🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Lucerne

Year:

2008

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size Sedan

Platform:

GM Epsilon II platform

Vin Code Prefix:

1G

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Buick Lucerne was positioned as a comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped full-size sedan, catering to buyers seeking American luxury and refinement. It competed with vehicles like the Chrysler 300, Lincoln Town Car, and Cadillac DTS.

Competitive Analysis:

The Lucerne offered a blend of traditional American luxury car comfort and modern technology. Its availability with both a reliable V6 and the potent Northstar V8 provided distinct powertrain options. The 2008 model year saw continued refinement of this platform.

Key Features:

Available StabiliTrak stability control, magnetic ride control (optional on CXS), heated and ventilated seats, extensive sound deadening for a quiet cabin, strong V8 engine options.

Manual Utility:

This manual empowers owners and technicians to perform all necessary maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair tasks, significantly reducing reliance on costly dealership services and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Component Removal/Installation, Specifications, Torque Values, Procedures

Models Covered:

All 2008 Buick Lucerne models, all engine variants, all trim levels, all transmission types

Page Count:

Estimated 2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

3.8L V6 (L36/L32 Supercharged), 4.6L V8 (Northstar LD8/L37), Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emissions Control System

Transmission Systems:

4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E), Transmission Control System (TCM), Gear Shift Linkage, Torque Converter

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, Traction Control), Wheels & Tires

Electrical Systems:

Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting Systems (Headlamps, Tail Lamps, Interior), Instrumentation, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors, Seats), Audio System, Navigation System, Climate Control System, Keyless Entry & Start, Cruise Control, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Power Antenna

Body And Interior:

Body Structure, Exterior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk Lid, Bumpers, Interior Trim Panels, Seats, Restraints (Airbags), HVAC Components, Dashboard, Console

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flushes, Brake Fluid Replacement, Transmission Fluid Service, Belt Inspections & Replacements, Tire Rotations & Balancing

Repair Procedures:

Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Brake Component Replacement (Pads, Rotors, Calipers, Lines), Suspension Component Replacement (Struts, Ball Joints, Bushings), Steering Component Replacement (Tie Rods, Rack & Pinion), Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, HVAC System Repairs, Body Panel Repair & Replacement, Interior Component Repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation & Resolution, Scan Tool Usage, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic routines and component-level repair instructions. Comparable to factory service manuals (FSM) or official GM repair information.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High Resolution, suitable for professional printing. Includes clear diagrams and schematics.

Binding Type:

Digital (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

Digital (N/A)

Software Requirements:

Adobe Reader or compatible PDF viewer

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.8 L (230 cu in)

Engine 1 Type:

3800 Series III V6 (Naturally Aspirated & Supercharged)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Naturally Aspirated: 200 hp @ 5200 rpm; Supercharged: 235 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Naturally Aspirated: 230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm; Supercharged: 275 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Engine 1 Fuel System:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

3.80 x 3.40 in (96.5 x 86.4 mm)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

Naturally Aspirated: 9.4:1; Supercharged: 8.5:1

Engine 1 Cylinder Block:

Cast Iron

Engine 1 Cylinder Head:

Aluminum

Engine 1 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.6 L (281 cu in)

Engine 2 Type:

Northstar V8 (DOHC)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

275 hp @ 6000 rpm (LD8); 292 hp @ 6300 rpm (L37)

Engine 2 Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (LD8); 285 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (L37)

Engine 2 Fuel System:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

3.56 x 3.31 in (90.4 x 84.0 mm)

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

10.3:1

Engine 2 Cylinder Block:

Aluminum

Engine 2 Cylinder Head:

Aluminum

Engine 2 Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)

Transmission Controller:

Hydraulically controlled with electronic pressure control (EPC) and transmission control module (TCM) integration

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 2008 model year; 4T65-E was standard across all engines.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron VI (GM specification)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 9.5 quarts (9.0 Liters) for a complete refill (subject to drain/fill)

Transmission Gear Ratios 3 8L V6:

1st: 2.92; 2nd: 1.57; 3rd: 1.00; 4th: 0.70; Reverse: 2.39

Transmission Gear Ratios 4 6L V8:

1st: 2.92; 2nd: 1.57; 3rd: 1.00; 4th: 0.70; Reverse: 2.39

Transmission Cooling:

Integrated in radiator, with optional auxiliary cooler for heavy-duty use or towing.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

200.8 inches (5098 mm)

Width:

72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

58.2 inches (1478 mm)

Wheelbase:

115.1 inches (2924 mm)

Front Track:

61.7 inches (1567 mm)

Rear Track:

61.1 inches (1552 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3650 - 3850 lbs (1656 - 1746 kg), varies by trim and engine

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 4700 - 4800 lbs (2132 - 2177 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Typically 1000 lbs (454 kg) for standard towing, may vary based on configuration.

Trunk Volume:

17.3 cubic feet (490 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

IIHS Rear Impact Rating:

Good

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), StabiliTrak Stability Control System (Standard on CXS, optional on CX/CXL)

Passive Features:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors, active head restraints (front seats)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available Touchscreen Navigation System, AM/FM Stereo with CD Player, Bose Premium Audio System, Satellite Radio (XM)

Driver Assistance Features:

StabiliTrak Stability Control, Traction Control System, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Connectivity Features:

Available Bluetooth hands-free calling (OnStar integrated), Remote Keyless Entry, Universal Home Remote

Comfort Convenience Features:

Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, power-adjustable front seats (8-way), memory seat function, power-adjustable pedals, auto-dimming rearview mirror, steering wheel-mounted audio controls

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions (with synthetic oil recommendation for optimal performance).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or with every oil change.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km) or annually, depending on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement 3 8L V6:

Typically every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement 4 6L V8:

Typically every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or newer)

Engine Oil Capacity 3 8L V6:

4.5 quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change

Engine Oil Capacity 4 6L V8:

5.0 quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change

Coolant Specification:

GM P/N 12346290 or equivalent (Orange Long-Life Coolant, OAT - Organic Acid Technology)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Known Issues:

Motor mounts (especially on the 3800 V6), power steering leaks, occasional transmission shudder (4T65-E), intake manifold gasket leaks (Northstar V8), fuel level sensor issues, electronic throttle body problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Buick has a long-standing reputation for producing comfortable, quiet, and well-appointed vehicles, often marketed as 'the gentleman's automobile.' The brand historically focused on delivering a smooth ride and premium features at a more accessible price point than other luxury marques.

Model Evolution:

The Buick Lucerne replaced the Park Avenue and LeSabre. It was based on the GM Epsilon platform, a departure from the traditional body-on-frame platforms of its predecessors, offering improved handling and a more modern driving experience. The 2008 model year represented the third year of production for the first generation Lucerne.

Production Location:

Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

2006-2011

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2008 model might be limited, the Buick Lucerne, particularly models equipped with the Northstar V8 and Magnetic Ride Control, was often praised for its comfortable ride quality and quiet cabin, fitting into Buick's tradition of providing a refined driving experience.