1992-1997 Buick Skylark: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Buick Skylark includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Buick Skylark .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
TH-125 automatic transmissions may shift late or not upshift at all. The problem is a stuck throttle valve inside the transmission. (1992-94)
Automatic transmission:
4T60E transmissions may drop out of drive while cruising, shift erratically, or have no second, third, or fourth gear, because of a bad ground connection for the shift solenoids. (1994)
Brake wear:
The front brakes wear out prematurely because of the friction compound. GM, and several aftermarket companies, have brakes with lining that will last longer. (1991-95)
Coolant leak:
Some cars mysteriously lose coolant because of a bad seal on the pressure cap of the surge tank. (1992-94)
Engine knock:
Bearing knock was common on many 3.3-liter engines due to too much clearance on the number one main bearing. (1992-93)
Engine noise:
An intermittent rattle at start up may be due to too much wrist-pin-to-piston clearance. (1994-95)
Engine noise:
An intermittent rattling noise at start up is often caused by automatic-transmission pump starvation or cavitation, or a sticking pressure-regulator valve. (1994-95)
Engine noise:
Ticking on cold startup may be due to excessive piston pin to bore clearance. (1994-97)
Engine temperature:
Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1997)
Ignition switch:
The ignition switch may not return from the start to the run position or the accessories may not work because the screws that hold the switch in place were overtightened. (1992-94)
Traction control indicator light:
The Enhanced Traction Control (ETC) warning light "ETC OFF" may glow and the cruise control stops working, but there is no problem with the system. If the computer failure memory is cleared, everything returns to normal. No current fix. (1996)
Transaxle leak:
The right front axle seal at the automatic transaxle is prone to leak and GM issued a revised seal to correct the problem. (1992-94)
Valve cover leaks:
The plastic valve covers on the 3.1-liter engine were prone to leaks and should be replaced with redesigned aluminum valve covers. (1994-95)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $540 |
| Alternator | $225 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,105 |
| Brakes | $245 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $565 |
| Exhaust System | $450 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $450 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $350 |
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