Serious problem with the plastic intake manifold (plenum). Engine suddenly locks up and even seasoned mechanics think the engine needs to be replaced, but it is just the plastic part. Approximate cost: $600.00 to replace.
Since the car has over 60,000 miles on it, the dealer could not replace the intake manifold without charge.
General motors has a "bulletin" on this, but no recall as of yet. I was told to keep all receipts in case of a recall.
I would buy another Buick LeSabre again, but I would make sure there was no plastic intake manifold first.
Very comfortable and basically reliable.
The same thing happened to me. It is definitely a design flaw that they have since changed as the new models have a metal sheath that does not melt. I would not buy another lesaber as I have also had major repairs with having to replace two fuel injectors.
I also had to replace both upper and lower manifold at the cost of $1300 on my 98 Buick.
I have a 1997 Buick Le-Sabre Custom and have been very careful with all maintenance checks and oil changes and everything was fine, then out of the blue, it wouldn't start. Had someone take a look and they said "Water in the oil, has to be a blown head gasket". I've had 2 other cars with blown head gaskets and this wasn't typical. Had another person look at it and he thought perhaps it was the water pump. After researching this determined not to be taken for a single woman "SUCKER" by a mechanic I came upon this faulty intake manifold problem. Now, do I replace the gasket or the manifold? The only replacements I have found are ALSO plastic, although supposedly "harder" plastic. Any thoughts?
You should replace the whole upper manifold. Some people suggest replacing the lower one when you do the upper manifold. If its the original manifold they have an upgraded kit for the manifold so the problem won't happen for a while again.
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