOVERED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RELATED RECALLS. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND FILED A COMPLAINT. THE MANUFACTURER CONFIRMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL 96V116000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM) AND THAT THEY WOULD NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE WITH THE EXPENSES. THE VEHICLE WILL BE REPAIRED WHEN THE COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 66,212.
May 07, 2010
AFTER MONTHS OF DEALING WITH NO START OF MY VEHICLE KNOW MY MANIFOLD NEEDS REPLACED I'VE CONTACTED BUICK AND THEY SAY MY VIN IS NOT WITH THE VIN INCLUDED WITH THE RECALL I DON'T UNDER STAND IM LOST I'VE TRIED GETTING HELP WITH THIS SITUATION AND I WILL WRITE BUICK AND EVERYTHING BUT THIS IS A MANUFACTURERS DEFAULT THAT HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED ON MY VEHICLE. *TR
Apr 03, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. SHE SMELLED A STRONG GASOLINE ODOR EMANATING FROM HER VEHICLE. THE DEALERS TECHNICIAN STATED THAT SHE WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE FUEL LINES AT AN EXPENSE EXCEEDING $350.00. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. SHE WILL SPEAK WITH THE MANUFACTURER TO DETERMINE IF HER VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN RECALL#96V116000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM). THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 71,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
Dec 18, 2008
+ 26 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
29 complaints
I HAVE NOT SEEN A FIRE YET BUT IT HAS BEEN SMOKING IN THE FRONT OF THE CAR SINCE 2010 WHEN I BROUGHT THE CAR USED FOR 2800.00 AT JIMS TOWING SERVICE IN ELIZABETH NEW JERSEY AND EVERY TIME THE CAR BROKE DOWN WHETHER IT WAS ELECTRICAL OR WHAT HE HAD GOTTEN MAD AT ME FOR NOT BRINGING IT TO HIM AND THEN THE CHECK ENGINE KEPT ON COMING ON AND COME TO FIND OUT LAST MONTH AND THE CAR COST ME 2000.00 DOLLARS TO FIX AND THE MONTH BEFORE THAT THE GARAGE I WENT TO NAVARRO'S HAD FIXED THE HORN BECAUSE THAT WAS GOING ON AND OFF AGAIN AND SOMETIMES THE LIGHTS FLICKER AND OTHER THINGS AND NOW THE SECURITY ALARM DOES NOT WORK AND YESTERDAY WHILE SHOPPING I ASKED MY DAUGHTER WHAT THAT SOUND WAS IT WAS MY HORN AGAIN SHORTING AND DISCONNECTED IT AGAIN IT HAS DONE THAT TOO MANY TIMES AND I CANNOT AFFORD A NEW CAR WITH 6 PEOPLE LIVING IN MY HOUSE AND IAM THE ONLY ONE WORKING RIGHT NOW AND DOES ANY MECHANIC KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING ANYMORE AND I NEED THE CAR TO GET BACK AND FORTH I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO ANYMORE AND WHEN I SAID THAT THE CAR COST ME 2000.00 TO FIX THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE BLOCK OF THE ENGINE AND FOR AWHILE NOW I HAVE MANUALLY DO THE LOCKS ON MY DOORS AND CANNOT REPLACE THE PASSENGER SIDE ELECTRIC SWITCH BECAUSE NO ONE HAS IT ANYMORE HELP DON'T NEED CAR TO CATCH ON FIRE AND IT HAS BEEN SMOKING ALOT LATELY WITH THE HORN CONNECTED IT IS NOT CONNECTED NOW. WHEN THE NEW INCIDENT HAPPENED IT WAS PARKED IN THE PARKING LOT AND SECURITY OFFICER CAME. *JS
Apr 17, 2012
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS OF 30 MPH, THE HORN BEGAN TO SOUND. THE HORN CONTINUED TO SOUND UNTIL THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED AND THE HOOD WAS LIFTED. UPON CLOSING THE HOOD THE HORN BEGAN TO SOUND AGAIN AND WOULD NOT STOP UNTIL PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE CENTER OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THE FAILURE CONTINUED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT VEHICLE CARE CENTER AND THE HORN WAS DISABLED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 173,130 UPDATED 06/25/10 UPDATED 07/16/10*JB
Apr 05, 2010
THIS CAR HAS HORN PROBLEMS. THE HORN STARTS BLOWING FOR NO REASON AND THE MECHANIC SAID THAT THE SENSOR IS DEFECTIVE AND THAT TO REPLACE IT WOULD COST SEVERAL HUNDRED DOLLARS. *TR
Aug 16, 2009
THE HORN REPEATEDLY WENT OFF AND EVENTUALLY IT BECAME INOPERABLE. THE CAUSE IS UNDETERMINED. *JB
Nov 22, 2004
WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE THERE WAS A LOUD POPPING NOISE WHEN TURNING THE IGNITION. SMOKE BEGAN TO COME FROM UNDER THE DASH. *AK
Apr 01, 2004
+ 24 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
27 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND THE KEY WAS TURNED IN THE IGNITION SWITCH, THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT APPROXIMATELY 20 MINUTES LATER THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG ALSO DEPLOYED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED FACIAL CUTS, BRUISES, A FRACTURED CHEEKBONE AND WHIPLASH THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 197,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Dec 23, 2015
I WAS DRIVING THE CAR SLOWING DOWN FOR AN INTERSECTION AND THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE HORN BEGAN TO BLOW AND WHILE LOOKING FOR A SPOT TO SAFELY PULL OVER, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. *TR
Mar 27, 2015
AIRBAG PUSHING AGAINST HORN BUTTON CAUSING HORN TO SOUND AT VARIOUS TIMES. CAR PURCHASED USED FROM BUICK DEALER, THEIR AIRBAG RECALL DOES NOT GO AS FAR BACK AS 1997! *TR
Nov 25, 2014
MY BOYFRIEND WAS DRIVING MY CAR. I WAS IN THE PASSENGER'S SEAT. WE HAD JUST PULLED AWAY FROM THE CURB AND WERE GOING ABOUT 20 MPH. FOR NO REASON, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. WE DIDN'T HIT ANYTHING, AND NOTHING HIT US. WE PULLED OVER AND GOT OUT. THE CAR WAS FILLED WITH SMOKE. I HAD PAIN IN MY ABDOMEN AND COULDN'T HEAR OUT OF MY RIGHT EAR. THE WINDSHIELD ON MY SIDE OF THE CAR(PASSENGER'S SIDE) WAS BROKEN FROM THE IMPACT. HE TOOK ME TO THE LOCAL ER TO BE CHECKED OUT AND I WAS EXAMINED AND RELEASED WITH CONTUSIONS OF RIGHT KNEE, ABDOMEN AND RIGHT EAR. IT WAS A TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE AND SCARED US BOTH VERY MUCH. I REPORTED THIS TO MY INSURANCE CARRIER THE NEXT MORNING. MY BOYFRIEND WAS NOT INJURED. *TR
May 31, 2013
