VIN Decoder

Premium Report
454
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
191 complaints
I HAVE A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. THE CAR STOPPED WHEN IT WAS PULLED INTO THE GARAGE AND WHEN I TRIED TO START IT AGAIN, IT MADE A SCREECHING SOUND. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE STARTER "EXPLODED" BECAUSE FLUID WAS LEAKING FROM THE PLENEUM INTO THE CYLINDERS AND STARTER. THE MECHANIC ADVISED IT WOULD COST OVER $800.00 TO REPAIR. *TR
Oct 13, 2011
HERE'S WHAT HAPPENED, THE CAR STARTED CONSUMING DEXCOOL ANTIFREEZE, BUT NONE WAS NOTICED LEAKING EXTERNAL TO THE ENGINE. THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD MADE OF PLASTIC APPARENTLY WARPED, AND/OR A HOLE BURNED IN NEAR THE EGR STOVE PIPE, THUS DUMPING ANTIFREEZE INTO THE ENGINE AND HYDROLOCKING THE ENGINE. MAJOR PROBLEM, COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE WOULD NOT START OR RUN. THIS CAR HAD BEEN WELL MAINTAINED WITH BOTH REGULAR OIL AND COOLANT CHANGES, THE CAR HAS BEEN ADULT DRIVING . COST TO REPAIR $450.00 FOR JUST UPPER INTAKE, ADD ANOTHER $450 FOR THE LOWER INTAKE AS WELL. *TR
Apr 19, 2009
MY INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET WAS MADE OF PLASTIC AND MY ENGINE LOCKED UP, I WAS INFORMED FROM MY MECHANIC THAT GM WAS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AND CAME OUT WITH A BETTER ONE MADE OF METAL. THIS A COSTLY MISTAKE LEADING TO 850 DOLLARS OF REPAIR, THAT COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED IF GM WOULD HAVE STEPPED UP WITH THIS IN THE FIRST PLACE AND BEEN FIXED WITH THE NEW GASKET INSTEAD OF CAUSING MORE DAMAGE THEN NEEDED. *TR
Mar 30, 2009
BOUGHT A USED (2 OWNER) BUICK LESABRE IN DEC '08 HAVING 37,428 . IN EARLY MARCH, '09, AFTER LESS THAN 4000 MILES, STARTED HEARING A BRIEF GURGLING WHEN ENGINE TURNED OFF. IN MID-MARCH, WHILE PULLING ONTO A HIGHWAY FROM A SLIGHT UPWARD GRADE THE VEHICLE LOST POWER, AND A DRIVE TRAIN VIBRATION TOOK PLACE FOR A FEW SECONDS....NEARLY CAUSING AN ONCOMING TRUCK TO COLLIDE WITH US.TOOK VEHICLE INTO A NATIONAL FRANCHISED TRANSMISSION DEALER FOR CHECKUP...TRANSMISSION CHECKED OK. HOWEVER, TECHNICIAN DISCOVERED RADIATOR FLUID IN MANIFOLD INTAKE AREA. SUSPECTING LEAKING INTAKE MANIFOLD SEAL AND/OR CRACKED INTAKE MANIFOLD COVER. NEED TO USE THE VEHICLE, BUT HAVE TO WAIT FOR REPAIR UNTIL MONEY CAN BE PUT TOGETHER. AM A DISABLED EX MARINE,VIETNAM VET.. SHOULDN'T HAVE TO PUT UP WITH THIS PROBLEM, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT LOOKS LIKE A VERY PREVALENT ONE ,BASED ON WHAT IS ON THE NET. REPLACEMENT PART IS ONLY 140.00 THROUGH A NATIONAL PARTS COMPANY. THE AUTO SHOPS ARE QUOTING OVER 800.00 TO FIX. C'MON, LET'S GET SOMETHING DONE ABOUT THIS BEFORE SOMEONE IS KILLED!!! HAVEN'T YOU NOTICED THE POWER FAILURES IN SOME OF THE REPORTS??I WOULD THINK GM WOULD DO A VOLUNTEER RECALL, RATHER THAN RISK REPUTATION, AND CONSUMER LIFE&LIMB. THE PROBLEM IS THAT GM WAS USING HAVELIN'S 'ORANGE' ANTIFREEZE (DEXTROL) AND IT WAS FAULTY. IT WAS CONGEALING IN THE ENGINE, DISRUPTING COOLANT FLOW, THEREBY CAUSING OVERHEATING ENOUGH TO BLOW INTAKE MANIFOLDS AND/OR GASKETS........SEEMS THE 8 AUTO TECH'S I'VE TALKED TO OVER THE PAST WEEK KNOW THIS. SO, WHY DON'T THE INDUSTRY AND GOV."EXPERTS"??? *TR
Mar 25, 2009
THE BELT TENSIONER IS MADE OF PLASTIC WHICH BROKE DISABLING THE CAR WHICH HAD TO BE TOWED. OIL LEAK CAME FROM LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET, GATHERED AROUND BOTTOM AT OIL PAN, UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET, ALSO MADE OF PLASTIC LEAKED ANTIFREEZE INTO ENGINE. TENSIONER WAS REPLACED WITH SAME PLASTIC BECAUSE IT HAS NOT BEEN RE-DESIGNED,SAME WITH THE INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET, THEREFORE, IT WILL GIVE THE SAME PROBLEM IN THE FUTURE. A LOT OF OTHER PEOPLE ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AND GM REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE PROBLEM. *TR
Dec 19, 2008
+ 186 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
52 complaints
THE FUEL GAUGE ON MY 1998 BUICK LESABRE AUTOMOBILE IS FAULTY. THE GAUGE GIVES INACCURATE AND RANDOM FUEL LEVEL READINGS WHILE DRIVING. *TR
May 11, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AS HE STARTED THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS AN EXPLOSION THAT OCCURRED WITHIN THE ENGINE. WHITE SMOKE BEGAN TO FLOW FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS SHUT OFF AND THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE MANIFOLD HAD EXPLODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND THE CONTACT WAS TOLD THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V090000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT A FUEL LEAK WAS PRESENT WITHIN THE ENGINE PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 63,000.
Jan 25, 2011
Fire: 1
I AM CURRENTLY THE OWNER OF A 1998 BUICK LESABRE WITH APPROXIMATELY 24,600 MILES. I RECENTLY HAD TO HAVE THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR REPLACED ON THE VEHICLE AFTER THE CAR BACKFIRED AND THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT APPEARED ON THE VEHICLE. THE ENGINE WAS CHUGGING AND THE EXHAUST SMELLED LIKE GASOLINE AND BURNING PLASTIC. AT THE SERVICE SHOP WHERE I HAD MY CAR REPAIRED, THE MECHANIC INFORMED ME THAT IT WAS GOOD I BROUGHT THE CAR IN SO SOON BECAUSE THIS SORT OF PROBLEM IF NOT FIXED COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A POSSIBLE FIRE. I CONTACTED BUICK CUSTOMER SERVICE IN REGARDS TO THE PROBLEM AND WAS INFORMED THAT MY SPECIFIC VEHICLE WAS NOT INVOLVED IN ANY RECALLS AND THAT THE FUEL REGULATOR IN MY VEHICLE WAS NOT A PART OF ANY BUICK RECALLS. WHEN ASKED IF I COULD RECEIVE SOME DOCUMENTATION THAT MY SPECIFIC VEHICLE WAS NOT A PART OF ANY RECALLS, I WAS TOLD THAT THEY COULD NOT PROVIDE ME WITH THAT PAPERWORK AND THAT ANYONE ELSE COULD TALK TO WITH BUICK WOULD TELL ME THE SAME THING IN REGARDS TO MY VEHICLE. *TR
Mar 01, 2010
THE FUEL SUPPLY LINE RUSTED GET IN TO THE PLASTIC FITING AND GASOLINE WAS LEAKING AT THE GAS TANK. *TR
Apr 19, 2009
Fire: 1
MY 1998 BUICK LESABRE BACKFIRED, THEN STARTED ON FIRE, AFTER THE TOP OF THE MOTOR{INTAKE AND FUEL INJECTORS ETC.} WERE BLOWN OFF DURING THE EXPLOSION. THE WHOLE TOP OF THE MOTOR WAS DESTROYED. NOTIFIED GM, AND THEY SAID THEY WOULD NOT HELP BECAUSE OF A STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS. THEY KNOW THERE IS A PROBLEM!!! *TR
Nov 18, 2008
Fire: 1
Injuries: 1
+ 47 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
35 complaints
