1989 Buick Skylark problems

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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.

1989 Buick Skylark

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Common 1989 Buick Skylark problems

Power Window Motors May Fail From Overheating

One of the most common issues with the 1989 Buick Skylark is power window motor failure due to overheating. This problem is often caused by the window motor working too hard, especially when the window is lowered or raised repeatedly within a short period of time. The motor can generate excessive heat, leading to its failure.

When the power window motor fails, the window may not move or move very slowly. In some cases, the window may only move up or down intermittently. This issue can be frustrating, especially during hot or cold weather when you need to open or close the window quickly.

To fix this problem, you may need to replace the power window motor. This is a complex repair that requires the expertise of a professional mechanic. The mechanic will need to remove the door panel to access the window motor and then install the new motor. This repair can be expensive, but it is necessary to ensure that the window works properly again.

Intermittent Cutting Out During Acceleration

Another common issue with the 1989 Buick Skylark is intermittent cutting out during acceleration. This problem can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty fuel pressure regulator, a clogged fuel filter, or a dirty fuel injector.

When the car cuts out during acceleration, it can be dangerous, especially if you are driving at high speeds. This issue can also cause the car to stall, leaving you stranded on the side of the road.

To fix this problem, you may need to replace the fuel pressure regulator, clean the fuel injector, or replace the fuel filter. These repairs can be complex and should be performed by a professional mechanic.

Air Leak in Fuel Injector on Cylinder Head

The 1989 Buick Skylark may also experience engine problems, such as an air leak in the fuel injector on the cylinder head. This problem can cause the engine to run poorly, reducing its performance and fuel efficiency.

An air leak in the fuel injector can be caused by a variety of issues, including a damaged fuel injector or a cracked cylinder head. To fix this problem, you may need to replace the fuel injector or the cylinder head. These repairs can be expensive, but they are necessary to ensure that the engine runs properly.

Starting Problems in Warm Weather

The 1989 Buick Skylark may also experience starting problems, especially in warm weather. This problem can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty ignition coil, a weak battery, or a dirty spark plug.

When the car has starting problems, it can be frustrating, especially if you need to get somewhere quickly. To fix this problem, you may need to replace the ignition coil, the battery, or the spark plug. These repairs can be simple and should be performed by a professional mechanic.

Transmission Problems

The 1989 Buick Skylark may also experience transmission problems, such as slipping or grinding. These problems can be caused by a variety of issues, including low transmission fluid levels or a damaged transmission.

When the transmission slips or grinds, it can be dangerous, especially if you are driving at high speeds. This issue can also cause the car to stall, leaving you stranded on the side of the road.

To fix transmission problems, you may need to replace the transmission fluid or the transmission itself. These repairs can be expensive, but they are necessary to ensure that the car runs smoothly and safely.

In conclusion, the 1989 Buick Skylark is a reliable car, but it can experience common problems, such as power window motor failure, intermittent cutting out during acceleration, air leak in the fuel injector, starting problems in warm weather, and transmission problems. To fix these problems, you may need to replace various parts or components, which can be expensive. It is important to have the car inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic to ensure that it runs smoothly and safely.

1989 Buick Skylark engine

What engine did the Buick Skylark have?

The base engine in Buick Skylarks (and Buick Special sedans) became a 250-cubic-inch 250 cu in (4.1 L) Chevrolet I6, that produced 155 hp (116 kW) at 4200 rpm using a single-barrel Rochester carburetor.

What year was the last Buick Skylark made?

Buick Skylark (1964 to 1998)

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.

How much horsepower does a 69 Buick Skylark have?

Specifications for Buick Skylark Sedan 5.7 V8 233hp, 1969.

What replaced the Buick Skylark?

For the 1973 model year, the Buick Gran Sports, Skylarks, and Sport Wagons would all be replaced by the new mid-sized Buick Century.

What engine did the Buick Skylark have?

The base engine in Buick Skylarks (and Buick Special sedans) became a 250-cubic-inch 250 cu in (4.1 L) Chevrolet I6, that produced 155 hp (116 kW) at 4200 rpm using a single-barrel Rochester carburetor.

When did Buick stop making Skylark?

And the Skylark was discontinued. But the name would return in 1961. As the luxury version of Buick's new compact special as the special Skylark. It shared its unibody construction with the other

What was the last model of the Buick Skylark?

