1989 Buick Skylark review from North America
"Decent basic transportation"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The air conditioner died.
The headliner fell down.
The ignition module failed.
The lock-up on the torque converter operates erratically.
The speedometer displays a speed that is twice as fast as the actual speed. At 48mph the speedometer is buried.
General comments?
I bought this car for $200 and replaced the belts, tires, battery, alternator, ignition module, oil and coolant to make it reliable. I have about $600 invested. I've driven the car over a year-and-a-half and it has been faithful.
The lock up torque converter was erratic at low speeds so I wired a toggle switch into the purple wire that operates the clutch. At low speeds I open the switch so the clutch can't engage. At highway speeds I close the switch for better fuel economy.
The mechanicals inside the motor are very noisy. It might be the timing chain.
Average about 31mpg in mostly highway driving.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1990 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 liter 4-cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 75000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 85000 miles |
| Previous car | Geo Metro |
| Date of Entry | 8th December, 2007 |