1977 Buick Lesabre problems
The Buick LeSabre is a full-size car made by the division Buick of General Motors from 1959 until 2005. Prior to 1959, this position had been retained by the full-size Buick Special model (1936–58). The "LeSabre", which is French for "the sabre", was Buick's mid-level full-size sedan above the Special but below the Electra during the 1960s then remained in its market position when the Electra was replaced with the Park Avenue. The LeSabre was available as a 2-door convertible, sedan or hardtop, a 4-door sedan or hardtop and station wagon throughout its production.
History of model
The LeSabre nameplate made its first appearance on the 1951 Le Sabre show car, which introduced the world to aircraft-inspired design elements such as the wrap-around windshield and tail fins. In 1959 LeSabre became the new moniker for what had previously been known as the Buick Special. The Buick LeSabre was offered in a full line of body styles except between 1965 and 1969 when its station wagon variant was dropped from Buick's full-size offerings. In 1977, the LeSabre was downsized along with other GM full-size models, and was available only in pillared coupe, sedan and wagon body styles.
In addition to being Buick's entry level vehicle, the LeSabre was consistently Buick's best selling full-size car. Of the four nameplates introduced in 1959 (LeSabre, Invicta, Electra, Electra 225), the LeSabre nameplate lasted the longest.
From 1959 to 1961, the LeSabre was powered by a 364 cubic-inch V8, which was smaller than the 401 cubic-inch V8 used in the more expensive Invicta and Electra models. The 364, which was previously used in all Buicks in 1957 and 1958, was rated at 250 horsepower (190 kW) in standard form with an "economy" 235 horsepower (175 kW) version offered as a "no cost" option in 1960-61 and an optional power-pack version with four-barrel carburetor and dual exhausts that was rated at 300 horsepower (220 kW). For 1962–63, the LeSabre came standard with a two-barrel carbureted version of the 401 V8 rated at 280 horsepower (210 kW), or a no-cost "economy" low-compression version rated at 260 horsepower (190 kW). Starting in 1964, all LeSabre models except the Estate Wagon shared their drivetrains with the midsize Buick models by switching to those models' smaller-displacement V8s at least as standard equipment for the next few years with cubic-inch displacements of 300 (1964–65), 340 (1966–67) and 350 (1968–76). A large-displacement would not reappear in a LeSabre until 1970 when a 455 cubic-inch V8 was introduced as an option and was offered through 1976. Beginning with the downsized 1977 models and continuing through three subsequent generations of front-drive LeSabres introduced in 1986, 1992 and 2000, Buick's 3.8-liter (231 cubic-inch) V6 would become the standard engine for most LeSabre models and V8 engines were dropped (except in station wagons) after the last of the rear-drive LeSabre sedans and coupes came off the line in 1985.
For most years from 1959 to 1971, a three-speed manual transmission was standard equipment on all LeSabres but rarely ordered. Far more popular was the Turbine Drive automatic transmission (previously known as Dynaflow) along with power steering and power brakes. For 1961 and 1962, the automatic transmission was standard on the LeSabre and all other full-sized Buicks but in 1963 was moved back to the option list on LeSabres. For 1964, the Dynaflow-based Turbine Drive was replaced by two new automatic transmissions, the two-speed Super Turbine 300 and the three-speed Super Turbine 400. A four-speed manual transmission was offered as a LeSabre option from 1963 to 1965 but only a small number of cars were so equipped. Automatic transmissions would once again reappear as standard equipment on LeSabres in mid-1971 and continue in such form until the model line's demise after 2005.
LeSabres were rear-drive six-passenger vehicles from 1959 to 1985 (station wagons through 1990) featuring separate body-on-frame construction along with a longitudinally mounted front engine. The first downsized generation of LeSabres introduced in 1977 retained the rear-drive and body-on-frame construction, while the later-generation models introduced in 1986 switched to front-wheel-drive, unit-body construction and transversely mounted engine. Convertibles were offered each year through 1975 while two- and four-door hardtops were dropped after 1976 and only pillared body styles were offered from 1977 to 2005. Station wagons were offered through 1964 and then dropped for several years until being reintroduced in 1970 and continued until 1990 after which year they were moved to the revived Roadmaster series. LeSabres come in two versions: Custom and Limited.
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Common 1977 Buick Lesabre problems
The Buick Lesabre 1977 is a classic car that has been popular among drivers for its comfortable interiors, excellent ride quality, decent fuel economy, and low maintenance costs. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its common problems.
