Guide to the 1983-1990 Buick LeSabre Window Crank Handle
If your manual window crank is broken or spinning freely, this guide will help you choose the right part and get it fixed quickly.
- Failure is almost always due to stripped internal splines or a cracked plastic handle from age.
- Replacement is a very easy DIY job that can be done in minutes with a simple tool or even a shop rag.
- Aftermarket brands like Motormite (Dorman) provide an affordable and reliable replacement part.
- The handle is secured by a C-clip; be careful not to lose it during removal if you plan to reuse it.
Symptoms of a Failing Window Crank Handle
The window crank handle on a 1983-1990 Buick LeSabre is a simple part, but its failure can be frustrating. Due to the age of the vehicle, the plastic components of the handle become brittle and can crack or break entirely. The most common failure, however, is when the internal metal or plastic splines inside the handle strip out. This causes the handle to spin freely without actually turning the window mechanism.
- Handle spins but window doesn't move: This is the classic sign of stripped splines inside the handle.
- Cracked or broken handle: The plastic handle itself may have a piece broken off, making it difficult to grip and turn.
- Loose or wobbly handle: The handle may feel insecure, which could mean the retaining clip is loose or the splines are beginning to wear down.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Handle
For a vehicle of this era, finding a New Old Stock (NOS) OEM window crank handle is nearly impossible and not cost-effective. Aftermarket parts are the go-to solution.
Brand Spotlight: Motormite (Dorman)
Motormite, a brand under the Dorman umbrella, is a widely available and reliable choice for this part. For a simple mechanical component like a window crank handle, the quality is more than adequate for daily use. While the color and texture may not be a 100% perfect match to a 40-year-old original, they are designed to be a direct-fit replacement and often come with the necessary retaining clip. Some Dorman OE FIX versions even feature metal arms and splines to prevent future failures.
Cost of Replacement
| Part Type | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Motormite) | $12.88 - $15.29 | The most common and practical solution. |
| New OEM | N/A | Generally not available for a vehicle of this age. |
| Used OEM | $10 - $30 | Available from salvage yards, but may have similar age-related wear. |
Installation Overview
Replacing the window crank handle is a very simple DIY job. The handle is held in place by a small metal C-shaped clip (sometimes called an omega clip) located between the handle and the plastic washer on the door panel. A special forked tool makes removal easy, but it can also be done carefully with a hook tool, a small screwdriver, or even a shop rag slid behind the handle to snag and pull the clip off. To install the new handle, you simply place the clip onto the handle and push it onto the regulator shaft until it clicks into place.
Known Issues & Recalls
There are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA related to the manual window crank handles for the 1983-1990 Buick LeSabre. Any failures are due to the age and wear of the part, not a manufacturing defect.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a special tool to replace the window crank handle?
A special tool makes the job easier and reduces the risk of scratching the door panel, but it's not strictly necessary. Many owners successfully use a small pick, a screwdriver, or a shop rag to pop the retaining clip off. The tool is inexpensive if you choose to buy one.
Why did my window crank handle break?
The most common reasons are age and use. The plastic becomes brittle over time and can crack. More often, the internal splines that grip the regulator shaft wear down and strip, causing the handle to spin freely. This can happen faster if the window regulator mechanism is stiff and hard to operate.
Is the aftermarket handle an exact match to the original?
It will be functionally identical, but there may be slight cosmetic differences in color, texture, or the shape of the knob compared to the original GM part. For a consistent look, it's a good idea to replace the handles on both doors at the same time.
What is the small clip that came with my new handle?
That is the retaining clip. It's crucial for holding the handle onto the window regulator shaft. The old clip often gets lost or bent during removal, so a new one is usually included with the replacement handle.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 20348200
Attachment Type: Spring Clip (C-Clip)
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick LeSabre: