1998 Buick LeSabre

1998 Buick LeSabre

The 1998 Buick LeSabre was a full-size sedan that offered a comfortable and spacious interior, along with a powerful engine and smooth ride. It came standard with a 3.8L V6 engine producing 205 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options included a 3.8L supercharged V6 with 240 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 4.6L V8 engine with 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 1998 Buick LeSabre generally praised its reliability, comfort, and roomy interior. However, some common issues have been reported, including:

Engine

3.8L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure: This can cause coolant or oil leaks, overheating, and poor engine performance. The intake manifold gasket may need to be replaced, which can cost around $300-$800.
• Head gasket failure: This can cause coolant leaks, overheating, and engine damage. The head gaskets may need to be replaced, which can cost around $1,200-$2,000.
• Timing chain failure: This can cause a loss of engine power, rough idling, or engine failure. The timing chain may need to be replaced, which can cost around $800-$1,500.

3.8L Supercharged V6

• Supercharger failure: This can cause a loss of engine power or a loud whining noise. The supercharger may need to be rebuilt or replaced, which can cost around $1,500-$2,500.
• Fuel injector failure: This can cause engine misfires, rough idling, or poor fuel economy. The fuel injectors may need to be cleaned or replaced, which can cost around $200-$400 per injector.

4.6L V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure: This can cause coolant or oil leaks, overheating, and poor engine performance. The intake manifold gasket may need to be replaced, which can cost around $300-$800.
• Head gasket failure: This can cause coolant leaks, overheating, and engine damage. The head gaskets may need to be replaced, which can cost around $1,200-$2,000.
• Throttle position sensor failure: This can cause rough idling, poor throttle response, or stalling. The throttle position sensor may need to be replaced, which can cost around $100-$200.

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission slipping: This can cause a loss of power or difficulty shifting gears. The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced, which can cost around $1,500-$3,000.
• Solenoid failure: This can cause shifting problems or a loss of power. The solenoids may need to be replaced, which can cost around $200-$400.
• Torque converter failure: This can cause a loss of power or a shuddering sensation. The torque converter may need to be replaced, which can cost around $500-$1,000.

Suspension

• Strut failure: This can cause a rough ride, uneven tire wear, or a loss of handling. The struts may need to be replaced, which can cost around $300-$600 per strut.
• Sway bar link failure: This can cause a clunking noise when turning or driving over bumps. The sway bar links may need to be replaced, which can cost around $100-$200 per link.
• Ball joint failure: This can cause a clunking noise when turning or driving over bumps, and can also lead to suspension failure. The ball joints may need to be replaced, which can cost around $150-$300 per joint.

Electrical

• Alternator failure: This can cause a loss of electrical power or a flickering of lights. The alternator may need to be replaced, which can cost around $300-$600.
• Battery failure: This can prevent the vehicle from starting or may cause electrical problems. The battery may need to be replaced, which can cost around $100-$200.
• Starter failure: This can prevent the vehicle from starting. The starter may need to be replaced, which can cost around $200-$400.
• Ignition switch failure: This can cause the vehicle to stall or prevent it from starting. The ignition switch may need to be replaced, which can cost around $100-$200.

Exterior

• Door lock actuator failure: This can cause the door locks to not work or to lock or unlock randomly. The door lock actuators may need to be replaced, which can cost around $100-$200 per actuator.
• Window regulator failure: This can cause the windows to not open or close properly. The window regulators may need to be replaced, which can cost around $200-$400 per regulator.
• Antenna failure: This can cause poor radio reception or a loss of signal. The antenna may need to be replaced, which can cost around $50-$150.

Interior

• Climate control failure: This can cause the air conditioning or heating system to not work properly. The climate control module or actuator may need to be replaced, which can cost around $200-$500.
• Seatbelt retractor failure: This can cause the seatbelt to not retract properly. The seatbelt retractor may need to be replaced, which can cost around $100-$200 per seatbelt.
• Power window switch failure: This can cause the power windows to not work properly. The power window switch may need to be replaced, which can cost around $50-$150 per switch.

Summary

Overall, the 1998 Buick LeSabre is a reliable and comfortable vehicle, but it has some common issues that can be expensive to repair. Engine and transmission problems are the most severe and costly, while suspension and electrical issues are generally less serious. Owners should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for repairs.