Segment:
Full-size/Large Sedan
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon, Lexus ES, Lincoln MKS.
Distinguishing Features:
Comfort-oriented ride, spacious interior, upscale styling, available AWD, quieter cabin compared to some rivals.
Engine Mechanical:
Diagnosis, repair, overhaul, specifications for 3.6L V6 (LF3/LLT) and 2.4L Ecotec (LAF) engines.
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (ECM).
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (6T70/6T75) diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, internal components, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive axles, differentials, transfer case (AWD).
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, traction control, disc brake components, parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric depending on configuration), steering column, steering gear, tie rods.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints, stabilizer bars), alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, operation, diagnosis, repair.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts).
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, troubleshooting flowcharts.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation.
Repair:
Component replacement, system repairs, troubleshooting common failures.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for various symptoms.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of required specialized tools.
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, torque specifications, component removal and installation sequences.
Engine Code 1:
LLT/LF3 (3.6L V6 SIDI VVT)
Engine Code 2:
LAF (2.4L Ecotec I4 VVT DI)
Displacement 3.6L V6:
3.6 Liters
Horsepower 3.6L V6:
280-303 hp @ 6400-6700 rpm (depending on specific engine version)
Torque 3.6L V6:
265-272 lb-ft @ 4400-4700 rpm (depending on specific engine version)
Displacement 2.4L I4:
2.4 Liters
Horsepower 2.4L I4:
182 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque 2.4L I4:
172 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), Direct Injection (DI for LLT/LF3 and LAF)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Regular Unleaded (89 Octane recommended for optimal performance for 3.6L)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for models equipped with specific safety features)
Active Safety:
ABS, Traction Control (TCS), StabiliTrak (ESC), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Available Adaptive Cruise Control, Available Forward Collision Alert.
Passive Safety:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, head curtain airbags (front and rear), active head restraints.
Infotainment System:
Buick IntelliLink infotainment system with touchscreen interface, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports. Options included navigation and premium audio systems (e.g., Bose).
Driver Assistance Features:
Available features included Rear Vision Camera, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Driver Confidence Package.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB integration for media playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, using synthetic oil. Consult manual for exact recommendations based on driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check manual for specific interval; often considered 'lifetime' fluid in modern transmissions, but periodic checks/changes recommended by enthusiasts/some specialists.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (Dexos1 Gen 2 or equivalent full synthetic recommended)
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346998, Dex-Cool (Orange) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI (for 6T70/6T75)
Common Problems:
Potential for timing chain issues on earlier 3.6L V6 engines (though often addressed by 2012), water pump leaks (often integrated with timing cover), transmission shift quality complaints, some electrical gremlins, carbon buildup on direct injection engines (requiring intake valve cleaning).