I WAS DRIVING TO WORK EARLY IN THE MORNING ON A PAVED TOWN ROAD WHEN THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. A FEW SECONDS LATER, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAG ALSO SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. THE AIR BAGS OBSTRUCTED MY VISION BOTH IN FRONT AND ON THE SIDE. I WAS ABLE TO PULL THE CAR OFF THE ROAD WITHOUT GETTING INTO AN ACCIDENT, BUT THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A CRASH BECAUSE OF MY OBSTRUCTED VISION THERE WAS NO INJURY INVOLVED. THE CAR HAD PASSED A MAINE SAFETY INSPECTION IN MAY 2009, SO THERE WAS NO INDICATION THAT A PROBLEM EXISTED AT THE TIME THAT I PURCHASED THE CAR IN JUNE 2009 FROM A FRIEND. THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAGS TORE UP THE MIDDLE OF THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE DASHBOARD ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE. THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP DID NOTHING TO CORRECT THE FAILURE, BUT SAID THE CAR SHOULD NOT BE DRIVEN. *TR
Feb 12, 2010
+ 22 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
25 complaints
WINDSHIELD WIPERS HAVE TO WORK ON HIGH SPEED FOR A WHILE BEFORE THEY CAN OPERATE ON NORMAL SPEED. VEHICLE BEEN TO DEALER ON FOUR OCCASIONS, AND PROBLEM STILL OCCURRING. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Aug 30, 2002
FRONT WINDSHIELD LEAKS WATER, DEALER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Mar 21, 2002
THERE IS A BAR IN THE FRONT WINDOWS, THIS BAR REQUIRES MOUNTING OF THE REAR VIEW MIRROR IN A FOWARD POSITION, WHICH CONSUMER BELIEVES IS TOO CLOSE TO THE DRIVER, WHICH CREATES A BLIND SPOT FOR THE DRIVER.*JB
Aug 16, 2001
WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAIL AND WILL NOT WORK ON DELAY WHEN TURNED ON. *AK
May 04, 2000
WINDSHIELD WIPERS CONTINUALLY FAILING, SEVERAL REPAIR ATTEMPTS HOWEVER CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE INTERMITTENT FAILURE. MJS
Oct 05, 1999
+ 20 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
24 complaints
TRANSMISSION SHUDDERS BETWEEN 30 TO 40 MPH. ALSO AT 50 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. HAVE BEEN TOLD MAY NEED TRANSMISSION. CAR ONLY HAS 56,000 MILES. TRANSMISSION FLUID HAS BEEN DRAINED. DID NOT HELP. PLEASE ADVISE
Jul 06, 2018
I WAS IN MY DRIVEWAY AND PUT THE SHIFT IN REVERSE, BUT IT DID NOT STAY THERE. INSTEAD IT WENT BACK TO DRIVE AND THE ACCELERATOR WAS STUCK ON MY 1997 BUICK LESABRE TRAVELED ABOUT 4 FEET AT HIGH SPEED AND STRUCK A SMALL TREE. MY INSURANCE COMPANY TOTALED THE CAR. MY INSURANCE PREMIUM WENT UP FOR AN ACCIDENT THAT WAS NOT MY FAULT. CAN YOU GIVE ME THE WEB SITE OF A SIMILAR CAR AND YEAR IN AN ACCIDENT IN 2003 IN CALIFORNIA? THANK YOU, NIKOLAOS (NICK) CARAVASOS *TR
Oct 29, 2009
THE CAR ACCELERATED ITSELF IN REVERSE AND I WAS UNABLE TO STOP IT EVEN THOUGH I HAD THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED AS FAR AS IT WOULD GO. I HAD STARTED THE CAR, DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL (THE BRAKE MUST BE ENGAGED IN ORDER TO PUT THE CAR IN GEAR) AND THE CAR SHOT BACK AND WOULD NOT STOP. I WAS RATHER PANICKED AS I WAS LEAVING A CONVENIENCE STORE AND WAS TRYING TO AVOID HITTING THE GAS PUMPS, OTHER VEHICLES AND PEDESTRIANS. I MANAGED TO BACK THE CAR INTO THE STREET AND ATTEMPTED TO PUT IT IN PARK SO IT WOULD STOP. THE GEAR SHIFT WENT INTO THE PARK POSITION, BUT THE CAR DID NOT STOP. IT PROCEEDED ACROSS A BUSY STREET THROUGH A CONTROLLED INTERSECTION AT APPROX.20-30 MPH. AT IT STARTED ACROSS THE STREET, I SHUT THE CAR OFF. THE BRAKES WOULD STILL NOT STOP IT. IT FINALLY CAME TO A STOP AFTER ROLLING INTO A CURB. I HAD ABSOLUTELY NO CONTROL OVER THE CAR OTHER THAN TO STEER IT. I HAVE KNOWN THIS TO HAPPEN WITH SEVERAL OTHER GM CARS, BUT ALWAYS IN A FORWARD GEAR. I OWN A 1986 PONTIAC TRANS AM THAT HAS DONE THIS ON OCCASION. I HAVE HAD THAT CAR LOOKED AT BY SEVERAL MECHANICS, AND NONE CAN FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. GM DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AS I CAN FIND NO RECORDS OF RECALLS FOR ANY OF THEIR CARS FOR SPONTANEOUS ACCELERATION. PART OF THE PROBLEM MAY BE THAT WHEN IT HAPPENS TO SOMEONE, NO ONE BELIEVES THEM. EVERYONE ASSUMES THEY HAD THEIR FOOT ON THE GAS AND THE BRAKE AT THE SAME TIME. I HAVE TRIED TO PUT MY FOOT ON BOTH PEDALS (WITH THE CAR IN PARK) TO SEE IF THAT COULD BE WHAT HAPPENED, BUT I CAN'T DO IT AS THE GAS PEDAL IS RECESSED FURTHER BACK THAN THE BRAKE PEDAL. AT NO TIME ARE THEY LEVEL WITH EACH OTHER. BY SOME MIRACLE, NO ONE WAS HURT AND THERE WAS NO PROPERTY DAMAGE. I AM GOING TO CHECK WITH VARIOUS BUICK DEALERSHIPS AND OTHER MECHANICS TO SEE IF THEY HAVE EVER HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM, BUT I FEAR IT WILL BE THE SAME AS WITH THE TRANS AM WHERE I WILL GET NO ANSWERS. *TR
Sep 11, 2009
DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE INDICATOR LIGHT ON THE DASHBOARD FOR THE TRANSMISSION ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TO THE DEALER, AND THEY COMPLETED A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WHICH SHOWED TRANSMISSION SLIPPAGE. THE DEALER REPLACED TWO SOLENOID VALVES. THE INDICATOR LIGHT WAS WORKING PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT PASS EMISSIONS TESTING WITH THIS LIGHT ILLUMINATING. *AK
Oct 31, 2005
HELLO, I HAD A PROBLEM WITH MY CAR HESITATING GOING UP A SMALL GRADE OR SOMETIMES JUST DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER. THEY TOLD ME IT WAS A SPARK PLUG AND FIXED IT. THE PROBLEM CONTINUED AND I TOOK IT TO ANOTHER DEALER WHO SAID I NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION. BESIDES A NEW TRANSMISSION, THEY ALSO REPLACED THE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET AND PUT NEW BRAKES ON THE FRONT WITH ROTORS. THE RECEIPT FROM THE GARAGE SAYS THE TRANSMISSION HAD AN 1870 TROUBLE CODE. MY CAR WAS PURCHASED NEW AND HAD 52,000 MILES ON IT. THE TOTAL COST WAS 4200.00. I ASKED THE GM PEOPLE FOR HELP WITH THIS EXPENSE AS I AM A SINGLE MOTHER WORKING 2 JOBS AND DID NOT GET A REPLY. I TOOK OUT ANOTHER LOAN TO PAY FOR THIS. NOW, WITH ALMOST 80,000 MILES, THE TRANSMISSION IS DOING THE SAME THING AND MY FRIEND WITH A COMPUTER SAYS IT IS THE 1870 TROUBLE CODE (WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON). I CAN NOT AFFORD TO SPEND ANOTHER 4000.00 FOR ANOTHER TRANSMISSION.