One of the most common problems with the Buick Lesabre 1977 is related to the fuel system. The car has had 14 recalls related to the fuel system, which indicates that it may have issues with fuel delivery, fuel injection, or fuel pump failures. These problems can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine failure in some cases.
Another common problem with the Buick Lesabre 1977 is related to the brakes. The car has had 11 recalls related to the brakes, which indicates that it may have issues with brake performance, brake fade, or brake failure. These problems can lead to reduced braking performance, increased stopping distances, and even accidents in some cases.
The car has also had 8 recalls related to equipment, which can include problems with the electrical system, wiring, or accessories. These problems can lead to reduced functionality, increased maintenance costs, and even safety hazards in some cases.
Wheels and lighting are also common problem areas for the Buick Lesabre 1977. The car has had 5 recalls related to each of these areas, which can include problems with tire wear, wheel balance, or lighting performance. These problems can lead to reduced safety, increased maintenance costs, and even accidents in some cases.
The transmission is another common problem area for the Buick Lesabre 1977. The car has had 4 recalls related to the transmission, which can include problems with shifting, slipping, or fluid leaks. These problems can lead to reduced performance, increased maintenance costs, and even engine failure in some cases.
Steering is another area where the Buick Lesabre 1977 has had common problems. The car has had 4 recalls related to the steering system, which can include problems with power steering performance, steering feel, or steering noise. These problems can lead to reduced handling, increased maintenance costs, and even accidents in some cases.
The frame is also a problem area for the Buick Lesabre 1977. The car has had 3 recalls related to the frame, which can include problems with frame rust, frame cracking, or frame misalignment. These problems can lead to reduced safety, increased maintenance costs, and even accidents in some cases.
Seats are another area where the Buick Lesabre 1977 has had common problems. The car has had 3 recalls related to the seats, which can include problems with seat adjustment, seat comfort, or seat safety. These problems can lead to reduced comfort, increased maintenance costs, and even accidents in some cases.
Electrical and airbag problems are also relatively common in the Buick Lesabre 1977. The car has had 2 recalls related to each of these areas, which can include problems with wiring, sensors, or airbag deployment. These problems can lead to reduced safety, increased maintenance costs, and even accidents in some cases.
In summary, the Buick Lesabre 1977 has had a number of common problems related to the fuel system, brakes, equipment, wheels, lighting, transmission, steering, frame, seats, electrical system, and airbags. These problems can lead to reduced safety, increased maintenance costs, and even accidents in some cases. It is important for owners of this car to be aware of these common problems and to take appropriate steps to maintain their vehicle and address any issues as they arise.
How long do Buick LeSabre engines last?
Many LeSabre owners report reaching well over 200,000 miles with proper care, attesting to the durability of its powertrain.
How long does a 1997 Buick LeSabre last?
It's very reliable, and the 3.8 ltr V6 is practically bullet-proof. These old 90's Buicks can go upwards of 350k miles on the original engine and transmission. But don't be too hard on them. Overall, it gets a 10/10 for me, I highly recommend getting one before they're gone forever.
Why did Buick stop making the LeSabre?
When was the Buick LeSabre discontinued? The G-Platform was going to be revamped for model year 2006 and Buick wanted to use the same 115.6 inch wheelbase as the DTS, which necessitated eliminating either the slow selling Park Avenue or the LeSabre.
What is the oldest Buick LeSabre?
1959 LeSabre
First generation (1959–1960)
| First generation | |
|---|---|
| 1959 LeSabre four-door hardtop | |
| Overview | |
| Model years | 1959–1960 |
How long do Buick LeSabre engines last?
Many LeSabre owners report reaching well over 200,000 miles with proper care, attesting to the durability of its powertrain.
How long does a 1997 Buick LeSabre last?
Got it at 108,000 miles, she has 115,000 as of June of 2019. It's very reliable, and the 3.8 ltr V6 is practically bullet-proof. These old 90's Buicks can go upwards of 350k miles on the original engine and transmission.
Why did Buick stop making the LeSabre?
When was the Buick LeSabre discontinued? The G-Platform was going to be revamped for model year 2006 and Buick wanted to use the same 115.6 inch wheelbase as the DTS, which necessitated eliminating either the slow selling Park Avenue or the LeSabre.
What engine was in a 1978 Buick LeSabre?
