Used 1997 Buick LeSabre Sedan Consumer Reviews
Used LeSabre for sale
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Bullet-proof
Robert, 11/11/2010
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
20 of 21 people found this review helpful
Bought used from a friend with 227,000 miles and 11 years old. Now with 271,000 in Nov '10. All I do is change the oil ($10 at local dealer). Repaired a couple of minor things (rear springs and struts, front struts and both wheel bearings, rear defroster repair and auto A/C repair), but for as old as my car is, and with as many miles, it gives me excellent service every day. 14 years old, 271K miles, and I still get 26-27 mpg, YES! 27. No need to buy a new car to stretch your gas dollar; if you can find one of these late-90s in good condition with low miles, snatch it up! (would make a good second car in case your new expensive one your making payments on leaves you stranded).
I love this car!
Happy Camper!, 05/29/2010
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
I live in Alaska and this car is absolutely awesome. I have owned a few cars in the past 34 yrs. up here and NONE are as comfortable for me to drive on the snow and ice as this one. Driving in winter is not my favorite, but this car does so well, I don't mind anymore. I've had it five years now. It's roomy and visibility is great in it and gas mileage is anywhere from 17 to 24 mpg for me. Oh, and it's pretty! Heater works great too!
1997 Buick LeSabre for sale near you
Showing 2 of 2 listings
- Custom SedanMSRP: $2,950341 mi away
- Limited SedanMSRP: $2,4951,111 mi away
LeSabre
lesabre, 10/24/2009
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I imagine that in 30-40 years, the 1997 Buick LeSabre will become a true showroom classic, it has sporty details and a modest classy look that you wouldn't expect from a Buick. The exhaust tone is like a quiet version of a muscle car. It feels like driving on air, no matter what you drive on. As i said before, the sporty details are the holes on the bottom of the front bumper that cools the radiator, the side mirrors mimic sporty cars, and etc. I wouldn't be surprised to see this car going up in value dramatically, that's why I'm going to take of this one.
Solid car with surprising fuel economy!
Benjamin Kromminga, 09/09/2008
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I purchased my LeSabre Custom exactly a month ago to drive back and forth to college. This is an excellent highway car. The ride on the open road is very smooth and power from the 3.8 liter V-6 comes on strong when you need it to. Carving corners, however, the Buick feels slow and heavy. After driving a Ford Tempo for two years, parking the LeSabre is a bit of a chore. Inside, everything is very accomadating. The seats are large and comfortable, and the radio controls are large and easy enough to use. For a car this size, the itsy-bitsy glove box is a bit of an embarrassment. Despite the weight and size of this car, it has averaged about 27 miles per gallon in mostly highway driving.
1997 Buick Lesabre 3.8
daylily, 04/11/2010
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
I have owned my 97 Buick LeSabre for almost 6 years. It has over 236,000 miles on it. I get it maintained every 3,000 miles. I love it. I have done routine work on it. Replaced the struts once. It runs like a new car. Very nice ride and 28 city miles and 33 highway. I am not looking forward to having to give this car up. But I know that it is 14 years old now and will not last me forever, and hopefully when I have to get a new Buick it will be as good as this one.
Good but ...
rtrm01, 03/12/2010
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Had 154K when I bought it, now has 206K and it has been the best car ever. I purchased for $4k, put over $6.5K into it. It is the best $10k ever spent. It has survived a couple of fender benders, and a front pass side deer hit. Drives straight as an arrow, never misses a beat, most dependable. As of late, it starts overheating, and when it reaches over 220 deg, it runs rough, sounds like it's on 3 of the 6 cyl. All fluids full,
Beast
Dale W. , 07/21/2019
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I’ve owned this car for 2 years now it was originally my grandfathers car and he drove it since new, he passed away in 2015 and instead of selling it I started driving it yes it had its minor problems, shocks, exhaust, headlights, and egr but since all the problems are solved I can drive this car anywhere without a second thought it runs like new and it gets 25-27 mpg on the highway and it’s 22 years old 😋
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Powerhouse
Mike, 09/09/2016
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
My first car when I was 16 in 2010 was a Buick Century that I bought for $500, fixed up for another $500 and drove 900 miles from South Dakota to Texas. That car ended up having problems (as any $500 car would) and I sold it. I began looking again, put in an offer on a Honda Civic, which also run forever, but the deal fell through and I found a 1997 LeSabre with 96,000 miles on it being sold by a man for his disabled father. He put a new belt, compressor and battery in it. I paid $3,500. It has been two years and 10,000 miles. I don't drive too much and under the hood is the best engine ever made. As my co-worker said they stopped making them because they last so long and they can't get anyone to buy a new vehicle! I work at an auto shop now while in college and have only done preventive maintenance. At 110,000 miles now she still starts up everytime. I drive city and get between 17-19 mpg unfortunately. I honestly could of used a smaller vehicle but all my pals say this is a rolling cloud. I've tinted the windows, added keyless entry, aftermarket radio with AUX, new headlights and on the mechanical side I've had the transmission flushed, injectors cleaned, brakes done, a/c serviced, alignment. Hope to go another 100k! Here is to no car payments!
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1997 Buick LeSabre
frances riel, 08/18/2003
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
extremely dependable vehicle. fuel efficient, quiet running roomy with many convenient features no major repairs - just general maintenance, i.e, oil changes, etc a very nice family vehicle
Riding right!
Juan, 03/08/2002
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Very comfortable even for long runs.
Money Pit
Lubener, 04/06/2018
updated 04/10/2020
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought (2 yrs ago)what appeared to be a well taken care of 97 from a little old lady with 41k miles. This car has kept my mechanical skills sharp as I have had to repair this car more times since I have owned it than any other car I have owned. From the usual intake manifold/ gaskets issues to fuel pump, plastic cooling system components failing, weird shifting transmission in warm weather, engine misfires, and the usual "old car" problems like rusted out brake and fuel lines which I would expect on an old car. The car is cheaply made both in the interior and the chassis. The steel for the chassis is so thin you have to be careful when jacking up this car. When these cars have seen some salt, the engine cradles rust out thus dropping the engine. There are so many transmission "mods" on these available in the aftermarket to deal with GM's cost cutting measures with the transmission. I plan on trading this car in soon because I haven't been able to depend on it since I bought it. It is a shame because the car looks great, drives and handles very well. I can't recommend them. A fuel pump and some other issues are over the horizon. I sold the car this past summer. This was my first and last GM vehicle for me.
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'97 Buick Le Saber - Custom - 23.5 MPG
KDM, 07/08/2002
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Very good vehicle - few problems - good gas mileage 23.5 MPG for the life of the car to date - 107,500 miles. Regular service performed on schedule provided good life.
One owner 1997 Buick LeSabre
Christian Valin, 11/02/2005
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
The 3.8liter engine has been GM's best kept secret. Who would have known that such a large car would give such great car mileage on the highway? City mileage is average for a car this size. This Buick has been among the most reliable GM vehicles I've ever owned. It's too bad that this old fashioned technology is going by the wayside as Buick tries to attract a younger crowd. I'm in my forties but I guess my taste is more conservative and don't look for fast cornering cars but very comfortable and always it always feels like a safe car.
best vehicle
chuck schoolet, 05/09/2003
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Overall this is the best vehicle most reliable car I have owned. The reliability is fantastic. We have often travelled with 4 adults and 2 pre teen girls and was comfortable in doing so. There have been no repairs other than tires, brakes etc.. 28 to 34 miles per gallon on two trips to Colorado!
