1986 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 1986 Buick Lesabre problems
The Buick LeSabre, a full-size car produced by Buick, has been known to have several common problems. One of the most prevalent issues is fuel level sensor failure, which is a common problem across all Buick models, including the LeSabre. When the fuel level sensor fails, the car's fuel gauge displays an incorrect fuel level, causing drivers to run out of gas unexpectedly. This issue typically affects 1996 and newer LeSabres with an average mileage of 120,000. To rectify this problem, the fuel pump and fuel level sensor need to be replaced, which can cost between $679 and $793.
Another common problem with the Buick LeSabre is erratic shifting of the automatic transmission. This issue is often caused by a failing pressure control solenoid, which can lead to unpredictable shifting patterns. While the transmission in the LeSabre is generally reliable, this particular problem can be challenging to diagnose and repair, as it requires accessing the pressure control solenoid, which is located near the transmission.
The 1986 Buick LeSabre, in particular, has faced its fair share of issues. The design process for the 1986 LeSabre involved a collaborative effort between engineers, marketing professionals, and designers. The goal was to create a car that was both efficient and comfortable, with a focus on reducing weight and improving aerodynamics while maintaining a spacious interior. This was achieved by incorporating front-wheel drive and more efficient V-6 engines into the design.
However, despite these efforts, the 1986 LeSabre still experienced common problems. For instance, the car's exterior surfaces were prone to issues, with designers paying particular attention to the car's overall appearance. The design team, led by Bill Porter and Gary Smith, aimed to create a car that was both visually appealing and functional, with a focus on maximizing interior room while reducing overall weight.
In summary, the Buick LeSabre has been known to have several common problems, including fuel level sensor failure and erratic shifting of the automatic transmission. The 1986 model, in particular, faced challenges in its design process, with a focus on creating a car that was both efficient and comfortable. Despite these efforts, the car still experienced issues, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and timely repairs for any vehicle.
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.
What is the life expectancy of a Buick LeSabre?
Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes, is essential to ensure the engine's longevity. 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.
How long will a 99 Buick LeSabre last?
Buicks are well known for being reliable cars. Their longevity depends heavily on how well the owner takes care of it. Regular maintenance without abusive driving habits goes a long way towards a longer life, well over 100K can be expected.
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.
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.
1986 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
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Steering problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Buick Lesabre vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Buick Lesabre complaints
The NHTSA has received 22 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Buick Lesabre.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-01
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G4AH19R3GD
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 70MPH ON HIGHWAY AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING LEFT REAR TIRE BLEWOUT, CONSUMER'S VEHICLE RAN INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE HEAD-ON.VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK THERE WERE THREE PEOPLE INJURED IN ACCIDENT, THE BRIDGESTONE/FIRESTONE TRIUMP I TIRES, TUWSRS, DOT NUMBER 00061298 ONLY HAD 1200 MILES AT TIME OF INCIDENT, CONSUMER HIT A VEHICLE HEAD ON AND THEN ANOTHER VEHICLE ON THE SIDE, CONSUMER STATED THE TREAD SEPARATED. *SLC
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE TREAD SEPARATION. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-23
- VIN: 1G4HP69L3GH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BUCKLE TO FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT DOESN'T LATCH. SPRING IN BUCKLE IS BROKEN. PART IS COMMONLY USED IN ALL GMC VEHICLES. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL IS ACTIVATING ON ITS OWN WHILE SWITCH IS IN OFF POSITION, CAUSING VEHICLE TO INCREASE IN SPEED UNEXPECTEDLY.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4HP69LOGH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAD TAKEN MY USED CAR TO TODDS TOWING AT 3867 HIGHWAY 87 REIDSVILLE NC 27320 ON THE FOLLOWING DATES 11-20-2000, AGAIN THREE DAYS LATER 11-23-00 AND AGAIN ON 13-4-00. EACH TIME HE CLAIMED TO REPAIR THIS VEHICLE. I PAID 280.00, 218.00 AND $177.00. ALMOST $700.00 WITHIN A MONTHS TIME. FIVE DAYS AFTER THE LAST TIME. 12-4-00 I BROKE AGAIN. I HAD IT TOWED TO A DIFFERENT GARAGE, WHERE I WAS PROPTLEY INFORMED THAT THE MOTOR WAS SIEZING UP. I TRIED TO TALK TO TODDS TOWING ABOUT THIS AND WAS TOLD TO LEAVE THE PREMISES. I DON'T FEEL THIS MAN "TODD" IS A LICENSED MACHANIC. AND IF INFACT HE IS THEN HE NEEDS TO BE EVALUATED. I BELIEVE HE SWINDLED ME OUT OF ALMOST $700.00 AND WOULD HAVE CONTINUED IF I HADN'T GONE ELSE WERE. I AM DEBATING IF I SHOULD/COULD TAKE HIM TO CIVIL COURT ANY ADVICE WOULD BE APPRICIATE THANK YOU , TAMARA SEGUIN. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-07
