2003 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 2003 Buick Lesabre problems
The Buick LeSabre, a full-size car produced by Buick, has been reported to have several common problems. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Erratic Shifting of the Automatic Transmission: Transmissions on the Buick LeSabre are generally reliable but can occasionally act up with erratic shifting. The most common cause of this issue is a failing pressure control solenoid.
- Defective Power Window Assemblies: Some Buick LeSabre owners have reported issues with the power window assemblies, which can lead to windows not functioning properly.
- Cracked Intake Manifold Gaskets: LeSabre owners have also reported cracked intake manifold gaskets, which can lead to coolant or oil leaks.
- Failing Mode Door Actuators: Another common problem is failing mode door actuators, which can affect the operation of the car's interior features.
- Airbag Issues: Airbag issues are another common problem, with many complaints pointing to the airbag warning light staying on.
- Windows / Windshield Problems: The worst problem category for the Buick LeSabre is windows / windshield problems, with the 2002 model year being the worst due to possible factors such as higher repair cost or more problems at lower mileage.
These problems can affect various aspects of the car, including its performance, safety, and comfort. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the car's longevity and safety.
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.
Is a 2003 Buick LeSabre a good car?
Overall A Great, Reliable Car
I highly recommend well preserved examples of the 2000-2005 model years of the Lesabre to anyone who enjoys tremendous value, legendary reliability, exceptional comfort and all the best traits of traditional American luxury automobiles.
How many miles does a 2003 Buick LeSabre get?
Used 2003 Buick LeSabre Custom - Specs & Features
| Fuel & MPG | |
|---|---|
| EPA city/highway MPG | 17/27 MPG |
| EPA combined MPG | 21 MPG |
| Range in miles (city/hwy) | 314.5/499.5 mi. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 18.5 gal. |
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 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.
Is a 2003 Buick LeSabre a good car?
Overall A Great, Reliable Car
I highly recommend well preserved examples of the 2000-2005 model years of the Lesabre to anyone who enjoys tremendous value, legendary reliability, exceptional comfort and all the best traits of traditional American luxury automobiles.
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.
How many miles does a 2003 Buick LeSabre get?
Used 2003 Buick LeSabre Custom - Specs & Features
| Fuel & MPG | |
|---|---|
| EPA city/highway MPG | 17/27 MPG |
| EPA combined MPG | 21 MPG |
| Range in miles (city/hwy) | 314.5/499.5 mi. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 18.5 gal. |
2003 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:
- Structure problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Buick Lesabre vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Buick Lesabre
The NHTSA has received 166 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Buick Lesabre. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Buick Lesabre vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-12
- VIN: 1G4HP52K93U
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: On [XXX] original Steering Rack and Pinion was replaced at 138974 miles by established reputable garage with NAPA part which was remanufactured. That part failed [XXX] at 141443 miles. That part failed [XXX] at 145999 miles and was replaced with NAPA part which was remanufactured. That part failed and was replaced at [XXX] at 157999 miles with another NAPA remanufactured part. That part failed about July 2023 and has not been replaced . The repair garage that had been replacing this rack and pinion stated they will no longer replace it since the outcome would be the same. The problem in all instances is that the hydraulic fluid leaks out of the unit through the rack and pinion which in turn affects the steering. The leak starts slowly and eventually increases to the point where the fluid will leak from the unit even when the car is not in use. I reported the problem to NAPA in