1991 Buick Skylark

Introduction

The 1991 Buick Skylark is a mid-size sedan powered by a 3.3L V6 engine with 160 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options include:

• 2.3L Quad 4 L4 with 150 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
• 3.0L V6 with 170 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic

People like the Skylark for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and affordable price. However, it has been criticized for its lack of power and subpar handling.

Engine

3.3L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the head gasket, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3L Quad 4 L4

• Timing belt failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, no spark, bent valves
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Shift solenoid failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips or hesitates when shifting, delayed engagement
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

3-speed Automatic

• Transmission fluid leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks from pan or lines, slipping or hesitation when shifting
  • Solution: Replace gaskets or seals, add transmission fluid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise, uneven tire wear, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, dead battery, charging system warning light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine cranks but doesn’t start, clicking noise
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, frame, and suspension components
  • Solution: Repair rust or replace affected parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate control problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC not blowing cold air, heater not working
  • Solution: Repair or replace AC compressor, blower motor, or other components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1991 Buick Skylark has several potential issues, including engine gasket failures, transmission problems, suspension wear, and electrical failures. While most of these problems are not major, they can be costly to repair. Rust and climate control issues are also common. Overall, the Skylark’s reliability is below average, so potential buyers should consider this before purchasing.