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S
Last reply · posted in Buick Lucerne Forum
Some time ago I bought an old Buick Lucerne 2006 (85k miles) as a project car. The seller said that the car is totally fine because the GM service run diagnostic, it only needs new ECM to be reprogrammed. It was definitely a pig in a poke but I bought it for really cheap so it was worth a try.

What is the problem?

New battery, no crank, no start, no communication with ECM, a lot of shorts on different electronics around the body.
As soon as battery connected, the voltage drops from 12 to 5-6 immediately. No power to the fuse box under the hood.

What did I do to investigate?

1. I checked mostly all grounds, including the ones for the bcm under the passenger seat, cleaned corroded ones, and replaced screws for them. I didn't reach for the ground somewhere behind the engine though.

2. I've tried 2 different ECM and 3 different BCM. No luck there.

3. I replaced all the fuses and tightened the fuse box under the hood. It sorted out all the "shorts" which were showing on the scanner before. No big luck, but at least something.

4. I disconnected all the electronics which are known for parasitic draws — overhead lamps near sunshades; 2 front doors (they were weirdly ticking for some reason); alternator (because it's connected to the battery directly); the dimming switch on the left side near the steering wheel; the full glove box. The main harness under the hood seems to be getting power but still no luck.

5. I powered up the battery with a jumper, drain was still there but at least I could scan for codes one more time after all the manipulation and these codes are still there:

B3600:03 — Passenger compartment dimming request signal circuit low voltage

(Which is weird, because I disconnected it, but I have to check it one more time)

This code is for most of the systems — engine electrical, automatic transaxle, anti-lock brake system, BCM, body rear end, park brake.

The other one is B1001:00 — Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) option configuration error. (Under the category: supplemental inflatable restraint)

*These codes are left only because of my manipulation with the jumper. I've attached the original PDF with codes list when I have only 5v on the battery. It's just to see the difference with all of my manipulations.

My questions:

1. I have an Autel Maxisys MS908pro, I believe the tool can reprogram both ECM and BCM to match the VIN. Am I right?
2. What do I do next? Where should I look next? Get under the car, disconnect the starter, check that one last ground and check the main positive cable? Ignition switch fault maybe and I need to replace it?
3. I also have 2 grounds stocked on each other on the transmission on the right side. Is it ok? I've read that it is ok, if they sit tight with no corrosion or paint.

Please give me some help and sacred knowledge on this Buick. I have no idea why ECM is not powering up as well as the main fuse box.
I'm not experienced with car electronics so if you can provide detailed suggestions and explanations, I would really appreciate it. I'm open to try any ideas and I would be glad to clarify anything if I missed something describing the issue.

Thanks in advance.
6 Replies · 1073 views
2007LucerneCXL
These are best guessing as it could be one or many items. The actual under hood fuse box itself, rear seat fuse box but note the year doesn't have the fuel pump issue which is 08 and up.
The ECM harness may have a short or damaged pins.

As on troubleshooting one method is to pull fuses while watching the meter until the voltage returns to normal. The next option is disconnect modules and watch the meter.
S
These are best guessing as it could be one or many items. The actual under hood fuse box itself, rear seat fuse box but note the year doesn't have the fuel pump issue which is 08 and up.
The ECM harness may have a short or damaged pins.

As on troubleshooting one method is to pull fuses while watching the meter until the voltage returns to normal. The next option is disconnect modules and watch the meter.
Hi! Thanks for the response.

I did this already, both the fuses and module methods. No changes on the meter.