1998 BUICK LESABRE CRASHED AT LOW SPEED CAUSING PROPERTY DAMAGE, ENGINE CUT OUT WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEED. CAR WAS DECLARED A TOTAL LOSS, LEAVING ME WITH BILLS OF OVER $10,000 FOR LOST CAR, REPAIRS, INSURANCE. PROBLEM HAD ARISEN ON AND OFF SINCE ACQUIRING CAR AT 65,000 MILES..TWICE TAKEN IN TO GM DEALERSHIP FOR THIS PROBLEM. COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG. PROBLEM WOULD DISAPPEAR FOR MONTHS AND THEN REAPPEAR. NUMEROUS MECHANICS CHECKED AND COULD NOT FIND SOURCE OF PROBLEM. AFTER CAR WAS DECLARED A TOTAL, NEWS STORY RAN ABOUT TOYOTA CARS STALLING OUT DUE TO DEFECTIVE ENGINE CONTROL MODULES (NHTSA REPORT #PE09054). THE DEFECTIVE PART WAS MADE BY DELPHI..WHICH WAS OWNED BY GENERAL MOTORS..MAKERS OF THE BUICK LESABRE. I CONTACTED GM HEADQUARTERS TO ASK IF THE CONTROL MODULE IN MY PART WAS MADE BY GM/DELPHI. THEY REFUSED TO ANSWER ME, SAYING THAT AS NO RECALL HAD BEEN ISSUED AND MY CAR WAS GONE,THEY COULD DO NOTHING FOR ME. MEANWHILE, IT TURNS OUT THAT GM DID OWN DELPHI IN 1998, DID MANUFACTURE THOSE MODULES, WHICH HAD TO HAVE BEEN IN THE BUICK LESABRES,AND WERE YEARS LATER CAUSING IDENTICAL ENGINE FAILURES IN TOYOTAS. THOSE PARTS ARE OUT THERE TODAY, WAITING FOR SOMETHING HORRIBLE TO HAPPEN. AMONG THE 12 SUMMARIES YOU HAVE ON YOUR SITE FOR ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS WITH BUICK LESABRES, ONE IS EVEN WORSE THAN MINE "REPORT #9001048 "COMPLETE ELECTRICAL FAILURE ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY WITH A TRAGEDY BARELY AVOIDED, TRANSMISSION FAILURE". WHEN I PURCHASED THE CAR AT 65,000 MILES IT HAD A SERIOUS TRANSMISSION PROBLEM AS WELL, WHICH WAS FOUND AND FIXED. THE ELECTRICAL PROBLEM PERSISTED UNTIL THE ENGINE CUT OUT WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE AFTERNOON, ON A BUSY LOCAL ROAD. WHEN THE ENGINE FAILED, THE BRAKES FAILED. I COULD NOT STOP THE CAR. QUICK THINKING PUT ME UP AGAINST A TELEPHONE POLE SO NO LIVES WERE LOST. MANY OF YOUR OTHER COMPLAINTS MENTION COMPLETE ELECTRICAL FAILURE WITH THIS CAR. INVESTIGATION ANYONE? *TR
May 04, 2011
Crash: 1
I HAVE A BUICK LESABRE, CUSTOM, 1998, WITH ABOUT 110,000 MILES ON IT. THE CAR WAS RUNNING NORMALLY, WITH NO PRIOR PROBLEMS RELATING TO STARTING. I DROVE IT OUT OF TOWN, ABOUT 80 MILES AWAY. IT STILL WAS FINE, STARTING UP WITH NO PROBLEM, SEVERAL TIMES AFTER GETTING THERE. HOWEVER, AT A CAMPGROUND ENTRANCE, THE CAR REFUSED TO START. NO CLICK, BUZZ, NOTHING. ALL ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS, A.C., RADIO, WINDOWS, WERE FINE. THE SECURITY LIGHT FLASHED EVERY TIME I TRIED TO TURN THE KEY....EVEN AFTER WAITING 3 MINUTES TO TRY AGAIN. I EVEN TRIED A SECOND KEY, BUT IT DIDN'T HELP. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER TRIED, AND HE WIGGLED THE KEY IN THE KEY CYLINDER AND THE CAR STARTED. DROVE HOME, TRIED TO START CAR AGAIN, AND IT REFUSED TO START, NO MATTER HOW MUCH WIGGLING WE DID. CONTACTED SEVERAL DEALERS. THEY ALL SAID IT WAS PROBABLY THE CONTACT WIRES IN THE IGNITION CYLINDER THAT READ THE KEY'S "RESISTANCE" AND SEND AN "O.K" SIGNAL TO THE FUEL SYSTEM AND THE STARTER. (THE INTERNET SAYS THEY ARE FAMOUS FOR BREAKING/MALFUNCTIONING IN GM CARS) THEY SAID IT WOULD COST ABOUT $400 MINIMUM TO REPLACE THE KEY CYLINDER. ALSO, IF THE SECURITY MODULE NEEDED REPLACING, IT COULD COST ABOUT $1000.00. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC. HE PUT IN A RESISTOR BETWEEN THE TWO CONTACT WIRES COMING OUT OF THE KEY CYLINDER. DID NOT NEED TO REMOVE THE STEERING WHEEL AT ALL. (INCIDENTALLY, ONE DEALER EVEN INSISTED THERE WAS NO "BY-PASS" METHOD OF FIXING THE PROBLEM.) ALL KEYS WORK NOW. SECURITY LIGHT ACTS NORMALLY, DOES NOT STAY ON ALL THE TIME. REMOTE FOB WORKS O.K., TOO. *TR
Jun 27, 2009
I HAD BOTH 1999 AND 1998 INTRIGUES, BOTH HAD PROBLEMS WITH THEIR RUNNING LIGHTS AND BLINKING LIGHTS FAILING. REPLACE FUSES, REBLOW. SENT TO MECHANICS NUMEROUS TIMES, UNABLE TO RESOLVE. HOWEVER, THEY SAID THIS WAS ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE MAKE. MY SUPERVISOR SAID HE NOTICED MANY INTRIGUES ON ROAD WITH PROBLEMS, AND SINCE THEN, I NOTICE MANY INTRIGUES WITH SAME PROBLEM. MAYBE NOT IMMEDIATE DANGER, BUT WHEN BLINKER DOESN'T WORK, IT CREATES A DANGER OF BEING REAR-ENDED. *TR
Apr 17, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. WHEN THE CONTACT INSERTS THE KEY INTO THE IGNITION TO START THE VEHICLE, IT FAILS TO START. THE DEALER REPLACED THE STARTER, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HER VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V090000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY). THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 65,000.
Sep 11, 2008
1. IT STALLED OUT MANY TIME WHILE DRIVING. NO ENGINE CHECK LIGHT COMES ON AFTER RESTARTING. 2. THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION WHILE DRIVING ON BUSY BIG CITY FREEWAY AT RUSH HOUR. 3. THE PROBLEM WAS FIXED BY REPLACING THE CRANK POSITION SENSOR
May 21, 2005
+ 30 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
18 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR BRAKES FAILED TWICE AND THE BRAKE LINE WAS LEAKING. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE BRAKES AND NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE LINE WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND UNPROTECTED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,000.
Jul 23, 2014
I HAD TO MAKE A "PANIC STOP" DUE TO A CAR RUNNING A RED LIGHT.THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALMOST TO THE FLOOR BEFORE I FELT THE BRAKES HOLD. A BRAKE LINE HAD RUPTURED. INSPECTION REVEALED ALL THE LINES TO AND FROM THE POWER BRAKE UNIT[6 LINES] WERE RUSTED BADLY AND WILL HAVE TO BE REPLACED. *TR
Mar 13, 2011
THE CONSUMER'S ANTI-LOCK BRAKES WENT OUT WHILE DRIVING ON DRY CONDITIONS. CONSUMER WAS DRIVING 40 MPH WHEN HE STARTED TO BRAKE. THE ORANGE AND RED BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON, AND IT WAS STILL ON. HE TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER 2-3 DAYS AFTER THE INCIDENT. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE CAR, AND TOLD THE CONSUMER THAT HIS BRAKES WERE OK THAT THEY WERE NORMAL BRAKES. HOWEVER, THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES WERE NO LONGER FUNCTIONING. THE CONSUMER DID NOT HAVE THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES REPAIRED SINCE THE DEALER WAS CHARGING HIM $575.00. *AK *SB
Jun 08, 2005
1998 BUICK LESABRE EXPERIENCING REPEAT PROBLEMS WITH BRAKE EQUIPMENT.*MR THE REAR BRAKE CYLINDER FAILED AND THE BRAKES STARTED TO LEAK BRAKE FLUID ONTO THE REAR BRAKES. THE DEALER REPLACED THE REAR BRAKE CYLINDER. SIX MONTHS LATER THE REAR BRAKE CYLINDER FAILED AGAIN, WHICH REQUIRED THE REAR BRAKE CYLINDER TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. *JB
Apr 21, 2005
TRAFFIC LIGHT CHANGED, BRAKE WAS APPLIED, WENT TO FLOORBOARD, NOTHING HAPPENED. BRAKES WERE PUMPED, NOTHING HAPPENED. VEHICLE STRIKES ANOTHER VEHICLE, AIRBAG DEPLOYS, AUTOMOBILE CONTINUES IN A DITCH, POPS OUT OF THE DITCH, GOES THROUGH AN EMPTY PARKING LOT, POPS ONTO ANOTHER STREET AND EVENTUALLY STOPS AFTER GOING OVER ANOTHER CURB INTO ANOTHER PARKING LOT ABOUT 1/2 MILE FROM ACCIDENT. THEORY IS THAT ABS MALFUNCTIONED WHICH CAUSED REGULAR BRAKES TO FAIL. *JB
Feb 17, 2005
Crash: 1
Injuries: 1
+ 13 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
16 complaints
1998 BUICK LESABRE HAS A DEFECTIVE TRANSMISSION.*MR *NM
Apr 12, 2005
TRANSMISSION SLIPS AFTER BEING ENGAGED FOR 24 MILES OR MORE . THIS HAPPENS AT START UP FROM A STANDING STOP(STOP SIGN ETC.) IT HAS HAPPEN ONLY 4 TIMES THIS YEAR. DEALER UNABLE TO SAY WHAT IS WRONG OR REPAIR NEEDED.HAS ANYONE GOT A IDEA WHAT IT IS?