Jan 15, 2004
+ 19 more complaints for this component
SEAT BELTS
21 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE REAR DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT WEBBING TIGHTENED INDEPENDENTLY AROUND THE CHILD'S BODY. THE OCCUPANT SUSTAINED A FRACTURED BACK AND TORN SPINE. IN ADDITION, THERE WAS INJURY TO THE ABDOMEN. THE INJURIES REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Oct 02, 2015
I WAS REAR ENDED WHILE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT AND THEN PUSHED INTO THE CAR STOPPED IN FRONT OF ME AND TRANSPORTED TO EMERGENCY ROOM. THE SAFETY BELT ON MY 1997 BUICK LESABRE LTD DID NOT HOLD ME BACK DURING THE COLLISION AND I WAS THROWN FACE FIRST INTO MY STEERING WHEEL. THIS RESULTED IN A SEVERELY BROKEN NOSE, SEVERE FACIAL CONTUSIONS AND BRUISES. I AM TOLD BY BUICK DEALER REPAIR PERSONNEL THAT A BUICK LESABRE MUST BE TRAVELING AT 25 MPH IN ORDER FOR SEAT BELTS TO LOCK AND HOLD THE DRIVER BACK. THE SEAT BELTS ON BOTH THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER SIDE OF MY CAR CAN BE PULLED OUT AND ALMOST REACH THE WINDSHIELD WHILE THE CAR IS STOPPED AND WHILE DRIVING IT. I HAVE ALSO DISCUSSED THE ACCIDENT WITH SEVERAL PERSONS WHO HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN SIMILAR ACCIDENTS IN DIFFERENT MAKE CARS. THEY STATED THAT THEIR SEAT BELTS DID HOLD THEM BACK AND THAT THEY DID NOT SUSTAIN ANY INJURIES. THE SEAT BELT ON MY 1997 BUICK IS DEFECTIVE AND ALLOWED ME TO RECEIVE SEVERE FACIAL INJURIES. I BELIEVE THE SEAT BELTS SHOULD BE RECALLED AND PROPERLY REINSTALLED SO THAT THEY WILL WORK IN AN ACCIDENT SUCH AS MINE. THE CAR HAS BEEN REPAIRED BUT I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE IT. I HAVE SEARCHED THROUGH THE COMPLAINTS SENT TO YOUR ORGANIZATION AND NOTICED THAT AN ALMOST EXACT ACCIDENT HAPPENED TO A 1997 BUICK LESABRE LTD IN 1998. THE PERSON INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT WROTE TO YOU COMPLAINING ABOUT THE SEAT BELTS NOT WORKING PROPERLY AND ALLOWING THE PERSON TO SUSTAIN MANY INJURIES. WHEN WILL THE NHTSA NOTICE THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THIS AUTO SAFETY BELT AND ORDER A RECALL SO THAT INJURIES SUCH AS MINE AND THE PERSONS IN 1998 DO NOT CONTINUE TO OCCUR? *NM
Jan 25, 2005
FRONT DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BROKE. IT WAS THE SAME DEFECT AS STATED IN RECALL 96V044000. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER. HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED THE RECALL. *AK *TC
Dec 09, 2004
DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE ,PLASTIC PART, FELL APART WHEN FASTENING TOGETHER. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AKI
Jul 29, 2002
SEAT BELT FAILED. NM
Feb 01, 1999
+ 16 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
21 complaints
I HAVE DISCOVERED A BRAKE FLUID LEAK FROM THE ABS MODULATOR ASSEMBLY IN MY 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THERE IS A RECALL (#00V114000) FOR THIS VERY SAME PROBLEM IN 2000 LESABRES. THIS CAN CAUSE THE BRAKING SYSTEM TO MALFUNCTION! THE RECALL SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO COVER EARLIER YEARS. IN THE MEAN TIME I AM GOING TO PURCHASE A NEW ABS MODULATOR ASSEMBLY. I FEAR THE NEW VALVE ASSEMBLY WILL DEVELOP THE SAME PROBLEM. *NM
Oct 24, 2006
REAR WHEEL CYLINDERS MADE A WEEPING SOUND, AND BRAKE DUST HAD A PASTE-LIKE CONSISTENCY. BRAKE PERFORMANCE WAS SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED.*JB....*AK
Feb 19, 2003
WHILE DRIVING LOST FUNCTION OF BRAKES. DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE LINES RUSTED THROUGH AND BURSTED. PH *TS
Jan 29, 2003
CONSUMER HEARS AN UNUSUALLY LOUD "THUMPING, GROANING AND CRUNCHING" NOISE WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED. ALSO STOPPING DISTANCE HAS SEEM TO INCREASE GREATLY WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED ON LIGHTLY SNOW COVERED ROADS. PH
Dec 09, 2002
WHEN COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP BRAKES SOUND LIKE METAL GRINDING. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURHTER INFORMATION.*AK
Nov 07, 2001
+ 16 more complaints for this component
STEERING
18 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE TRAVELING 15 MPH THE CONTACT NOTICED A LOUD THUMP NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT END, SECONDS LATER THE VEHICLE LOST ALL STEERING POWER. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED AND THERE WERE NO PRIOR WARNINGS. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 120000.
Sep 09, 2010
CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE DRIVEWAY, WITH NO KEY AND IN PARK. MY SON HAD COME IN THE HOUSE AND SAID MOM YOUR CAR IS SMOKING. I HAD PARKED THE CAR APPROX 20 MINS BEFORE AFTER A 6 MILE TRIP, IT WAS WINTER, THANK GOD I DID NOT PARK IN THE GARAGE OR IT WOULD HAVE GONE UP IN SMOKE TOO, AS I LIVE IN THE COUNTRY AND IT TOOK A LONG TIME FOR THE TRUCKS TO ARRIVE. I AM GLAD I WAS NOT A YOUNG MOM WITH KIDS IN CAR SEATS WHICH TAKES ALOT OF TIME. SCARED THE CRAP OUTTA US, CAUSE THE GARAGE (TOOLS, WOOD, VEHICLES, STUFF WAS SO VERY CLOSE TO THE CAR AND GARAGE IS VERY CLOSE TO OUR HOME(KEEPSAKES, EVERYTHING). *TR
Nov 18, 2007
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE HAD PROBLEMS STEERING AND THE POWER STEERING DID NOT FUNCTION. THE CONTACT EXPRESSED THE PROBLEM WAS DUE TO THE RACK AND PINION THAT WAS NOTED ON RECALL NUMBER 03V527000. THE MANUFACTURER DETERMINED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN.
Aug 10, 2006
WHEN MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING. DEALERSHIPS MECHANIC WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM.*AK
Jan 13, 2004
POWER STEERING PUMP FELL OFF THE MOUNT. ONE OF THREE BOLTS WAS BACKED OFF AND THE OTHER TWO BOLTS WERE SEVERED.*AK
Feb 28, 2002
+ 13 more complaints for this component
TIRES
16 complaints
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY DOING 75, MY CAR MADE A LOUD POP SOUND AND WHEN I LOOKED IN MY REARVIEW MIRROR, THERE WAS A TRAIL OF SMOKE. ALL OF A SUDDEN MY CAR SPUN OUT OF CONTROL AND RAN OFF THE HIGHWAY. THE BACK TIRE HAD CAUGHT FIRE AND SPUN ME OUT OF CONTROL THERE WERE 170,000 ON MY 1987 BUICK LESABRE. I ALSO HIT A CAR AND SOME TREES. *TR
Jul 07, 2008
HEARING A THUMBING SOUND WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, I WENT TO INVESTIGATE THE WERE ABOUTS OF THE NOISE. I COULD NOT SEE THE PROBLEM BUT, WHEN MY WIFE SAID THAT THERE WAS A LOUD THUMBING NOISE THAT OCCURS ONLY WHILE DRIVING. TWO DAYS LATER THE RIGHT REAR TIRE WAS FLAT. I TOOK THE TIRE OFF THE CAR AND NOTICED THAT THE TIRE WAS SEPARATED FROM THE TIRE AND A PIECE WAS MISSING. APPROX 6-8 INCHES OF RUBBER WAS GONE. FIRESTONE TIRE P205-70R15 95S. CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE CIRCUMSTANCE OF THIS TIRE? THIS IS MY THIRD SET OF TIRES AT 85232 ORIGINAL MILES ON THE 1997 BUICK LESABRE CUSTOM CAR. CAN YOU HELP. *NM
Jan 03, 2006
WHILE DRIVING 65MPH VEHICLE EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION ON FRONT RIGHT TIRE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.*JB..*AK
Jan 13, 2003
WHILE DRIVING AT 70 MPH, THE LEFT FRONT TIRE SEPARATED. THERE WAS A MINIMAL DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. MOUNTED ON A 1997, BUICK LESABRE, 30000 MILES, ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT.*AK. CONSUMER WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE REMAINING TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AS WELL.*JB
Apr 22, 2002
ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 02, 2000, I WAS MAKING A TRIP TO JACKSONVILLE, FL. TO MY SISTERS WITH MY 79 YEAR OLD MOTHER AND 75 YEAR OLD FATHER. RIGHT OUTSIDE OF TALLAHASSEE, FL. THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE HAD APPROXIMATELY A 10" IN LENGTH AND 7" WIDE PIECE OF RUBBER SEPERATE FROM THE TIRE. I WAS ABLE TO CONTROL THE CAR AND STOP. I HAD TO FOLLOW A POLICEMAN FROM INTERSTATE 10 TO A BACK HIGHWAY TO GET BACK TO TALLAHASSE TO GET MY TIRE REPLACED. WHEN THE GOODYEAR MECHANIC GOT THE CAR UP ON THE RACK HE CALLED ME AND MY FATHER OUT TO LOOK AT THE OTHER THREE TIRES. ALL OF THE TIRES WERE BEGINNING TO SEPERATE IN THE MIDDLE. I CHOSE TO RELACE ALL FOUR TIRES BEACUSE I WAS AFRAID THE REST WOULD DO THE SAME THING AND I DID NOT WANT TO CHANCE INJURY. I HAD MY SON DO A VISUAL CHECK OF THE TIRES BEFORE I LEFT ON THE TRIP AND HE SAID I SHOULD HAVE ANOTHER 10,000 TO 15,000 MILES LEFT ON THE TIRES HOWEVER, WE COULD NOT VISUALLY SEE THE SEPERATION IN THE MIDDLE. I WANTED TO KEEP THE TIRES AND BRING THEM BACK TO PASCAGOULA WITH ME BUT I COULD NOT KEEP THE TIRES BECAUSE I DID NOT HAVE ANY ROOM IN MY CAR. I HEARD ON THE NEWS A FEW DAYS AGO THAT THERE IS ALSO A PROBLEM WITH GENERAL TIRES. I FEEL I SHOULD LET SOMEONE KNOW ABOUT THIS INCIDENT BECAUSE I DO NOT WANT TO SEE ANYONE GET INJURED OR KILLED. I HAVE CALLED THE DEALER TO TRY AND FIND OUT ABOUT THE TIRES BUT WAS UNABLE TO GET ANY INFORMATION. MY CURRENT MILAGE IS 46,060 NOT WHAT I LISTED AT THE TOP PART OF YOUR FORM. SHOLUD YOU NEED ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL ME. THANKING YOU IN ADVANCE FOR ANY HELP THAT YOU MAY PROVIDE IN THE RESEARCH OF THIS INCIDENT.
