1998 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.

1998 Buick Skylark

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Common 1998 Buick Skylark problems

The Buick Skylark, produced from 1992 to 1998, was known for several common problems that affected its reliability and overall user satisfaction. One of the most frequently reported issues was power window motor failure due to overheating. This problem was often caused by the window motor working harder than intended, especially during extreme temperature conditions, leading to the motor burning out over time.

Another significant issue was the lack of a 4-speed automatic transmission, which was a popular choice among car buyers during that time. The Buick Skylark only offered a 3-speed automatic transmission, which was considered outdated and less efficient compared to the 4-speed alternatives available in other vehicles. This shortcoming discouraged some potential buyers and contributed to dwindling sales for General Motors.

The car's interior was also criticized for being cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, especially in the back seats. The poor ventilation system was another common complaint, making the cabin uncomfortable during hot weather conditions.

In addition, the Buick Skylark was plagued by coolant leaks through cracked intake manifolds, which was a widespread issue affecting many vehicles from the same era. This problem was caused by intake manifold gasket failure, which led to coolant leaks and potential engine overheating.

Lastly, the 1998 Buick Skylark had a relatively low reliability rating, ranking 4th out of 22 vehicles in its class. The car's PainRank, which measures the severity and frequency of problems, was 0.88, indicating a higher than average number of issues reported by owners.

In summary, the Buick Skylark faced several common problems, including power window motor failure, outdated transmission options, cramped interior, poor ventilation, and coolant leaks through cracked intake manifolds. These issues, along with its low reliability rating, contributed to the car's discontinuation in 1998.

1998 Buick Skylark engine

How much is a 1998 Buick Skylark worth?

The value of a used 1998 Buick Skylark ranges from $202 to $866, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

What year did they stop making Buick Skylark?

Buick Skylark
ManufacturerBuick (General Motors)
Model years1953–1954 1961–1972 1975–1998
Body and chassis
LayoutFR layout (1953–1979) Transverse front-engine, front-wheel drive (1980–1998)

Does Buick still make the Skylark?

Behind every camouflaged. Car the 70th anniversary of the Buick Skylark is the perfect excuse to bring back this iconic. Car the new 2024 Buick Skylark is speculated to be released in early 2024..

How much horsepower does a 1969 Buick Skylark have?

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

How much is a 1998 Buick Skylark worth?

The value of a used 1998 Buick Skylark ranges from $202 to $866, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

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 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.

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.

1998 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:

  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Buick Skylark vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1998 Buick Skylark

The NHTSA has received 37 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Buick Skylark. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Buick Skylark vehicles.

2016-02-23

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-04-16
  • VIN: 1G4NJ52M9WC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK SKYLARK. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ABLE TO START AND THE ANTI-THEFT WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT IT TOOK MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS TO START THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE STARTER FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V036000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000.
2015-07-16

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-03-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT WAS A PASSENGER IN A 1998 BUICK SKYLARK. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE RAN A RED LIGHT AND CRASHED INTO THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. DUE TO THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE EYES AND THE DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE BACK THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED BY THE POLICE DEPARTMENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,000.
2011-12-15

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-11-20
  • VIN: 1G4NJ52M4WC
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MANIFOLD GASKET FAILED, LEAKING COOLANT INTO ENGINE OIL. *TR
2011-07-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-07-01
  • VIN: 1G4NJ52MXWC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK SKYLARK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. NO CRASH OCCURRED AND NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER, NOR THE DEALER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 193,000.
2009-12-09

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-09-15
  • VIN: 1G4NJ52M6WC
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK SKYLARK. WHEN IT RAINED, WATER FLOODED THE DRIVERS SIDE FLOOR MAT AND PEDALS. ALSO THE AIRBAG LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT CONTROL AFTER IT RAINED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALERSHIP. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 46000. UPDATED 1/28/10 *CN UPDATED 02/03/10.
2009-04-17

