Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1978 Buick Skyhawk — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT COUPLING ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN MACHINED OVERSIZED IN THE SERRATION AREA WHERE IT ATTACHES TO THE STEERING COLUMN. THIS WOULD PREVENT THE COUPLING FROM PROPERLY TIGHTENING ON THE SHAFT WHEN THE CLAMP AND PINCH BOLT WERE INSTALLED.
Remedy
DEALER WILL REPLACE THE SHAFT COUPLING, IF NECESSARY, WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1978 Buick Skyhawk. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.