Jan 15, 2004
VEHICLE JUMPS AND VIBRATES WHEN DRIVING. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC, AND HE INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS SHOT.*AK *YH
Dec 12, 2001
AFTER OWNING THE CAR FOR APPROXIMATELY 3 WEEKS I WAS COMUTING TO NY FROM MY RESIDENCE IN NH. THE CARS TRANSMISSION WAS NOT RESPONDING WELL. I ARRIVED NEAR FINCHBURG MASSACHUSETTES WHEN I DECIDED TO TURN BACK HOME. POWER AND RESPONSE WERE VERY INADEQUATE.MY WIFE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I DROPPED OFF THE CAR IN EXETER NH (NOT THE SELLING DEALER..BUT A BUICK/GM DEALERSHIP THAT THEY RECOMMENDED TO HAVE CHECK IT OUT SINCE IT WAS STILL UNDER THE MANUFACTURER WARRANTY. AFTER INSPECTION AND A FULL DIAGNOSIS BY THE CERTIFIED GM MECHANIC, HE INFORMED ME THAT THE "TRANSMISSION WAS TOAST". THEY MADE A FULL REPAIR BY REPLACING THE EXISTING TRANSMISSION. THEY BELIEVED IT WOULD HAVE BEEN IMPOSSIBLE TO REBUILD CONSIDERING THE NATURE OF THE PROBLEM. FURTHER, MY WIFE DID A THROUGH CHECK PRIOR TO MAKING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE THE VEHICLE. WE KNEW THAT THIS MODEL VEHICLE HAS A HISTORY OF TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. HOWEVER SERVERAL BUICK /GM CERTIFIED SHOPS INDICATED THAT VERY FEW OF THESE NEWER VEHICLE HAVE TRANSMISSION FAILUE. IT WOULD BE LIKE A 1 AND 4MILLION CHANCE...WELL THAT IS OUR LUCK. IT HAPPENED TO US. *AK
Nov 18, 2001
CAR SHIFTS FROM DRIVE TO OVERDRIVE WITH LOT OF NOISE, AND WILL CHATTER A LITTLE. FROM A COLD START. IT WON'T MOVE JUST VIBRATE AND SHATTER. TOOK TO DEALER, AND THEY SAID IT WAS VALVE BODY THAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.*AK
Mar 26, 2001
+ 11 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
12 complaints
I WAS DRIVING INTO DRIVE WAY AND HEARD A LOUD THUD THEN NOTICED MY STEERING WHEEL WAS OFF CENTER. I PUT THE CAR UP ON RAMPS AND ALL FOUR REAR SUB FRAME BUSHINGS WHERE MISSING. THIS COMPONENT HOLDS THE ENGINE, TRANSMISSION, AND STEERING TO THE CAR.!!!! BEING A TECHNICIAN ,I LOOKED ON LINE TO SEE IF THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM AND FOUND IT IS VERY COMMON . IF I HAD CONTINUED TO DRIVE I WOULD HAVE LOST CONTROL. THANKFULLY I WAS DOING 10 MPH MANY ON LINE COMPLAINTS TALK ABOUT PEOPLE LOOSING CONTROL. OR THE FRONT END DROPPING FENDERS ON TO TIRES. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY. ISSUE AND I HAVE FOUND IT SPANS 1992 TO 1999. GM MODELS. THIS IS JUST AS DANGEROUS AS THE IGNITION PROBLEM POSSIBLY WORSE SINCE THERE IS NO WARNING BEFORE IT HAPPENS. IF YOU CHECK ONLY AT WWW.CARGURUS.COM THEY HAVE A SECTION TITLED { CRITICAL SAFETY ISSUE 92-99 BUICK } PLEASE LOOK AND DO SOMETHING BEFORE. SOMEONE IS HURT. *TR
Feb 04, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THERE WAS A LOUD CLUNKING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOWER CROSSARM AND FOUR CRADLE BOLTS AND BUSHINGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 120,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
May 08, 2014
I HAVE A 1998 BUICK LESABRE AND THE CAR HAS DEFECTIVE SUBFRAME BUSHINGS WHICH CAN CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH. *TR
Mar 21, 2011
STRUT HAS BEEN WEAK AND NOISY FOR QUITE A WHILE. IF THERE ARE PROBLEMS WITH THE STRUTS LIKE THE WEB SITE SUGGESTS I FEEL THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD REPAIR IT AT NO CHARGE. *JB
Feb 28, 2007
CONSUMER STATES THAT A BOLT CONNECTED TO THE LOWER CONTROL ARM CAME OFF. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. TS
Jan 07, 2003
+ 7 more complaints for this component
STEERING
10 complaints
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE STREET ON 6/17/10 WHEN I HEARD A LOUD POP. I SLOWED DOWN TO SEE WHAT HAPPEN. I SEEN NOTHING BUT SOME BOLTS IN THE STREET. I PICK THEM UP AND GOT BACK IN THE CAR. THERE WAS NO WAY TO STEER THE CAR JUST HAD GAS NO STEERING. I LOOKED UP UNDER THE CAR AND IT LOOKED LIKE THE ENGINE WAS FALLING OUT OF THE CAR. I LIFTED UP THE HOOD AND IT WAS ALONG WITH THE STEERING COLUMN. I WAS TWO MIN. AWAY FROM GETTING ON THE EXPRESSWAY. GOD WAS WITH ME IF THAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED ON THE EXPRESSWAY I MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO WRITE THIS LETTER TONIGHT. RUSTED BOLTS WITH NO WARNING FALLING OFF A CAR A LITTLE OVER TEN YEARS OLD. IF THEY CANT GET SOME WAY TO WARN PEOPLE THAT THEIR BOLTS COULD FALL OFF AND THEIR STEERING GO OUT DRIFTING FROM LANE TO LANE WITH NO CONTROL OF THE AUTOMOBILE, THAN DON'T MAKE THEM. THAT WAS MY MOTHERS CAR IF I WOULDN'T HAVE DRIVEN IT SHE WOULD HAVE BEEN RIDING IN THAT CAR WITH SIX CHILDREN TODAY. SHE IS FROM ATLANTA WE ARE IN PITTSBURGH, PA THE ONLY ROADS SHE TAKES ARE THE MAIN ONES AND EXPRESSWAYS. I COULDN'T BELIEVE IT. WE TOOK THE CAR TO THE SHOP ILL WRITE BACK WHEN THE MECHANIC TELLS ME WHAT WENT WRONG. *TR
Jun 18, 2010
THE CONSUMER READ AN ARTICLE WHICH INDICATED THAT GM RECALL CERTAIN CARS WITH POWER STEERING DEFECTS. *LA THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SIMILAR POWER STEERING PROBLEMS WHICH REQUIRED REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE ONLY HAD 35392 MILES. *NM
Feb 19, 2004
MY CAR, A '98 LESABRE, HAS A POWER ASSISTED STEERING THAT IS DRIVEN BY A BELT. THE IDLER PULLEY DISINTEGRATED, THE BELT CAME OFF, AND I HAD LITTLE STEERING. A PERSON WITH LESS UPPER BODY STRENGTH WOULD HAVE LOST CONTROL. I BELIEVE MANY UNEXPLAINED ACCIDENTS MAY BE CAUSED BY THIS SITUATION. INVESTIGATING OFFICERS WOULD ASSUME THE BELT WAS LOST DURING THE CRASH WHEN THE LOSS WAS ACTUALLY THE CAUSE OF THE CRASH. A VEHICLKE THAT HAS A SERPENTINE BELT ALSO LOSES POWER TO THE BRAKES.
Sep 23, 2003
THE VEHICLE HAD NO POWER STEERING WHEN DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS, CONSUMER STATED PROBLEM ONLY HAPPENED WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS WARM. TS *JB
Nov 25, 2002
WHILE DRIVING STEERING PUMP DISENGAGED FROM ENGINE, CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
Dec 08, 2000
+ 5 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
10 complaints
DT: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING BETWEEN 60-75 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN BOTH AIR BAGS DEPLOYED FOR NO APPARENT REASON. THERE WERE NO POTHOLES OR BUMPS IN THE ROAD THAT WOULD HAVE CAUSED THE AIR BAGS TO ENGAGE. AFTER THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED THE CAR WAS FILLED WITH BROWN SMOKE AND FIRE WAS COMING OUT OF BOTH AIR BAGS. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED THE DRIVER PUT OUT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG FLAME. THE DRIVER SIDE FLAME WENT OUT BY ITSELF. THERE WERE ONLY ONE INJURY. THE PASSENGER SUFFERED BRUISING TO THE LOWER PART OF THE STOMACH AND THE THIGHS. THERE WERE NO MARKS LEFT ON THE VEHICLE. DRIVER PUT THE AIR BAG BACK IN THE DRIVER AIR BAG COMPARTMENT AND DROVE THE VEHICLE HOME. THE ONLY THING BURNT WAS THE AIR BAGS AND THAT WAS THE ONLY DAMAGE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. MANUFACTURER SENT OUT AN INSPECTOR TO CHECK OUT THE DAMAGE TO THE CAR AND TAKE PICTURES. THE MANUFACTURER THEN REFERRED THE CONSUMER TO INSURANCE CARRIER. THE CONSUMER FELT THAT GM SHOULD HAVE BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR FIXING THE AIR BAGS. CONSUMER WANTED TO KNOW WHY THAT THE AIR BAGS WERE BURNING. THERE WAS NO POLICE REPORT FILED. CONSUMER HAS NO MAILING ADDRESS OR PHONE NUMBER FOR THE DEALERSHIP.*AK
Jul 05, 2005
Fire: 1
Injuries: 1
WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC AT 55 MPH AIRBAGS DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY. VEHICLE WAS NOT IN AN ACCIDENT. *AK
Feb 07, 2005
INTERMITTENTLY THE HORN WOULD SOUND OFF AND WOULD NOT SHUT OFF. DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, AND FOUND THAT THE AIR BAG ASSEMBLY WAS DEFECTIVE. THE HORN SOUNDED OFF TWENTY TIMES SINCE LAST JUNE.*AK *NM
Jun 16, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AT 25-35 MPH CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD ON COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AND NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED.*AK
Aug 08, 2002
Crash: 1
CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A 50 MPH FRONTAL COLLISION I WHICH DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
Jun 26, 2001
Crash: 1
+ 5 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
9 complaints
I WAS PULLING INTO MY GARAGE LAST NIGHT WHEN THE REAR WINDOW ON MY VEHICLE SHATTERED INTO A MILLION PIECES. THERE ARE NO VISIBLE HOLES OR DENTS IN THE WINDOW WHERE SOMETHING MIGHT HAVE HIT IT. THE REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER WAS OPERATING NORMALLY AND IT WAS A COLD EVENING. I TOOK PICTURES WITH MY DIGITAL CAMERA AND THE WINDOW IS BEING REPLACED TODAY. *JB
Feb 11, 2006
THE REAR WINDOW WAS INOPERATIVE.*JB
Feb 20, 2002
ON SEPTEMBER 21, 2000 I HAD MY BUICK LESABRE TO THE DEALER BECAUSE THE REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER DID NOT WORK. THEY REPLACED THE MODULE. THE DEFROSTER THAN WORKED. ON DECEMBER 8, 2000, I WAS ON MY WAY HOME FROM WORK. I HAD MY REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER ON, BUT IT HAD SHUT OFF. I NOTICED AN AWFUL SMELL. AS I WAS STOPPED AT A STOP LIGHT, I LOOKED AROUND FOR THE SOURCE OF THE SMELL. AS I GLANCED OVER MY SHOULDER, FLAMES WERE BEGINNING TO COME THROUGH THE PANEL BETWEEN THE REAR WINDOW AND THE SIDE WINDOW. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY DETERMINED THAT IT WAS THE REAR WINDOW MODULE THAT HAD CAUSED THE FIRE. THE CAR IS BEING FIXED AND CHECKED OVER BY ANOTHER SERVICE COMPANY. THEY ARE CHECKING OUT THE WIRING TO SEE IF THE DEFECT MIGHT BE SOME WHERE ELSE.