Sep 21, 2000
+ 11 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
12 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE REVERSING THE VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH INTO THE DRIVEWAY, THE CONTACT NOTICED AN ABNORMAL CRACKING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STOPPED AND LOOKED UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. HE NOTICED THAT THE A-FRAME ON THE PASSENGER SIDE WAS HANGING DOWN WITHOUT WARNING AND THE FRONT SUBFRAME BUSHING WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 130,000. *BF *JS
Oct 23, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LASABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, HE BEGAN TO TURN TO THE RIGHT, AND THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE COLLAPSED TO THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE WASHERS, WHICH WERE BOLTED TO THE FRAME, WERE SEVERELY CORRODED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND OFFERED TO COVER A PORTION OF THE REPAIR COSTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED, BECAUSE THE CONTACT THOUGHT THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD COVER ALL COSTS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 129,000. UPDATED 08/31/2011 *LN
Jun 24, 2011
SEPTEMBER 15TH DRIVING MY 1997 BUICK LESABRE HEARD AND FELT A LOUD BANGING NOISE. LOST ALL STEERING. CAR TAKEN TO GARAGE WHERE IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT ALL FOUR REAR SUBFRAME CRADLE MOUNT RETAINERS HAD FAILED. ENTIRE ENGINE AND CRADLE FELL DISENGAGING THE STEERING COMPLETELY. I HAVE SINCE LEARNED THAT THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF LESABRE OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD THIS SAME THING OCCUR. GM DID A RECALL ON THE REGALS FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. WAS THERE EVER A RECALL ON THE LESABRES AND IF NOT...WHY NOT. THIS IS AN OBVIOUSLY VERY SERIOUS DESIGN FAILURE WHICH IS POTENTIALLY FATAL. FORTUNATELY NO ONE WAS INJURED IN MY CASE OR THE LAWYERS WOULD BE HARD AT WORK. MY BUICK IS WELL CARED FOR...SERVICED AND INSPECTED REGULARLY AND THIS STILL OCCURRED. HAS ONLY 87,700 MILES ON IT. IT COST ME OVER $1000 TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM AND MAKE THE CAR SAFE TO DRIVE AGAIN. IS THERE ANY WAY I CAN GET GM TO STEP UP AND ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS? CAN NHTSA HELP? *TR
Sep 18, 2010
ENGINE CRADLE SUPPORT WASHERS RUST OUT CAUSING THE SUPPORT TO FALL DOWN WHEN LEAVING THE VEHICLE UNDRIVEABLE. *TR
Apr 19, 2010
DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE CUSTOM. THE ROCKER PANELS RUSTED. THE DEALERSHIP AND THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE CONTACT LIVED IN A STATE WHERE THIS HAPPENED BECAUSE OF THE WEATHER. HE FIRST BEGAN TO NOTICE THIS PROBLEM A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO. THIS WAS NOT INTERFERING WITH THE DOORS OPENING OR CLOSING, BUT THERE WAS A POSSIBILITY OF THIS IN THE FUTURE. THIS WAS OCCURRING ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE AND DRIVER'S SIDE. *AK
Aug 22, 2005
+ 7 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
12 complaints
CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DANGEROUS TO DRIVE ON THE HIGHWAY BECAUSE THE STRUTS WERE VERY BAD, CONSUMER WAS FINDING IT VERY DIFFICULT TO KEEP THE VEHICLE ON THE ROAD.*YH
Oct 22, 2002
VEHICLE VIBRATES SEVERELY WHEN DRIVING 60 MPH, AND IT PULLS TO THE RIGHT. DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFROMATION.*AK
Jul 10, 2002
WHILE DRIVING 65-70 MPH ON ROUGH PAVEMENT, VEHICLE WAS SKIPPING LANES WHICH RESULTED IN LOSS OF CONTROL.*AK CONSUMER STATED AS HE WAS DRIVING AND WENT THROUGH A ROUGH SECTION OF THE ROAD, THE VEHICLE'S REAR END BEGAN GOING UP AND DOWN FORCING CONSUMER TO LIGHTLY APPLY THE BRAKES, THIS ACTION CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO VEER SLIGHTLY FROM SIDE TO SIDE, CONSUMER RELASED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND WAS ABLE TO BRING THE VEHICLE UNDER CONTROL, CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THIS IS NORMAL FOR THE TYPE OF SUSPENSION THE VEHICLE HAS.*JB
Jun 04, 2002
SUSPENSION SYSTEM HAD PROBLEMS, GM REPLACED THE STRUTS BECAUSE THE VEHICLE BOTTOMED OUT WHILE HITTING SMALL BUMPS. *ET
Jan 06, 2000
FRONT RIGHT SIDE STABLIZER BAR BUSHING CAME APART/FELL OFF ONTO ROAD WHICH COULD HAVE CAUSED LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. *AK
Sep 09, 1999
+ 7 more complaints for this component
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
8 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE DRIVING UNKNOWN SPEEDS, THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR LATCH FAILED TO HOOK AND LOCK, WHICH CAUSED THE DOOR TO OPEN. THE DOOR AJAR WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000. *TT UPDATED 8/1/18*JB
Oct 19, 2017
1997 BUICK LESABRE HOOD BECAME UNLATCHED AND BLEW BACK. *BF OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT #10-0306-90 UPDATED 05/03/10 *BF
Mar 22, 2010
THE HOOD CAME UNLATCHED AND HIT THE WINDSHIELD WHILE DRIVING.. THE VEHICLE WILL BE TAKEN TO A DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE HOOD ASSEMBLY INSPECTED. *JB
Nov 02, 2004
CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING THE TRUNK WILL OPEN. BUTTON INSIDE THE CAR WORK AND THE KEY WORKS FOR TRUCK ON THE OUTSIDE. TRUCK COME OPEN ON ITS OWN. CAUSE IS UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATON. NLM
Sep 30, 2002
TRUNK LOCK FAILED.
Feb 01, 1999
+ 3 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
8 complaints
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE SPEEDOMETER AND ODOMETER FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION. THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND NO REPAIRS WERE MADE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED.