writing [XXX] and received a telephonic request for documentation [XXX] which was furnished along with a statement that this matter was being looked into. I am not interested in any monetary refund but am only concerned about the safety of parts sold as "remanufactured" . The automobile repair shop is aware of my concern and supports my complaint. Both the repair shop and myself have documentation. I believe that based upon the number of times this part has failed indicates a potential problem in at the remanufactured automobile parts industry for at least this particular part and possibly others. I am willing to furnish any information I have. Thank you -- [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G4HP54K934
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 215/70R15 98T Tire purchased 10 days prior blew-out , resulting in total loss of vehicle.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1g4hp54ka34
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Buick LeSabre. The contact stated that their trunk failed to remain in the open position when needed. The contact had not taken the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G4HP52K234
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Buick LeSabre. The contact stated that after his friend drove the vehicle to his residence, there was a burning oil odor detected. The contact opened the hood and there was smoke coming from the engine. The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent mechanic as a valve cover gasket leak. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was concerned that the failure could lead to an engine compartment fire. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was 136,776.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-01
- VIN: 1G4HR54KX3U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE DASH PAD IS CURLING UP FROM THE WINDSHIELD ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE.THERE IS A GAP OF SEVERAL INCHES. MANY PEOPLE ARE EXPERIENCING THIS IN MY RESEARCH. WILL NEED TO REPLACE DASH PAD
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-17
- VIN: 1G4HP52K83U
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN FOR SERVICE AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, THE MECHANIC NOTICED ABOVE THE DRIVER SIDE REAR SPRING SUSPENSION WAS CORRODED THROUGH. IN ADDITION DUE TO THE CORROSION ON THE TOP OF THE SPRING, THE VEHICLE DOES NOT HAVE SUPPORT CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SWERVE BACK AND FORTH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BOB PION BUICK GMC DEALER, (333 MEMORIAL DR, CHICOPEE, MA 01020, (413) 598-8377) WHERE THEY NOTICED THE CORROSION BUT DID NOT RECOMMEND TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC ALSO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE RUST UNDERNEATH WERE PRISTINE AND THE SPRING LEANING ON THE FRAME PUSHING THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE LOST ALL SUPPORT, THE SPRING WAS PRE-FLOATING AT THE TOP. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140.000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-01
- VIN: 1G4HR54K93U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN THE VEHICLE GETS WARMER DURING TRANSIT, THE TRANSMISSION BEGINS TO SLIP. IT GETS WORSE AND THE DURATION OF THE SLIP BEGINS TO. LAST LONGER.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-12
- VIN: 1G4HP52K03U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: BUICK 2003 LESABRE TSB I NEED THE SERVICE BULITONS ON THE TRANSMISSION FOR SHUDDER ,HARSH SHIFTING WHILE DRIVING AND HEATED UP PROPERLY
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-12
- VIN: 1G4HP52K03U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION BUMPS SOME TIMES
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-02
- VIN: 1G4HP52K93U
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON AND THE DASH IS SEPARATING FROM THE FIREWALL OF THE MOTOR. THERE IS A GAP BETWEEN THE WINDSHIELD AND THE DASH
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-08
- VIN: 1G4HP52K634
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: IN 2009 THE DASHBOARD BEGAN TO LIFT UP UNDER THE WINDSHIELD. BY 2011 THE DASHBOARD HAD LIFTED UP ALMOST COMPLETELY ACROSS THE DASH ACROSS THE WINDSHIELD, BY ABOUT 2 INCHES. I HAD MY MECHANIC ATTEMPT TO SECURE IT BACK DOWN ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-20
