1988 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 1988 Buick Lesabre problems
The Buick LeSabre is a popular car model known for its comfortable interiors, excellent ride quality, and low maintenance costs. However, like any other vehicle, it is prone to certain common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. In this article, we will discuss some of the most frequently reported issues with the Buick LeSabre, particularly the 1988 model, based on complaints from owners.
- Cracked Intake Manifold Gaskets: Another common problem with the Buick LeSabre is cracked intake manifold gaskets. This issue can cause the engine to lose power, misfire, or even stall. The average cost to fix this problem is around $400, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 71,000 miles.
- Failing Mode Door Actuators: The mode door actuators in the Buick LeSabre can also fail, causing problems with the heating and air conditioning system. This issue can cause the temperature to fluctuate or the system to stop working altogether. The average cost to fix this problem is around $300, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 74,000 miles.
- Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid Failure: The transmission pressure control solenoid in the Buick LeSabre can also fail, causing erratic shifting and other transmission problems. This issue can cause the car to shift roughly or even stall. The average cost to fix this problem is around $300, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 74,000 miles.
- Fuel System Problems: The Buick LeSabre is also prone to fuel system problems, which can cause the car to lose power, stall, or even fail to start. These problems can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty fuel pumps, clogged fuel filters, and leaking fuel injectors. The average cost to fix fuel system problems in the Buick LeSabre is around $500, and they typically occur at an average mileage of 75,000 miles.
- Brakes Problems: The brakes in the Buick LeSabre can also fail or malfunction, causing safety concerns for the driver and passengers. These problems can be caused by a variety of issues, including worn brake pads, faulty brake lines, and damaged brake rotors. The average cost to fix brake problems in the Buick LeSabre is around $400, and they typically occur at an average mileage of 70,000 miles.
- Equipment Problems: The Buick LeSabre is also prone to equipment problems, which can cause the car to malfunction or fail to operate properly. These problems can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty sensors, malfunctioning lights, and damaged wiring. The average cost to fix equipment problems in the Buick LeSabre is around $300, and they typically occur at an average mileage of 75,000 miles.
- Wheels Problems: The wheels in the Buick LeSabre can also fail or malfunction, causing safety concerns for the driver and passengers. These problems can be caused by a variety of issues, including damaged rims, worn tires, and faulty wheel bearings. The average cost to fix wheel problems in the Buick LeSabre is around $400, and they typically occur at an average mileage of 70,000 miles.
- Lighting Problems: The lighting in the Buick LeSabre can also fail or malfunction, causing safety concerns for the driver and passengers. These problems can be caused by a variety of issues, including blown bulbs, damaged wiring, and faulty switches. The average cost to fix lighting problems in the Buick LeSabre is around $200, and they typically occur at an average mileage of 75,000 miles.
- Transmission Problems: The transmission in the Buick LeSabre can also fail or malfunction, causing safety concerns for the driver and passengers. These problems can be caused by a variety of issues, including low transmission fluid, faulty solenoids, and damaged gears. The average cost to fix transmission problems in the Buick LeSabre is around $1,000, and they typically occur at an average mileage of 75,000 miles.
In summary, the Buick LeSabre is prone to a variety of common problems, including defective power window assemblies, cracked intake manifold gaskets, failing mode door actuators, transmission pressure control solenoid failure, fuel system problems, brakes problems, equipment problems, wheels problems, lighting problems, and transmission problems. These issues can affect the car's performance and reliability, and can be costly to repair. However, with proper maintenance and care, many of these problems can be prevented or addressed before they become serious issues.
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.
What engine is in a 1988 Buick LeSabre?
1988 Buick LESABRE (3.8L 6 -cyl Engine Code [3] 3) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.
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.
What engine is in a 1988 Buick LeSabre?
1988 Buick LESABRE (3.8L 6 -cyl Engine Code [3] 3) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.
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.