Mar 06, 2006
WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH ACCELERATOR PEDAL STICKS. CONSUMER IS ABLE TO DECELERATE THE VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK CONSUMER STATED IT WAS AN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. *BF
May 06, 2005
UNINTENDED AND SUDDEN ACCELERATION. WHEN REACHING 40 MPH ENGINE RAISED LIKE IT WAS KICKING OUT OF GEAR. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO MECHANIC, AND HE RECOGNIZED THE PROBLEM AS UNINTENDED AND SUDDEN ACCELERATION. *AK
Apr 12, 2000
WHILE DRIVING DRIVER LET GO OFF THE GAS PEDAL ND VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE WHICH MAY CAUSE A CRASH. DEALER COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Jan 24, 2000
CRUISE CONTROL FAILED. YH
Feb 01, 1999
+ 3 more complaints for this component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
7 complaints
HEADLIGHTS WENT OFF WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH. CONSUMER HAD TO PUT THERE HAZARD LIGHTS ON, AND USE THE LIGHT OF THE MOTORIST IN THE FRONT OF HIM TO SEE. IN AN ATTEMPT TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM THE DEALERSHIP REPLACED THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH AND OTHER COMPONENTS. HOWEVER, DEALERSHIP WAS NOT SURE THAT THIS WOULD CORRECT THE PROBLEM. *AK *MR
Feb 24, 2004
TAILLIGHT WENT BAD. *YH
Jun 18, 2001
TURN SIGNAL BULBS REPLACED TWO TIMES.
Jan 19, 1999
STOP AND TAIL LIGHT BULBS REPLACED.
Jan 19, 1999
HEADLIGHTS FOG UP DUE TO MOISTURE LEAKING IN.
Dec 28, 1998
+ 2 more complaints for this component
PARKING BRAKE
7 complaints
COMPONENT: EMERGENCY PARKING BRAKE. THE PARK BRAKE PEDAL IS NOT SETTING CORRECTLY & RELEASING PREMATURELY. *JB
Jun 07, 2003
PARKING BRAKE REPLACED.
Sep 08, 1999
EMERGENCY BRAKE FAILED. *YC
Feb 01, 1999
EMERGENCY BRAKE MALFUNCTIONED.
Oct 30, 1998
PARKING BRAKE RATCHET FAILED.
Nov 04, 1997
+ 2 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
5 complaints
WE WERE DRIVING AND HEARD IT MISSING AND IT STARTED OVERHEATING, SO WE PUT MORE WATER IN AND DECIDED TO COME HOME. SO WHEN WE TURNED AROUND IT DIED 2X THEN THE CYLINDERS LOCKED UP AND IT WOULDNT START. WHEN WE GOT HOME MY HUSBAND FOUND WATER IN THE INTAKE AND THE OIL. SO WE REPLACED THE INTAKE GASKET AND PUT IT BACK TOGETHER AND IT DID IT AGAIN, BUT THEN IT MADE A LOUD NOISE AND WE FOUND THAT THE BAR CONNECTION THE PISTON TO THE CRANK SHAFT BUSTED. THE CAR ONLY HAS 103,K MILES ON IT.. DONT UNDERSTAND HOW ITS EVEN POSSIBLE. THE ONLY OTHER PERSON THAT OWNED IT WAS AN OLD GUY. WE ONLY PUT 300MILES ON IT WHEN THIS HAPPENED.
Jul 26, 2017
WHILE ENTERING THE INTERSTATE HIGHWAY, CAR STARTED LOSING POWER AT 50MPH. AFTER GETTING CAR UP TO A SAFE SPEED, GOT THE CAR HOME WHERE IT THEN STOPPED RUNNING AND WOULD NOT RE-START. MECHANIC CHECKED AND FOUND THAT THE HEAD GASKET FAILED AT 130,000 MILES. THIS CAR HAS ALWAYS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED. NEARLY CAUSED ME TO BE REAR-ENDED AS I WAS ON A70MPH INTERSTATE HIGHWAY! ALSO, YOUR WEBSITE KEEPS TELLING ME I HAVE AN "INVALID VIN NUMBER!" THIS IS THE ONLY ONE EVER ISSUED FOR THIS VEHICLE. WHAT'S WITH THIS?
Oct 14, 2015
MY CHECK INGINE LIGHT WONT GO OFF AND I WAS TOLD I HAVE MASS AIR FLOW AND NOW WHEN I START IT IT MISFIRES,MY AIR CONDITIONING DOESNT WORK AND THE SPEEDOMETER IS READING CRAZY
Jun 24, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE ENGINE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
Dec 16, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE IN A CONTINUOUS JERKING MOTION. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE RETAINER WASHER AND THE BODY MOUNT WAS DISENGAGED ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE, CAUSING THE ENGINE CRADLE TO COLLAPSE ON THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 142,000.
Mar 13, 2013
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
5 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHEN THE CONTACT PLACED THE KEY INTO THE IGNITION AND ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE, THE ENGINE EXPLODED WITH A VERY LOUD NOISE. HE SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE AND CHECKED THE ENGINE. WHEN HE OPENED THE HOOD, HE NOTICED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD AND THE ENGINE COVER WERE SHATTERED INTO MANY PIECES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT HE NEVER SAW A VEHICLE WITH THIS TYPE OF DEFECT. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 96V116000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM). THE CONTACT BELIEVES THAT THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL SINCE THE FAILURES ARE IDENTICAL. THE VEHICLE IS STILL AT THE SHOP AND HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 13,000.
Jan 26, 2009
WHILE DRIVING ENGINE CHECK LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON. THIS HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND HAD VEHICLE REPAIRED, BUT PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. *AK OXYGEN SENSOR FAILED DUE TO ANTIFREEZE IN INTAKE SYSTEM. THE UPPER INTAKE PLENIUM WAS LEAKING BECAUSE IT HAD CRACKED AND WAS REPLACED. *YH
Apr 02, 2002
CONSUMER HAD PARKED VEHICLE AND IT EXPLODED AS CONSUMER WAS EXITING VEHICLE , ADJUSTER STATED POSSIBLE INTERNAL ENGINE INTAKE MANIFOLD TO BE CAUSE, CLAIM 05-4442-741. *SLC
Jan 17, 2002
CONSUMER HAD PARKED VEHICLE AND IT EXPLODED AS CONSUMER WAS EXITING VEHICLE , ADJUSTER STATED POSSIBLE INTERNAL ENGINE INTAKE MANIFOLD TO BE CAUSE, CLAIM 05-4442-741. *SLC
Jan 17, 2002
WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE TOTALLY DESTROYING THE CAR. NLM THERE WAS RECALL ON THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD.*JB AN INVESTIGATOR STATED THAT THE FIRE ORIGINATED WITHIN THE IGNITION OF VAPORS OF GASOLINE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT OF THE VEHICLE, THEY STATED THAT IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE CONDITIONS DESCRIBED AT THE TIME OF THE FIRE ARE IN LINE WITH THE RECALL REGARDING THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD. *SLC REFERENCED IN EA02-030
Apr 02, 2001
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaints
SPEEDOMETER IS NOT ACCURATE; NEEDLE BOUNCES ERRATICALLY; CANNOT DETERMINE SPEED. PART REPLACED BY DEALER IN 9/1998; PROBLEM RECURRED IN 9/2001; PART REPLACED BY DEALER; PROBLEM RECURRED IN 10/2005. SPEEDOMETER IN THIS VEHICLE IS DEFECTIVE; REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE DEFECTIVE; MANUFACTURER WILL NOT FULL WARRANTY PARTS & LABOR. *NM
Oct 14, 2005
NO FAILURE SPECIFIED.
Jan 16, 1998
NO FAILURE SPECIFIED.
Jan 16, 1998
WHEN THE SUN IS ON THE DASHBOARD IT REFLECTS ONTO THE WINDSHIELD CREATING POOR VISIBILITY.
Oct 02, 1997
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY FAILED AFTER FOUR REPAIR ATTEMPTS.