- VIN: 1G4HP52K234
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: FIRST ELECTRICAL... MY WIPERS STOPPED WORKING DURING BAD RAIN RIGHT AFTER COMING OUT THE TUNNEL IN HEAVY TRAFFIC NO ACCIDENT I KNEW ROAD ENOUGH TO PULL OVER.. GOT FIXED REPLACED WIPER MOTOR 3 TIMES AND THE WIPER SWITCH WIPERS STILL GO WITHOUT BEING TURNED ON... THEN MY DASH KEEPS GETTING DIM AND MY ABS,TRACTION ,AND BRAKE LIGHTSARE ON AND I'VE HAD THAT FIXED STILL KEEPS STAYING LIT.... I GET REGULAR OIL CHANGES AT WALMART EVERY 3000 MILES THERES FLUID LEAKING FROM VALVE COVER THAT I HAD REPLACED ...THINGS I REPLACED ON CAR SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN INSPECTED.. MY DASH WAS LIFTED WHEN I PURCHASED VEHICLE USED ALSO SAID IT WAS FINE MVA MADE THEM REINSPECT CAR N ITS STILL LIFTED I ALSO KNOW IT WONT PASS INSPECTION LIFTED
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-20
- VIN: 1G4HR54K63U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY GOES DEAD OVER NIGHT, TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC HE SAID THE FUSE BOX UNDERBACK SEAT IS SHORTING OUT
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-14
- VIN: 1G4HR54K03U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE DASHBOARD HAD INADVERTENTLY BECOME UNGLUED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE DASHBOARD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND CONFIRMED THAT NO RECALL WAS ASSOCIATED WITH HE VIN. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO CALL NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-24
- VIN: 1G4HP52KX34
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAD TRAVELED ABOUT 2 MILES FROM HOME TO A HOME DEPOT AND WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 20 MPH AS I WAS ABOUT TO TURN INTO ONE OF THE PARKING LANES. SUDDENLY THE CAR WENT INTO FULL SPEED AS IF I WAS FULL ON THE GAS PEDAL. I NEARLY HIT OTHER CARS TRYING TO GET CONTROL OF MY CAR. I TRIED SHUTTING THE ENGINE OFF AND THEN BACK ON, BUT THAT DID NO GOOD. MY CAR ONLY HAS ABOUT 70,000 ACTUAL MILES ON IT AS I AM RETIRED. CAR IS CURRENTLY IN A GARAGE WAITING FOR REPAIRS.07242013
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-01
- VIN: 1G4HR54K43U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: LETTER FROM CONGRESSWOMAN FOXX ON BEHALF OF CONSTITUENT RE 2003 BUICK LESABRE DEFECT ISSUES. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE DASHBOARD SEPARATED AND RAISED ABOUT TWO INCHES. *JB
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G4HP54K234
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: "DEFECTIVE GASKETS FIRE HAZARD" OIL DRIPPING FROM VALVE COVER CAUGHT FIRE BURNING PLUG WIRES AND 3800 V6 ENGINE SHROUD'. I HAD PARKED THE VEHICLE IN MY DRIVE. I WENT INSIDE HOME FOR 2 MINUTES. I CAME BACK OUTSIDE TO RETRIEVE A SODA WHEN I DISCOVERED SMOKE BILLOWING FROM UNDER HOOD. WHEN I RELEASED HOOD LATCH AND RAISED HOOD FLAMES SHOT OUT DRIVING ME TO THE GROUND. I QUICKLY GOT A WASH BUCKET NEARBY AND WAS ABLE TO PUT OUT FIRE. I DON'T KNOW THE EXTENT OF DAMAGE. I FOUND OUT THAT OVER 1300 GM VEHICLES HAVE CAUGHT FIRE DUE TO THIS PROBLEM. I REPORTED THE INCIDENT TO BUICK AND WAS TOLD A REPRESENTATIVE WOULD CONTACT ME WITHIN 24 HOURS. 2 DAYS PASS NO CALL AND CAR SITS IN DRIVE. I'M LUCKY I CAUGHT IT AS IT COULD HAVE CAUSED A HOUSE FIRE AS WELL.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-10
- VIN: 1G4HP52K134
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE DASHBOARD DETACHED, INCLUDING THE AIR BAG HOUSING AREA. THE LOOSENED DASHABOARD DISTORTED THE CONTACT'S VISION WHEN DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 95,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-20
