2006 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 2006 Buick Lesabre problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Buick LeSabre 2006, some common problems reported include:
- Defective Power Window Assemblies: Owners have reported issues with power window assemblies malfunctioning, leading to difficulties in operating the windows effectively. This problem can be inconvenient and affect the overall functionality of the vehicle.
- Cracked Intake Manifold Gaskets: Another common problem is cracked intake manifold gaskets. This issue can result in engine performance issues, such as coolant leaks, overheating, and poor fuel efficiency. It is crucial to address this problem promptly to prevent further damage to the engine.
- Failing Mode Door Actuators: Owners have experienced problems with failing mode door actuators in the Buick LeSabre 2006. This issue can impact the vehicle's heating and cooling system, leading to inconsistent temperature control inside the car. Addressing this problem is essential for maintaining comfort while driving.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported transmission problems with the Buick LeSabre 2006. Transmission issues can manifest as erratic shifting, slipping gears, or difficulty in acceleration. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are necessary to ensure the longevity of the transmission system.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical issues have been a concern for some Buick LeSabre 2006 owners. These problems can include issues with the electrical system, such as faulty wiring, malfunctioning components, or electrical shorts. Addressing electrical issues promptly is crucial to prevent safety hazards and further damage to the vehicle.
- Heating and AC Temperature Control: Complaints have been made regarding heating and AC temperature control problems. Issues with temperature regulation can lead to discomfort while driving, especially in extreme weather conditions. Proper diagnosis and repair of the heating and AC system are essential for a comfortable driving experience.
- Fuel Level Sensor Failure: Another reported issue is fuel level sensor failure. This problem can result in inaccurate fuel level readings on the dashboard, leading to inconvenience and potential fuel-related issues. Addressing this problem is important for accurate monitoring of fuel levels.
By addressing these common problems promptly and with the help of professional mechanics, Buick LeSabre 2006 owners can ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to keeping the car in optimal condition and addressing any issues that may arise effectively.
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 many miles can a Buick LeSabre last?
Drivers have reported LeSabres making it into the half-million mile range, and that's definitely doable if you buy it brand new and you never miss your oil and transmission fluid changes. But if you're buying used, expect to hit 250,000 on the original transmission and engine.
What is the most miles a Buick LeSabre can get?
Many enthusiasts share stories of reaching impressive mileage milestones, with some even surpassing the 300,000-mile mark. These testimonials highlight the real-world endurance of the Buick LeSabre and serve as a testament to its lasting quality.
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 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.
2006 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2006 Buick Lesabre vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2006 Buick Lesabre complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Buick Lesabre.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-22
- VIN: 2G4WD532751
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 BUICK LA CROSSE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V355000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-16
- VIN: 1G4HR54K73U
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 BUICK LESABRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, THEY DETECTED THE UPPER AND LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD VALVE GASKETS WERE LEAKING INTERNALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 19,074.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-10
- VIN: 1G4HP52KXTH
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: SUB FRAME/CRADLE MOUNT FAILURE. TWO MOUNTS (SPACERS/WASHERS/BOLTS) ROTTED OUT ON RIGHT FRONT. ENTIRE SUB FRAME DROPPED ON RIGHT SIDE. IMPACTED STEERING. CAR IS NON DRIVABLE DUE TO SAFETY ISSUE. SERIOUS DESIGN FLAW FOR SUCH EXPOSED PARTS TO BE MADE OF THIN GAUGE METAL AND RUBBER. THESE PARTS HOLD / CRADLE THE ENGINE. FAILURE CAUSES SERIOUS COMPROMISE TO STEERING/BRAKING/HANDLING. *TR
Additional sources
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