Aug 28, 1997
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILED WATER LEAKED INTERNALLY INTO COMBUSTION CHAMBER CAUSING HYDROLOCKING OF ENGINE. UPON RESEARCHING CAUSATIVE ACTIONS I FIND THAT GENERAL MOTORS IS AWARE OF THIS DEFECT AND HAS REDESIGNED THE FAULTY PARTS BUT DISAVOW ANY CULPABILITY EVEN THOUGH A CONSCIENTIOUS OWNER WHO PROPERLY MAINTAINS THE VEHICLE CANNOT KNOW WHAT IS TRANSPIRING INSIDE A COMPOSITE MATERIALS INTAKE MANIFOLD,MANY HAVE BEEN KNOWN TO BURST INTO A FIRE AND DESTROY THE VEHICLES. ONE WOULD TEND TO BELIEVE THIS TO BE A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY THREAT THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED IN A RECALL TO REPLACE THIS RECOGNIZED FAILURE OF SIGNIFICANT NUMBERS,I THAT WOULD WARRANT MANUFACTURERS REPLACEMENT TO PROVIDE SAFE TRANSPORTATION. BY THE GRACE OF GOD I NOTED THE VEHICLE ACTING UP AND RETURNED HOME JUST AS THE ENGINE QUIT AND NOW IS HYDROLOCKING DUE TO COOLANT FILLING COMBUSTION CYLINDERS.
Feb 21, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LASABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED CAUSING THE OIL TO LEAK INTO THE RADIATOR. THE ENGINE RAN ROUGH AND BACKFIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED WHO STATED THERE WAS A RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 96V116000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) BUT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 46,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 49,000.
Mar 22, 2013
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaints
TWO COMPLETE SETS OF BRAKES SINCE OCTOBER 2005 INTAKE MANIFOLD LEAKS, BOTH VERY COSTLY. *NM
Jun 03, 2006
1997 BUICK LESABRE BACKFIRES AT STARTUP, ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATES, AND THE VEHICLE STALLS WITHOUT WARNING. *MR THERE WAS A WHINING NOISE WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED AND REAR BRAKE NOISE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED INFO IN REFERENCE TO WARRANTIES RELATED TO HIS MAKE/MODEL. *SC *JB
Jun 20, 2005
AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
DT: THE CONSUMER STATED THE HORN WILL NOT STOP BLOWING, AND THE AIR BAG ASSEMBLY IS MAKING A NOISE. THE SOUND IS COMING OUT OF THE STEERING WHEEL. WHEN DRIVING THE HORN JUST STARTS BLOWING OUT OF NOWHERE, IT JUST STARTS BLOWING, SPECIFICALLY STATES THE CONSUMER. WHEN PRESSING THE HORN PAD IT WILL STOP SOMETIMES. ONE HAS TO PRESS IN A CERTAIN SPOT. THE CAR IS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONSUMER IS GOING TO CALL AND SEE WHAT GM CAN DO. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR TWO WEEKS.*AK
Sep 20, 2005
THE INTEGRATION OF THE AIR BAG SYSTEM TO THE HORN FAILED CAUSING THE HORN TO SOUND VERY LOUDLY CONTINUOUSLY. YH
Jan 03, 2000
SEATS
2 complaints
HEAD RESTRAINTS ON DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDES WILL NOT COME UP HIGH ENOUGH TO PROVIDE SUFFICIENT HEAD PROTECTION WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURIES. *AK
Sep 28, 1999
THE DESIGN OF FRONT SEAT HEADREST IS NOT HIGH ENOUGH. YH
Feb 01, 1999
EQUIPMENT
2 complaints
A/C COMPRESSOR FAILED.
Sep 08, 1997
AIR CONDITIONER CONDENSER NOISE DUE TO 2 WIRES INCOMPATIBLE.
Feb 12, 1997
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact's friend owns a 1997 Buick LeSabre The contact stated that the hood was difficult to open and close. The latch was in the correct location. The contact stated that while her roommate was driving at 45 MPH, the hood opened and detached. The driver pulled over, and a 2012 Chevrolet crashed into the rear of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. There were no reported injuries. The air bags did not deploy, and there was no fire. A police report was filed. The vehicle was drivable. The contact called the dealer, who informed them that there were no recalls. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 196,400.
Feb 28, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
THE HORN WILL SOUND WITHOUT PRESSING THE HORN BUTTON(S) WHEN THE CAR IS IN MOTION OR UNOCCUPIED. THIS OCCURS WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS ONLINE AND IT IS APPARENTLY AN ISSUE FOR MANY OWNERS. PART OF THE AIR BAG CONTRACTS DURING THE WINTER MONTHS PRESSING ON PART OF THE HORN BUTTON. THE ONLY WAY TO SHUT IT OFF IS TO PULL THE HORN FUSE. I AM CONCERNED THIS MAY LEAD TO AN ELECTRICAL FIRE IF THE HORN SOUNDS FOR TOO LONG OR AN AIR BAG MALFUNCTION. ALSO, THE VEHICLE HAS TO BE DRIVEN WITHOUT THE ABILITY TO USE THE HORN.
Aug 21, 2018
STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
SUB FRAME IS COMPLETELY ROATED OUT ON THE BACK DRIVE. COMPLETE SAFTY HAZARD NEEDS RECALL
Nov 30, 2016
SUSPENSION,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
THE SUB FRAME BUSHING IS COMPLETELY ROTTED. DAY IT WAS SOLD TO ME PASSED INSPECTION BUT ON CAR FAX IT FAILED SAFETY INSPECTION? IT CRACKS AND CREAKS WHEN TURNING LEFT.
Apr 17, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I OWN A 1997 BUICK LE SABRE CUSTOM (3.8) THE CAR WILL SHUTDOWN WHEN I AM DRIVING IT.ALSO IT DRAINS THE BATTERY.THE DATE IS THE YEAR THAT I PURCHASED THE CAR.
