Used 2002 Buick LeSabre Consumer Reviews
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My LeSabre Story
I got my LeSabre from a great-grandma who had stopped driving in 2012 and had put only 39,000 miles on it. Despite it's "fuddy duddy" image it has been a great car. Its very roomy, actually gets decent gas mileage on the highway (mid-upper 20's?) and makes for a good road tripping car. With the exception of one additional window that had to get fixed, and one that may stop working at some point, it has had no significant issues. Of course as the car aged normal wear and tear started costing me as things started needing to be replaced.
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Greatest Car I Ever Owned
Buicks best year for overall safety, reliability, comfort and operating cost. Car now has 220,000 miles on it and still performs like new.
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- Custom SedanMSRP: $9,999167 mi away
- Custom SedanMSRP: $5,999210 mi away
- Limited SedanMSRP: $4,197429 mi away
Still In Love With My Buick
While I have never had a complaint with any General Motors vehicle owned by me in the past, without doubt my 2002 Buick LeSabre has been the most reliable automobile ever owned by me. I purchased it in February 2014 for $5,000 with approximately 86,000 miles on the odometer; and I now have approximately 223,000 miles showing on the odometer. In 27,000 miles this vehicle will exceed the "Quarter Million Mile" threshold. In January 2018 I needed to install a Jasper re-built transmission (181,000 miles on the odometer), but the engine runs as strong as ever without any need for overhaul. I change the engine oil/filter and rotate the tires every 3,000 miles. I change the spark plugs and wires very 100,000 miles. I use Valvoline's standard (10W-30) oil which is considerably less expensive than synthetic oil now required in modern vehicles; the engine has a cast iron block thereby alleviating need for the plastic "under motor protection" panel; and according to my records (which I religiously maintain) the four General Tires which were installed back in October 2014 now have approximately 120,000 miles use! I use regular grade "Top Tier" fuel and average 22 mpg. The acceleration is most acceptable; and while my wife's previous Volkswagen Jetta TDI and current Honda CR-V have better handling, I cannot say that the Buick's ability to tackle curves is any way unacceptable. Most importantly, the exterior of the car remains unblemished and without rust; the interior leather seats have not cracked or faded; and the dashboard controls and gauges remain easily visible and accessible. It is a proven work horse, and I can only hope (and reasonably expect) Buick is continuing the same quality in its current production models. I will not soon know, of course, since I have no plans to sell my 17 year old sedan.
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Two Months of Complete Satisfaction
I replaced a Buick Park Avenue with a Le Sabre Limited two months ago. Only option is 16 inch wheels. It's a couple of years newer design. Not one problem or complaint so far. Yesterday I drove 380 miles roundtrip to see a Spring Training Baseball Game. We were extremely comfortable cruising most of the time at 75 MPH. Only used 3/4 tank of gas (29.5 miles per gallon burning 87 octane gas). Very pleased to say the least!
My first car
The car has only broke down on me twice. Once because of the cheap plastic elbows. I replaced them with metal once. Second time because of intake manifold gasket, valve cover gasket (front) and tensioner pully. Cheap fixed thought but I love this car because in city I get 28.2 mpg.
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Buick Le Sabre Fan For Life.
I bought my first ever Buick Le Sabre that had around 90,000 miles on it when I purchased it. I can't complain about the car at all for the mileage and it's age. The Car starts easily every time, handles easily and rides like a dream. The only real issue with mine so far is the Security Light will stay on sometime. However, I have found a way to keep this from happening. I can sometimes feel a little jerk when the transmission shifts from 1st to 2nd. I get around 26 or 27 mpg on short trips to town and 30-31 at least on long highway trips. The trunk is very nice and roomy for storage when going shopping and etc. I would certainly buy another Buick Le Sabre if they still made them. The seats are so comfortable that you feel that you could ride in them all day and still be at ease.
