Faults:

We are about to replace our third electric window. The first failed during the warranty, and was without charge. But now, the dealer is charging about $500 per window. The windows just made a grinding noise, and then refuse to move. The first time, the window just fell suddenly... kind of scary. We seldom use the windows, so over-use is not the problem. We have never had this problem with 4 previous Le Sabres.

General Comments:

Generally the car is great. Very comfortable and reliable. Only the windows are faulty.

Faults:

3 of 4 electric window motors had to be replaced, one per year 2003-2005. Unable to close windows when they went out and had a little interior damage from bad weather, wind and rain. These each are very expensive running about $400-450 per window. Fortunately, there was warranty coverage.

Electronic heater/air conditioner controller and fan had to be replaced. This was at about 50,000 miles. Heater went out in the winter in weather of about 20 degrees, and we nearly froze before we could get it repaired.

Left driver side electronic heated mirror required replacement at 30,000 miles.

Elbow in cooling system line required replacement at 40,000 miles.

At present time, remote radio controls on steering wheel do not function property in that they change the automatic temperature control and do not affect the radio.

I was glad I had a bumper-to-bumper extended warranty and would never ever consider buying a Buick product of any model without one. You can expect some expensive electrical/electronic repair work.

General Comments:

I love the performance of this car. It handles beautifully with plenty of power on the road and is quick and nimble in most situations, although as an average older driver, I am not interested in testing its limits. The front wheel drive has been superlative and has required no maintenance. This has been a fun car for me to drive, and I'm sorry this particular model is no longer in production.

However, I have to say that I'm very disappointed in the performance and reliability of the electronic and electrical components of the car. They never have seemed to work right and still don't. The automatic temperature control doesn't properly work, and I constantly have to override the electronic controls with manual controls.

Faults:

The controllers on both of the rear windows went out within a month of each other. The cost is enormous as $350.00 each plus installation. It would cost approximately $900.00 to repairs. I believe there had to be a defect for them both to go out and in such a short time.

Seats are not comfortable.

General Comments:

The car handles very well.

The mileage is very good for the size car.

We really like the Buicks, but are concerned about the power window problem.

Faults:

This car is typical of what I have been getting. I have had Plymouths/Chryslers/Dodges- they don't know how to make AC's or transmissions that last. So I tried a Buick I have had ways tried to buy American, but I give up. Toyota Honda and Nissan from now on. The transmission on this car went out at 38,000 miles. Unbelievable. Warranty to 30,000 miles.

I have replaced 3 of the 4 window motors. Bought aftermarket to save on the cost - our local repair guys want in excess of $350 per door. Its not easy, but lots cheaper.

Had to replace the AC condenser this spring. $900.

I just tore out part of my dash because the instrument cluster went out. It started blinking off while driving down the road once in a while that went on for several months and the last time it never came back.

General Comments:

This car is great for families and business if you don't mind spending to repair it often.