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-04-10
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I HAD BOTH 1999 AND 1998 INTRIGUES, BOTH HAD PROBLEMS WITH THEIR RUNNING LIGHTS AND BLINKING LIGHTS FAILING. REPLACE FUSES, REBLOW. SENT TO MECHANICS NUMEROUS TIMES, UNABLE TO RESOLVE. HOWEVER, THEY SAID THIS WAS ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE MAKE. MY SUPERVISOR SAID HE NOTICED MANY INTRIGUES ON ROAD WITH PROBLEMS, AND SINCE THEN, I NOTICE MANY INTRIGUES WITH SAME PROBLEM. MAYBE NOT IMMEDIATE DANGER, BUT WHEN BLINKER DOESN'T WORK, IT CREATES A DANGER OF BEING REAR-ENDED. *TR
2005-11-05

SEAT BELTS,WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-03-01
  • VIN: 2G4WF5212W1
  • Components: SEAT BELTS,WHEELS
  • Summary: BOTH SIDE SEAT BELTS HAVE STOPPED WORKING IN THE BACK SEAT OF THE CAR. THIS HAS CAUSED QUITE A PROBLEM WITH THE LAW REQUIRING PASSENGERS TO WEAR SEAT BELTS. IT IS ALSO A SAFETY HAZARD. THE STOCK RIMS OF THE VEHICLE SLOWLY CUT THE TIRES AND CAUSE AIR LEAKAGE. THIS REQUIRES THE OWNER TO REPLACE THE TIRES BEFORE THEY WOULD OTHERWISE BE NEEDED. AND ALSO CAUSES THE 'LOW TIRE' WARNING LIGHT TO REPEATEDLY LIGHT UP AND NEED RESETTING. THIS IS ALSO A SAFETY HAZARD AS LOW TIRES CAN CAUSE BLOW OUTS. *JB
2005-08-16

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-08-16
  • VIN: 1G4NJ52M6WC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: DT: CONTACT STATED THAT ON 7-11-05 HAD A NEW ALTERNATOR PUT IN. IT FAILED ON 8-13-05., AND IT WAS REPLACED ON 8-14-05. IT IS NOT SHOWING UP ON THE TESTER AS CONSISTENT. IT WAS ARCHING AND DRAINING THE BATTERY. THE PART NUMBER FOR THE ALTERNATOR WAS #8225-7. THEY WILL REPLACE IT IN A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF TIME; BUT THAT DID NOT HELP THE CALL NOW BECAUSE CAR DIED THE FREEWAY. A MECHANIC TOLD HER THEY WERE PUTTING BAD REGULATORS IN THESE ALTERNATORS. THIS INCLUDED THE FOLLOWING COMPANIES;: CAR QUEST, AND BBB INDUSTRIES; 5640 COMMERCE EAST, MOBILE, AL 36619. PALLADIUM; BOX 2710 RONOAKE, VA 24001. *AK
2005-06-08

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-11-16
  • VIN: 2G4WY52M6W1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: THE CONSUMER'S ANTI-LOCK BRAKES WENT OUT WHILE DRIVING ON DRY CONDITIONS. CONSUMER WAS DRIVING 40 MPH WHEN HE STARTED TO BRAKE. THE ORANGE AND RED BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON, AND IT WAS STILL ON. HE TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER 2-3 DAYS AFTER THE INCIDENT. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE CAR, AND TOLD THE CONSUMER THAT HIS BRAKES WERE OK THAT THEY WERE NORMAL BRAKES. HOWEVER, THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES WERE NO LONGER FUNCTIONING. THE CONSUMER DID NOT HAVE THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES REPAIRED SINCE THE DEALER WAS CHARGING HIM $575.00. *AK *SB
2005-03-28

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-12-28
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: I WAS INJURED WHEN THE AIRBAG OF A 1998 BUICK SKYLARK (N BODY) DEPLOYED WHEN I STARTED THE VEHICLE. THERE WAS NO IMPACT, IN FACT THE VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN A BUILDING AND NOT EVEN IN MOTION. I SUSTAINED A BRAIN SHEAR INJURY AND I AM STILL RECOVERING. I KNOW OF TWO OTHER INCIDENTS WHERE THIS OCCURRED IN N BODY GM VEHICLES. GENERAL MOTORS PAID FOR THE REPAIR OF THE VEHICLE BUT HAS NOT CONTACTED ME IN REGARD TO MY INJURIES OR LOST WAGES.(I WAS OUT OF WORK 2 MONTHS AND RECENTLY RETURNED ON A LIMITED BASIS. GENERAL MOTORS BLAMES THE DEPLOYMENT ON MOISTURE ON THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE. I LIVE IN WESTERN NEW YORK WHERE WITH OUR WEATHER IT IS IMPOSSIBLE NOT TO HAVE MOISTURE ON THE FLOOR. ONE OF THE OTHER PEOPLE WHO EXPERIENCED A DEPLOYMENT IS ALSO INJURED. PLEASE LOOK IN TO THIS MATTER AS THE POTENTIAL FOR INJURY IS VERY GREAT. THANKS MIKE HALL PS I HAVE THE PARTS FROM THE DEPLOYMENT THAT I WAS INVOLVED IN. *JB
2005-02-09

