The 2000 Buick LeSabre was positioned as a full-size, front-wheel-drive sedan offering comfort, spaciousness, and a smooth ride, primarily targeting older demographics and those seeking dependable, comfortable transportation.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other large sedans of the era such as the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala (later models), Dodge Intrepid, and Chrysler Concorde. Its strengths lay in its quiet cabin and comfortable ride.
Key Features
Key Features:
Spacious interior, comfortable seating, large trunk, smooth ride quality, V6 engine power, available premium features like leather upholstery and Bose audio systems.
Approximately 300-350 pages (estimated for a typical owner's manual of this era)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Systems Covered:
Engine operation, transmission controls, braking system, steering, suspension, electrical systems (lighting, wipers, power accessories), climate control, audio system, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), instrument panel and controls, tire and wheel care, fuel system, exhaust system
Procedures Included
Procedures Included:
Starting and operating the vehicle, using vehicle features, checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), changing wiper blades, replacing bulbs (headlights, taillights, interior lights), tire pressure checks and inflation, jump starting the battery, changing a flat tire, proper towing procedures, understanding dashboard warning lights, basic troubleshooting for common issues
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Covers essential owner-level maintenance and operation. Detailed diagnostic procedures, component replacement beyond basic DIY, and in-depth electrical schematics are typically found in a separate service manual. This owner's manual focuses on user understanding and routine upkeep.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans of the original manual, ensuring readability of text and clarity of diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Primary Engine:
3.8L (3800) Series II V6
Performance
Horsepower:
195 hp @ 5200 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)
Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)
Fuel System
Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI)
Engine Codes
Engine Code:
L36 (Naturally Aspirated 3800 Series II)
Emission Control
Emission Control System:
Catalytic converter, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4T65-E)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only the 4T65-E was offered for the 2000 model year)
Features
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic, torque converter clutch for overdrive
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
203.7 inches
Width:
74.4 inches
Height:
56.0 inches
Wheelbase:
113.8 inches
Interior
Passenger Volume:
107.3 cubic feet
Front Headroom:
38.7 inches
Rear Headroom:
38.0 inches
Front Legroom:
42.9 inches
Rear Legroom:
39.1 inches
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
17.0 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
3500 lbs (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
4400 lbs (approx.)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
5 Stars (1999-2003 models)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
5 Stars (1999-2003 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver Rating:
4 Stars (1999-2003 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger Rating:
4 Stars (1999-2003 models)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some trims)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners, reinforced safety cage construction, side-impact door beams, child seat LATCH anchors (rear outboard seats)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player (optional), available Bose premium audio system, steering wheel mounted audio controls on select models.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional traction control, optional OnStar communications system (early integration).
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Early OnStar system offered basic safety and communication services.
Comfort Features
Comfort Features:
Dual-zone climate control, power adjustable front seats, heated front seats (optional), automatic climate control (optional).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic or synthetic blend oil)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 50,000 miles or 5 years (Dex-Cool coolant)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
100,000 miles (for platinum-tipped spark plugs)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
GM Dex-Cool Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
GM Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron III/VI)
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on earlier Series II 3800 engines), coolant leaks from the intake manifold, power steering pump leaks, occasional issues with ABS sensors, minor electrical glitches, and potential for harmonic balancer failure (though less common on Series II).
Filters
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
AC Delco PF1218 (or equivalent)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
AC Delco A1558C (or equivalent)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history dating back to 1899. It is known for producing comfortable, reliable, and upscale American vehicles.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The LeSabre nameplate has been used by Buick since 1959. The 2000 model represents the third generation of the H-body platform LeSabre, introduced in 1992, with a significant refresh for the 1997 model year that modernized its styling and improved its performance and safety features.
Production
Production Years For This Generation:
1992-1999 (pre-refresh), 1997-2005 (overall for third generation H-body LeSabre)
Manufacturing Location
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA (primarily at the Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly plant)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
While specific awards for the 2000 model year are scarce, the 3800 Series II V6 engine consistently received accolades for its smooth operation, reliability, and durability, often being listed on Ward's 10 Best Engines.
Ratings
Reliability Ratings:
Generally considered a reliable vehicle for its class and era, particularly with proper maintenance. The powertrain is known for its longevity.