Jun 27, 2015
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE, AN ABNORMAL SOUND EMITTED FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AND THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
Oct 31, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
HAS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE AND HAVING PROBLEMS WITH IGNITION AND I CAN BE DRIVING AND IT JUST LIKE IT DON,T GET NO JUICE FROM ENGINE THEN WHEN TRIED TO START UP IT DON,T CATCH IN IGNITION SWITCH. I HAVE SPEND OVER 2,000 IN THIS CAR BUT EVERY ONE I TAKE IT TO SAYS IT IN THE IGNITION IT SOUNDS LIKE IT WANTS TO START SOMETIMES IT TAKES UP TO 6 HOURS BEFORE IT STARTS. *TR
Aug 20, 2014
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE
1 complaint
WAS DRIVING CAR AND IT STARTED STEERING HARD DROVE HOME APPROX 35 MILES TO FIND THE K FRAME WASHERS HAD RUSTED OFF AND THE ENGINE WAS NOT BEING SUPPORT. HAS IT FIXED AND SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN GOING LESS THAN 5 MPH AND STEERING WENT OUT AND ON INSPECTION THE FRONT AND LOWER FRAME MOUNTS HAD FALLEN AND CAR HAS BEEN PARKED EVERY SINCE BECAUSE I CAN NOT FIND PARTS THAT ARE REASONABLY PRICED! I WAS ON THE INTERSTATE DOING 70 MPH 10 MINS PRIOR TO THE LAST INCIDENT COULD HAVE BEEN A BAD RESULT. HAVE READ ABOUT THESE PROBLEMS IN A FORUM SOMEONE STARTED ON GOOGLE, CANT BELIEVE THERE WAS NEVER A RECALL! *TR
Apr 10, 2014
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
WHILE ACCELERATING UP TO SPEED FROM A STOP, ALL OF A SUDDEN THERE WAS A NOTICEABLE THUMP, THE STEERING WAS ERRATIC, THE CAR VIBRATED AND SHOOK. THE POWER STEERING WAS INOPERABLE. WE SLOWLY DROVE THE CAR HOME (2 MILES) AND UPON EXAMINATION, WE DISCOVERED THE ENGINE CRADLE FRAME WAS HANGING DOWN, ONLY A FEW INCHES FROM THE GROUND. THE ENGINE CRADLE MOUNTING WASHERS (2 ON EACH SIDE) HAD RUSTED THRU, ALLOWING THE REAR OF THE CRADLE TO DROP. I ALSO NOTICED THE RIGHT SIDE SWAY BAR WAS BROKEN OFF AT THE MOUNT ON THE LOWER CONTROL ARM. THE ENTIRE FRONT SUSPENSION AND WHEEL ASSEMBLIES ARE FASTENED TO THIS CRADLE, SO THAT'S WHY THE STEERING BECAME ERRATIC - THERE WAS NO LONGER ANY SOLID ATTACHMENT TO THE CAR. AFTER CAREFULLY EXAMINING THE ATTACHMENT POINTS, IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY AND STRUCTURAL DESIGN FLAW. THESE CARS SHOULD BE RECALLED FOR THE SAFETY OF THE PUBLIC. WE WERE LUCKY THAT WE WERE ON A STRAIGHT ROAD AT A SLOW SPEED WHEN THIS HAPPENED. I NOTICED THERE ARE MANY, MANY COMPLAINTS ON THE NHTSA WEBSITE OF THIS EXACT SAME ISSUE. *TR
Mar 31, 2014
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
THE BRAKES MAKE A STRANGE SOUND SOMETIMES & STALL;GAS LEAK;UNDERCARRIAGE IS WEAK. *TR
Jul 29, 2013
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
MY CAR JERKS LIKE A FISH TUGGING ON YOUR LINE AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS AND WHEN COMING UP AN INCLINE. IT ALSO HAS A VERY STRONG ODOR THAT I SMELL WHEN RUNNING THE A/C. I SMELL IT OUTSIDE THE CAR AND OCCASIONALLY I SMELL IT INSIDE THE CAR. *TR
Jul 11, 2012
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
THIS WILL BE 4TH TIME INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET IS BEING REPLACED. BY FAR THE WORST & MOST EXPENSIVE USED CAR EVER TO OWN. GM'S BLACK EYE. *TR
Oct 18, 2009
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT SMELLED A VERY STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE. IN ADDITION, THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD SHAKE WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED. WHILE PERFORMING A ROUTINE INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT HALF OF THE RADIATOR FLUID WAS MISSING. HE ADDED MORE RADIATOR FLUID AND NOTICED THAT FLUID CONTINUE TO DISAPPEAR IN THE VEHICLE EVERY FOUR DAYS. AFTER NUMEROUS REFILLS OF RADIATOR FLUID, HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. IN ADDITION, THE WATER PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND THE MAIN GAS LINE WAS LEAKING, WHICH CAUSED THE STRONG ODOR. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 96V116000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM). THE CONTACT BELIEVES THAT THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY AT THE DEALER AND HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 153,000.
Mar 06, 2009
VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
CAR CLOUDED UP. OBSTRUCTING VISION. MECHANIC REPLACED HEATER CORE WITH GM PART. SAME THING HAPPENED IN DAYS. REPLACED WITH ANOTHER...SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN. SUPPLIER TO MECHANIC INDICATED A COMMON FAULT WITH THAT PART. A THIRD PART (AFTERMARKET) HAS BEEN INSTALLED. IF THESE GM PARTS WERE KNOWN BY SUPPLIER TO BE FAULTY, WHY HAVE THEY NOT BEEN RECALLED AND WHY DID HE NOT INFORM MECHANIC BEFORE THE INSTALLATION? MECHANIC HAS INSTALLED PART THREE TIMES, AND ONLY BEEN PAID ONCE. I WAS ALMOST IN AN ACCIDENT, HIT A CURB TO AVOID BEING HIT. AND LOST A PERFECTLY GOOD TIRE AS A RESULT OF LOSS OF VISIBILITY. I HAVE NO COMPLAINT WITH THE ORIGINAL PART...THE CAR HAS HIGH MILEAGE (BUICK LESABE, 1997,) JUST THE TWO REPLACEMENT PARTS THAT WERE PRESSURE TESTED AND FAILED WITHIN DAYS OF USAGE. *TR
Jan 12, 2009
STEERING,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE CONTACT HEARD A NOISE AND FELT THE STEERING WHEEL CONTINUE TO TURN IN HER HAND. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC AND THEY STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S ENGINE CRADLE WASHERS ROTTED; THEREFORE, THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE STEERED. THE GM MANUFACTURER WAS CALLED AND THEY STATED THAT THEY WOULD MAKE A NOTE AND WAIT FOR OTHERS TO CALL ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 139,623. UPDATED 04-17-09 UPDATED 04/20/09.*JB
Jan 09, 2009
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
1 complaint
WHEN APPLYING BRAKES BRAKE PEDAL PUSHES UP AGAINST FOOT AND CAR VIBRATES MAKING A CHATTERING NOISE WHICH SEEMS TO BE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE CAR. IT SEEMS THE ABS WAS TRYING TO WORK EVEN THOUGH THE PAVEMENT IS DRY. *TR
Oct 11, 2008
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
I TURNED THE IGNITION TO START MY CAR ON 1/17/2008 AT APPROXIMATELY 8:30A AND HEARD A VERY LOUD POP AND SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD AND FOUND THAT THE ENGINE COVER AND INTAKE MANIFOLD WERE BOTH SHATTERED. I RESEARCHED ONLINE AND FOUND A RECALL PERTAINING TO THIS EXACT ISSUE, RECALL NUMBER 96V116000; ADDITIONALLY, I FOUND ANOTHER RECALL PERTAINING TO FAULTY SAFETY BELTS, RECALL NUMBER 96V044000. I AM CURRENTLY LOOKING INTO REPAIR COSTS BECAUSE I WAS TOLD BY THE BUICK CORPORATION THAT THERE IS A RECALL BUT MY VIN IS NOT INCLUDED FOR SOME UNEXPLAINED REASON. *TR
Jan 17, 2008
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
DT: CONSUMER OWNS A 1997 BUICK LESABRE. CONSUMER WAS DRIVING WHEN VEHICLE SHUT OFF. SHE WAS ABLE TO COAST A LITTLE BUT NOT ENOUGH TO GET COMPLETELY OUT OF TRAFFIC. SHE WAS STUCK IN VEHICLE BECAUSE EVERYTHING ON VEHICLE SHUT DOWN DUE TO THE GROUND CABLE COMING LOOSE, NOT LOOSE FROM THE MOTOR BLOCK. VEHICLE HAS BEEN WORKED ON, SHE DID NO FEEL THAT CABLE COMING LOOSE WAS DUE TO A DEFECT. SHE WAS MORE CONCERNED THAT WHEN VEHICLE LOST POWER SHE WAS STUCK IN VEHICLE WITH NO WAY TO ESCAPE. THE DOOR LOCKED AND POWER WINDOWS DID NOT WORK. THE BIGGEST CONCERN WAS THAT THERE WAS NO MANUAL LOCK THAT COULD BE USED TO UNLOCK THE DOOR WHEN POWER FAILED. SHE WAS STUCK IN VEHICLE WITH VEHICLE IN THE ROAD AND IN DANGER OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC. SHE STAYED IN VEHICLE ONE HOUR ON A VERY HOT DAY UNTIL SHE WAS ABLE TO CONTACT A FRIEND ON CELL PHONE, AND HE CAME TO HELP HER. *AK
Aug 12, 2005
STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I CAN'T GIVE NAMES YET B/CAUSE OF LEGAL REASONS. BUT, A CLOSE FAMILY MEMBER WAS IN AN ACCIDENT IN 08-2003, WENT OFF STEEP CLIFF SPEED WAS 5-10 MILES AN HR. ROLLED THE 1997 LASABRE, WAS WEARING SEATBELT AND FOR SOME REASON AIR BAG WENT OFF. ANYHOW HE IS NOW A QUADRAPLEGIC B/CAUSE THE ROOM COLLAPSED ON HIM. THANKS 2 THE WEAK DESIGN.*AK
Apr 24, 2004
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1 complaint
CONSUMER STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING WAS LEAKING ALONG WITH THE STEERING RACK AND THE BRAKE CYLINDER. TS
Jan 15, 2003
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE IT BACKFIRED AND BROKE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD INTO SEVERAL PIECES. I FOUND A RECALL INDICATING WHAT HAD HAPPENED DUE TO THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE. I GAVE THIS INFO TO THE DEALER AT GAMBACORTA BUICK AT 427 W. SEVENTH ST. NEW CASTLE, DELAWARE 19720 TEL. NO 302 323 3026. THEY DIAGNOSED IT AS A FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR LEAK CAUSING THE INTAKE TO CRACK. I HAVE PHOTOS SHOWING THE INTAKE MANIFOLD BROKEN IN TWO END TO END ABOUT AN INCH WIDE. THIS SEEMS TO BE MORE THAN A CRACK. WHEN THIS HAPPENED IT WAS AN EXPLOSION. IT WAS VERY LOUD INSIDE THE CAR.*AK REFERENCED IN EA02-030
Apr 11, 2002
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS
1 complaint
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Jan 18, 2002
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1 complaint
REAR BRAKES SOUND LIKE METAL RUBBING AGAINST METAL WHEN COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP. *AK CONSUMER STATED THAT WHILE CHECKING THE BALL JOINTS AGAIN AND FOUND THAT TWO OF THE BALL JOINTS, ONE ON EACH SIDE, DID NOT HAVE ANY GREASE, WHICH MEANS THAT THE BALL JOINTS WERE WORN OUT. *YD
Nov 08, 2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
I HAD TAKEN THIS VEHICLE BACK TO THE BUICK DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED IT AT 34K MILES AND TOLD THEM IT HAD A "MISS" AND THAT IT "HESITATED" DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. THEY SAID IT WAS A SPARK PLUG AND REPLACED ONE. THE LAST TIME I TOOK IT TO ANOTHER BUICK DEALER IT NEEDED 4,200.00 TO MAKE IT ROAD WORTHY INCLUDING A NEW WATER PUMP, NEW TRANSMISSION, NEW BRAKES AND ROTORS. THE SERVICE CODE ON THE CAR SHOULD HAVE INDICATED FAILURE OF THESE PARTS WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE FIRST DEALER.
