Segment:
Full-size Sedan, primarily targeting the American market
Target Demographic:
Families, older drivers, those seeking comfortable and spacious transportation
Key Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala (later models), Dodge Intrepid (later models)
Comfort And Ride:
Known for its soft ride quality and quiet cabin, prioritizing comfort over sporty handling.
Interior Space:
Spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom, particularly for front and rear passengers.
Engine Power:
Typically equipped with a V6 engine providing adequate power for its class.
Reliability Perception:
Generally perceived as a reliable and durable vehicle, especially with proper maintenance.
General Information:
Introduction, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only)
Interior Controls:
Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints
Operation:
Lights, Driving, Cleaning
Maintenance And Specifications:
Engine compartment, Engine oil, Battery, Fuel information, Air filter(s), Part numbers, Refill capacities, Lubricant specifications, Accessories
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 250-300 (typical for this era and vehicle class)
Powertrain:
Engine oil, fuel, air filter, battery, basic fluid checks, refill capacities, lubricant specifications
Chassis:
Brake system basics, tire information, wheel specifications
Electrical:
Instrument cluster indicators, lighting systems, battery maintenance, basic fuse identification (often inferred)
Interior Comfort:
Climate controls (HVAC), entertainment system operation, seating adjustments, safety restraint systems
Security:
Locks, anti-theft system operation (if equipped)
Basic Operation:
Starting the engine, driving techniques, parking, using lights and signals
Routine Maintenance:
Checking and adding engine oil, checking coolant, checking windshield washer fluid, tire pressure checks, battery terminal inspection
Owner Maintenance:
Replacing wiper blades, replacing certain bulbs (e.g., license plate), basic interior cleaning
Troubleshooting Basics:
Understanding warning lights and indicators, basic fuse identification
Depth:
Covers daily operation, basic maintenance, safety features, and fluid specifications. Does NOT cover in-depth mechanical repairs, diagnostics, or complex electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
3.8L (3800 Series II) V6
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (231 cubic inches)
Configuration:
V6, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Horsepower:
Approximately 200 hp @ 5200 rpm (specific rating may vary slightly)
Torque:
Approximately 225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (specific rating may vary slightly)
Acceleration 0 60 Mph:
Approx. 8-9 seconds (typical for its class and era)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum (refer to manual for specific octane recommendation)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (as per available data for this generation)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (as per available data for this generation)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, front seat shoulder belt anchors adjustable
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard in this era; relies on seat belt tethering
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Display:
Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (if equipped), fuel, and temperature. Some models may have a digital odometer.
Cruise Control:
Standard feature
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, typically called 'Traction Control System' (TCS).
Auxiliary Input:
Not available in factory form. Aftermarket solutions required for modern device connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil is recommended for longevity)
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 - 100,000 miles (severe usage may require more frequent changes)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or ILSAC GF-2 certified, SAE 3.8L V6: 5W-30 (preferred in most conditions), 10W-30
Coolant:
GM-specific orange coolant (Dex-Cool) or equivalent for long-life protection
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III (refer to manual for definitive)
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Water/washer fluid mixture (seasonal)
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
On the 3800 Series II V6, intake manifold gaskets are a known failure point, leading to coolant leaks.
Idler Pulley Bearing:
The idler pulley bearing on the serpentine belt system can fail, causing noise.
Transmission Hard Shifting:
Some 4T65-E transmissions can develop issues with hard shifting or delayed engagement.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can be a common failure point.
Power Steering Pump Leaks:
Leaks from the power steering pump or lines can occur.
Oil Filter:
GM Part Number: 25177169 (AC Delco: PF1218 or equivalent)
Air Filter:
GM Part Number: 25319037 (AC Delco: A2099C or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 13.2 US quarts (12.5 Liters) - system capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) for a fluid change (system capacity is higher)
Buick Legacy:
Buick has a long history of producing comfortable, upscale, and reliable vehicles in North America, often associated with a mature demographic.
Lasabre Lineage:
The LaSabre nameplate has a long history, evolving from a premium full-size sedan to a more mainstream offering. The 1999 model represents the third generation of the modern H-body LaSabre.
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly, Michigan, USA
Production Years For Gen3:
1995-2005