1982 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.
Social links
Common 1982 Buick Lesabre problems
The Buick LeSabre, produced from 1959 to 2005, is known for its solid daily driving capabilities, excellent ride quality, comfortable interiors, decent fuel economy, and low maintenance costs. However, several common problems have been reported by owners of the 1982 Buick LeSabre, which are detailed below.
- Defective Power Window Assemblies: One of the most frequently reported problems with the 1982 Buick LeSabre is defective power window assemblies. This issue can lead to the window getting stuck, not opening or closing completely, or making unusual noises during operation.
- Cracked Intake Manifold Gaskets: Another common problem with the 1982 Buick LeSabre is cracked intake manifold gaskets. This issue can cause the engine to lose power, overheat, or consume more fuel than usual.
- Failing Mode Door Actuators: The mode door actuators in the 1982 Buick LeSabre can also fail, leading to issues with the climate control system. This problem can cause the system to blow cold air when the driver wants warm air, or vice versa.
- Fuel System Issues: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 14 recalls related to the fuel system, indicating that this is a common problem area for the vehicle.
- Brakes: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 11 recalls related to the brakes, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Equipment: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 8 recalls related to equipment, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Wheels: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 5 recalls related to the wheels, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Lighting: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 5 recalls related to the lighting, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Transmission: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 4 recalls related to the transmission, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Steering: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 4 recalls related to the steering, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Frame: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 3 recalls related to the frame, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Seats: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 3 recalls related to the seats, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Electrical: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 2 recalls related to the electrical system, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Air Bags: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 2 recalls related to the air bags, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Engine: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 1 recall related to the engine, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Visibility: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 1 recall related to visibility, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
- Suspension: The 1982 Buick LeSabre has had 1 recall related to the suspension, indicating that this is another common problem area for the vehicle.
While these common problems can be frustrating for owners of the 1982 Buick LeSabre, it is important to note that many of these issues can be addressed with routine maintenance and repairs. Additionally, many of the recalls related to these problems have been addressed by General Motors, meaning that many of these issues have been resolved in later model years of the LeSabre.
What year of Buick LeSabre to avoid?
Certain Buick LeSabre models made between 1999 to 2005 are equipped with faulty power window assemblies. The window regulators installed on these models have been known to fail on occasion. This issue is most prevalent in the 2000, 2001, and 2002 LeSabre models, which have received the most complaints on CarComplaints.
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.
Are early 2000 Buicks reliable?
Yes, it is very reliable.
Why is my Buick LeSabre stalling?
The most common reasons a Buick LeSabre engine stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
What is the most common problem with Buick LeSabre?
Some frequently reported Buick LeSabre problems include defective power window assemblies, cracked intake manifold gaskets, and failing mode door actuators.
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.
What kind of engine is in a Buick LeSabre?
3.8-liter V-6
Proven 3.8-liter V-6. Four-speed automatic. Available Celebration Edition.
Are early 2000 Buicks reliable?
Yes, it is very reliable.
1982 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:
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1982 Buick Lesabre vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1982 Buick Lesabre complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1982 Buick Lesabre.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-17
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES CRUISE CONTROL WILL DISENGAGE, CAUSING VEHICLE TO TAKE OFF. *AK
1982 Buick Lesabre recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1982 Buick Lesabre.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
- Summary: UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT RETAINER IN THE INJECTION PUMP MAY FAIL. THE THROTTLE VALVE COULD STICK, PREVENTING RETURN TO IDLE AND SHUT DOWN OF THE ENGINE BY THE DRIVER.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT ASSEMBLY IN THE INJECTION PUMP AT NO COST TO OWNER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1982 Buick Lesabre problems:
1982 F150 Turn Signal Problem - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
Feb 10, 2002 ... 641/2-Mustang 260,Pre-World's Fair Car. 64-Fairlane500 S/C waiting for a 390-4spd. 68-Mustang 289-Sunlit Gold 80,892Mi 78-Buick LeSabre 403 ...
Buick LeSabre Starting/Stalling Problems - Page 5 — Car Forums at ...
Apr 18, 2006 ... ... problem like this which is common to these cars. 0. rayzn Member Posts: 3. November 2010. I have a 97 Buick Lesabre. I just tried to ...
79 Corvette Door Lock Mechanism Very Stiff - CorvetteForum ...
Mar 7, 2009 ... Is this a common problem? Thanks ... 1982 to 1985 Buick LeSabre ( Rear Right & Left Door ) ... problems, repair · Subscribe · C3 Tech/Performance ...
1978 LeSabre Rear End and Transmission Question. - Buick - Post ...
May 29, 2016 ... 1978 LeSabre Rear End and Transmission Question. ... 1982+ models. The (usually) red plastic tag ... Problem is that resale value might not offer ...
Buick LeSabre Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage ...
Feb 2, 2024 ... Top Buick LeSabre Problems · Defective Power Window Assembly · Cracked Intake Manifold Gasket · False Fuel Gauge Readings · Shifting Problems with ...
Other years of Buick Lesabre
Are you having problems with your 1982 Buick Lesabre?
Leave your review of 1982 Buick Lesabre