1979 Buick Lesabre problems

General information about Buick-Lesabre
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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 1979 Buick Lesabre problems

The 1979 Buick LeSabre is a classic car that has been praised for its luxury and substantial size. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:

Defective Power Window Assemblies: One of the most common problems reported by Buick LeSabre owners is defective power window assemblies. This issue can result in the window failing to operate or rolling down on its own, which can be both inconvenient and potentially dangerous.

Cracked Intake Manifold Gaskets: Another common problem with the 1979 Buick LeSabre is cracked intake manifold gaskets. This issue can cause the engine to run poorly, misfire, or even stall. Replacing the gasket can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is necessary to keep the engine running smoothly.

Failing Mode Door Actuators: The mode door actuators in the 1979 Buick LeSabre are responsible for controlling the airflow in the car's heating and cooling system. When these actuators fail, the system may not be able to maintain a consistent temperature, which can be uncomfortable for the driver and passengers.

Fuel System Issues: The fuel system is a critical component of any vehicle, and the 1979 Buick LeSabre is no exception. Fuel system issues can result in poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine failure. Common problems include faulty fuel pumps, clogged fuel filters, and damaged fuel injectors.

Brakes: The brakes are another critical component of any vehicle, and the 1979 Buick LeSabre is no exception. Brake problems can result in reduced stopping power, which can be dangerous. Common issues include worn brake pads, damaged rotors, and leaking brake lines.

Equipment: Equipment issues can range from minor inconveniences to serious safety concerns. Common problems include faulty interior lights, non-functioning power windows, and malfunctioning seat belts.

Wheels: Wheel problems can affect the car's handling and stability. Common issues include damaged wheels, worn tires, and faulty wheel bearings.

Lighting: Lighting issues can affect the car's visibility and safety. Common problems include burnt-out headlights, non-functioning taillights, and malfunctioning brake lights.

Transmission: Transmission problems can affect the car's performance and fuel efficiency. Common issues include slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and leaking transmission fluid.

Steering: Steering problems can affect the car's handling and stability. Common issues include worn steering components, leaking power steering fluid, and damaged steering linkages.

Frame: Frame problems can affect the car's structural integrity and safety. Common issues include damaged frame components, misaligned frame sections, and corrosion.

Seats: Seat problems can affect the car's comfort and safety. Common issues include worn seat covers, damaged seat frames, and malfunctioning seat adjusters.

Electrical: Electrical problems can affect the car's performance and safety. Common issues include faulty wiring, blown fuses, and malfunctioning electrical components.

Air Bags: Air bag problems can affect the car's safety. Common issues include faulty air bag sensors, damaged air bag modules, and malfunctioning air bag inflators.

Engine: Engine problems can affect the car's performance and reliability. Common issues include worn engine components, damaged engine mounts, and leaking engine oil.

In conclusion, the 1979 Buick LeSabre is a classic car that has been praised for its luxury and substantial size. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Owners of this car have reported issues with the fuel system, brakes, equipment, wheels, lighting, transmission, steering, frame, seats, electrical system, air bags, and engine. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to serious safety concerns, and they can affect the car's performance, reliability, and comfort. If you own a 1979 Buick LeSabre, it is important to be aware of these common problems and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

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.

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 cars did Buick make in 1979?

Select a 1979 Buick Model

1979 Century Custom.
1979 Century Limited.
1979 Century Special.
1979 Century Sport.
1979 Electra 225.
1979 Electra Limited.
1979 Electra Park Avenue.
1979 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.

Why did Buick stop making the LeSabre?

What causes a Buick LeSabre not to start?

Include the car being slow to crank the engine weak or dim headlights. Or a lit up battery warning light on your car's Dash. Next. We have alternator.

How much is a Buick LeSabre worth?

Find a Used Buick LeSabre Near You

Prices for a used Buick LeSabre currently range from $2,000 to $15,000, with vehicle mileage ranging from 45,300 to 283,501. Find used Buick LeSabre inventory at a TrueCar Certified Dealership near you by entering your zip code and seeing the best matches in your area.

1979 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:

Electrical system problems
Latches/locks/linkages problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Buick Lesabre vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1979 Buick Lesabre complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Buick Lesabre.

1997-06-06

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Number Of Deaths: 1
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: THE BATTERY CABLE BECAME DISCONNECTED, CAUSING LOSS OF LIGHTS, POWER STEERING, AND BRAKES, RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT AND A FATALITY.

Add Complaint

1997-06-06

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Number Of Deaths: 1
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Summary: THE HOOD POPPED OPEN, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT.

Add Complaint

1979 Buick Lesabre recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1979 Buick Lesabre.

1979-11-13

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
Summary: THE HEADS MAY BREAK OFF THE FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT ANCHOR BOLTS DURING NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION EVEN UNDER NO LOAD CONDITIONS. THIS IS DUE TO THE COMBINATION OF BOLTS USED, HIGH INSTALLATION TORQUE AND ARRANGEMENT OF THE BODY ANCHORAGE.
Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE ALL ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT ANCHOR BOLTS ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES AT NO COST TO OWNER.

1979-06-06

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Summary: ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES THE BRAKE STOPLIGHT AND CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH WHICH IS OPERATED BY THE BRAKE PEDAL MAY HAVE BEEN ASSEMBLED WITH AN INCORRECT LUBRICANT ON THE ACTUATING PLUNGER. THIS CAN CAUSE THE REAR BRAKE STOPLIGHTS TO BECOME INOPERATIVE AND THE CRUISE CONTROL, IF ACTIVATED, TO STAY ELECTRICALLY ENGAGED.
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE BRAKE STOPLIGHT AND CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH AT NO COST TO OWNER.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1979 Buick Lesabre problems:

1979 Buick LeSabre Reviews - Carsurvey.org

http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/buick/lesabre/1979/

Jul 2, 2004 ... Faults: Alternator burnt out and killed battery. Tires dry rotted. Two-toned with chrome. General Comments: Bought at auction. Palm Beach ...

What are the problems of Buick LeSabre? - Quora

https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-problems-of-Buick-LeSabre

Feb 5, 2019 ... What is your opinion of Buick cars? I had a 1979 Buick Century, I called it ...

1978 LeSabre Rear End and Transmission Question. - Buick - Post ...

https://forums.aaca.org/topic/277573-1978-lesabre-rear-end-and-transmission-question/

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 ...

Slow engage '04 Buick LeSabre 4T65E | Bob Is The Oil Guy

https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/slow-engage-04-buick-lesabre-4t65e.281366/

Dec 27, 2017 ... I doubt the transmission fluid/filter was ever changed, so that is my first step. Since this seems to be a common problem, I am wondering if ...