Jan 19, 2001
Fire: 1
WHEN IT RAINS WINDSHIELD WIPERS DO NOT OPERATE FAST ENOUGH ON HIGH SPEED. NOT ENOUGH VISIBILITY TO OPERATE SAFELY. *AK
Apr 11, 2000
WINSHIELD WIPER SWITCH IS UNDER STEERING WHEEL, AND AT NIGHT OR IF IT IS RAINING DRIVER CAN'T SEE BECAUSE THERE IS NO LIGHT UP SWITCH, INDICATING WHERE THE KNOB IS LOCATED SO DRIVER HAS TO TAK EYES OFF THE ROAD TO FIND IT. *AK
Sep 30, 1999
+ 4 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaints
CONSUMER DISSATISFIED WITH THE REIMBURSEMENT OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD REPAIR KIT AND NOTHING ELSE. (NAR) *PH THE CONSUMER WAS ONLY PARTIALLY REIMBURSED FOR REPAIRS MADE PRIOR TO RECEIVING THE RECALL NOTIFICATION ON THE FAULTY INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE CONSUMER ALSO HAD TO REPLACE THE VEHICLE'S STARTER. *NM
Mar 08, 2004
TEMPERATURE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. CONSUMER STOPPED AND PUT IN COOLANT. NEXT, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED , AND ENGINE DIED. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO DEALER. THE UPPER AND LOWER MANIFOLDS NEEDED REPLACEMENT. *AK THE DEALER ALSO INSTALLED A NEW THERMOSTAT AND GASKET AND REPLACED ALL SIX SPARK PLUGS. *NLM
Nov 19, 2003
INTAKE MANIFOLD MELTING. LOSS OF COOLANT. REPLACE PLASTIC INTAKE, PLUGS, STARTER, OIL AND FILTER, PCV VALVE, COOLANT. PLUS TOWING BILL AND SHOP LABOR. GM DEFECT. GM KNOWS IT, GM SHOULD REIMBURSE FOR REPAIR COST. *LA
Oct 09, 2003
CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE WOULD STALL AND IT WILL BE HARD FOR THE CONSUMER TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. DEALER NOTIFIED. *PH THE VEHICLE STARTED TO LOOSE SPEED PULLED INTO GAS STATION. THE VEHICLE START AGAIN. GM WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE CONSUMERS FRIEND HAD EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE REPLACEMENT OF THE MANIFOLD GASKETS. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE MANIFOLD AND THE STARTER. *SCC *NLM
Aug 22, 2003
THE MANIFOLD AND GASKET HAD TO BE REPLACED. I WAS TOLD COOLANT WAS IMPROPERLY MIXING WITH MY OIL CAUSING BLACK SMOKE TO BE EMITTED FROM MY EXHAUST, THE CAR MISSING AND EVENTUALLY SEMI-LOCKING. THE LOCKING CAUSE THE CONE OF MY STARTER TO CRACK IN TWO WHEN I ATTEMPTED TO RE-START TO THE TUNE OF A $1,500. REPAIRFOR ALL. DEALER ACKOWLEDGED THEY HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH OTHER VEHICLES. THE INITIAL STATER REPLACED WAS DISCOVERED DEFECTIVE AND WAS AGAIN REPLACED ON JUNE 25, 2003. A COMPLAINT TO BUICK CUSTOMER SERVICE WAS FRUITLESS AND THEY WERE NOT SENSITIVE AT ALL TO THE PROBLEM ENCOUNTERED. *AK
Jul 04, 2003
+ 3 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
6 complaints
MY CAR SEEMS TO JUST DIE WHILE YOU ARE DRIVING IT THEM YOU HAVE TO PULL OVER AND WAIT A FEW MINS BEFORE IT WILL START AGAIN AND NO BODY SEEMS TO KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM COULD BE TO YOU
Feb 13, 2016
MY SON WAS ON HIS WAY TO PICK UP MY DAUGHTER ON THE 16, OF SEPTEMBER, 2011 AND AS HE WAS DRIVING THE CAR SHUT OFF. THANKFULLY HE WAS IN A RESIDENTIAL AREA WHERE THE SPEED LIMIT WAS 35 BUT HAD IT BEEN ELSEWHERE HE WOULD HAVE BEEN IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. THE CAR CUT OFF HE WAS ABLE TO TURN THE CAR ON AFTER A FEW MINUTES AND MADE IT HOME AFTER PICKING UP HIS SISTER. EVER SINCE THEN I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO TURN MY CAR ON. I ASKED THE DEALER AND THEY SAID I SHOULD INSERT THE KEY TURN IT ON WAIT A MINUTE AND THEN TURN KEY OFF. WAIT 10 MINUTES AND TRY TO START MY CAR. I DID JUST THAT AND MY CAR IS NOT GOING ON AT ALL. I WANT TO KNOW WHAT IS IT THAT I SHOULD DO NEXT? VERY FRUSTRATED I NEED MY CAR FOR WORK. *TT
Sep 18, 2011
IN NOVEMBER,2002, OUR VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. WE TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL LICENSED MECHANIC AND HE DISCOVERED THE UPPER MANIFOLD AND GASKET WERE DISINTEGRATED. ON FURTHER RESEARCH HE OBTAINED A COPY OF A BULLETIN FROM GENERAL MOTORS THAT STATED IF YOU HAVE TO REPLACE THE UPPER MANIFOLD, ALSO REPLACE THE LOWER. OUR MECHANICAL INSURANCE PAID FOR THE UPPER BUT NOT THE LOWER. WE WROTE TO GM AND AFTER A FEW E-MAILS, OF COURSE THEY SAID NO WAY. I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY THERE HAS NOT BEEN A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM. IT COULD BE A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. I ASK YOU TO LOOK ON THE INTERNET ADDRESS: HTTP://WWW.PETITIONLINE.COM/MOD_PER/SIGNED.CGI?GMCNSMRS. YOU WILL FIND 3700 + OR - SIGNATURES AND STORIES OF SIMILAR GASKET PROBLEMS. PLEASE SEE WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT THIS. I BELIEVE GM KNOWS THEY HAVE HAD A GASKET PROBLEM.
Aug 28, 2003
1998 BUICK LESABRE DESCRIPTION OF COMPLAINT NOT GIVEN. MR. *JB
May 16, 2003
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
May 23, 2000
+ 1 more complaint for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
6 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT NOTICED OIL IN THE ANTIFREEZE BUCKET IN THE VEHICLE. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE MECHANIC, HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE COOLING COILS HAD BURST IN THE RADIATOR. CURRENTLY, ANTIFREEZE HAS SETTLED ON THE ENGINE BLOCK. THE VEHICLE WAS TESTED FOR A PRESSURE LEAK AND THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO FIND ONE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE INTAKE GASKET FAILED. NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V090000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY) WAS REFERENCED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 31,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,000. UPDATED 06/25/08. *LJ UPDATED 06/25/08
Jun 04, 2008
VEHICLE RETURNED FOR INSPECTION WITH REGARD TO 04V090 12/13/04 COMPLAINTS POOR PERFORMANCE, FUEL ECONOMY, HARD STARTING, AND USE OF DEXCOOL ANTI-FREEZE SINCE RECALL PERFORMED. DECOOL ANTI-FREEZE ENTERING THE INTAKE MANIFOLD OF ENGINE, AND ENGINE OILING SYSTEM FROM FAILURE OR RUPTURE OF UPPER INTAKE PLENUM NEAR EGR PASSAGE. ANTI-FREEZE HAS FILLED ENGINE LIFTERS CAUSING NOISE/FAILURE, FILLING COMBUSTION CHAMBER CAUSING HYDRO-LOCKING OF ENGINE, COULD CAUSE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF ENGINE RESULTING IN POSSIBLE FIRE OR ACCIDENT. DEALER REFUSED TO REPAIR UNDER 04V090 MANIFOLD OVER PRESSURE CONDITION STATED REPLACEMENT OF UPPER & LOWER INTAKE, LIFTER, PLUGS, OIL, ANTI-FREEZE AT A COST OF $1,150 ON VEHICLE THAT HAD 77,827 WHEN THE RECALL WAS DONE, AND NOW HAS 80,407 MI. WHICH IS LESS THEN 3,000. THIS COULD VERY WELL HAVE HYDRO-LOCKED THE ENGINE AT FREEWAY SPEED,OR CAUSED CATASTROPHIC FAILURE RESULTING IN SEVERE DAMAGE, INJURY, AND POSSIBLE FIRE FROM ENGINE OIL & FUEL HITTING THE HOT CATALYTIC CONVERTER!*AK
Dec 21, 2004
ENGINE BACKFIRING ON 1998 BUICK LESABRE. *MR RECALL# 04V090000. THE HEATER FAILED AND THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT A WATER PUMP WAS NEEDED. THE ENGINE ALSO DIED WITH LESS THAN 100K MILES. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED REIMBURSEMENT. *SC *JB
Aug 30, 2004
PROBLEMS WITH FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR ON 1998 BUICK LESABRE.*MR THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR WAS REPLACED IN ACCORDANCE WITH RECALL V1082. WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WOULD NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE SERVICE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERRMINED THAT THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD FAILED AND COOLANT WAS FLOWING INTO THE CYLINDERS. THE CONSUMER FEELS THE MANIFOLD SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED AND REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT. *NM
Aug 20, 2004
VEHICLE FAILED TO START WHEN THE KEY WAS TURNED IN THE IGNITION. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC. MECHANIC INDICATED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD DEGRADED AROUND THE ERG DISTRIBUTION NIPPLE AND THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR DIAPHRAM RUPTURED LEAKING FUEL INTO THE ENGINE THROUGH THE VACUUM HOSE. THIS WAS THE SAME DEFECT AS DESCRIBED IN THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR RECALL 03V473000, BUT THIS VEHICLE'S MODEL WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL ALTHOUGH IT HAD THE SAME TYPE OF ENGINE. *AK *NM
Jun 04, 2004
+ 1 more complaint for this component
TIRES
6 complaints
CONSUMER INSPECTED THE TIRES AND NOTICED THAT THE LEFT FRONT TIRE TREAD WAS SEPARATING AND STEEL BELT WAS VISIBLE. THE OTHER 3 TIRES HAD CRACKS ALONG THE SIDES. DEALERSHIP WAS CONTACTED. *AK
Mar 08, 2004
THE SAFETY INVOLVED HERE IS THE INABILITY TO CHANGE A TIRE IF IT FAILS ON THE ROAD. THE PLASTIC KEY AND INSERT ARE INADEQUATE FOR THE JOB. THE PLASTIC ON THE KEY GIVES AND THE LOCKING DEVICE ON THE HUB CAP BECOMES SO TIGHT THAT THE PLASTIC KEY WILL NOT REMOVE IT BEFORE FAILING. EACH TIME I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THE TIRES ROTATED OR CHANGED, THE MECHANICS REQUIRED AIR TOOLS AND 1 INCH SOCKET. ONE OCCASION OF A FLAT TIRE ON A TEXAS HIGHWAY PLACED MY WIFE AND I WITHOUT THE ABILITY TO CHANGE TO THE SPARE. HAD NOT A VERY HUSKY HIGHWAY PATROLMENT COME TO OUR RESCUE, WE WOULD HAVE BEEN STRANDED. IN THIS INCIDENT WE WERE ABLE TO GET OFF THE HIGHWAY ONTO A PRIVATE FARM ENTRANCE. MR
Oct 11, 2002
THE SAFETY INVOLVED HERE IS THE INABILITY TO CHANGE A TIRE IF IT FAILS ON THE ROAD. THE PLASTIC KEY AND INSERT ARE INADEQUATE FOR THE JOB. THE PLASTIC ON THE KEY GIVES AND THE LOCKING DEVICE ON THE HUB CAP BECOMES SO TIGHT THAT THE PLASTIC KEY WILL NOT REMOVE IT BEFORE FAILING. EACH TIME I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THE TIRES ROTATED OR CHANGED, THE MECHANICS REQUIRED AIR TOOLS AND 1 INCH SOCKET. ONE OCCASION OF A FLAT TIRE ON A TEXAS HIGHWAY PLACED MY WIFE AND I WITHOUT THE ABILITY TO CHANGE TO THE SPARE. HAD NOT A VERY HUSKY HIGHWAY PATROLMENT COME TO OUR RESCUE, WE WOULD HAVE BEEN STRANDED. IN THIS INCIDENT WE WERE ABLE TO GET OFF THE HIGHWAY ONTO A PRIVATE FARM ENTRANCE. MR
Oct 11, 2002
RIGHT FRONT TIRE BLEW OUT WHILE DRIVING IN THE RAIN, DEFECTIVE TIRE IS POSSIBLE WHAT CAUSED THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL TO VIBRATE WHILE DRIVING (GENERAL AMERI-G4S - P205-70R15).