I also think this could be an issue where the positive cable damaged somewhere under the hood and touching the body. I need to inspect this closely.
2007LucerneCXL
The wildcard if the vehicle had/has the heated windshield washer fluid. It was recalled and the repair was the removal, some were done properly and others had a slash and burn method. Passenger side by the firewall if still there. Electrical gremlins over the net is difficult at best, good luck on the project and getting it resolved.
S
The wildcard if the vehicle had/has the heated windshield washer fluid. It was recalled and the repair was the removal, some were done properly and others had a slash and burn method. Passenger side by the firewall if still there. Electrical gremlins over the net is difficult at best, good luck on the project and getting it resolved.
Thanks! Just checked the recall bulletin, I'll looking into that.
W
I can likely explain the B1001; you've mentioned that the BCM has been replaced 3 times; B1001 only sets when there is a VIN mismatch in either the BCM or SDM or the 4 digit primary data key stored in the SDM doesn't match with the BCM (which will happen if there is also a VIN mismatch.) the only way to clear it is to reprogram the BCM with the proper VIN and Primary Data key.

EDIT: the conditions for setting the B3600 is if the BCM detects an open circuit or a short to ground in either the I/P dimming 5 volt reference circuit or the corresponding signal circuit.
S
I can likely explain the B1001; you've mentioned that the BCM has been replaced 3 times; B1001 only sets when there is a VIN mismatch in either the BCM or SDM or the 4 digit primary data key stored in the SDM doesn't match with the BCM (which will happen if there is also a VIN mismatch.) the only way to clear it is to reprogram the BCM with the proper VIN and Primary Data key.

EDIT: the conditions for setting the B3600 is if the BCM detects an open circuit or a short to ground in either the I/P dimming 5 volt reference circuit or the corresponding signal circuit.
B3600 seems to be the main issue. I've got to the point where I was testing all the fuses again and as soon as I inserted the fuse for instrument panel harness module, the voltage dropped from 12 to 5. And also it drops when I turn the key in accessory mode.
It either the cluster panel because the fuel gauge is not working or the ignition switch. Maybe both, need to test further. Like you said — corresponding signal circuit.
S
Last reply · posted in 2018+ Buick Regal Sportback and TourX Forum
After 7 years I am now without a Buick Regal but I have some parts that could be useful to others. Before posting on Facebook group thought I'd give you all a shot at these:

2 steering wheels (stock, not GS) with buttons, from Essence trim so all button options - both in virtually new/very good condition, including the finish on buttons.
After market door handle cups, F and R,
1 set OEM floor mats with Regal on them,
1 set OEM floor mats with Avenir tag on the binding (very discreet)
1 set L & R New rocker panel covers for TourX (matt black plastic, never installed but kind of long so shipping might be pricey),
OEM TourX cross bars with keys, I bought used from owner who said he used them just a few time, I never had a chance to use them, they look pretty new
3D printed cell phone holder that was sold on Etsy for a while from forum member and the console tray from same vendor,
Canvasback full rear liner set for TourX with cargo flap - all black
2 OEM gauge clusters I removed when I swapped to GS cluster.
New gas pedal assembly (kept as spare, never had the issue)
New OEM Fuel door mechanism, newer design without electric lock

I'd prefer to bundle some of these if possible.. The big items like rocker covers and cross bars might be pricey to ship. Pickup or in Central Florida would be preferable.

PM me if interested
3 Replies · 55 views
P
Interested in cross bars and floor mats, but can't see how to PM you. Feel free to send me a message if you can.
Bill MeLater
Interested in the Canvasback, dm me if still available. Thanks GLWTS
9
1 set OEM floor mats with Regal on them,
please
Administrator
Staff member Lead Administrator
Last reply · posted in The Buick Forums Lounge - Introduce Yourself
We all have those days where we just need a good laugh, so let’s get a dedicated discussion going for exactly that.

The rules are simple: If you see a picture, meme, or comic that makes you laugh, drop it here.
  • Keep it within the forum rules (let's keep the completely Not Safe For Work stuff out of here).
  • No politics or heavy drama - this is an escape from all of that!
  • Context is optional. Sometimes a weird photo with no explanation is the funniest part.
Let's see what you've got!
17 Replies · 1613 views
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ohioriver
A Sad Post
1781744222955.webp
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ohioriver
1782836334831.webp
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Administrator
I do wonder if this is real............ Hmm...
ohioriver
^^^Curious, you have to ask?
TRIFECTA
Authorized Vendor
Last reply · posted in 2018+ Buick Regal Sportback and TourX Forum
Post up those amazing TourX wagons!