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My 2002 LeSabre
I have owned many cars in my life, and this is definately one of the best. With just under 180K on it, I am now having to do the first major repair, an intake manifold gasket. I have read many negative reviews on this model, and would question how much care has been taken of the car. I have done regular oil changes, tuneups, brakes, etc. that any car needs, and this car has never left me stranded. I would buy another buick when I need another car without question. I wish they still made Lesabres.
Eventually all power windows failed
The Buick LeSabre has finally been discontinued and hopefully the engineers who designed the power windows have been fired. This overall excellent automobile is handicapped by power window regulators that are poorly designed, badly manufactured and exhibit little or no quality control.
Inherited and sold this car. Amazing gas mileage!
This is a good, sturdy car. It held up extremely well when it was backed into a pole and when it "slid off the road" into a ditch. Almost no body damage. The gas mileage is amazing! This car was definitely ahead of it's time. We inherited and sold it to a gentleman that will drive it to and from work, about 70 miles a day.
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Great Car!
Bought it new in 2002-wife's car. Didn't put a lot of miles on it but took it on several 1000 plus mile vacations and trips. It was a smooth ride, quiet and comfortable. It could have used a little more power, but the 3800 was more than adequate for what we used the car for. Had a few warranty issue when new, nothing mechanical, and the dealer fixed them all quickly and no questions asked. It was never in the shop for a mechanical problem. Traded it about a week ago for a Lucerne.
Ok
Good running car comfortable ride.
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grand dad car
one of the best cars I have every owned have a 2000 with 396000 miles not done any work to engine
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Window Regulator Defect
I purchased my 2002 LeSabre Customer in April 2008 as a used car. My front right window regular went out in June 2009 and then almost three weeks later the back left side passenger window regulator went out. My car mechanic states that this is a known problem with this model year and that my other two windows will soon follow this trend. I contacted GM/Buick and GM/Buick seems to think that this part is fine the way it was manufactured and stated that they have had no customer complaints thus far. No wonder this car company has had the problems they do. Produce an inferior product and sell it.
Window Replacements
In the 6 years we have owned the car we have replaced all 4 window motors. This is not a cheap thing to replace. No one has been able to give us an explanation as to why this occurs. The car is garaged and no children to slam doors. The fuel economy is excellent but the money we save go into replacing window motors.
2002 Buick LeSabre
Windows will go out...
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Good Solid Family Sedan
Have had the car for three years with only a single problem - one of the window mechanisms broke. Other than that it has been as reliable as any Honda or Toyota I have owned. I have not had to get it tuned up, replace the tires or any other issue. I think anyone looking for a car of this size would do well purchasing a Buick LeSabre. The only real issue I have is the resale price - it seems to drop faster than I would like. Your best option could be to buy a used one about two years old.
Best car we have ever had
This Buick is the best car my wife and I have ever owned. We bought it new and have had zero problems. It is very comfortable, quiet and safe on the road. Neither of us can find anything we do not like about this sedan. I am serious when I say we would not trade it on a Buick Lucerne even up -- and I have looked at the Lucerne and test driven the car. We also own a Cadillac SRX-4 and we would rather drive the Buick.
Can not go wrong with this model car.
This is the first Buick I have ever owned. It has also been, by far, the most reliable car I have ever owned (I have owned many different makes of autos). It currently has 115,000 miles on it, I bought it with 29,000 miles. I have made many long trips with it. If you are looking for a safe, comfortable, dependable vehicle, you can not beat a Buick LaSabre!
Love this car
The USA built cars seem to always get bad reveiws. Well, I'm here to tell you that this Buick far exceeds anything Toyota, Nissan, Honda or Mitsubishi has. I've owned 'em all. The Buick gets good gas mileage, it's very quiet inside, and handles very well. I love it! The engine is powerful and quiet also. Front seat accomodates a rather large driver very comfortably. I'm 6'2", 225lbs. and I fit in the car with ease. What more can I say? This is simply one of the best all around cars that I've ever owned. Rent one for a few days and drive it or test drive one. Once you drive it you'll buy it. No more Toyotas for me. Two thumbs up for the good ole USA & God Bless America!
