1984 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 1984 Buick Lesabre problems
The 1984 Buick LeSabre, while appreciated for its comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, has been reported to have several common problems by its owners.
One of the most frequently reported issues is related to the power window assemblies. Defective power window assemblies can lead to inconvenience and discomfort for the driver and passengers. If left unaddressed, this problem can potentially compromise the vehicle's security if the windows cannot be fully closed and locked.
Another common problem is cracked intake manifold gaskets. These gaskets are responsible for sealing the intake manifold to the engine block, preventing engine coolant and oil leaks. A cracked intake manifold gasket can lead to engine performance issues, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage due to coolant or oil leaks.
Failing mode door actuators are also a frequently reported problem for the 1984 Buick LeSabre. Mode door actuators control the position of the mode doors in the HVAC system, directing airflow to different parts of the vehicle. A failing mode door actuator can result in reduced HVAC performance, uneven air distribution, and discomfort for the vehicle's occupants.
In some cases, the 1984 Buick LeSabre has been reported to have transmission problems. These issues can range from the vehicle slipping when shifting from a standstill to the car not being able to go into reverse gear. Transmission problems can significantly impact the vehicle's drivability and may require extensive repairs, such as a complete rebuild or replacement.
While not as common, there have been reports of the rear left window stopping to work and power unlock buttons on the driver's side failing. These issues can affect the vehicle's convenience and functionality, potentially requiring costly repairs or replacements.
It is important to note that these problems can vary in frequency and severity, and not all 1984 Buick LeSabre owners will experience these issues. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these problems and ensure the vehicle's longevity and reliability.
What engine is in a 1984 Buick LeSabre?
The LeSabre offers plenty in an engine lineup that includes the standard 3.8 litre V-6, plus a 5.0 litre V-8, and a 5.7 litre diesel V-8.
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 engine did a 1985 Buick LeSabre have?
Specifications for Buick LeSabre Limited Sedan 5.0 V8 142hp, 1985.
What engine is in a 1984 Buick LeSabre?
The LeSabre offers plenty in an engine lineup that includes the standard 3.8 litre V-6, plus a 5.0 litre V-8, and a 5.7 litre diesel V-8.
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 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.
1984 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Seats problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1984 Buick Lesabre vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1984 Buick Lesabre complaints
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1984 Buick Lesabre.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-29
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILURE RESULTED IN VEHICLE FIRE. FIRE CONSUMED THE WHOLE VEHICLE (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-29
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILURE RESULTED IN VEHICLE FIRE. FIRE CONSUMED THE WHOLE VEHICLE (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-29
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILURE RESULTED IN VEHICLE FIRE. FIRE CONSUMED THE WHOLE VEHICLE (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-05
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE SITTING IN VEHICLE, RADIO ON, IT STARTED SMOKING, CAUGHT FIRE, ENGINE BLEW, VEHICLE TOTALLED, DEALER CANNOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-30
- VIN: 1G4AP37Y9EH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLED, CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING AND BRAKES, RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT. (NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE REPORT)
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1984-07-20
- VIN: 1G4AN69X7EH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE REAR PASSENGER LAP SEATBELTS NEVER COME OUT AND HAVE NEVER WORKED. THE ONE IN THE MIDDLE WORKS BUT NOT THE TWO SIDES. TT
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1988-12-17
- VIN: 1G4AP37Y2EA
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE RECLINING SEAT BROKE AND FELL BACKWARDS. TT
1984 Buick Lesabre recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1984 Buick Lesabre.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
- Consequence: SERVO ROD ASSEMBLY COULD CATCH ON ENGINE COMPONENTS ANDRESULT IN A STUCK THROTTLE WITH POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: INSTALL A NEW BUSHING IN CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: RUBBER FUEL HOSE COULD ALLOW A SLOW FUEL LEAK WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE RUBBER FUEL HOSE.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1984 Buick Lesabre problems:
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