So Fix it

Buick introduced the LeSabre Marquee as a concept car in 1951. The nameplate officially became part of the Buick lineup in 1959. Before discontinuing the model in 2005, Buick had sold over 6 million LeSabres, and for 12 years it was the best-selling full-size vehicle in the U.S. The Buick LeSabre has sold with a number of different transmissions, all of which are prone to problems. Signs of a bad transmission in a Buick LeSabre arent difficult to detect.

Leaks

Look at the ground under where the Buick LeSabre is normally parked. Puddles of fluid, stains and spots are all signs of a leak. If the leak appears red in color, there is a good chance the Buick LeSabres transmission is leaking.

Fluid

Even without a noticeable leak, the transmission fluid is possibly getting dangerously low. Use the transmission fluid dipstick to check for proper operating levels. If the fluid is not translucent red or smells burnt, change the fluid.

Vibrations

Vibrations and shuttering of the vehicle during gear shifts is a clear sign that something is not right with the Buick LeSabres transmission. The transmission is designed to shift smoothly and easily; vibrations are a sign that shifts are not happening as intended.

Noises

Grinding, whining or any other unusual noises coming from the transmission are a clue that something is wrong with the gears or transmission valves. Transmission noises usually come from the floorboards and near the center of the vehicle.

Overheating

Overheating of the transmission is a severe sign that something is wrong with the Buick LeSabre transmission. Overheating is caused by internal breakdown or during heavy towing, rocking the vehicle, racing or stop-and-go driving in high-heat environments. Signs of overheating are smoke, burnt transmission fluid and excessive heat near the shift lever.

Resetting the Service Engine Light (SEL) on a 2003 Buick should only be performed after the diagnostic trouble code or codes (DTCs) have been properly diagnosed and repaired if necessary. Some codes can be as simple as a small vacuum leak from a loose gas cap, but others can indicate more serious problems. Resetting the light without determining the source of the code(s) can create future problems with other components on the Buick and lead to more expensive repairs.

Instructions

1

Open the drivers side door on the 2003 Buick and locate the diagnostic link connector (DLC) underneath the dashboard. On a LeSabre and Park Avenue, the DLC is located under the dash to the left of the steering column. On the Century and Rendezvous models, the DLC is under the dash directly beneath the steering column. On the Buick Regal, the DLC is located under the dash to the right of the steering column.

2

Plug the OBD II scanner/eraser into the DLC. Because of the DLCs shape and the shape of the plug, there is only one correct way to plug it in.

3

Place the key of the Buick into the ignition and turn the key to the accessory power position. This position illuminates the lights on the instrument cluster and powers all the accessory components without the engine running. It will also provide power to the scanner from the Buicks battery.

4

Press the erase button on the faceplate of the scanner. If the scanner is not equipped with an erase button, follow the onscreen menu and use the scroll or enter button(s) to the erase codes or DTCs option and press the enter button.

5

Allow the onscreen menu of the scanner to default back to its main menu or display a "command sent" message.

6

Start the engine to the Buick and check the instrument cluster to ensure the SEL is no longer displayed. If it still is on or comes back quickly, the code(s) should be diagnosed properly and repairs made if necessary.

Air Conditioning does not come stock on every vehicle but some would argue that depending on where you live, its an absolute necessity. Air Conditioners work by pulling the heat of air using a coolant called Freon and then blowing it into the cab of the car. Unfortunately, the Freon is a consumable product like the oil or windshield wiper fluid and will eventually run out, leaving your air conditioner blowing out tepid air at best. When the car is out of Freon, it can be refilled or "recharged," bringing back the cool air.

Instructions

1

Locate the air conditioning compressor, next to the battery.

2

Back-off the valve handle that comes in the kit and screw it into the refrigerant kit until the rubber O-ring is inside the threaded portion.

3

Remove the dust cap from the "low-side" charging connection.

4

Attach the quick fitting on the kit hose to the charging connection.

5

Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes with the air conditioner on taking car that the hoses arent near the engine fan and other moving parts.

6

Make sure the compressor is on.

7

Turn on the valve handle until you hear the refrigerant release.

8

Add refrigerant until the accumulator surface and the evaporator inlet pipe are about the same temperature to touch.

9

Place thermometer on the air conditioning vent in the cab. The temperature should read 40 degrees if system is fully charged.

10

Close the valve on the canister and store any excess.

11

Put dust cover back on the "low-side" charging connection.