Positioning:
The Buick Lucerne 2009 was positioned as a comfortable and spacious full-size sedan, targeting buyers seeking American luxury and a smooth ride, often as a successor to older Cadillac models or traditional large sedans.
Competitors:
Competed with other domestic and international full-size sedans such as the Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis, Toyota Avalon, and Chrysler 300.
Standout Features:
Comfort-oriented suspension, spacious interior, available V8 engine option (4.6L Northstar), quiet cabin, availability of luxury and technology features.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics, engine mechanical rebuild
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 4T80-E, 6T70) repair, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, electrical controls, torque converter
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, CV axles, differential components, driveshaft (if applicable to specific configurations)
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints), steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), traction control, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical Electronic Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, power distribution, body control module (BCM), fuse/relay identification, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core)
Body Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, glass, seats, weatherstripping, exterior trim components
Infotainment Comfort:
Audio systems, navigation (if equipped), climate control interfaces, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, system-specific diagnostic flowcharts
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, replacement, and reassembly, including detailed torque specifications and procedures
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete overhaul instructions for major components like engines and transmissions
Installation Procedures:
Guidance for installing aftermarket accessories or replacing major systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, advanced diagnostics, component-level repairs, and full rebuilds.
Engine 1:
3.9L V6 (LZ9), OHV, 12 valves
Engine 1 Hp:
227 hp @ 5700 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 2:
4.6L V8 (Northstar LD8/L37), DOHC, 32 valves
Engine 2 Hp:
LD8: 275 hp @ 6000 rpm / L37: 292 hp @ 6300 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
LD8: 272 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm / L37: 288 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 10.2 quarts (9.7 L) with RWD, 10.3 quarts (9.7 L) with FWD (consult manual for exact figures)
Oil Capacity:
3.9L V6: 5 quarts (4.7 L) with filter / 4.6L V8: 5 quarts (4.7 L) with filter (consult manual for exact figures)
Length:
Approximately 203.0 inches (5156 mm)
Width:
Approximately 73.0 inches (1854 mm)
Height:
Approximately 58.2 inches (1478 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 116.0 inches (2946 mm)
Curb Weight V6:
Approximately 3,700 - 3,800 lbs (1678 - 1724 kg)
Curb Weight V8:
Approximately 3,850 - 4,000 lbs (1746 - 1814 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 17.2 cubic feet (487 L)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally good for its class, consult NHTSA for specific year and test results (often 4-star or 5-star frontal and side impacts).
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), available StabiliTrak (Electronic Stability Control).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, roof-mounted curtain airbags (front and rear), active head restraints, pretensioning seat belts.
Infotainment System:
Available touch-screen navigation system, premium audio systems (e.g., Bose), SiriusXM Satellite Radio, auxiliary input jack.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking assist (Ultrasonic), StabiliTrak (ESC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling (available), universal home remote.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic blend oil; consult owner's manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or API SN PLUS certified (API certified for quality).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Issues V8:
Northstar V8 engines can be prone to coolant leaks (intake manifold gaskets, head gaskets), oil consumption, and intake manifold gasket failures. The manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures for these.
Common Issues V6:
3.9L V6 may experience intake manifold gasket leaks or minor oil leaks. Automatic transmission issues (especially on the 4T65-E HD) can include solenoid failures or torque converter shudder.
Common Issues General:
Power steering pump noise, HVAC actuator failures, power window motor failures, and minor electrical glitches are also reported.
Brand Heritage:
Buick, founded in 1899, has a long history in the American automotive industry, traditionally known for its comfortable, upscale, and value-oriented vehicles. The Lucerne carries on the brand's legacy of quiet, smooth transportation.
Model Lineage:
The Lucerne replaced the Buick LeSabre and Park Avenue, serving as Buick's flagship sedan. It was based on the GM Epsilon platform (shared with Cadillac DTS and STS in some configurations).
Production Years:
2006-2011
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA
