1984 Buick Skylark problems
The Buick Skylark is a passenger car formerly produced by Buick. The model was made in six production runs, during 46 years, over which the car's design varied dramatically due to changing technology, tastes, and new standards implemented over the years. It was named for the species of bird called skylark.
The Skylark name first appeared on a limited production luxury convertible using the Buick Roadmaster's chassis for two years, then was reintroduced in 1961 as a higher luxury content alternative to the entry-level Buick Special on which the Skylark was based upon. It was then positioned as Buick's luxury performance model when the Buick GSX was offered. As GM began downsizing during the late 1970s, the Skylark became the entry-level model when the Special nameplate was used as a trim package designation, then in the 1980s was offered as a front-wheel-drive vehicle where it was both a coupe and sedan for three different generations.
1953–1954
Created to mark Buick's 50th anniversary, the Roadmaster Skylark joined the Oldsmobile 98 Fiesta and Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado as top-of-the-line, limited-production specialty convertibles introduced in 1953 by General Motors to promote its design leadership. Of the three, the Skylark's run of 1,690 units proved the most successful, and an amazing sales feat considering the car's 1953 list price of slightly in excess of US$5,000 ($56,940 in 2023 dollars ) was over 50% more than the well-equipped US$3,200 Roadmaster convertible on which it was based ($36,442 in 2023 dollars ). It was comparable in price to the 1953 Packard Caribbean with a similar retail price.
Production ran for two years. Based on the model 76R two-door Roadmaster convertible, the 1953 Skylark (designated model 76X) had identical dimensions (except height), almost identical appearance, shared its drive train, and had all its standard equipment, plus its few remaining options, including power windows, power brakes, full carpeting, and a "Selectronic" AM radio. Only air conditioning was not offered, unnecessary in either convertible.
Importantly, the new Skylark featured Buick's new 322 in3 (5.3 L) Fireball V8 in place of the automaker's longstanding straight 8, and a 12-volt electrical system, both division firsts. It debuted full-cutout wheel openings, a styling cue that spread to the main 1954 Buick line. Accenting its lowered, notched beltline was a new "Sweepspear" running almost the entire length of the vehicle, a styling cue that was to appear in various forms on many Buick models over the years.
The 1953 Skylark was handmade in many respects. Only stampings for the hood, trunk lid, and a portion of the convertible tub were shared with the Roadmaster and Super convertibles. All Skylark tubs were finished with various amounts of lead filler. The inner doors were made by cutting the 2-door Roadmaster's in two then welding the pieces back together at an angle to produce the rakish door dip. An overall more streamlined look was reinforced by cutting the windshield almost 3 inches (7.6 cm) shorter and lowering the side windows and convertible top frame proportionately. Seat frames and steering column were then dropped to provide proper headroom and driving position. Front legroom was 44.7 inches (114 cm). Authentic wire wheels were produced by Kelsey-Hayes, chromed everywhere except the plated and painted "Skylark" center emblem.
The Skylark returned in 1954 with radically restyled styling unique to the Buick line, which included wheel cutouts that could be painted in a contrasting color to the body's. The trunk was sloped into a semi-barrel, and tail lights moved to large chromed fins projecting atop the rear fenders.
Re-designated model 100, the car was based on the all-new shorter Century/Special series 40 chassis and not the larger series 60 Roadmaster/Super chassis, also all-new for 1954. Once again, all Skylarks were built as 2-door convertibles and carried the same luxury equipment as before, but front leg room dropped 2.4 inches (6.1 cm). While smaller and lighter, the Skylark received a performance boost by retaining the big Buicks' powertrain, an evolutionary improvement of 1953's with the highest output in the division's lineup.
The 1954 Skylark once again had unique sheet metal stampings for its elongated wheel cutouts and new semi-barrel trunk, though fabrication was done without hand labor. The hood ornament was unique, adopted the following year across the Buick product line.
Sales proved to be poor, reflecting the Skylark's continued high price of US$4,843 ($54,947 in 2023 dollars ) coupled with a perceived step-down from the Roadmaster/Super series using the Century's chassis, slumping far enough to cause the model's cancellation at the end of the 1954 model year, with only 836 being manufactured.
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Common 1984 Buick Skylark problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1984 Buick Skylark, common problems reported include exhaust system issues and the A-frame requiring reinforcement.
Exhaust System Issues
Owners have noted problems with the exhaust system in the 1984 Buick Skylark. This issue can manifest in various ways, such as leaks, rust, or damage to the exhaust components. A faulty exhaust system can lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and loud noises. Addressing exhaust system issues promptly is crucial to maintain the car's efficiency and ensure compliance with emission standards.
A-Frame Reinforcement
Another common problem reported by owners is the need for A-frame reinforcement in the 1984 Buick Skylark. The A-frame, also known as the control arm, is a crucial component of the car's suspension system. Issues with the A-frame can result in poor handling, alignment problems, and compromised safety. Reinforcing the A-frame may involve strengthening the structure to enhance durability and stability, preventing potential safety hazards and ensuring a smoother driving experience.
By addressing these common problems in the 1984 Buick Skylark, owners can maintain the car's performance, safety, and longevity. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and attention to these specific issues can help mitigate potential complications and ensure a more reliable driving experience.
How much horsepower does a 1986 Buick Skylark have?