Holy cow, what's your fuel mileage
Victorius on, 03/14/2007
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Paid a little bit for a ten year old car but I love Buicks and knew when I heard the engine start it was worth the money. Had a mechanic check it over and he gave it a clean bill of health. Only three months with it but I've noticed that it gets well above 28 mpg on the highway. I had a Bonneville that got 28 on the highway and had the same size tank. Not sure of the exact fuel mileage but took the car on a 400+ mile trip and noticed the the gas guage drops significantly less for distance traveled. The car has at least 100 miles I can safely say longer range than my old '94 Bonneville with the same size engine. How that works? Ask Buick, they built it!
Condition of Car.
richdriessnack, 08/16/2002
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Car is in good working order. Recently drove from Myrtle Beach, SC to Peoria, IL and return (2000 miles) without any difficulty. Runs smoothly, gets 29 mpg on open road at established speed limits. Doesn't use any oil between oil changes. New battery. New Michelin tires at 70000 miles. All maitenance completed on manufacturers schedule. Body and interior in good shape. One owner since purchase.
Best US Car Offered
David Durrell, 11/08/2003
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Good value for money. Excellent motorway cruiser, though ponderous in mountains. Excellent traction in snow and ice with FWD. Will return 29-30 MPG at 75 MPH. Big ticket items in drivetrain are flawless at 100K miles. Brakes need work more than I like, but parts are reasonably priced and it's easy to work on. Had stiffer shocks installed which helped handling. Not a BMW, but a good trade off wrt running costs.
The tale of one Buick
Eldon Orth, 11/21/2003
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Fine car...I am unable to get more than 22 MPG sometimes a little higher but, more often than not 21...If that's an O.K. than it's a great car.Solid, handles well, rides great...should have leather...seats are "sticky" to the seat of your trousers. Haad to replace dash gauges module...cost of $450.00 Rear air and heat could work better...Passenger temp control is as much of a joke as the smoke free section in a retaurant right next to the smoking area!!
Comfort On Wheels
Abatt, 08/13/2004
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I just purchased a '97 Buick Custom LeSabre with only 35,000 miles. I'm a big guy (6'5") and was tired of being crammed into my Toyota Camry (a nice car, but not built for large people). I've owned the car for a week now and hope to have it another 5 years at least. It's comfortable, roomy, gives a great ride, and mechanically appears to be solid.
Things to Know
BeSteve, 08/30/2004
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have owned the LeSabre, for 4 years. I was disappointed that the Trans needed a $1500 repair. The engine had a tube that was in the cylinder head, that went out causing the piston's to fill up with water another$1400. The load leveling struts on the rear have been replaced and after 1 year, failed again. Gas gauge does not work after 105,00 miles. When using the AC, the vacuum will take several minutes before it will open the upper vents. Air blows to feet area.
Smooth driving, quality car.
Houston, Tx, 12/18/2005
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Work, drive, and family vacation for several years. Did regular service maintenance and car responded with no disappointments and no bad surprises. Very satisfying car with excellent reliability, durability, workmanship and gas mileage.
Good Solid Car
michael, 11/13/2006
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is my 10th car and it's a good solid car. In the past I've had Camaro's and Mustang's, however those don't compare because they're sports cars, but this car is a good fit for the daily driver. It runs great, and it feels like you're floating with the dynaride system. The only problem I've had with the car was installing a new tranny. I bought the car with 54,000 miles on it from an elderly woman who never peaked past 45mph and the first few expressway times I blew the tranny at 80mph. I installed with labor $1000. I'm not a big fan of the exterior looks, a little outdated especially being young and good looking like myself so I may buy a convertible for the summer
My service record
fredw, 10/19/2002
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Parts replaced 14,500 km alternator 28,000 km wiper linkage 33,500 km wiper linkage cover and alternator 36,600 km wiper switch and spark plug wires. 53,800 km defective spark plug wires. 64,853 km water pump and Front stabilizer linkage. 67,751 km spark plug wires. 75,819 km front brakes 89,050 km transmission mount. 103,200 km top manifold gasket ($500.00) 108,311 km transmission rebuilt ($2039.00. Cluster head (instrument panel $400) 117,100 km alternator & tensioner. 118,400 km AC pulley & clutch hub Now at 120,000 km the ABS brakes failure lights indicate a need to change the ABS motor controller ($2000).