1988 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:
- Steering problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Buick Lesabre vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Buick Lesabre complaints
The NHTSA has received 22 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Buick Lesabre.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-01
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL OF THE SEAT BELTS FAILED TO ENGAGE. THE DEALER HAS NOT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE. THE VIN AND ENGINE SIZE WERE UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 73,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-15
- VIN: 1G4HP52K7WH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: RECURRING BRAKE REPAIRS: REPLACEMENT OF REAR BRAKE CYLINDERS, BRAKE SHOES, MACHINE DRUMS. MILEAGE AT EACH REPAIR 10,953, 17,124, 25642, 37,753, 48,245. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-12
- VIN: 1G4HP54C2JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING HAS BEEN HARD SINCE DAY ONE AND CONSUMER HAS BEEN PATCHING UP VEHICLE TO KEEP IT RUNNING. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD THAT THE MANUFACTURER MADE AN ALUMINUM ROD FOR THAT YEAR VEHICLE. IT IS RACK AND PINION STEERING. *AK *CB *NLM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-24
- VIN: 1G4HP14C4VH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: AMERICAN GENERAL GVS AFTER MARKET TIRES, P205/75R14 SIZE. TREAD ON LEFT FRONT TIRE HAS STARTED TO SEPARATE FROM INSIDE.*AK CONSUMER STATED LEFT FRONT TIRE HAD SEPARATING LUMPS IN THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE, DOT NUMBER ACKC2Y6308.*JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-01
- VIN: 1G4HR54C6JH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT CLASP FAILED. MANUFACTURER NO LONGER CARRIES THAT PART. DEALER IS UNABLE TO REPAIR DUE TO LIABLILITY. STATE REQUIRES SEAT BELTS, BUT VEHICLE OWNER IS UNABLE TO GET REPAIRED TO ORIGINAL CONDITION. DOESN'T SEEM RIGHT NOR ACCEPTABLE!! *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-26
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLS WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-02
- VIN: 1G4HP5437JH
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE ROOF OF MY 1988 BUICK LESABRE IS PEELING AND I WAS WONDERING IF THERE IS A RECALL TO FIX THIS PROBLEM?*AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4HP54COJH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING COLUMN IS EXTREMELY LOOSE, CAUSING A LOSS OF CONTROL. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4HP54COJH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING COLUMN IS EXTREMELY LOOSE, CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-25
- VIN: 1G4HR54C2JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING LEFT INNER TIE ROD SEPARATED, WHEEL TURNED OUT, REMAINED OUT; LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, COULD HAVE WHEEL COMPLETELY FALLEN OFF.; INNER/OUTER TIE ROD REPLACED BY DEALER. PARTS AVAILABLE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-08
- VIN: 1G4HR54C7JH
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR MOUNTED SEAT BELT BUCKLE CANNOT BE LATCHED. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4HP54C0JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN IT'S COLD OUTSIDE, THE STEERING WHEEL WILL NOT TURN. THE MACHANIC SAID IT WAS A RACK AND PINION PROBLEM. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-12-05
- VIN: 1G41R5430JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING FREEZES UP DUE A DEFECTIVE BALL MECHANISM IN RACK AND PINION STEERING. *TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-01-01
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 'COLD POWER STEERING'. *DH
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-06
- VIN: 1G4HP54C8JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN COLD THE CARS STEERING ABILITY IS DECREASED AND DOES NOT GO BACK TO NORMAL UNTIL IT IS WARMED UP. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-18
- VIN: 1B4HR54C1JH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WATER PUMP FAILURE. *AW
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-21
- VIN: 1B4HR54C1JH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALTERNATOR FAILURE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-19
- VIN: 1G4HR54C4JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 'COLD POWER STEERING'. *DH
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-05-18
- VIN: 1G4HR54V5JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING STIFFNESS DURING MORNING STARTUP. TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-07
- VIN: 1G4HP54C3JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: RACK AND PINION STEERING FAILED, CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-25
- VIN: 1G4HP543XJH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLS OUT AT ANY SPEED AND WHEN COMING TO STOPS, REPLACE CONTROL MODULE TO NO AVAIL. TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-05-01
- VIN: 1G4HP54C1JH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 'COLD POWER STEERING'. *DH
1988 Buick Lesabre recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1988 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: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK
- Summary: LOW TORQUE OF THE BRAKE HYDRAULIC UNIT MOUNTING BOLTS COULD CAUSE INCREASED BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL AND/OR POOR PEDAL FEEL IF ATTACHMENT LOOSENS.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD LEAD TO SEPARATION OF BRAKEHYDRAULIC UNIT FROM ITS MOUNTING BRACKET AND RESULT IN LOSS OF BRAKE FUNCTIONAND AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE HYDRAULIC UNIT MOUNTING BOLTS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: OWNERS MANUAL DID NOT INCLUDE INSTRUCTIONS ON PROPER USAGE OF REAR SEAT SAFETY BELT SYSTEMS.
- Consequence: VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO FMVSS 209.
- Remedy: FURNISH OWNERS WITH UPDATED OWNERS MANUALS THAT CONTAIN THE OMITTED INSTRUCTIONS.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Buick Lesabre problems:
1988 Buick LeSabre Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Mar 22, 2015 ... Faults: EGR valve around 130K. Coil packs at 118k. ECM around 135K. Catalytic converter around 125K. C/V axles around ...
1988 Buick Reatta Q&A: Common Problems, Service Engine Soo Light
Oct 16, 2008 ... I have a 1988 Buick Reatta the service engine soo light came on then on the CRT the response came up Engine Control - Answered by a verified ...
1988 buick lesabre won't start - Car Forums and Automotive Chat
Nov 23, 2003 ... That sensor seems to be a common problem, and it is fairly inexpensive so it would be a great first place to check. Thanks everyone, Jon ...
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 ...
1988 LeSabre transmission help? - Buick - General - Antique ...
Sep 15, 2011 ... Sometimes, too, when transmissions sit, they sometimes can acquire internal problems from the non-use. A friend had a THM400 that he'd had ...
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