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-01-03
  • VIN: 1G4HR52K6WH
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WE DROVE FROM HOME TO OLATHE, KS AND BACK TO A KOHL'S AT SHAWNEE STATION ON OUR WAY HOME. WE PARKED THE BUICK AND WHEN I TRIED TO START THE BUICK IT FAILED TO START. I THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE THE BATTERY. I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND TRIED TO START THE BUICK. THE BUICK STARTED BUT WHITE SMOKE COME OUT OF THE TAILPIPE AND IT BEGAN TO SHAKE TREMENDOUSLY LIKE WE WERE IN A BIG STORM. WE HAD THE BUICK TOWED TO FIRESTONE AND THEY SAID THE AIR MANIFOLD RINGS LET THE ANTI-FREEZE UP THE MOTOR AND THE SHAKING CAUSED OIL TO LEAK. WE WERE FORTUNATE THAT THIS DIDN'T HAPPEN SOMEWHERE ELSE. *JB
2005-01-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-12-22
  • VIN: 1G4HP52KXWH
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: FAULTY DESIGN OF INTAKE MANIFOLD ON GM 3.8L ENGINE USED IN 1998 THRU 2004 ENGINE. PLASTIC HOUSING MELTS ENOUGH AFTER 80,000 TO ALLOW ENGINE COOLANT INTO THE COMBUSTION CHAMBER CAUSING ENGINE TO HYDROLOCK WITHOUT WARNING. CAR BECOMES IMMEDIATELY UNDRIVABLE. *JB
2004-03-09

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: SOMETIMES WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE DRIVER HAS TO HOLD THE KEY IN THE CRANK POSITION UNTIL THE VEHICLE WILL START. THERE IS A DELAY IN STARTING. *AK
2004-03-08

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEM. WHEN TURNING THE KEY VEHICLE WILL NOT START. *AK
2004-03-08

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-03-05
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL 040025000 CONCERNING IGNITION SWITCH. DEALER CHARGED CONSUMER FOR REPLACING THE IGNITION SWITCH .*AK
2004-02-19

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 9999
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE CONSUMER FAILED TO LOCATE THE SMALL PLACES ON THE STEERING WHEEL WHERE THE HORN IS LOCATED. *LA THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THIS CONSTITUTES A DANGEROUS HAZARD. MODEL VEHICLE: ESTATE. *SC
2003-01-07

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT A BOLT CONNECTED TO THE LOWER CONTROL ARM CAME OFF. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. TS
2002-08-13

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-07-01
  • VIN: 4NJ52M7WC41
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: POWER WINDOW ON THE DRIVER SIDE FAILED TO GO UP. DEALER NOTIFIED ,AND THEY INFORMED THAT REGULTOR MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
2002-08-13

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-08-07
  • VIN: 14NJ52M7WC4
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: LACK OF ACCELERATION WHEN DRIVING, INTERMITTENTLY. VEHICLE BEEN TO THE DEALER, AND THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURRING. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
2002-08-13

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G4NJ52M6WC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ABS BRAKE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND STAYED ON. VEHICLE HAS TO BE SHUT DOWN AND RESTARTED TO DISENGAGE. DEALER HAS REPAIRED PROBLEM ONCE, BUT IT SEEMED TO HAVE REOCCURD. *AK CONSUMER STATED THAT THE PROBLEM STILL EXIST. *YH
2002-03-21

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • VIN: 1G4NJ52MXWC
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: CONSUMER BEGAN TO PUT VEHICLE INTO PARK AFTER PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE, WHEN IT SURGED FORWARD, VEHICLE JUMPED A CURB, CRASHED THROUGH A WALL, AND THROUGH A COUPLE TABLES BEFORE COMING TO A STOP, 2 PEOPLE WERE INJURED IN THE ACCIDENT. *SLC
2002-03-21