- VIN: 1G4HR69L9GH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING. DEALER CONTACED AND WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-16
- VIN: 1G4BR35Y4GX
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR THIS VEHICLE. *AK
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: NOTICE SOME WEAR AT THE MOUNTING HOLES RESULTING IN IMPERFECT CENTERING. BUICK REFUSES TO TELL ME IF THERE IS A KNOWN PROBLEM REPLACING THE LUG NUTS THAT CAM WITH THE RIMS WITH STANDARD CENTERING LUG NUTS. THE ORIGINAL LUG NUTS AND RIMS WERE MADE WITH LARGE FLAT AREAS AND RELYING ON THE DIAMETER OF THE LUG NUTS TO DO THE CENTERING.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-12-23
- VIN: 1G4HP930GH4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE WILL NOT LOCK IN PLACE. WHEN PUTTING THE LATCH IN IT, IT SLIPS RIGHT OUT. TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY DON'T SELL THE PART ANYMORE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-05-01
- VIN: 1G4BR53Y0GY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE MASTER CYLINDER KIT HAS FAILED ON 4 OCCASIONS WITHOUT WARNING, AS THE DRIVER STEPPED ON THE BRAKE IT DID NOT WORK, THE DRIVER HAD TO DEPRESS THE EMERGENCY BRAKE AND SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO PARK TO GET IT TO STOP. NLM
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-20
- VIN: 1G4HR3737GH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TILT STEERING COLUMN BOLTS WORK LOOSE OVER TIME. *DSH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-06
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLS WHEN DRIVING. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-06
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLS WHEN DRIVING. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-22
- VIN: 1G4BR35Y9GX
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE POWER MASTER BRAKE SYSTEM FAILED PRIOR TO/AFTER SERVICE RECALL (87C-013). *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-15
- VIN: 1G4BR35Y9GX
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: REPLACED THE RADIATOR HOSE DUE TO COOLANT LEAK. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-15
- VIN: 1G4BR35Y9GX
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WASHER MALFUNCTIONED. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-04
- VIN: 1G4HP6936GH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ORIGINAL/REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION FAILED. *SKD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1988-03-14
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HARMONIC BALANCER CAUSED ENGINE VIBRATION AND THE VEHICLE TO SURGE. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-05
- VIN: 1G4HP69L6GH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING GEAR FAILED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-05
- VIN: 1G4HP69L6GH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 'COLD POWER STEERING'. *DH
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-08
- VIN: 1G4HR6939GH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: COLD POWER STEERING. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-05-23
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED 2 TIMES. *TW
1986 Buick Lesabre recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1986 Buick Lesabre.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- 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: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: THE PUSH PULL HEADLIGHT SWITCH MAY HAVE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS WHICH ALLOW AN INTERMITTENT HEADLIGHT CIRCUIT CAUSING HEADLIGHT TO FLICKER OR SUDDENLY GO OUT. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: SUDDEN LOSS OF THE HEADLIGHTS UNDER SEVERE WEATHER OR NIGHTTIME DRIVING CONDITIONS COULD REDUCE DRIVER VISIBILITY WHICH MIGHT RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: REPLACE HEADLIGHT SWITCH AS NECESSARY.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1986 Buick Lesabre problems:
Q&A: 1986 Buick LeSabre - Common Issues, Maintenance Tips ...
Sep 1, 2010 ... Ignition misfire causes by any bad tune up part and or ignition coil or coils. ... Wrong tune up parts spark plug, wires etc...
Buick LeSabre Problems and Complaints - 33 Issues
Top Buick LeSabre Problems · Fuel Level Sensor Failure · Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid Failure May Cause Erratic Shifting · Heating and AC Temperature and ...
Common Buick Lesabre Transmission Problems: Troubleshooting ...
Jun 2, 2022 ... The transmission may have an issue with the fluid level, valve body, shift solenoid, or perhaps the clutch packs for the third gear are worn.
1986 Buick Century Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Body is straight with a few flaws in the paint; otherwise excellent. Interior is like new other than the sagging headliner, which is common for mid 80s GM cars.
Rear suspension problem. : 2000-2005 (other than GXP)
Another common issue is the Rear shock mount ... Year and Trim: 1987 Buick Lesabre T-type ... Classics (Star Chief and 1957 to 1986), Everything ...
Other years of Buick Lesabre
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