1990 Buick Lesabre
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 1 |
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1985 | 5 |
| 1986 | 16 |
| 1987 | 44 |
| 1988 | 21 |
| 1989 | 27 |
| 1990 | 47 |
| 1991 | 30 |
| 1992 | 191 |
| 1993 | 196 |
| 1994 | 168 |
| 1995 | 178 |
| 1996 | 98 |
| 1997 | 394 |
| 1998 | 400 |
| 1999 | 209 |
| 2000 | 669 |
| 2001 | 328 |
| 2002 | 310 |
| 2003 | 164 |
| 2004 | 162 |
| 2005 | 77 |
| 2006 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
28% of complaints: electrical system — 13 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing ignition and module.
17% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 8 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing linkages and accelerator pedal.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. *NLM
NHTSA ODI report, 20030502
VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION, CROSSED A ROADWAY, AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER PARKED VEHICLE. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20030305
VEHICLE ACCELERATED UNCONTROLLABLY, CAUSING ACCIDENT. *DH
NHTSA ODI report, 19960904
17% of complaints: service brakes — 8 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
13% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 6 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing gasoline and catalytic convertor.
13% of complaints: seat belts — 6 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing webbing and buckle assembly.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
HAD AN ACCIDENT, LAP BELT HELD, BUT SHOULDER BELT DID NOT. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19951227
SAFETY TIMELINE
BRAKE CALIPER CORROSION
CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURE
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
Campaign 06E043000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1990 Buick Lesabre — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (13 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 06E043000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1990 Buick Lesabre reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 1990 Buick Lesabre is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 1990 Buick Lesabre?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 28% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1990 Buick Lesabre have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.