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • VIN: 1G4NJ52MXWC
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: CONSUMER BEGAN TO PUT VEHICLE INTO PARK AFTER PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE, WHEN IT SURGED FORWARD, VEHICLE JUMPED A CURB, CRASHED THROUGH A WALL, AND THROUGH A COUPLE TABLES BEFORE COMING TO A STOP, 2 PEOPLE WERE INJURED IN THE ACCIDENT. *SLC
2001-09-27

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G4NJ4399PP
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: CONSUMER WAS INSIDE OF A GARAGE AND WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 35 MPH, AND STEERING WHEEL COLUMN FELL IN HER LAP. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
2001-08-18

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-08-08
  • VIN: 1G4HP52K0WH
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: COOLANT LEAKED INTO CYLINDERS CAUSING ENGINE TO LOCK UP COMPROMISING STEERING AND BREAKS. INTERNAL SEAL GAVE WAY NEAR UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD. SERVICE BULLETIN # 010601007..AREA REP STATES TOO ANY MILES ON CAR FOR THEM TO BE CONCERNED.
2001-05-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-04-01
  • VIN: FILL IN PLE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WILL STALL WHILE TRAVELING AT ANY SPEED. WHEN ENGINE IS WARM AND HAS BEEN RUNNING, IT IS MORE LIKELY TO SHUT OFF. DEALERSHIP CANNOT DETERMINE CAUSE OF DEFECT. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS. *AK

1998 Buick Skylark recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1998 Buick Skylark.

2007-03-12
  • Manufacturer: DELPHI
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
  • Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
  • Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
2007-02-26
  • Manufacturer: DELPHI
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMP MODULES / MODULE RESERVOIR ASSEMBLIES (MRA) THAT WERE SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. DURING PRODUCTION THE MRAS VENT AND FUEL RETURN TUBES WERE REVERSED. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN THE VEHICLE NOT RUNNING CORRECTLY (IDLE ROUGH AND/OR STALL) DUE TO AN OVERLY RICH FUEL BLEND OR THE VEHICLE'S EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CARBON CANISTER MAY LEAK FUEL.
  • Consequence: A STALLED VEHICLE CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. A FUEL LEAK CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE MRAS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 1-877-335-7443.
2004-01-27
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE ENGINE FAILS TO START AND THE DRIVER HOLDS THE KEY IN THE "START" POSITION FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD, HIGH CURRENT FLOWS THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND SOMETIMES PRODUCES ENOUGH HEAT TO MELT INTERNAL SWITCH PARTS.
  • Consequence: IF THE SWITCH IS DAMAGED, A FIRE COULD OCCUR IN THE STEERING COLUMN, EVEN WITH THE ENGINE OFF AND THE KEY REMOVED. THE FIRE COULD SPREAD TO THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR, WHICH COULD INJURE OCCUPANTS OR CAUSE DAMAGE TO ADJOINING STRUCTURES.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RELAY KIT IN THESE VEHICLES TO PREVENT HIGH CURRENT FROM FLOWING THROUGH THE IGNITION SWITCH, AND CHECK THAT YOUR CAR WILL START WITH A PROPERLY CHARGED BATTERY AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN ON MARCH 1, 2004. 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 CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537. CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CHECK THEIR VEHICLE ONLINE BY GOING TO WWW.MYGMLINK.COM AND ENTERING THE VEHICLE'S IDENTIFICATION NUMBER.

Negative 1998 Buick Skylark car reviews

  1. Buford Kuhlman 2024-11-18

    This car is fantastic! It handles nicely, although due to its wheelbase it doesn't turn as sharply as a smaller car. The gas mileage is about 25 miles to the gallon, which is pretty good. We've only had to repair the brakes since we bought it used in May 1999. Overall, it's a great looking car!

  2. Rolando Abshire 2024-10-09

    This car has experienced several issues, including unexplained stalling and easily flattened tires. Despite being diagnosed and checked, no problems have been found yet. Additionally, the interior and exterior do not hold up well, as they are prone to dings, dents, and wear and tear. The carpet and seats are also showing signs of deterioration.

  3. Maximilian Robel 2024-10-09

    The vehicle has experienced significant issues, requiring the replacement of numerous components, including the engine, despite having travelled less than 100,000 miles.