Dec 28, 2000
ORGINIAL EQUIPMENT ON A 1998, BUICK, LESABRE ,TIRE SIZE P20570R15, WHITE WALLS, TIRES HAVE 40 THOUSAND MILES ON THEM. WHEN DRIVING 50 MPH, RIGHT REAR GENERAL AMERI G4S DOT A3M0DB1427 TIRE EXPLODED, PIECES OF THE TREAD WAS STILL ON THE RIM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK *SLC
Sep 12, 2000
Crash: 1
+ 1 more complaint for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
5 complaints
NO INJURIES. ENGINE STOPS OR STALLS AT VARIOUS TIMES. NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM.
Jun 07, 2005
1998 BUICK LESABRE HAD THE INTAKE MANIFOLD REPLACED. THE CONSUMER'S CLAIM FOR A REFUND FOR REPAIRS WAS NOT APPROVED. *MR THE CONSUMER HAD TURNED LEFT ONTO A LOOP AND STARTED TO ACCELERATE WHEN THE ENGINE STARTED TO MISS AND MAKE NOISES. THE CONSUMER PULLED OVER AND VIEWED A LOT OF WATER UNDER THE ENGINE. THE CONSUMER FELT THAT HE SHOULD BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE SPARK PLUGS THAT WERE DAMAGED WHEN THE WATER FLOODED INTO THE BLOCK AND OR THE RUPTURED PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. REFER TO RECALL CAMPAIGN#04V090000. THE HORN WOULD GO OFF WHEN THE HORN PAD WAS BUMPED OR WHEN THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE BECAME' HOT. *SC THE MANUFACTURER WROTE THE CONSUMER A LETTER WHICH STATED THE PART THAT WAS REPLACED ON THE VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL. *JB
Apr 29, 2005
REIMBURSEMENT REQUEST FOR 1998 BUICK LESABRE RECALL.*MR THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER FOR THEIR VEHICLE JULY 2, 2004. RECALL #(04V090000 ) REGARDING FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THAT THE REPAIRS DONE ON THE VEHICLE WAS RELATED TO THE RECALL. THE CONSUMER REPORTED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED A GRINDING NOISE WAS HEARD. DEALER REPLACED STARTER ASSEMBLY. *TC
Sep 08, 2004
PROBLEMS REGARDING A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. *MR RECALL# 04V090000. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN TO THE DEALERS THREE TIMES. THE FUEL REGULATOR WAS REPLACED. THE VEHICLE DIED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, THE BATTERY CABLE WAS LOOSE AND THE PCM NEEDED CALIBRATING, AND THE STARTER WAS BAD. *SC *JB
Aug 19, 2004
DEALERSHIP ADVISED INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED AND STARTER WAS BAD. I HAD JUST PARKED THIS VEHICLE TWO HOURS PRIOR TO ATTEMPTING TO START IT AGAIN AND IT WOULD NOT CRANK. I QUESTION WHY THEY ARE ALLOWED TO USE A PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD AS THIS IS AN AREA THAT GETS VERY HOT AT TIMES. I USED TO BE A MECHANIC FOR SEVERAL YEARS AND THINK THAT BUICK MADE AN ERROR BY PRODUCING ENGINES WITH PLASTIC MANIFOLDS. I HAVE PURCHASED NEW BUICKS ON AND OFF FOR THE PAST 35 YEARS AND THIS IS THE FIRST PROBLEM I HAVE EVER HAD WITH AN ENGINE. REFERENCED IN EA02-030
Jan 09, 2001
EQUIPMENT
5 complaints
CONSUMER STATES THAT OIL LEAKS FROM THE RIGHT AND LEFT SIDE REAR BUMPER. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *MR
Oct 04, 2002
THE MIRROR COMPASS IS INOPERATIVE. *JB
Feb 20, 2002
THE MIRROR COMPASS IS INOPERATIVE. *JB
Feb 20, 2002
A/C HAS BEEN SPRAYED AND ODOR NEUTRALIZED AND LATER COILS OF A/C & HEATER CLEANED AND I STILL SMELL MOLD. DEVELOPED AND ALLERGY AND SINUS INFECTION IN DECEMBER OF 1998, BEFORE I HAD CAR SIX MONTHS AND AM STILL SEEING DOCTOR FOR CONGESTION AND INFECTION.
Feb 19, 2000
RADIO FAILED. *YC
Feb 01, 1999
ENGINE
4 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED UNINTENDED ACCELERATION WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE CRADLE WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 90,000. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED.
Nov 01, 2017
THE FIRST INCIDENT OF THE VEHICLE CUTTING OFF WAS AT A STOP LIGHT. THE VEHICLE JUST CUT OFF. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE PUT IN PARK AND THE IGNITION WAS SWITCHED OFF AND TURNED BACK ON. THE VEHICLE TURNED BACK ON. THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AT "45 MPH". THE VEHICLE CUT OFF AND HAD NO POWER STEERING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THEN PUT IN PARK. THE VEHICLE TURNED BACK ON WITH THE IGNITION KEY. THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AT "55 MPH". THE VEHICLE CUT OFF AND HAD NO POWER STEERING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THEN PUT IN PARK. THE VEHICLE TURNED BACK ON WITH THE IGNITION KEY.
Jul 01, 2013
THE VEHICLE ACTED LIKE IT HAD A MISS, THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, FLASHING, THEN STOPPED FLASHING BUT REMAINED ON. I DROVE VEHICLE HOME, AND THE NEXT MORNING IT WOULD NOT START. I HAD IT TOWED TO A SHOP AND THE MECHANIC SAID THAT IT HAD HYDRO LOCKED DUE TO COOLANT DRIPPING ON THE PISTON FROM A COOLANT LEAK AT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THIS IS NOT A CHEAP REPAIR. *TR
Oct 09, 2012
1998 BUICK - LESABRE ,THE INTAKE PLENUM HAD A HOLE IN IT BECAUSE IT GOT TO HOT,AND ANTIFREEZE WENT INTO THE BLOCK. BUICK HAS HAD THIS ENGINEERING PROBLEM FOR A LONG TIME. NO RECALL , IT COST ME $785.76 TO HAVE FIXED. I WANT MY MONEY BACK. THIS IS BS. THERE ARE 1000S OF PEOPLE THAT HAVE THIS CAR. I HAVE 61502 MILES ON THIS CAR. MY MECHANIC SAID HE HAS FIXED ATLEAST 30 OVER THESE PROBLEMS WITH THE BUICK-LESABRE 1992 AND UP. TIMES ARE HARD RIGHT NOW, I DON'T HAVE HIS KIND OF MONEY. I JUST DON'T WANT ANYONE ELSE TO COME ACROSS THIS PROBLEM, WITH THIS ENGINEERING PROBLEM. BUICK NEEDS TO CALL A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE REALLY GETS HURT. LETS HELP EACH OTHER OUT ,AND CALL EVERY NEWS STATION,PAPER. AND GET IT RESOLVED. *TR
Jul 23, 2012
STRUCTURE
4 complaints
THE SUB FRAME (SOMETIMES CALLED ENGINE CRADLE) BUSHINGS, RETAINERS, AND THE SUB FRAME ITSELF WHEREIN THEY MOUNT, ARE DECAYED. SOME BUSHINGS AND RETAINERS ARE COMPLETELY MISSING. HAVING INVESTIGATED THE REQUIREMENTS FOR REPAIR, I HAVE FOUND THAT NEARLY ALL GM CARS WITH THIS MOUNTING SYSTEM ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME MALFUNCTION. THIS IS DEFINITELY A SAFETY ISSUE, IN THAT THE ENGINE CRADLE CAN FALL FROM THE VEHICLE. IN MY OPINION THIS IS THE RESULT OF A DESIGN OR MATERIALS FAILURE, INCORPORATED WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED.THE REPAIR COST OF THE PARTS, FROM GM "DEALER ONLY", IS PROHIBITIVE. IS THIS BEING CONSIDERED FOR A MANDATORY RECALL.?
Aug 10, 2016
THE CONSUMER FAILED TO LOCATE THE SMALL PLACES ON THE STEERING WHEEL WHERE THE HORN IS LOCATED. *LA THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THIS CONSTITUTES A DANGEROUS HAZARD. MODEL VEHICLE: ESTATE. *SC
Feb 19, 2004
EXCESSIVE WIND NOISE ENTERING INTERIOR COMPARTMENT.
Feb 01, 1999
LEFT AND RIGHT DOOR SEALS (WEATHER STIP) FAILED. MJS
Feb 01, 1999
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
4 complaints
WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE THERE WAS A LOUD BANG. *NM CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 04V090000 WHEN THE CONSUMER ATTEMTED TO START THE VEHICLE HE HEARD A LOUD BANG AND SAW SMOKE. THE ENGINE REFUSED TO START. THE SERVICE MANAGER TOLD THE CONSUMER THAT THE MANIFOLD WAS WORN AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONSUMER WOULD LIKE TO BE REIMBURSED FOR 1435.31 THE COST OF THE REPAIR. *TC
Nov 15, 2004
WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE IN THE GARAGE CONSUMER HEARD AN EXPLOSION IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER THAT A FAULTY PRESSURE REGULATOR WAS THE PROBLEM. *AK
Jan 20, 2004
FUEL GAUGE/SENDER FAILED. NLM
Feb 01, 1999
FLEXIBLE HOSE LINE FROM GAS PUMP, NEXT TO THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL, WAS RESTING AGAINST THE SHARP METAL EDGE OF THE HEAT SHIELD WHICH MOUNTED ABOVE AND IN FRONT OF THE MUFFLER, DESIGN DEFECT, POSSIBLE FAILURE DUE TO CHAFFING.
Jul 10, 1998
SEATS
4 complaints
ON THE DATE POSTED BELOW I WAS INVOLVED IN A THREE VEHICLE ACCIDENT. I WAS AT A COMPLETE STOP ABOUT 10 FEET BEHIND A BLAZER WHEN I WAS STRUCK IN THE REAR AT APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH. WHEN I AWOKE I FOUND MYSELF TO BE IN THE BACK SEAT PASSENGER SIDE WITH MY HEAD IN THE REAR WINDOW. I WAS A FULLY RESTRAINED DRIVER PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT AND THE STRAPS OF THE BELTS WERE FOUND WRAPPED AROUND MY FEET. THE BACK OF THE DRIVERS SEAT HAD BROKEN AND THEREFORE I WAS THROWN FROM THE FRONT TO THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE. THE CAR WAS A TOTAL LOSS. *JB
Nov 12, 2004
Crash: 1
Injuries: 1
CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END COLLISION WITH IMPACT AT 40 MPH, AND BOTH DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE SEATBACKS COLLAPSED TO THE RECLINING POSITION. VEHICLE WAS A RENTAL CAR. *AK
Dec 09, 1999
Crash: 1
HEADREST DOES NOT RAISE HIGH ENOUGH FOR A PERSON OVER 6 FEET 2 INCHES. *AK
Aug 19, 1998
DESIGN OF THE POWER SEAT ALLOWS FOR CONSUMER TO BE TOO CLOSE TO AIR BAG, CONSUMER CAN NOT MOVE SEAT BACK FAR ENOUGH TO BE SAFE IF AIR BAG ACTIVATED.
Mar 10, 1998
SEAT BELTS
4 complaints
PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT BUCKLE OR RETRACT ON ITS OWN. CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER, AND DEALER INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THE SEAL BELT WAS NOT A LIFE TIME WARRANTY.*AK
Jun 29, 2004
THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. *AK IT WAS HARD TO CONNECT BEFORE IT HAD GONE COMPLETELY OUT. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONCERNED ABOUT THE INCIDENT AND DID NOT TAKE THE OLD PART. *SCC THE CONSUMER HAD TO PAY FOR THE PART AT HIS EXPENSE.*JB
Aug 22, 2003
FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BELT BUCKLE DOES NOT UNLOCK. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER.*AK
Aug 18, 2003
DESIGN FLAW: DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BUCKLE LOCKING MECHANISM BUILT UP AGAINST BUILT-IN COIN BOX. HAD TO LOCK OR UNLOCK SEAT BELT BUCKLE PROPERLY. *AK
May 29, 1998
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
4 complaints
ON GOING / INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH ENGINE STALLING WHILE APPLYING ACCELERATOR PEDAL FROM A STOP POSTION TO CONTINUE ON. VEHICLE BEEN IN DEALER SHOP, AND UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAIL. *AK
Sep 29, 2000
THE CRUISE CONTROL MALFUNCTIONED ON THREE OCCASIONS, ONE INCIDENT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO GO OUT OF CONTROL RESULTING IN SERIOUS ACCIDENT. YH
Feb 29, 2000
Crash: 1
BACKING OUT TOOK FOOT OFF BRAKE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. FOOT NOT ON PEDAL. TOOK TO DEALER & ON DIAGNOSTIC MACHINE & NOTHING FOUND. FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR & PCM AS PER SAFET BULLETIN WERE CHECKED. *AK
Sep 25, 1998
CONTINUOUS PROBLEMS WITH HESITATION UPON ACCELERATION AFTER SEVERAL REPAIR ATTEMPTS.
Aug 25, 1998
STEERING,SUSPENSION
2 complaints
DT: THE CONSUMER'S WIFE WAS DRIVING ON THE STREET AND THE REAR BALL JOINTS BROKE IN HALF. THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED ON A ROLL BACK AND TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THIS HAPPENED ON SEPTEMBER 6, 2005. THE DEALER REPLACED THE BALL JOINT ON THE REAR LEFT BACK. THERE WAS NO FORE-WARNING AND NO NOISE BEFORE THIS HAPPENED. ALSO THE POWER STEERING BOLTS BROKE ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS, CAUSING THE POWER STEERING TO DROP OFF THE ENGINE BLOCK AND FALL DOWN ONTO THE FRAME MAKING IT ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO STEER THE VEHICLE. *AK (11/10/05) THE POWER STEERING BOLTS BROKE ON TWO OCCASIONS ALLOWING THE PUMP TO FALL DOWN ON THE FRAME. THE SHAFT OF THE BALL JOINT SNAPPED ALLOWING THE LEFT REAR WHEEL TO SHIFT REARWARD. THE LOWER CONTROL ARM DROPPED DOWN ALLOWING THE FREE END TO LOCK THE WHEEL. *SC
Sep 13, 2005
CRACKED STEERING WHEEL, AND LEFT FRONT STRUT FAILURE. DEALER NOTIFIED, AND MADE REPAIRS UNDER WARRANTY. *AK
Jan 26, 2001
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
TURN SIGNAL FAILURE. THIS IS AN EXPENSIVE FAILURE AS IT REQUIRES THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF A MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH, TURN SIGNALS.*AK
Oct 13, 2004
HEADLIGHTS APPEAR TO BE A DEFECTIVE, HIGH AND LOW BEAMS INTERCHANGE POSITIONS AND FUNCTIONS. INNER BEAMS ARE LOW, AND OUTER BEAMS ARE HIGH. DEALER CONTACTED AND CANNOT REMEDY THE PROBLEM. PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Dec 18, 1998
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
AFTER TAKING THE VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR A RECALL REPAIRS, VEHICLE WAS CUTTING OFF, AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. VEHICLE IDLED ROUGHLY. CONSUMER TOLD MECHANIC THAT THIS PROBLEM DID NOT EXIST PRIOR TO BRINGING IT IN FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS, AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WOULD GO AWAY ON ITS OWN. *AK THE VEHICLE TRANSMISSION FAILED . *NM
Aug 30, 2004
A COMPLETE ELECTRICAL FAILURE ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY WITH A TRAGEDY BARELY AVOIDED, TRANSMISSION FAILURE
Jul 07, 2000
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaints
VEHICLE MADE A GRINDING NOISE WHEN IN MOTION. THE VEHICLES VACUUM HOSE, POWER STEERING PRESSURE AND INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILED. *NM
Feb 02, 2004
STEERING RELATED PROBLEMS INVOLVING MAJOR PART REPLACEMENT. I ALREADY CONTACTED AN NHTSA REP ABOUT A DIFFERENT ISSUE, THE UBIQUITOUS UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD PROBLEM WHICH WE HAVE SPENT THOUSANDS ON. AND I DISCUSSED PROBLEMS WITH STALLING TOO. AFTER THAT, I SEARCHED THE INTERNET; I SEE THAT THE MANIFOLD PROBLEM IS MORE PREVALENT THAN I SUSPECTED. I ALSO STUMBLED ONTO DISCUSSIONS OF STALLING, STEERING, AND ENGINE FIRE PROBLEMS. WHEN I CALLED GM 2 YEARS AGO ABOUT THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD, THEY DENIED THE PROBLEM EXISTED EVEN THOUGH MY DEALER AND OTHER SHOPS TOLD ME EVERYBODY KNEW ABOUT IT. I CALLED GM AGAIN A FEW WEEKS AGO AFTER HAVING MORE GASKET PROBLEMS AND ALTHOUGH THEY FINALLY ADMITTED TO THE MANIFOLD AND GASKET PROBLEMS, THEY COULD NOT HELP ME WITH MY EXPENSES, THEY WERE UNABLE TO LOCATE MY PREVIOUS COMPLAINT, AND THE REP WAS OBSESSED WITH HAVING ME SAY THAT I WAS SATISFIED WITH MY CALL TO HIM. I TRIED TELLING HIM THAT I WAS UNSATISFIED WITH GM BUT SATISFIED WITH HIM AS A PERSON, BUT HE KEPT TALKING TO ME UNTIL I AGREED THAT I WAS MOSTLY SATISFIED WITH MY CALL. I WONDER IF MANUFACTURERS HAVE DIFFERENT OBLIGATIONS IN RECORDING AND REPORTING THEIR COMPLAINTS TO AUTHORITIES DEPENDING ON WHETHER CUSTOMERS ARE SATISFIED OR NOT. *CB
Jan 15, 2004
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
VEHICLE WAS LEAKING ANTIFREEZE. INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED TO STOP THE LEAK AS WELL AS THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. DEALER, ON A PREVIOUS OCCASIONS, REPAIRED A HOLE IN THE RADIATOR. *AK *MR
Jan 07, 2004
WHILE DRIVING, VEHICLE WILL STALL WITHOUT WARNING. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND DEALER COULD NOT FIND THE CAUSE OF PROBLEM. *AK THERE IS A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TSB #87-65-14 TO FLASH PCM WITH UPDATED CALIBRATION AS A RESULT OF AN INTERMITTENT STALL. *TT
Mar 15, 2002
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 1998 Buick LeSabre. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V090000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH and at various speeds, the engine started to misfire. The contact stated that the check engine warning was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact used an OBD scanner and retrieved code: P0300 (Multiple Random Cylinder Misfire). The contact stated while stopped at a traffic signal there was an abnormal gasoline odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 231,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Jun 15, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
I RECENTLY PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE USED. UPON INSPECTION, I DISCOVERED THAT THE BRAKE LINES ARE SEVERELY CORRODED AND REQUIRE REPLACEMENT. ON FURTHER INSPECTION, I DISCOVERED THAT THE ENGINE CRADLE, BUSHINGS, AND FASTENING HARDWARE ARE SEVERELY CORRODED AS WELL. THE REST OF THE VEHICLE IS NOT CORRODED IN ANY WAY, NOT EVEN RUST BELT PROBLEM AREAS. FROM RESEARCHING ONLINE (INCLUDING OTHER COMPLAINTS ON THIS WEBSITE) BOTH OF THESE ISSUES ARE COMMON IN LATE 90'S GM W-BODY VEHICLES. HOW THIS HAS NOT ELEVATED INTO A SAFETY INVESTIGATION BY NOW IS TROUBLING TO ME. FORD WAS REQUIRED TO RECALL DUE TO RUSTING BRAKE LINES...... DO PEOPLE HAVE TO DIE FOR THE NHSTA TO INVESTIGATE?
