The 1980 Buick Skylark has 3 recalls, the most serious being a fire risk on automatic transmission models where the transmission cooler line hoses can fail and spray fluid onto hot engine components.
A separate structural concern involves the steering gear mounting plate, which can develop fatigue cracks that allow the steering gear to work loose from its attachment point. When this happens, the driver may notice the steering wheel turning several degrees before the front wheels actually respond, reducing the ability to steer precisely and predictably. The third recall affects Skylark Sport models specifically, which were built with an incorrect turn signal flasher unit. The result is a flash rate that runs too fast, and if any of the exterior signal bulbs burn out, the corresponding indicator light inside the cabin stops illuminating altogether, removing the warning that a bulb has failed.
At a glance
What can fail
The turn signal flasher causes signals to flash too quickly. If any turn signal bulb burns out, the indicator light on the dashboard won't stay lit.
What the fix does
No remedy description available.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The steering gear mounting plate can develop fatigue cracks, causing the steering gear to loosen. This allows excessive steering wheel play before the vehicle responds to steering input.
What the fix does
No remedy description available.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The automatic transmission cooler hoses may fail while driving, causing transmission fluid to leak in the engine compartment and potentially start a fire.
What the fix does
No remedy description available.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