Worst car purchase
crankshaft, 11/19/2017
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
5 of 11 people found this review helpful
It is the worst car I have owned. Poorly engineered engine, transmission and electrical system will haunt you. Leaking intake(s) gaskets, poor upper manifold will leak coolant into engine, so beware. Electrical system, fuel and brake issues are other problems I have encountered. These cars do not age well. Mine "was" the creampuff with very low miles brought from an elderly lady. My advice, stay away from these.
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Pleasently Pleased
Pleased Driver, 01/14/2008
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my LeSabre. I am so sad I have to get a new vehicle. After three years of having my baby I am so sad to see her go. For some reason she sometimes will not start. However considering how tough I drive and the abuse I put her through she deserved a break. The body is built wonderfully and strong. I have backed into brick walls, cement lamp poles etc. (all accidental) and my LaSabre, she kept right on moving. The car is sooo roomy as well and it is a comfy smooth ride. This is what all cars should aspire to be!
Terrible Car
Ahagy, 12/19/2007
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
1 of 12 people found this review helpful
This is actually the worst car I've ever owned. Since buying it I have had nothing but problems. I had to replace the heater, the air conditioner still doesn't work, the body is in terrible condition and doesn't hold up to anything. Driving in snow in it is a joke, steering locks up and so do the brakes so turning is dangerous and you're lucky if you stop. I'm surprised every morning when it starts up. It is definitely not reliable, not something I would ever resell. Because of this car I will never own another buick. I'm sticking to Dodge from now on.
Limited LeSabre
Mikej, 08/09/2003
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is a good basic family car, with room for long trips if necessary. This car protected the occupants in an accident that might have totaled another less durable car. I would consider this a car of choice for a teenager. Just enough pep to keep them out of trouble, but not a road demon, and obviously enough structural integrity to keep you alive.
LeSbre
rkillion, 03/17/2004
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought this vehicle. Other than having some fuel problems due to the car sitting over six months, this car has been an excellent choice for my family and me.
Enjoyed my LaSabre
P Howell, 07/22/2004
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got a good deal on a two year old LaSabre. I wasn't quite ready to shell out the money for a new one and I liked the trim package on the 97(limited). I was disappointed that I had to replace the trans @ 70k but it was such a nice car I knew I would get my monies worth out of it.
Not too good
cawa, 05/11/2003
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Well the car is piece of ... Radio broke at 50k, 62 Air Con. Broke. 75k Censort failed, Check engine light come on. The door panel at 40k came off.
Great Job
NYCBill, 05/09/2003
1997 Buick LeSabre Limited 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice car. I love the new incentives. With $3000 cash back, it is truely an affordable luxury car and American too!
Fine car
SamIAm, 03/21/2002
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the LeSabre based on good reviews and they were right. Very reliable with only scheduled maint. Also plenty of room for a family of six without sitting in each other's laps or holding your breath.
Get Any Buick LeSabre Checked Out For Leaks
Erran Joseph Tabakman, 05/04/2024
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 3.8 L engines are very decent and reliable however with cars this old you might have internal parts of the engine that need to be replaced. Had and upper and lower gasket replaced and antifreeze leaks resolved after purchase as is and dealer contributed to part of the repair. Also had issue with corroded headlight socket where I spent a 180 dollar diagnostic at a specialist. Outside of that my 2002 has held up past the 90k mark as a highway commuter. Minor issues are internal lights wearing out so expect slight defects with any used Buick Lesabre. It is the engine reliability that you are going for. Not a car expert and just my 2 cents worth and probably going the dealer route was not a good ideal.
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Tracers review
Tracer, 06/09/2002
1997 Buick LeSabre Custom 4dr Sedan
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Nice car, It sold me on Buicks. I don't believe I would purchase any other car, I have owned Fords, Chevrolet, Ford Van, Plymouth, Dodge and an Opel.