The 1985 Buick Somerset has 3 recalls, the most serious being a carburetor throttle return spring that can fail and leave the engine accelerating on its own even after the driver lifts off the gas pedal.
On two-door models, cracks can develop in the body pillar around the door striker bolt hole. Left unrepaired, those cracks spread to the point where a door can swing open in a crash, removing a critical barrier between the occupant and the outside of the vehicle. The electrical recall involves the headlamp switch panel, where excessive heat buildup in the circuitry can cause the headlights to flicker on and off without warning. Losing headlights suddenly at night or in difficult driving conditions significantly reduces the driver's ability to see the road and be seen by other traffic.
At a glance
What can fail
The headlamp switch panel circuitry can overheat, causing the headlights to turn on and off repeatedly. This may result in sudden loss of headlights, reducing visibility.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the headlight switch and/or windshield wiper switch panels as needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
Cracks can form in the body pillar around the door striker bolt hole on two-door models. If left uncorrected, cracks may spread and cause the door to open during a crash.
What the fix does
Reinforcement plates will be installed on the left and right body pillars to prevent cracking.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The carburetor return spring assembly may fail, preventing the engine from slowing down when you release the accelerator pedal, which could cause unexpected acceleration and loss of control.
What the fix does
No remedy description available.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