The first generation launched in 1964 and was followed by five more iterations until the end of the 1990s when the GM-owned brand decided to pull the plug on it altogether. The last one rolled off the line in the 1998 model year, thus bidding farewell to the nameplate.

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 .

1989 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:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Buick Skylark vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Buick Skylark complaints

The NHTSA has received 18 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Buick Skylark.

1999-04-20

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1G4ND54D5KM
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND AFTER STARTING IT, VEHICLE EXPLODED AND BURST INTO FLAMES, RESULTING IN A FIRE WITHOUT ANY PRIOR WARNING. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
1996-12-31

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-23
  • VIN: 1G4NM14NXKM
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED.
1996-04-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-11
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ECM REPLACED. *SD
1996-04-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-11
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: INTERMITTENT STALLING. *SD
1996-04-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-11
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WATER PUMP REPLACED DUE TO LEAK. *SD
1996-04-11

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1991-06-05
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: ODOMETER INOPERATIVE. *SD
1996-04-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-01-19
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: EXHAUST PIPE REPLACED. *SD
1996-04-11

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-11-15
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: VEHICLE MISALIGNED. *SD
1996-04-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-11
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM OVERHEATED. *SD
1996-04-11

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1992-02-12
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE SHOES REPLACED. *SD
1996-04-11

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-11
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE ROTORS TURNED. *SD
1996-04-11

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-11
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: STEERING BELT LOOSE. *SD
1996-04-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1992-02-12
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THERMOSTAT REPLACED. *SD
1996-04-11

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1992-02-19
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: MASTER CYLINDER REPLACED. *SD
1996-04-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-11
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MUFFLER REPLACED. *SD
1996-04-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1992-02-12
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: SPARK PLUGS REPLACED. *SD
1996-04-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-11
  • VIN: 1G4NC54D7KM
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: HEAD GASKET REPLACED 2 TIMES. *SD
1996-04-11

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-05
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1G4ND54D5KM
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL FEED HOSE RUPTURED AND LEAKED FUEL IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT, CAUSING A FIRE. *AK

1989 Buick Skylark recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1989 Buick Skylark.

2006-05-19
  • 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).
1992-10-19
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY COULD CRACK OR SEPARATE AT THE COUPLING ON THE ENGINE END OF THE HOSE ASSEMBLY, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
  • Consequence: FUEL LEAKING IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT COULD RESULT IN ANUNDERHOOD FIRE.
  • Remedy: REPLACE FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY.
1990-03-05
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY COULD CRACK OR SEPARATE AT THE COUPLING ON THE ENGINE END OF THE HOSE ASSEMBLY, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
  • Consequence: LEAKING FUEL IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: REPLACE FRONT FUEL FEED HOSE ASSEMBLY.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1989 Buick Skylark problems:

Buick Skylark Problems and Complaints - 43 Issues
Buick Skylark Problems and Complaints - 43 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/buick/skylark

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Q&A: 1990 Buick Skylark - Common Issues & Solutions
Q&A: 1990 Buick Skylark - Common Issues & Solutions
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Jun 12, 2016 ... I have a 1990 buick skylark 2.5 liter. I am tring to replace engine ignotion module, but the 4 bolts that go thru the - Answered by a ...

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Jan 11, 2019 ... It seems common knowledge that these will ... If you scroll down to the Buick Section of the Forum ... Our 1989 Buick Skylark has the same problem ...

Common Buick 2.5L Engine Problems: Q&A for Skylark, Verano, and ...
Common Buick 2.5L Engine Problems: Q&A for Skylark, Verano, and ...
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Mar 23, 2009 ... Where is the PCV valve on a 1991 Buick Skylark 2.5 liter engine? I have the Buick service manuel and it does not show - Answered by a ...

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Other years of Buick Skylark

buick skylark 1990 photo
Skylark 1990
Buick

31

2

6

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buick skylark 1991 photo
Skylark 1991
Buick

39

2

6

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick skylark 1992 photo
Skylark 1992
Buick

45

3

2

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick skylark 1993 photo
Skylark 1993
Buick

55

1

4

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
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  • 1
buick skylark 1994 photo
Skylark 1994
Buick

81

2

11

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick skylark 1995 photo
Skylark 1995
Buick

100

1

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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