Faulty window regulators
I got a deal on this car used, one owner, only 30,000 miles; but the deal went sour after repalcing all four window units at about $600 a pop. Now my rear passenger side door will not lock or unlock (except manually) and the window will not operate. I was told it was a module that would cost around $400 to replace. I am not fixing it; I am selling the car. This well maintained car with only 66,000 miles probably has a lot of good wear left, but it is costing me money parked in my driveway most of the time. I am not going to risk spending $1,000 per door. Anyone hears of a class action, I am in!!
Very nice Ride
We had our Lasabre for 2 years and 3 month now.We never had one problem with it.It is a very reliable,a very good car that has style.It is comfortable and is easy on gas.We drove 1300 miles from TX to VA and not one stiff bone in our bodies.
A Great American Bargain
Well built, tight, rattle-free, visually pleasing design inside and out. The seating and ride are VERY comfortable for both front and back seat passengers. Doors open wide with adequate space to enter and exit without difficulty, even for my parents in their 80's. The driving experience is very secure and completely free of unpleasant surprises.
My 2002 Lesabre, had for 2 years :)
Make sure the steering and windows and air work, because mine didn't.
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Best Value / We love our Lesabre
GM's 3.8 engine and trany provide an excellent balance between power, acceleration and fuel milege. The car is great to drive on long trips and handles well with the grand touring suspension. The other plus is the excellent safety rating for the LeSabre.
Buick is underrated
3rd new Buick since 1978, a few Hondas in between. Never have had a problem, mileage is 25MPG , I drive the freeway about 90% of the time. Feels safe, rides great.
Excellent Reliability
Our LeSabre Limited has performed perfectly and hasn't been back to the dealer for anything other than routine maintenance. We have the extra handling package and the car handles great and maneuvers easily in parking lots.
Chappell's Buick
This has been a most reliable car. Have replaced the tires and battery. The interior and exterior are in excellent condition. The car has been garaged since the purchase, and maintenance has been attended to regularly.
Shockingly poor reliability
I wish I'd had the experiences I'm reading about on here. I owned two Buick Lesabres prior to my 2002 Limited-- a 1993 Custom with 223,000 miles and a 1999 Limited with 200,000 miles at trade-in. Only standard maintenance was necessary with each, never a single major repair, so I expected the same results with my new Lesabre. Basically, I got to 133,000 miles, but not before spending thousands upon thousands in repairs. I bought the car new, so everything was fine while under warranty, but soon thereafter the nightmare began. The first to go were the brakes on all four wheels around 40,000 miles. These were about $500. The next to go was the hard shifting transmission which lasted about 80,000 miles. This cost around $1500. Somewhere between 80,000 and 100,000 miles I had a the greatest number of problems, mostly electrical, but some other issues too. Exterior lighting/wiring went bad with turn signals and tail lamps. This was about a $400 fix. Lights started burning out on the climate control buttons, then the radio and steering wheel buttons. This couldn't be fixed at all short of replacing head units and switches and it would've been so costly I decided to just forgo it. Brake lines rusted out (and don't ask me how since I live in California)--$500 more. Leaking fuel injectors, poor performance and hard starting, $800 more. The blower fan stopped working--$200 more. The dash began to peel around the opening for the window defroster. I never bothered to replace. The passenger door panel started coming loose and I didn't bother with that either. Gas cap needed replacing because there was a vacuum leak. That was $90 more. The final straw was at 103,000 miles when the engine had an internal backfire in the intake manifold. The engine essentially imploded causing the plastic intake plenum to shatter, the heads to leak and the oil cap to bust off of the filler neck. If I hadn't been on a long trip and stranded in the middle of Wyoming, I'd have bought another car; instead, I had to repair at $3400. By the time I got to 133,000 the suspension was weak, the car rattled and shimmied, needed more engine work and the AC overhauled and I couldn't take anymore. Surprisingly, I didn't have the problem with window regulators like everyone else mentioned. On another note, this model of Lesabre, while having the same dimensions on paper, seemed smaller on the inside and larger on the outside than my two previous models--more trunk and good, less overall interior room--not a good move if you ask me. Road trips were not comfortable for backseat passengers and the front wasn't much better. It also seemed more plastic and cheap overall and the ride quality not as soft or cushy. The value was great and resale value excellent, but I think the 36,000 mile warranty was skimpy. I left Buick for a number of years and came back with a 2011 Lacrosse that now has 131,000 miles and runs like a Swiss watch with no repairs at all. THAT is what I expect from a Buick and my 2002 Lesabre just didn't deliver. Maybe mine was a lemon?
