1990 Buick LeSabre

Introduction

The 1990 Buick LeSabre is a full-size luxury sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride quality, and powerful V6 engine. It was available with a choice of two engines and two transmission options. The 3.8L V6 engine produced 170 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.0L V8 engine generated 180 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual.

Owners appreciate the LeSabre’s roomy interior, comfortable ride, and strong performance, but common complaints include poor gas mileage and a lack of modern safety features.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, poor engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power, harsh shifting
  • Solution: Repair or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, overheating, transmission slipping
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Five-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Abnormal tire wear, loose steering, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension components (e.g., ball joints, bushings)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery discharge, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Identify and fix electrical component causing drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust and Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, undercarriage, or exhaust system
  • Solution: Treat and prevent rust (e.g., rustproofing, touch-up paint)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working, intermittent headlight operation
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors, doors not opening or closing properly
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not working, intermittent window operation
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 1990 Buick LeSabre offers a spacious and comfortable ride, it has several common issues that can be costly to fix. Engine problems, such as intake manifold gasket and head gasket failures, are a particular concern. Transmission issues, suspension wear, and electrical problems are also prevalent. Exterior issues like rust and corrosion can also be a problem, especially in older models. Interior issues, such as door lock actuator and power window switch failures, are less severe but can still be annoying. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues should be considered before purchasing a used 1990 Buick LeSabre.