1986 Buick Skylark Overview
Available powertrain includes a standard 92 horsepower, 2L NA I4 overhead valves (OHV) 8V engine and 5-Speed Manual transmission. It gives mileage of 21 MPG in city and 31 MPG on highway.
How much horsepower does a 1987 Buick Skylark have?
1987 Buick Skylark is 4 doors Sedan available in 0 variants MSRP ranges from $10285 to $10285. Buick Skylark offers 98 horsepower with the 5-Speed Manual transmission. It features 4 cylinder 2L NA I4 overhead valves (OHV) 8V engine .
What is the V8 engine in the Buick Skylark?
The Skylark replaced the Special's standard aluminum block 215 cu in (3.5 L) two-barrel carburetor V8 with a higher compression ratio four-barrel version that boosted power from 155 hp (116 kW) at 4600 rpm to 185 hp (138 kW).
Was Buick Skylark a muscle car?
No, the Skylark is not a muscle car. That is one of the reasons why Buick made the Gran Sport-now, the Gran Sport is a muscle car, and as you all know is much different than a Skylark.
1984 Buick Skylark car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Skylark problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1984 Buick Skylark vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1984 Buick Skylark
The NHTSA has received 26 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1984 Buick Skylark. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1984 Buick Skylark vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-01-18
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING RACK REPLACED AFTER 30,495 MILES.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-04-20
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STARTER REPLACED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-01-22
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DOOR HANDLE BROKEN AND REPLACED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WATER PUMP BROKEN AND REPLACED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-29
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MOTOR MOUNTS REPLACED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-01-29
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: REAR MAIN SEALS REPLACED.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-02-01
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: CARBURETOR BASE PLATE GASKET REPLACED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-02-01
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING PUMP REPLACED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-25
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING HOSE REPLACED.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-22
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: STALLING UPON TURNING RIGHT AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO FIX. OWNER WAS TOLD THE CARBURETOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1987-12-18
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ALL BELTS REPLACED AT 29,429 MILES.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1987-12-18
- VIN: 1G4AB69X8EW
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BRAKE LIGHTS NOT WORKING DUE TO BROKEN SWITCH.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G4AB37X9EW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DURING VEHICLE OPERATION SMOKE WAS NOTICED COMING FROM THE DASH AREA, WHERE THE HEATER VENTS ARE LOCATED, RESULTING IN A FIRE. *AK
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-17
- VIN: 1G4NV553RC2
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSTANT REPLACEMNT OF BRAKING SYSTEM DUE TO WEAR ALSO, STEERING VIBRATION AT 55MPH.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-06
- VIN: 1G4AB69X6EW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: REAR BRAKES REPLACED. *SD
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-17
- VIN: 1G4AB69X6EW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: ALIGNMENT NEEDED. *SD
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-17
- VIN: 1G4AB69X6EW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR SHOCK ABSORBERS REPLACED. *SD
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-17
- VIN: 1G4AB69X6EW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 'COLD POWER STEERING'. *SD
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-17
- VIN: 1G4AB69X6EW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION SEAL REPLACED. *SD
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-17
- VIN: 1G4AB69X6EW
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: EMERGENCY BRAKE ADJUSTED. *SD
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-06
- VIN: 1G4AB69X6EW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: FRONT BRAKES REPLACED. *SD
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4AB37X4EW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING WHEEL IS HARD TO TURN DURING COLD WEATHER UNTIL WARMING OF VEHICLE. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL PUMP BROKE SPRAY FUEL ALL ON THE FAN BELT THE WHOLE ENGINE . TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-06-03
- VIN: 1G4AB69X8EW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE BOOSTER FAILURE. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1988-01-01
- VIN: 1G4AB69X8EW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING RESPONSE VERY POOR. *DH
1984 Buick Skylark recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1984 Buick Skylark.
- 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: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE FUEL SYSTEM MAY LEAK AT THE THROTTLE BODY INJECTION FUEL FEED PIPE CONNECTION. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THIS LEAKAGE COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE WHICH COULD SPREAD TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AND CAUSE BURN INJURIES TO OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL FEED PIPE.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: THE REAR AXLE CONTROL ARM LOCATES AND HELPS CONTROL AXLE MOVEMENT; IT ATTACHES TO THE FRAME WITH A BRACKET. THE REAR CONTROL ARM BRACKET ATTACHING BOLTS USED ON SOME OF THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY FRACTURE. FRACTURE OF ALL FOUR BOLTS ON ONE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE CAN RESULT IN THE CONTROL ARM DROPPING ENOUGH TO CUT THE REAR BRAKE HOSE. A SEVERED BRAKE HOSE WOULD RESULT IN BRAKE FLUID LOSS AND PARTIAL LOSS OF BRAKING ABILITY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE ALL EIGHT CONTROL ARM BRACKET BOLTS FREE OF CHARGE.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
- Summary: SOME VEHICLES HAVE BUCKET SEAT BACK LOCKS THAT DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 207, ANCHORAGE OF SEATS. IN EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BACK LOCK MAY NOT FUNCTION.
- Remedy: INSPECTION OF SEAT BACK LOCKS WILL BE PERFORMED. LOCKS THAT HAVE BENT, BROKEN OR MISSING HOOKS WILL BE REPLACED.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1984 Buick Skylark problems:
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