Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems and circuits
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Text-searchable, allowing users to quickly find specific information
Print Quality
Print Readability:
High quality, suitable for printing individual pages or entire chapters
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Series I:
3.8L (3800cc) V6 OHV (VIN 9)
Description Series I:
Naturally aspirated, multi-port fuel injection, cast-iron block, aluminum heads. Known for reliability but less refined than Series II.
Engine Code Series Ii:
3.8L (3800cc) V6 OHV (VIN K)
Description Series Ii:
Naturally aspirated, Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), aluminum heads, improved torque and fuel efficiency over Series I.
Performance
Horsepower Series I:
Approx. 170 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque Series I:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower Series Ii:
Approx. 195-205 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Series Ii:
Approx. 230-260 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for Series I, Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) for Series II.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Cylinders
Configuration:
V6
Displacement
Engine Size:
3.8 Liters (3800 cc)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Transmission Model:
GM 4T60-E (and later 4T65-E)
Optional
Optional Transmissions:
None offered for these model years.
Features
Overdrive:
Yes, 4th gear provides overdrive for improved fuel economy.
Electronic Control:
Electronically controlled for optimal shift points and performance.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 203.5 inches
Width:
Approx. 73.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 56.0 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 110.8 inches
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 105.2 cubic feet
Front Headroom:
Approx. 38.5 inches
Front Legroom:
Approx. 42.0 inches
Rear Headroom:
Approx. 37.5 inches
Rear Legroom:
Approx. 37.0 inches
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 16.7 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500 - 3700 lbs (depending on options)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (for some years/configurations)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (for some years/configurations)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for some configurations)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Available on some later models or as an option.
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
Front and rear three-point seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard; uses shoulder belts for car seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Premium sound systems available.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control standard, optional automatic climate control system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Telematics:
OnStar system became available on some GM vehicles in this era, though less common on LeSabre.
Connectivity
Aux Input:
Not typically equipped with factory auxiliary audio inputs.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil recommended).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 60,000 - 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (check specific engine and plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000-100,000 miles, or as recommended by the manual. Consider periodic fluid flushes.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 3.8L V6: 5W-30 (API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2)
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Coolant:
GM P/N 10523440, or any 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol and distilled water (green coolant).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Lower Intake Gaskets:
Leaking lower intake manifold gaskets on the 3800 Series II engines are a common failure point, leading to coolant leaks or oil-water contamination.
Idler Pulley:
The serpentine belt idler pulley can fail prematurely, causing noise or belt slippage.
Fuel Pump:
Fuel pumps can become weak or fail, leading to hard starting or stalling.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail over time, causing windows to drop or operate slowly.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings are a known wear item and may require replacement due to noise or play.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Buick Legacy:
Buick has a long history of producing comfortable, reliable, and well-appointed vehicles, often targeting an older demographic seeking a smooth and quiet ride.
Model Evolution
Third Generation Focus:
The third generation LeSabre (introduced in 1992) moved to the GM H-platform, adopting front-wheel drive and a more aerodynamic design. It was known for its comfort and the introduction of the successful 3800 Series II V6 engine.
Production
Assembly Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA (Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant)
Production Years:
1992-1999 (for the third generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The 3800 Series II engine was consistently praised and was a key component in many vehicles that received '10 Best' accolades from publications like Car and Driver.
Consumer Satisfaction:
Generally received good ratings for customer satisfaction, particularly concerning its comfortable ride and reliable powertrain.
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