350 C.I. V8
Coming off a fresh downsizing for the 1977 model year, the 1978 models remained mostly the same aside from minor styling changes such as the new grillework. This large Buick is powered by a Buick-built 350 C.I. V8 mated to a 2-barrel carburetor.
1977 Buick Lesabre car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Lesabre problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1977 Buick Lesabre vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1977 Buick Lesabre complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1977 Buick Lesabre.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-17
- VIN: 4P69R7X1463
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I AM TRYING TO GET BUICK TO ACT ON THE RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 76V175000. THEY CLAIM THAT THEY DON'T HAVE A RECORD OF IT. THE PIN KEEPS COMING OUT OF MY TURN SIGNAL AND THE SWITCH WON'T WORK. IT REALLY IS A SAFETY ISSUE. HOW DO I GET THEM TO FIND THIS RECALL ON THEIR SYSTEM?? I SPOKE TO A MANAGER AT THE GM HOTLINE...AND SHE REFUSED TO DO ANYTHING (EVEN AFTER I SHOWED HER THE SERVICE BULLETIN ON YOUR WEB SITE...SHE SAID, UNLESS SHE CAN FIND IT ON THE GM SYSTEM, THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING). PLEASE HELP! THANKS. JIM HERE IS THE INFO I'VE FOUND ON TEH SERVICE BULLETIN. I HAVE A 77 BUICK LESABRE WITH THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM AS YOUR BULLETIN DESCRIBES BELOW: COMPONENT: LIGHTING:SWITCH:BUTTON:RING:TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS MANUFACTURER: GENERAL MOTORS CORP. YEAR: 1977 MAKE: BUICK MODEL: LESABRE YEAR OF RECALL: '76 TYPE OF REPORT: VEHICLE POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 66632 SUMMARY: GENERAL MOTOR CAMPAIGN NO (CHEVROLET) 77C02 (PONTIAC) 77-C-4 (BUICK) 77-C-5.POSSIBILITY THAT THE TURN SIGNAL OPERATING UNIT OR VEHICLES WITH TILT STEERINGCOLUMNS MAY NOT COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108.THE TURN SIGNAL LEVER ACTUATOR PIVOT PIN WHICH MAY WORK OUT OF THE PIVOT,RESULTING IN NOT BEING ABLE TO USE TURN SIGNAL TO ALERT OTHER DRIVERS OF YOURINTENTIONS TO CHANGE LANES OR TURN, CAUSING POSSIBLE VEHICLE CRASH. (CORRECTBY INSPECTING AND INSTALLING A RETAINER TO PRECLUDE PIVOT PIN DISENGAGEMENT).PASSENGER VEHICLE
1977 Buick Lesabre recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1977 Buick Lesabre.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:LINKAGES
- Summary: ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES, THE COTTER PIN MAY HAVE BEEN OMITTED AND THE RETAINING NUT IMPROPERLY SECURED. CONSEQUENTLY, THE STEERING LINKAGE COULD DETACH FROM THE PITMAN ARM.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL TIGHTEN THE ATTACHING NUT TO SPECIFICATIONS AND INSTALL A COTTER PIN, WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL:SWITCH
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1977 Buick Lesabre problems:
77 Buick Climate Control Problems - Buick - General - Antique ...
Aug 11, 2004 ... ... common problem for 77 GMs. So I went to the boneyard and yanked a control panel out of an 83 LeSabre, there are some minor appearence ...
2002 Buick LeSabre - Rusted beyond repair? - Maintenance ...
Jun 25, 2022 ... Grew up in MN, had a car with thoroughly rusted out floor, fortunately a body on frame vehicle. In FL since 1977, common to see rusted out 2-3 ...
1978 LeSabre Rear End and Transmission Question. - Buick - Post ...
May 29, 2016 ... The normal GM 8.5" (10-bolt, round cover) axle was not quite as common as in other Chevy B-cars prior to 1977. Normal axle ratios for the ...
Q&A: 1977 Buick Electra 225 - Get Expert Answers on JustAnswer
Jun 13, 2021 ... Anything sound different? Yes first time i had any problem shifting i just had the transmission pan drop new fluid new gasket new transmission ...
79 Corvette Door Lock Mechanism Very Stiff - CorvetteForum ...
Mar 7, 2009 ... Is this a common problem? Thanks ... 1977 to 1986 Buick Park Ave, Electra ( All Four Doors ) ... 1982 to 1985 Buick LeSabre ( Rear Right & Left Door )
Other years of Buick Lesabre
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