- VIN: 1G4HP52K63U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD PANEL IS SEPARATING AT THE FRONT WHERE IT MEETS THE DEFROSTER COWLING. THE SEPARATION IS INCREASING ALONG THE FRONT OF THE DASH FROM DRIVER TO PASSENGER SIDE, AND IS STARTING TO CURL UP CONSIDERABLY ON THE DRIVER SIDE. IT IS UNKNOWN HOW MUCH FURTHER THE SEPARATION/CURLING WILL CONTINUE, AND IS BEGINNING TO AFFECT THE VISION OF THE DRIVER JUST ABOVE THE HOOD. I ADDITION, OTHER COMPONENTS UNDER THE DASHBOARD ARE BEGINNING TO BE EXPOSED TO SUNLIGHT. FURTHER INVESTIGATION SUGGESTS THAT THIS IS AN EXTREMELY COMMON FAILURE WITH THIS MODEL VEHICLE, WITH MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS FROM CONSUMERS, RANGING FROM OBSCURED DRIVER VISION, TO POTENTIAL OR POSSIBLE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT DUE TO EXPOSED COMPONENTS. INVESTIGATION ALSO SUGGESTS THAT GENERAL MOTORS IS NOT ACKNOWLEDGING THE EXISTENCE OF THE PROBLEM, NOR PROVIDING ADEQUATE SOLUTIONS FOR REPAIR DESPITE NUMEROUS CUSTOMER COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-01
- VIN: 1G4HP52K73U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE RESTARTED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED; HOWEVER, THE GASKET KIT, A CONNECTOR, AND THE MAF SENSOR WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE PERSISTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 71,449.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-01
- VIN: 1G4HR54K93U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BUICK LESABRE. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE, THE AIR BAG SENSOR LIGHT ILLUMINATED INDICATING THAT THE AIR SYSTEM WAS FAULTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-15
- VIN: 1G4HR54K83U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DASH PANEL SEPARATED FROM THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT WHERE THE AIR BAG WAS HOUSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-15
- VIN: 1G4HP52K93U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DASHBOARD WAS PEELING WHERE THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WAS LOCATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE DASHBOARD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,000.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-07
- VIN: 1G4HR57K33U
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: WE BOUGHT THE CAR DECEMBER 29,2015, THE CAR HAD 102,0215, AND DROVE IT TO THE DOCTOR ON OUR WAY BACK, THE WOULD MAKE A "CLUNKING" SOUND FROM TRANS-AXLES, AND WE NOTICE THAT THE DASH BOARD CAME UP AND IT HAS HARDWARE SCREWS ACROSS THE DASH AS IF TO HOLD IT DOWN. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-01
- VIN: 1G4HR54K83U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 BUCK LESABRE. WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART UNTIL THE NEXT DAY AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BATTERY MIGHT HAVE CAUSED THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000.
2003 Buick Lesabre recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2003 Buick Lesabre.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER, MINI VANS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE AN AIR BAG INFLATOR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE THAT COULD FRACTURE AT A WELD DURING A DEPLOYMENT.
- Consequence: PIECES OF THE INFLATOR COULD STRIKE AND INJURE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS AND THE AIR BAG CUSHION WOULD NOT INFLATE FULLY, REDUCING THE CAPABILITY OF THE BAG TO PROTECT THE DRIVER.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT, AND REPLACE, IF NECESSARY, THE AIR BAG MODULE ASSEMBLY ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 15, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300, CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737.
Negative 2003 Buick Lesabre car reviews
Positive 2003 Buick Lesabre car reviews
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I recently purchased a 2003 LeSabre with 74,000 miles on it. Despite encountering an issue with the air suspension, which I believed the dealer had repaired, I remain confident in the car's overall quality and features. I am currently exploring the option of switching to a non-air suspension to resolve the issue. The car's ride is otherwise excellent, and I particularly enjoy the sound of the engine.
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This car is impressively quiet and well-designed. The suspension is perfect even at 3000 miles, making it a great driving experience. The cupholders are an improvement from the 98 LeSabre, now available in both front and back. The radio controls are conveniently located on the steering wheel and have real knobs for tuning and volume. The auto temperature air conditioning works flawlessly, just like the other car.
