🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Lucerne

Year:

2011

Market Segment:

Full-size Sedan

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (2006-2011)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Market Position:

Buick Lucerne occupied the full-size sedan segment, known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and availability of V8 engines, positioning it as a traditional American luxury cruiser targeting a mature demographic.

Key Competitors:

Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon, Cadillac DTS.

Ease Of Use:

Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and pictures, enabling DIY repairs and saving money.

Durability Of Access:

Downloadable and yours to keep forever, with print and multi-device options.

Completeness:

Covers every service and repair procedure A-Z for all models, engines, and trim levels.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Scope:

Complete Service, Repair, and Workshop Procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (exact number not specified in product info, but implies extensive coverage)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control system, exhaust system, engine management (ECM/PCM)

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service, torque converter, electronic controls

Drivetrain Systems:

Front-wheel drive components, axles, CV joints, differentials

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension, struts, shock absorbers, ball joints, tie rods, power steering system, steering column

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brakes, disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic components, parking brake

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), power windows, power locks, power mirrors, anti-theft system

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, climate control module

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seating systems, airbags

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, belt inspections/replacements, spark plug replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, HVAC system repair, body panel repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic routines for various systems, use of scan tools, circuit testing

Special Tools Equipment:

Identification of specific tools required for various repair procedures

Technical Depth Level:

Comprehensive - from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete system overhauls

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality Assessment:

High Quality (stated in description), suitable for printing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Downloadable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Downloadable)

Text Searchability:

Likely searchable due to PDF format, facilitating quick access to information

Device Compatibility:

All PC & MAC Computers, tablets, mobile phones

Required Software:

Adobe Reader (free download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.9L V6 (High Value Option) and 4.6L V8 (Northstar)

3.9L V6 Code:

LZ9

3.9L V6 Displacement:

3.9 L (238 cu in)

3.9L V6 Horsepower:

227 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)

3.9L V6 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)

4.6L V8 Code:

L37 (Performance variant of Northstar)

4.6L V8 Displacement:

4.6 L (281 cu in)

4.6L V8 Horsepower:

292 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)

4.6L V8 Torque:

288 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition with Coil-on-Plug (COP)

Coolant Type:

Dex-Cool (Orange, Extended Life)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (for 3.9L V6)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (for 4.6L V8 Northstar)

Transmission Control:

Electronic Control Module (ECM) for shift logic and diagnostics

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

116.0 inches (2946 mm)

Length:

200.4 inches (5090 mm)

Width:

73.6 inches (1869 mm)

Height:

58.3 inches (1481 mm)

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 3,700 - 4,000 lbs (1678 - 1814 kg) depending on engine and trim

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

Five-star rating for driver and front passenger (for most model years in this generation).

IIHS Crash Test Rating:

Good rating in frontal offset crash tests (for relevant model years).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side-impact airbags, available rear-seat side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touch-screen infotainment system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, auxiliary input. Optional navigation and premium sound systems (e.g., Bose).

Parking Assist:

Available Ultrasonic Rear Park Assist.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control, potentially adaptive cruise control on higher trims.

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth hands-free calling system.

Remote Start:

Available factory remote start system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to owner's manual; typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) with synthetic oil, or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check oil life monitor.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect at 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-96,000 km), change as needed or per severe service schedule. Consult manual for specific fluid type and capacity.

Coolant Change Interval:

GM recommends changing Dex-Cool every 5 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) for the first change, then every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) thereafter.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified (GM dexos1 approved for newer models, but 5W-30 SM/SN compliant is typical for 2011)

Transmission Fluid Specification:

Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid

Coolant Specification:

GM P/N 12378515 (Orange, Dex-Cool 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Common Issues V6:

Intake manifold gasket leaks, catalytic converter issues, power steering pump leaks, piston slap in some early models.

Common Issues V8 Northstar:

Head gasket failures (especially earlier Northstar versions, though less prevalent in later models), coolant leaks, oil leaks (e.g., rear main seal, valve cover gaskets).

Electrical Issues:

Body control module (BCM) issues, power window motor failures, HVAC control module problems, intermittent warning lights.

Suspension Issues:

Front suspension clunking (struts, ball joints), rear shock absorber leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Buick Heritage Summary:

Buick, established in 1899, is one of America's oldest automotive brands, historically known for building comfortable, quiet, and well-equipped vehicles targeting a more mature and affluent customer base.

Lucerne Introduction:

The Buick Lucerne was introduced for the 2006 model year, replacing the Buick LeSabre and Park Avenue. It was built on GM's G platform (later shared with Cadillac DTS).

Lucerne Facelift:

The 2011 model year represented the final year for the Buick Lucerne, which was ultimately replaced by the Buick LaCrosse in most markets, although the Lucerne continued with a slightly revised front fascia and standard 3.9L V6 engine.

Manufacturing Location:

Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Recognition:

The Lucerne, particularly with the Northstar V8, was often praised for its smooth ride and quiet cabin, appealing to traditional Buick buyers.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings for the Lucerne varied by model year and engine. While some years showed average to above-average reliability, others had noted issues, particularly with the Northstar V8's complex design. The manual would be crucial for addressing these specific concerns.