Aug 16, 2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
ABS WARNING LIGHT AND TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT STAY ON WHILE DRIVING. *AK *SLC
Jul 30, 2001
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
THE FUEL GAUGE STOPPED WORKING. *YH
Jun 18, 2001
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
VEICLE WAS IN FOR TRANSMISSION REPAIR AT LOCAL DEALER/ SERVICEMAN WAS TEST DRIVING VEHICLE AFTER REPAIR WHEN VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDERNEATH BETWEEN TRANSMISSIOM AND GAS TANK, DEALER CLAIMS NOT RESPONSIBLE, VEHICLE BURNED COMPLETELY. HAS THERE BEEN ANY PROBLEMS COMPARABLE TO THIS SITUATION ?
Jun 09, 2001
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE TRYING TO START VEHICLE , VEHICLE WAS A TOTAL LOSS, AND MANUFACTURER WAS UNABLE TO DETECT ORGIN OF FIRE.*AK AAA DETECTED A HOT SPOT IN THE MANIFOLD AND THE FUEL LINE RUNS ALONG THE MANIFOLD, ALSO VEHICLE HAD AN INTAKE MANIFOLD LEAK, FIRE POSSIBLY FUEL RELATED. *SLC
Mar 30, 2001
STEERING,SUSPENSION
1 complaint
HAD TAKEN VEHICLE IN FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AT INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. WAS INFORMED THAT A BOLT TO RACK AND PINION STEERING HAD BROKEN , AND BUSHINGS HAD WORN OUT. BOLT NUT WAS SITTING THERE, LOOKED LIKE IT WAS WELDED. *AK
Feb 05, 2001
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY NOTICED VEHICLE WAS SURGING UP AND DOWN ON ITS OWN. TOOK IT TO A LOCAL MECHANIC THEY FOUND OUT THAT VEHICLE INDEED SURGED, REPLACED CONTROL VALVE BODY ASSEMBLY. ALSO HAD TO HAVE TRANSMISSION REBUILT AT OWNER'S COST. *AK *ML
May 24, 2000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE, THE CAR HAS GOTTEN HORRENDOUS GAS MILEAGE, THE HORN INTERMITTENTLY DOES NOT WORK AND THE TRANSMISSION HAS SLIPPED. THE CAR WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER AND NOTHING WAS DONE. I WAS TOLD "WE WERE UNABLE TO FIND A PROBLEM." THE HORN ISSUE NEARLY RESULTED IN A CAR ACCIDENT LASTNIGHT AS THE HORN, AGAIN, DECIDED TO TAKE THE NIGHT OFF. THIS IS NOT RIGHT!!
Apr 09, 2000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
RPMS RACE, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ILLUMINATING ON THE DASH AND VEHICLE HESITATES/ STALLS AND WILL NOT ACCELERATE. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALER, DEALER UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. *AK
Nov 12, 1999
POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
WINDSHIELD WIPERS OCCSAIONALLY FAIL TO OPERATE AT LOW SPEED OR SINGLE SWIPE MODE DUE TO WIPER STICKING ON WINDSHIELD AND MOTOR HORSEPOWER/TORQUE INSUFFICIENT TO BREAK "SEAL."
Sep 20, 1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
CAR SURGED FORWARD WHEN PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE, AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
Sep 08, 1999
AIR BAGS,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
AUTOMATIC DOOR OPENERS. AIR BAG LIGHTS.
Sep 08, 1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATING.
Feb 01, 1999
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
CAR STALLS WHILE DRIVING. ALSO, STEERING WHEEL OFTEN TIGHTENS UP.
Jan 12, 1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
WINDSHIELD WIPERS WILL NOT OPERATE IN THE WASH/MIST/DELAY OR LOW SPEED MODE UNTIL THEY ARE SWITCHED TO HIGH SPEED MODE.AFTER THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS AR EPLACED IN THE HIGH SPEED MODE THE OTHER MODES WILL OPERATE CORRECTLY. ALSO, INTERMITTENT HOWLING SOUND WHEN BRAKES ARE USED.
Jul 20, 1998
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
FRONT HEADLIGHT LENSES TAKE IN WATER. THEY WERE REPLACED IN JUNE 1998; HOWEVER, THE NEW LENSES ALSO SHOW SIGNS OF TAKING IN WATER.
Jul 20, 1998
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
FRONT END MISALIGNMENT, CAUSING VEHICLE TO PULL TO THE RIGHT AND PREMATURE WEAR OF TIRES. ALSO, BATTERY LEAKED ACID, AND TERMINAL WAS WORN OUT TO THE POINT OF BEING BROKEN.
Jun 11, 1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE WILL STALL WITHOUT INDICATIONS. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. DEALER ALSO REPLACED BATTRY/ALTERNATOR/IGNITION AND COMPUTER. HOWEVER, VEHICLE CONTINUED TO STALL. *AK
May 05, 1998
VISIBILITY,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE WINDSHIELD BROKE AND THE GLASS FLEW IN THE DRIVER'S FACE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
Apr 20, 1998
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE AT NIGHT THE HEADLIGHTS GO DIM FOR NO REASON. OWNER HAS TAKEN VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND WAS TOLD ITS THE DESIGN OF VEHICLE. OWNER FURTHER NOTES THAT THIS PROBLEM HAS ALMOST CAUSED ACCIDENTS. *AK SES LIGHT ILLUMINATED. WHEN THERE IS NOT EVEN 300 POUNDS IN VEHICLE AND GOING OVER BUMPS, IT BOTTOMS OUT, DEALER REPLACED REAR SPRINGS AND WEAK COIL SPRINGS. CONSUMER HAD TO WIGGLE KEY TO GET IT OUT OF THE DOOR, DEALER FILED KEY AND LUBRICATED THE LOCK CYLINDER. *SLC
Sep 09, 1997
WHEELS
1 complaint
HIGH PRESSURE LEAK IN WHEEL.
Apr 10, 1997
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
INTERMITTENT VIBRATION. CRUISE CONTROL FAILURE.
Jan 14, 1997
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 1997 BUICK LeSabre have?
The 1997 BUICK LeSabre currently has 440 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 1997 BUICK LeSabre?
The most common problems reported for the 1997 BUICK LeSabre are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 1997 BUICK LeSabre problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 1997 BUICK LeSabre comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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