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Hi there! Thanks for sharing your experience with us. It's great to hear that you've been enjoying your car for the past 5 years. The gas mileage is really impressive, especially for such a comfortable ride. Although you had to replace a few parts, it's good to know that it wasn't too bad. Overall, it sounds like you're happy with your purchase and would buy it again. Thanks for your feedback!
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I have no doubt that this car will run well over 200,000 miles, despite the clear coat peeling off. In fact, I am so confident in its reliability that I am investing $6,000 in a custom paint job to make it look as good as new. The car has had no mechanical problems whatsoever, which is a testament to its quality and durability.
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The current model comes with General tires which have a very poor grade and tend to vibrate at speeds of 55 MPH and over. Despite the dealer's efforts, the issue could not be resolved and I had to take it to an independent mechanic. They suggested that I switch to a name brand tire, which would not only improve the ride quality but also eliminate the vibration issue.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Buick Lesabre problems:
Any major problems with a 2003 Buick LeSabre Custom 4D, V6 ...
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2003 Buick LeSabre Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
Top 2003 Buick LeSabre Problems · Fuel Level Sensor Failure · Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid Failure May Cause Erratic Shifting · Heating and AC ...
Q&A: 2003 Buick LeSabre High Idle - Common Problems & Fixes
Mar 18, 2014 ... If voltage is the same when idle is high vs low then I'd replace the PCM. The common probnlems to cause high idle on this vehicle is the tps, ...
2003 Buick LeSabre Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jan 20, 2023 ... The vehicle is reliable. Performance: typical of a 15-year-old vehicle. No significant issues other than no a/c. Comfort: pretty nice, ...
Q&A: 2003 Buick LeSabre Limited - Common Transmission Problems
Apr 1, 2014 ... Test drive the vehicle with the Tech 2® installed, Monitor TCC Release Pressure. The Status will be YES until TCC applies and then the display ...
Other years of Buick Lesabre
Are you having problems with your 2003 Buick Lesabre?
Verner Olson 2024-08-02
I bought this car used and it has been great for gas mileage considering its weight. The ride is nice and it comes loaded with options. The red color and chrome wheels are a great touch. Unfortunately, I have had to replace the motor mounts twice now, and my previous 97 Buick had the same issue three times. I also had to replace the frozen rear gas shocks and both wheel axle seals due to grease leakage. Recently, I had to replace both front axles and the blower motor is going out, so I just ordered a new one. Despite these issues, I still like the car, but I may consider other brands in the future. GM should toughen up the motor mounts to improve the car's durability. By the way, the seat heater does not work.
Felipe Nienow 2024-05-21
After the first six months, there were a few issues with the car. The block heater was leaking and had to be fixed by the dealer six times. Additionally, the steering column had to be taken apart to change the steering sensor. The trunk was also leaking, allowing rainwater to get inside. The side pillar post plastic, dashboard, heads-up display, and instrumentation cover had to be replaced due to clips popping out. The stabilitrack had to be repaired four times, and there was a vibration on idle on the steering wheel and dash. The EGR valve had to be replaced twice, and there was some trouble with the A/C on the dual climate control, which sometimes blew warm air on the driver's side. There is still an A/C leak present.
Douglas Lueilwitz 2024-05-12
The car has some issues such as annoying alternator noise in the cabin, trunk leak (common in LeSabres), and airbag module replacement in the first 5000 miles. However, these issues are manageable and can be resolved. It is recommended to upgrade the General OEM tires for a better driving experience. The fabric seats in the Custom model may not be the best in terms of quality and comfort, but they can be replaced with better options. Overall, the car is decent and with some improvements, it can be a great ride.
Nicholas Block 2024-05-06
The LeSabre has some great features, but unfortunately, there are still some long-standing issues that need to be addressed. For instance, the A/C doesn't seem to provide cold air and had trouble cooling the car on an 85-degree day. Additionally, the legroom is quite limited for someone who is 6'4