Buick LeSabre Sensor Failure Affects Multiple Systems

Last season I had a comparable issue with my 1997 Buick Park Avenue. The climate control system showed similar symptoms, and after thorough diagnosis, the root cause was a failing humidity sensor combined with loose wiring connections. The electrical issue affected multiple systems because the main sensor cluster sends signals to various comfort features. When the sensor calibration fails, it disrupts the climate control, mirror defrosters, and washer system operations. The repair required: Testing the humidity sensor connections, Replacing corroded wiring harness pins, Installing a new sensor module, Recalibrating the climate control system This was a significant repair that took several hours because accessing the wiring harness meant removing parts of the dashboard. The malfunction needed immediate attention since it could have led to more serious electrical problems if left unaddressed. The symptoms match your LeSabre exactly, the frozen washer nozzles and inactive mirror heating are classic signs of a sensor malfunction in the climate control module. Would strongly suggest having a certified shop check the humidity sensor and its wiring connections first before replacing any major components.

Thanks for sharing that detailed fix for the sensor malfunction. I dealt with nearly identical electrical issues in my 2000 LeSabre last winter. The symptoms perfectly matched, climate control acting up and windshield fogging problems from a bad humidity sensor. Wondering if you remember roughly what the total repair cost came out to? Also curious if youve had any other automotive sensor problems pop up since getting it fixed? My repair has held up well so far but always good to know what to watch out for.

Just wanted to follow up on the repair costs, after seeing my mechanic about the humidity sensor issue, it was resolved for considerably less than expected. The total came to 95€ since they found the malfunction was simply due to a faulty cable connection to the sensor component. The electrical issue turned out to be much simpler than initially feared. Since the repair, the climate control system has worked flawlessly with no windshield fogging problems. The washer nozzles and mirror heating are also functioning normally in cold conditions. I think the key was finding a shop that properly diagnosed the sensor connections first rather than jumping to replace the entire unit. No other automotive sensor problems have emerged in the past year since the fix. The car has been running great with all climate control features working as designed. This experience showed that sometimes what seems like a complex sensor malfunction can be resolved by addressing basic connection issues. Pretty relieved it didnt require more extensive repairs.

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses. After reading about similar experiences, I took my LeSabre to a different mechanic who specializes in electrical issues. The visibility problems were indeed traced to a malfunctioning humidity sensor, just as suggested. The repair took about 2 hours. They found corroded connector pins in the main sensor harness that were causing the electrical issue. Total cost came to €180, much better than the €500+ quote from the previous shop that wanted to replace the entire climate control module. Since the fix, all systems are working perfectly. The washer nozzles spray even in freezing weather, mirrors heat up properly, and the climate control responds normally. The stored error code is gone too. Really glad I got a second opinion and found a shop that actually diagnosed the root cause of the automotive sensor problem rather than just throwing parts at it. Thanks again for steering me in the right direction. Will definitely keep an eye on those sensor connections during future maintenance.