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A Lemon
This car was a lemon almost immediately after we bought it with 40,000 miles on it. In the first 20,000 miles the following parts needed replacement: plenum gasket,right drive bearing, and left drive bearing. All were expensive fixes costing $250-$500. Sensors wore out frequently on the motor. The MAP sensor and fuel regulator sensors were the last to go. While it rode nice, this car was poorly built and I won't buy another Buick Lesabre. I suggest reading the Edmunds reliability section before considering buying this model or any with the Series II 3.8L V-6. The garage bills far outweigh the positives on this car!!
window regulators
I bought my buick used,in 2006 and it only had 22,000 kms on it.while ive been satisfied with the overall performance of the vehicle.I ran into problems the last two years with the window regulators.First the two rear windows went and I had them repaired at $450 each one.These windows were never used very much so they could not have worn out.This yeat the front passenger one malfunctioned and that too cost excess on $450.00.The pats alone was $278.00.For Buick to state they have had no complaints is a bald face lie.It wouldn't be so bad if they had at least reimbursed part of the repair. That will be my last buick I buy.
Intake Manifold Problems in 3.8L also.
The 2002 Buick LeSabre is plagued by faulty intake manifold gaskets just like all GM 3.1 & 3.4 litre engines. Expect to pay around $800 to get this fixed at least once every 12-15k miles. Other than this problem the brakes will need serviced annually if you drive primarily in the city. This is due to heaviness of vehicle and constant stop and go driving under these conditions. Great fuel economy on highway. I've gotten as high as 32mpg on vacation trips in this car at 70mph. Amazing. In the city forget. Avg is 18mpg.
Engine Noise
Whistle in engine, hear it mostly when engine idle`s. At speeds of 6o, there is a sound that sounds like the carb. is sucking air.Rear door out of alingnment.
I love the Buick LeSabre
I basically love the car and may get another one but the Lucerne does not have the telescopic steering wheel. I thought I was going to get better mileage, I get 21.5 miles to the gallon. I want better with gas prices being so high.
Disappointed-Interior noise
Nice car but fit and finish is poor. Lot of dash rattles.
Amazing Car
2002 Buick Lesabre, great car very reliable. Comfort and totally luxurious.
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Great car
Amazing car, for the year. The car looks great, has that classic luxury feel to it. Love it a lot.
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A deceptive piece of junk
They ride nice, they are quiet - when things don't rattle and stuff begins to rattle after only 65K miles. The dashboard, the glove compartment etc. 3800 Series II reliable engine? Not true. Head gasket replaced, 3 out of 4 motor mounts shot, mass air flow sensor dead, ignition coil (cyl 1+4) dead - all between 65K and 75K miles. Sunroof seal began to leak into the trunk. Heated driver seat broken. Several bulbs in the dash and steering wheel broken. Headrest cover broken. Maybe car is nice when it's new but it does not hold up. Age or mileage gets to these suckers. If you're considering one, have it checked out very very thoroughly - then LOWBALL the heck on the price.
Window mechanism = hidden warranty
2 of my window regulators went bad while still under warranty. The last one was not covered, $750.00 with labor. I read where lots of others with 2002 LeSabre had same problems with crap window regulators. This is obviously a hidden warranty, should be recalled, but it wasn't. For sure i will not buy another GM product for rest of my life. It is comfortable for my frame at 6'4" and 300 lbs and has never left me stranded, but the window regulators is a future deal killer as far as GM goes. I'm hoping my 4th window doesn't go as well..Another $750.00 ? The faux wood panels in the dash are horrific too.
Poor workmanship
The car has had oil leaks. brake problem,and steering problems.
My first buick
I needed a car. since 2013. My mom bought me a used buick lasabre 2002 i been riding it it is 👍
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Very nice, more room than Regal
Starts a bit rougher than my Regal did with the same engine. A bit floaty for suspension. Overall I like it.
Lazy-boy on wheels
I am 23 years old, and while most people my age would not consider buying a Buick, it was my only choice. I had a 94 Park Ave, and loved the comfort and safty of it. I recently bought this LeSabre used (in '06) with 23,000 miles on. I just LOVE it. It rides like a dream, and handles great. I spend a lot of time in the car, and it is so comfortable and enjoyable to drive as well as ride in. People used to always tease me about my love for full sized sedans, but once they drive the LeSabre, they change their tunes.. they love it too.
Great Car! Great Price!
This car is one of a kind. It has been a hit in my whole family all because of its' comfort. It is so nice to actually be able to sit bag in the large seats and relax instead of being all crammed in. Overall I would give it a 9.2 of 10.!
The best car ever!
My husband bought this for me after I had an accident with my 91 Park Avenue. I'm 24, and not many people my age drive this kind of big car, but I loved it. Love the steering wheel radio controls. Power seats are very comfy and roomy Also holds up well in accidents. We found out first hand! The car tells you when you need windsheild washer, and even when tire pressure is low, so I have plenty of time to have him fix it! My friends can make fun of me all they want to, I love this car and it is very safe. Nice ground effects. It has great pickup, runs perfect in snow too.
GreatCar
We rented the LeSabre custom for one month, after a teen driver smashed the front of our PARKED car. We were in the market for a new Suv at the time. we researched everything from a Chevy to a Toyota, and found just how expensive they all were. After renting the LeSabre we made up our mind to buy one. I am a large man 6'7 and 295 lbs. and I fit just fine with room to spare. I would recommend this vechicle to any in the market. P.S. we also test drove the Ford Crown Victoria before we purchased the LeSabre. Hands Down the Buick was far better in handling, performance, in gas milage, and in comfort, styling was also a substantial plus inside and out.
Whistle/Click
The alternator has a whistle which is loud enough to be a problem. The brake clicks everytime you use it. The back of the seats have play in them. The dealerships can not correct these problems. The original tires had to be upgraded because of defects at additional cost to the customer. This car does not live up to the 8.9 rating.
Thier LeSabre - for a reason!
I live on the road - 45-50k/year. Comfort is a must. This car provides it, although the seats are not quite as comfortable as in the '94 I traded in. Fuel economy is excellent - with a high-flow air filter & synthetic oil, I have averaged 26.6 combined MPG over the last 35,000 miles. People who wouldn't buy a Buick are impressed by the ride & performance. My teenage son said it has more pickup than Mom's Xterra, and there is enough room for six adult males to ride in reasonable comfort. My only significant complaints are an occasional stalling problem (goes away with higher-octaine gas) and a bit more road noise than I'd like. Overall, a very solid, sensible car.
Don't buy a 2002 Buick!
This Buick has nice styling, performance, and a great ride. However, the 3.8 engine has a reoccuring issue with Intake Manifold gasket leaks that GM refuses to take responsibility for. Check out NHTSA vehicle bulletins for this model. I experienced the same problem in my Chevy Lumina with 3.1 V6. You will be replacing your gasket approx. every 25- 30k miles at a cost of $700-900 a pop. I went thru this 2x with my Lumina and now my Buick has it's first failure at 60k miles. Time to trade it in.
My First Buick
I rented a Buick LaSabre and found the automobile to be safe, comfortable, and responsive to the road conditions. I liked the interior and other features. The LaSabre is an excellent car for the price. I returned the LaSabre to the rental agency and purchased my own LaSabre the next day.
Glad I bought it.
So far the all around performance it OK.