ECM (Engine Control Module) / PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E for 3.8L V6, 4T80-E for 4.6L V8)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only Automatic Transmissions Offered)
Features
Transmission Control:
Electronic Controls with Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS)
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
200.3 inches
Width:
72.7 inches
Height:
58.1 inches
Wheelbase:
115.1 inches
Interior
Passenger Volume:
106.3 cu ft
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
15.1 cu ft
Weights
Curb Weight 3.8L:
3757 lbs
Curb Weight 4.6L:
3905 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Passenger Impact:
4-Star
NHTSA Rollover:
4-Star
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (4-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Standard (Traction Control System - TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard (StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-Impact, Curtain (Optional)
Seatbelts:
3-Point Front and Rear Seatbelts, Pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Available Touchscreen Navigation System, Bose Premium Audio System.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
StabiliTrak (Stability Control), Traction Control, ABS, Available Rear Parking Assist.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
OnStar system integration.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Monitor oil life system.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs 3.8L:
Replace every 100,000 miles (Long Life Platinum or Iridium)
Spark Plugs 4.6L:
Replace every 100,000 miles (Iridium)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (GM Approved)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.8L:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change
Engine Oil Capacity 4.6L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change
Coolant Type:
GM Super Coolant (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool compliant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Known Issues
3.8L Common Issues:
Lower intake manifold gaskets (LIM), power steering pump leaks, water pump leaks, spark plug blow-out (on earlier models, less common on Series III).
4.6L Common Issues:
Oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, rear main seal), intake manifold gaskets (often a design flaw on earlier Northstars), intermittent transmission issues.
Suspension Issues:
Worn strut mounts, sway bar links, and control arm bushings are common due to vehicle weight.
HVAC Issues:
Blend door actuator failures, refrigerant leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Buick Legacy:
Buick is one of America's oldest automotive brands, known for its comfortable and quiet ride, targeting a mature demographic.
Model Evolution
Lucerne Introduction:
The Buick Lucerne debuted for the 2006 model year, replacing the Park Avenue and LeSabre. It aimed to blend traditional Buick comfort with a more modern chassis and available V8 power.
2008 Updates:
For 2008, minor styling tweaks and feature packaging updates were common, though no major mechanical redesign occurred.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
2006-2011
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Awards:
While not a segment leader in awards, the Lucerne was generally praised for its comfortable ride and quiet interior, appealing to its target demographic. Competitors often received more accolades for performance and handling.