1985 Buick Electra problems

Common 1985 Buick Electra problems

The 1985 Buick Electra was a redesign of the previous generation, featuring front-wheel drive and a downsized C body. While the interior dimensions remained largely the same, the exterior was smaller and lighter, with a 2-foot shorter wheelbase and a 4-inch narrower body. The engines were also updated, with a carbureted 3.0-liter Buick V6, a fuel-injected 3.8-liter Buick V6, and a 4.3-liter Oldsmobile diesel V6 available. However, the 4.3-liter diesel V6 and 3.0-liter V6 were discontinued after 1985.

One common problem reported by owners of the 1985 Buick Electra was related to the automatic door locks. The automatic door locks on the 1988 Buick Electra stopped working reliably, leading to troubleshooting and diagnosis. The culprit was found to be the neutral safety switch (NSS). The NSS is a mechanical to electrical component that tells the electronic control module (ECM) and computer what gear the transmission is in or what gear the driver wants to select. When the car is shifted from park into drive, the doors should lock, and when shifted back into park, the doors should unlock. However, some owners reported intermittent or non-functioning door locks, which could be directly tied to the park control safety switch.

Another issue reported by owners of the 1985 Buick Electra was related to the mode/temperature door actuators. These actuators may fail, causing problems with the heating and cooling system. The mode/temperature door actuators control the blend doors that regulate the temperature and airflow in the vehicle's cabin. When these actuators fail, the driver may experience issues with the climate control system, such as inconsistent temperature or airflow.

In addition to these specific issues, the 1985 Buick Electra, like many cars of its era, suffered from initial electrical and mechanical troubles, regardless of brand. These problems were especially prominent on the '85 models, affecting various components and systems of the vehicle.

In summary, the 1985 Buick Electra was a redesigned model featuring front-wheel drive and a downsized C body. While the interior dimensions remained largely the same, the exterior was smaller and lighter, with updated engines. However, common problems reported by owners included issues with the automatic door locks and mode/temperature door actuators. Additionally, the 1985 Buick Electra, like many cars of its era, suffered from initial electrical and mechanical troubles.

What is the nickname for the Buick Electra 225?

The appearance was shared with two other Buick models, the mid-level Invicta and the entry level LeSabre. The Electra 225 nameplate was a nod to the car's overall length of over 225 in (5,715 mm), earning it the street name "deuce and a quarter."

What engine was in the Buick Electra 225?

401 cid

The Electras were powered by Buick's 401 cid (6.6 L) V8 from 1959 until 1966. An available 425 cid version of the same engine was available from 1964 to 1966.

How long is a Buick Electra 225?

The king of full-size Buicks in the middle to late 1960s was the Electra 225. At 18 feet, 8 inches long, the Electra was Buick's largest vehicle in 1965.

What was the last year they made a Buick Electra 225?

1990

Buick last sold an Electra in 1990, but the name has a deep history. Back in 1959, the Electra and Electra 225 replaced the Super and Roadmaster as Buick's top-of-the-line models.

When did Buick stop making the Electra?

1990

The Buick Electra is a full-size luxury car manufactured and marketed by Buick from 1959 to 1990, over six generations.

How much does a Buick Electra cost?

The price of the 2025 Buick Electra E5 is expected to start around $50,000 and go up to $70,000 depending on the trim and options.

What engine was in the Buick Electra 225?

401 cid

The Electras were powered by Buick's 401 cid (6.6 L) V8 from 1959 until 1966. An available 425 cid version of the same engine was available from 1964 to 1966.

What was the significance of 225 in the original Buick Electra 225?

The Buick Electra name was introduced in 1959 replacing the Roadmaster as Buick's premium model. Until the downsizing that stated in the last 1970s, Electra's were 225 inches long.

1985 Buick Electra car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Electra problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Seats problems
• Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Buick Electra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.