  4. Jensen Dicki 2024-08-24

    This Buick has required extensive repair and replacement of various suspension, mechanical, electrical and other parts in the last two years. However, it is important to note that every car brand has its own set of issues and it is possible to find a reliable Buick with proper research and maintenance.

  5. Claud Weissnat 2024-07-10

    I bought this car back in 2003 and we all loved it. However, in 2004 it needed a new water pump and I was surprised to learn that the cost to replace it was much higher than I expected. Due to the quad 4 engine design, the repair cost was $640.00, which was much more than the average cost of $150.00. Additionally, future repairs would also be expensive as the engine had to be removed to access anything. Unfortunately, my regular car repair service was unable to help me due to the high cost of repair and suggested that I take it to a dealer. As much as I enjoyed driving this car, I decided to sell it that day.

Positive 1998 Buick Skylark car reviews

  1. Dee Okuneva 2024-10-21

    Good little car! I had a bit of a scare at the GM dealers when we thought the rattling noise was an oil pressure plunger, which would have cost 600 bucks, but it turned out it was just low on 1 quart of oil. Phew, dodged a bullet there! Unfortunately, the gas mileage is pretty lousy for a 4 banger (20 city).

  2. Curt Ferry 2024-10-02

    Hi there! Last April, I bought my Limited Edition Skylark with 80,000 miles on it. I've been driving it a lot and it's been great! In the 8 months I've had it, nothing major has happened except for the fuel pump breaking, but that was after it hit over 100,000 miles. I'm really impressed with this car's performance and reliability.

  3. Jimmy Boehm 2024-10-01

    Attractive styling, and surprisingly roomy for a six-foot-two, 225 pounder. The vehicle is peppy, has good handling, and an adequate sound system. Additionally, it was impeccably maintained and when I bought it with 108K miles on it, the condition was excellent, and still is.

  4. Jason Yost 2024-09-05

    I love my car! I bought it with 101000 miles on it and it's been great ever since. The best feature for me is the pick-up and go, which my previous car, a 1997 Pontiac Sunfire, never had. I'm also getting amazing gas mileage, around 35 miles per gallon in the city. I'm really happy with this car and plan to keep it for as long as possible.

  5. Glennie O'Hara 2024-09-05

    I bought this car when it was a year old, and five years and 81000 miles later, I still really like it. Apart from routine maintenance, the only thing I had to do was replace the water pump at 80000 miles.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1998 Buick Skylark problems:

1998 Buick Skylark Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
1998 Buick Skylark Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1998-buick-skylark/problems

Problem with your 1998 Buick Skylark? Our list of 21 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Buick Skylark.

1998 Buick Skylark Reviews - Carsurvey.org
1998 Buick Skylark Reviews - Carsurvey.org
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/buick/skylark/1998/

Oct 3, 2010 ... Faults: The front brakes were shot when I bought it, which is common with this car. I replaced the rotors and put on ceramic (lifetime) pads ...

N-Body '92-98 Skylark | GM Inside News Forum
N-Body '92-98 Skylark | GM Inside News Forum
https://www.gminsidenews.com/threads/n-body-92-98-skylark.90999/

Apr 16, 2010 ... ... 98 Buick Skylark. The earlier ones had ... My parents bought a 1994 Buick Skylark ... problems except both power windows falling off track (common ...

What should I do about my 1998 buick skylark 3.1
What should I do about my 1998 buick skylark 3.1
https://www.justanswer.com/buick/3h35a-1998-buick-skylark-fuel-line-head-gasket-brakes-alternator.html

May 6, 2010 ... I am looking for a new car but am wondering what i should be looking for or listening for in respect to possible problems that might occur ...

What's Wrong with the Buick Skylark?
What's Wrong with the Buick Skylark?
http://www.buickproblems.com/models/skylark/

... reliability out of 14 Buick models , with real engine and cooling system concerns. The Most Common Skylark Problem ... We know there's more problems ... 1992–1998 ...

Other years of Buick Skylark

buick skylark 2000 photo
Skylark 2000
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buick skylark 1981 photo
Skylark 1981
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buick skylark 1982 photo
Skylark 1982
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buick skylark 1983 photo
Skylark 1983
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buick skylark 1984 photo
Skylark 1984
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buick skylark 1985 photo
Skylark 1985
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