2000 Buick LeSabre

The 2000 Buick LeSabre is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliability. The LeSabre was only available with the 3.8L (3800 Series II) V6 engine, which produced 205 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. It was paired exclusively with the 4T65E 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the LeSabre’s smooth ride, comfortable seats, and quiet cabin. Common complaints include its somewhat bland styling, and dated interior features.

Engine

3.8L (3800 Series II) V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, often resulting in coolant loss, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. Can also cause rough idle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the upper and lower intake manifold gaskets, typically with an updated design to prevent future failures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65E 4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during lockup (around 40-50 mph), possible TCC error codes (P0741). Can worsen to complete transmission failure if ignored.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Pressure Control Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the pressure control solenoid (EPC solenoid) inside the transmission. Often done during a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (if accessible without a full rebuild; significantly more with a rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, air compressor running constantly or not at all, “Service Ride Control” message on the dash.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air compressor and possibly the air shocks. Conversion to standard coil springs is a common alternative.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (air suspension repair); $400 - $600 (coil spring conversion)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window not working or moving slowly/unevenly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Panel Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), dim or flickering display.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument panel cluster. Can sometimes be repaired by specialized shops.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock not working with the remote or power lock switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250 (per door)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver Information Center (DIC) Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing or faded on the DIC display. Makes it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the DIC unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noises behind the dashboard, inability to control temperature or air flow to certain vents.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty HVAC actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$400+ per actuator
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Buick LeSabre is a reliable car, but like any vehicle of its age, it has its share of common problems. The most common and potentially expensive issues revolve around the intake manifold gaskets and transmission. Suspension issues are also common. While no recalls are related to these problems, keep an eye out and prepare for a potential repair. The cost of repairs varies, but most fall within a reasonable range for a vehicle of this age.