Aug 26, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, ONCE THE VEHICLE REACHED THE ODOMETER MILEAGE OF 99,999, IT FAILED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 106,000.
Aug 03, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
1 complaint
I CAME HOME AFTER BIBLE STUDY ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT AND GOT UP THURSDAY THEN THE SECURITY LIGHT WENT BLINKING. MY HUSBAND HAD THE KEY IGNITION REPLACE THEN BROUGHT NEW KEY BUT CAR STILL WOULDN'T START SO HAD THE CAR TOWED AND REPAIRED. 10 MONTHS AND THREE WEEKS THE CAR DID THE SAME BUT I WAS DRIVING THIS TIME AND IT SHUT DOWN IN THE ROAD WITH ME AND MY CHILDREN. IT WAS FRIGHTEN BUT WE MADE IT SAFELY OUT OF THE ROAD BEFORE ANYTHING HAPPEN. I DON'T UNDERSTAND THAT THIS PROBLEM OCCURRED AGAIN . I AM UPSET ABOUT THE PROBLEM. A CAR HAS NO BUSINESS SHUTTING OFF IN THE ROAD WHILE A PERSON IS DRIVING IT ACCIDENT OR NO ACCIDENT BECAUSE IT IN DANGER PEOPLES LIFE. A SERIOUS PROBLEM FOR MANY PEOPLE WHOM HAVE THESE CARS MADE BY GM. *TR
Aug 27, 2014
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
BRAKES WENT OUT, HAD NO PEDAL AT ALL. MANAGED TO GET HOME. FLUID FULL. MASTER CYLINDER OK. BRAKE SHOES NEW. BRAKE FLUID NOT LEAKING. OIL IS LEAKING, BUT NO BRAKE FLUID AT ALL. CANNOT FIND WHAT THE PROBLEM. CANNOT GET ANY PEDAL ON THE BRAKES. *TR
Jul 27, 2013
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
OBSERVED A STRONG GASOLINE ODOR AFTER DRIVING THE CAR. THE CAUSE OF THE ODOR WAS A LEAK IN THE NYLON FUEL PRESSURE LINE FEEDING THE REAR FUEL RAIL ON THE ENGINE. THE LEAK IN THE LINE WAS CAUSED BY THE ENGINE SHROUD. THE ENGINE HAS A REMOVABLE PLASTIC SHROUD, AND THE EDGE OF THE SHROUD WAS RUBBING ON THE FUEL LINE AND EVENTUALLY CUT THROUGH THE LINE AND CREATED A PINHOLE LEAK. *TR
Jul 07, 2013
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED YET THEY DID NOT RESPOND. THE VEHICLE PROCEEDED TO CRASH INTO A ROW OF HEDGES. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BRAKE LINE WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE BRAKE LINES. IN JUNE 2010, THE CONTACT NOTICED ABNORMAL FRONT END NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE STABILIZER BAR BUSHINGS HAD FRACTURED FROM THE VEHICLE AND THE BUSHINGS UNDER THE CRADLE WERE EXTREMELY RUSTED. THE BUSHINGS WERE REPLACED IN BOTH AREAS. THREE MONTHS LATER, THE CONTACT NOTICED FUEL LEAKING FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE FUEL SENDING UNIT WAS DEFECTIVE AND WOULD NEED REPLACING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 119,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000.
Sep 14, 2010
Crash: 1
SEAT BELTS,WHEELS
1 complaint
BOTH SIDE SEAT BELTS HAVE STOPPED WORKING IN THE BACK SEAT OF THE CAR. THIS HAS CAUSED QUITE A PROBLEM WITH THE LAW REQUIRING PASSENGERS TO WEAR SEAT BELTS. IT IS ALSO A SAFETY HAZARD. THE STOCK RIMS OF THE VEHICLE SLOWLY CUT THE TIRES AND CAUSE AIR LEAKAGE. THIS REQUIRES THE OWNER TO REPLACE THE TIRES BEFORE THEY WOULD OTHERWISE BE NEEDED. AND ALSO CAUSES THE 'LOW TIRE' WARNING LIGHT TO REPEATEDLY LIGHT UP AND NEED RESETTING. THIS IS ALSO A SAFETY HAZARD AS LOW TIRES CAN CAUSE BLOW OUTS. *JB
Nov 05, 2005
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
DT: THE CONTACT TOOK H CAR TO DEALER FOR A RECALL 04V090000 REPAIRS ALMOST ONE YEAR AGO IN AUGUST, 2004. HE RECEIVED THE RECALL NOTICE IN JUNE, 2004, AND THE CAR WAS REPAIRED ON 9-28-04. THEY DAMAGED THE CAR ON THE OUTSIDE AND ALSO UNDER THE HOOD. THE REAR TAIL LIGHT WAS BROKEN AND THERE WAS A SCRATCH UNDER THE FRONT LEFT HEADLIGHT. THEY PUT RED TAPE OVER THE HEADLIGHT. THE ACCELERATOR STUCK AND THE CAR STALLED. THIS PROBLEM IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWED THE RECALL REPAIRS WITHIN ONE DAY. THE DEALER DENIED ANYTHING WRONG WAS DONE. THE RECALL WAS IN REGARD TO A FUEL REGULATOR. AS SOON AS THE CAR RETURNED TO THE CONTACT IT SHUT OFF. RECENTLY, THE ACCELERATOR STUCK, AND THE CONTACT SMELLED A FUEL/EXHAUST ODOR THAT WAS VERY STRONG. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYED ON N. . HE TALKED TO GM ON 11-12-04, AND THEY INFORMED HIM THAT THEY HAD NOTIFIED THE DEALER ABOUT THE DAMAGE, AND FOR HIM TO TAKE THE CAR TO DEALER FOR REPAIRS. WHEN HE TOOK THE CAR TO DEALER THE DEALER WAS MAD AND REFUSED TO FIX THE CAR. *AK
Aug 29, 2005
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
LOSS OF COOLANT. THE PLASTIC INTAKE PLENUM GOT A HOLE IN IT. THIS FILLED THE ENGINE WITH COOLANT THUS CAUSING THE CAR TO STALL ON THE HIGHWAY. I HAD THE DEFECTIVE PART REPLACED AT A COST OF 900 DOLLARS. I STILL HAVE THE DEFECTIVE PART. I'M RETIRED, SO THIS PUT A STRAIN ON OUR BUDGET. THANK YOU. *JB
Feb 17, 2005
SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR FAILED AND RUINED THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. AT LOW MILEAGE THE WHEEL BEARINGS WERE REPLACED. *BF RECALL#04V090000 *JB
Dec 23, 2004
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
CONSUMER NOTICED THAT ANTIFREEZE WAS LEAKING FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE BRAKES PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR WHEN APPLIED. CONSUMER DROVE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT OIL PAN GASKET AND FRONT BRAKE PADS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
Nov 04, 2004
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING,IN INCLEMENT WEATHER WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND THE MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT ON A RECALL AND THE WARRANTY EXPIRED. *AK THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD LEAKED WATER WITHOUT UNKNOWINGLY AND WOULD BLOW OUT AND INGEST ALL OF THE WATER FROM THE RADIATOR AND ALSO THE OVERFLOW INTO THE MOTOR. *SC
Nov 03, 2004
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
NHTSA #: 04V090000 - I OWN A 1998 BUICK LESABRE 3.8L. ON 9/27/02 I HAD A HARD STARTING AND STALLING PROBLEM, TAKEN FOR SERVICE AT GM DEALER AND FUEL REGULATOR WAS REPLACED. IN AUGUST 2004 WAS NOTIFIED OF THE RECALL AND TOOK VEHICLE BACK TO GM DEALER TO ASSURE THE RECALLED PART WAS NOT IN THE CAR. THE DEALER TOLD US THE CAR DOES RUN A LITTLE ROUGH (NOTED ON WORK ORDER) BUT THE CORRECT REGULATOR WAS IN THE VEHICLE DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT. ON OCTOBER 10,2004 WE STARTED HAVING TROUBLE STARTING THE CAR. ON OCTOBER 11 WE MADE AN APPOINTMENT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE IN FOR SERVICE ON OCTOBER 18, 2004 TO AN INDEPENDENT SERVICE SHOP. ON THURSDAY OCTOBER 14, 2004 AND FRIDAY OCTOBER 15, 2004 THE CAR STALLED ONCE EACH DAY WHEN MOVING IN TRAFFIC AT A VERY SLOW SPEED. ON SUNDAY OCTOBER 17, 2004 WHILE MY WIFE WAS FOLLOWING ME TO DROP THE CAR OFF AT THE REPAIR SHOP, THE CAR AGAIN STALLED. SHE PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL AND RESTARTED THE CAR. WHEN THE CAR STARTED IT JUMPED FORWARD AND SHE STRUCK THE BACK OF MY TRUCK. THE REPAIR SHOP FOUND THE FUEL REGULATOR TO BE LEAKING FUEL INTO THE VACUUM HOSE AND INTO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. THIS WAS THE PART THAT ACCORDING TO THE GM DEALER WAS NOT PART OF THE RECALL ON AUGUST 11, 2004. THE END RESULT IS THERE IS $3000.00 DAMAGE TO THE LESABRE, NON TO BY TRUCK. MY BACK IS SLIGHTLY SORE BUT OF GREATER CONCERN IS THE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK ON THE BUICK AND MY WIFE STRUCK HER CHEST ON THE STEERING WHEEL HARD ENOUGH TO HAVE BRUISING IN THE OUTLINE OF PART OF THE STEERING WHEEL ON HER CHEST. IN SUMMARY IM CONCERNED ABOUT THE 1.) FUEL REGULATOR, 2.) THE CAR JUMPING AND 3.) THE SEAT BELT NOT LOCKING.*AK
Oct 24, 2004
Crash: 1
Injuries: 2
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
VEHICLE STALLS WHEN MAKING TURNS AND PARKING. ALSO, VEHICLE ACCELERATES WHILE DRIVER'S FOOT IS ON BRAKE, DRIVER HAS TO PRESS BRAKE HARDER UNTIL ENGINE SLOWS DOWN. *AK
Sep 24, 2003
INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
THE SECURITY LIGHT LOCATED ON THE DASHBOARD ILLUMINATES. WHEN THIS OCCURS THERE IS A 3 MINUTES DELAY BEFORE VEHICLE STARTS.*AK
Sep 03, 2003
WHEELS
1 complaint
BOTH FRONT WHEELS WERE CRACKED. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED, AND THE WHEELS WERE NOT UNDER WARRANTY. THE WHEELS WERE ORIGINAL AND MADE OF ALUMINUM. *AK *CB *JB
Jul 18, 2003
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
VEHICLE FIRE/ VEHICLE DESTROYED. *MR ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, PRIOR TO FIRE, VEHICLE WOULD SURGE THEN DIE OUT AT BOTH STOPS AND WHEN SLOWING DOWN. ALSO ENGINE HAD A WHINING NOISE. DEALER REPLACED GENERATOR ASSEMBLY. FUEL FILTER ALSO REPLACED. CLEANED THROTTLE BODY. BRAKES MADE SQUEALING NOISE. REAR BRAKES CLEANED AND ADJUSTED. THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE IN THE RIGHT REAR AFTER HOT AT STOPS. EXHAUST SYSTEM MISALIGNED. THE MIRROR COMPASS AND REAR WINDOW WERE ALSO INOPERATIVE. VEHICLE WAS ALSO INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT PRIOR TO FIRE. *TT
May 27, 2003
Fire: 1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
GM MADE THEIR INTAKE MANIFOLDS OUT OF A PLASTIC RESIN ON THE BUICK 3800 V6 ENGINE. THEY ROUTED THE EGR VALVE THROUGH IT WHICH CAUSES A HEAT BUILD UP THAT WRAPS THE INTAKE MANIFOLD ALLOWING COOLANT TO GO INTO THE ENGINE. MY REPAIR BILL WAS $803.76 PLUS ONE STARTER $189.00 THAT BROKE WHEN THE ENGINE SIEZED. FROM READING ON THE INTERNET THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINES WITH THE PLASTIC MANIFOLD. THE DEALER THAT FIXED MY CAR AID YES IT WAS A DESIGN PROBLEM AND THAT HE HAD ANOTHER CAR OF THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL AS MINE IN THE SAME MORNING AS MINE. SAME PROBLEM AND THAT HE HAD ONE THE WEEK BEFORE. IN MY CASE THE ENGINE DID NOT LOCK UP AS I AS GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY BUT THIS COULD BE A DANGEROUS PROBLEM FOR SOMEONE GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND THIER ENGINE LOCKS UP. *AK
Jul 30, 2002
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ENGINE CHECK LIGHT HAS COME ON, AND THE SENSOR IN ENGINE HAS MALFUNCTIONED. CAN POSSIBLY CAUSE A FIRE IN ENGINE. CONTACTED DEALER, AND THE DEALER WAS NOT WILLING TO DO ANYTHING.*AKIT HAS BEEN INDICATED TO CONSUMER IF DEFECT IS NOT FIXED, POSSIBLE FIRE OR STALLING MAY OCCUR. *JG
Apr 25, 2002
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
AFTER FILLING FUEL TANK AND DRIVING FOR APPROXIMATELY 80 TO 100 MILES, GAS GAUGE WILL READ THAT FUEL TANK IS EMPTY, AND A WARNING LIGHT WILL COME ON INSTRUMENT PANEL. DEALERSHIP CANNOT DETERMINE A REASON FOR THIS PROBLEM. *AK CONSUMER STATES THIS HAS BEEN A PROBLEM FOR THREE YEARS AND IS REQUESTING THAT SOMEONE FIX THE PROBLEM. *SLC
Sep 14, 2001
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1 complaint
WHILE TRAVELING BETWEEN 25 AND 30 MPH CONSUMER SUDDENLY LOST CONTROL OF STEERING AND BRAKING SYSTEMS. VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TREE WHICH STOPPED THE VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP HAS EXAMINED VEHICLE, AND REPAIRED UNKNOWN COMPONENT IN VEHICLE WHICH CAUSED THIS TO HAPPEN. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS.*AK
Aug 28, 2001
Crash: 1
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
VEHICLE AT STOP LIGHT WHEN ENGINE CHECK LIGHT CAME ON AND REMAINED. WAS IDLING ROUGHLY WHEN PULLING INTO PARKING LOT, AND THEN VEHICLE DIED. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP, AND WAS INFORMED THAT UPPER PLENTIUM MANIFOLD HAD CRACKED AND WAS LEAKING FLUID ONTO ENGINE. THIS CAUSED PLUGS TO BE FLOODED. PLUGS WERE PULLED AND CLEANED. *AK
Jul 06, 2001
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
INTAKE MANIFOLD MATERIAL MELTED AROUND ERG VALVE, LETTING COOLANT INTO ENGINE. SHOP WAS REPAIRING ANOTHER VEHICLE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM AT THE SAME TIME.*AK
Feb 23, 2001
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
WHEN GOING DOWN A STEEP HILL AND TRYING TO BRAKE VEHICLE SHUT OFF. ALSO, ENGINECHECK LIGHT CAME ON AS THOUGH VEHICLE HAS OVERHEATED. A BULLETIN WAS GIVEN TO OWNER BY A PARK RANGER AT MT. WASHINGTON. THE BULLETIN WAS ABOUT A PROBLEM WITH THE INERTIA SWITCH. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Jul 03, 2000
STEERING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL THE WHEEL APPEARS TO CLICK OR KNOCK. THIS BEGAM SHORTLY AFTER I HAD THE VEHICLE IN TO HAVE THE TRANSMISSION REPAIRED AS IT WAS SHUDDERING AFTER STOPPING AND STARTING. I CONTACTED THE SERVICE PEOPLE AT THE BOISE LARRY MILLER BUICK PLACE, WHERE I HAD TRANSMISSION FIXED. I WAS TOLD IT WAS NOT SERIOUS AND THEY WOULD CHECK IT WHEN I BROUGHT IT IN FOR SERVICE. BUT IT CONCERNS ME, AND I NEED TO KNOW IF IT IS SERIOUS. *AK
Jan 07, 2000
PARKING BRAKE,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
INSTRUMENT PANEL GLASS IS CONCAVE INSTEAD OF CONCURVE. HARD TO READ INSTRUMENTS. HAVE A BLIND SPOT ON DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW. CANNOT SEE OTHER VEHICLES WHEN LOOKING OUTSIDE MIRROR. EMERGENCY BUTTON IS NOT VISIBLE TO NAKED EYE. LOCATED UNDER STEERING COLUMN OUT OF SIGHT. *AK
Sep 08, 1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING WOULD NOTICE ODOR INSIDE OF VEHICLE. HAD TAKEN TO DEALER & VEHICLE KEPT OVERNIGHT. MECHANIC HAD NOTICED STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE, NEXT DAY. WAS INFORMED GASOLINE ODOR COULD HAVE STARTED FIRE AROUND IGNITION SOURCE. ALSO, DOME LIGHT KEPT COMING ON/OFF BY ITSELF WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. *AK
Apr 21, 1999
AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND TRYING TO USE THE HORN, THE HORN DIDN'T MAKE ANY SOUND. CONSUMER CONSIDERED THIS TO BE A SAFETY DEFECT. THE DEALER REPLACED PARTS OF THE AIR BAG. THE CONSUMER VEHICLE HAD BEEN IN THE SHOP SIX TIMES AND THEY CAN'T DETERMINE THE PROBLEM. *AK
Dec 02, 1998
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH, DRIVER HEARD A VERY LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE LEFT REAR SIDE . WHEN VEHICLE WAS CHECKED BY DEALERSHIP, THE LEFT WHEEL REAR BEARING HAD GONE BAD. THE WHEEL BEARING WAS REPLACED BY DEALERSHIP.*AK CONSUMER STATED A BOOSTER ASSEMBLY WAS NEEDED.*JB
Nov 30, 1998
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
TRUNK POPPED OPEN WHILE DRIVING.
Jul 17, 1998
4.2/5.0
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Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 1998 BUICK LeSabre have?

The 1998 BUICK LeSabre currently has 454 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 1998 BUICK LeSabre?

The most common problems reported for the 1998 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 1998 BUICK LeSabre problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 1998 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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