PXL_20210721_010822297_TF.webp
33 Replies · 3416 views
W
Not the best picture but rarely do I find another TourX to park next to for a photo.
K
What wheels are those? They look sick!
MonZZZ17
Perfect parking placement!
original_c96aff89-f490-4853-a3c7-528c46cd3dab_PXL_20240605_160033817.webp
B
Not the best picture but rarely do I find another TourX to park next to for a photo.
Quite surprising to see another red TourX when I left the restaurant.
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Chef jpd
Installed Thule areobars and a motion 3 XL low box in titan grey.
I'm officially sporty.
Pics to follow
N
Last reply · posted in Buick Century Forum
Last fall I bought a 1998 Buick Century with only 57,000 miles from an old relative who rarely drove. The A/C and everything else worked perfectly last fall. But this spring I used the A/C and it wasn't blowing cold. I drove 10 miles home with the AC "on", and the second I get home and put it in park the radiator hose blew off soaking everything with coolant. I'm guessing the small pressure ripple caused the clamp to jump a tooth or something dumb) Nothing was broken, the top radiator hose simply popped off the engine barb. I refilled it and used the same hose, which was in perfect shape.

While trying to diagnose my A/C issues, I confirmed the fans DO turn on when I disconnect the coolant temp probe connector (ECU demands fans when it can't read the probe I've found out by testing). I jumpered the A/C clutch relay and it DOES engage the A/C compressor. The refrigerant has proper pressure (so not a leaked refrigerant issue). I cannot figure out why the ECU will not let the A/C system run. I even installed a new coolant temp sensor into the engine, no change.

The cooling fans never want to come on when the temp gauge goes over 50% (but temp never goes more than say 55% to red, (and evidently they don't come on until it is REALLY hot?), but the fans both work fine when the ECU demands them.

So I've been without A/C all summer. One time we accidentally left the A/C knob on "norm" for 20 minutes which heated up the antifreeze enough to cause a "low coolant" light to flash on the dash. I confirmed there was enough coolant, so I drained half, pulled the antifreeze level sensor, scrubbed the sensor prong itself (just a metal post) and reinstalled and refilled my coolant, burped it, went for a drive, and the low coolant light is ack on even though its full.

Another annoying quirk with this car is no trunk release, ONLY the keyfob button (never experienced that in any car, not even a glove box button). Also, when I push the door's LOCK switch, i have to hit it TWICE, it beeps once as if I have headlights on or something (I don't) and its warning me it doesn't want to lock on the first press... Is this normal behavior for this car?


I do NOT want to pay dealership prices to have this diagnosed, and am hoping someone here has more knowledge than I do, and have some input on my issues here relating to no A/C and heating up the coolant / false low level warnings. I thought I had scored a great condition car, but everything is spiraling down all of a sudden.
1 Replies · 222 views
C
Diagnosing an HVAC system can be tricky. First, it requires the use of an HVAC manifold gauge set so you can read both the high side and low side pressures. Just because it has "enough" pressure on the low side does not mean that there is enough refrigerant in the system. Secondly, you need a Digital Multi-Meter (DMM) in order to measure voltages and perform resistance/continuity checks to make sure there are no broken wires, defective sensors, etc. Third, you will need electrical schematics for troubleshooting the electrical parts of the HVAC system. Finally, you will need a vacuum pump in order to pump down the system if you find that you have a leak or need to add refrigerant.

R134a systems are charged by weight of refrigerant and not by the pressures measured by the gauge set. The only accurate way to do that is to first evacuate the system, pull a vacuum for a certain period of time in order to ensure their are no leaks, and then recharge it by weight.

If you do not have a set of HVAC gauges, you can "rent" them from most any O'Reilly, AutoZone or Advance/Carquest auto parts store using their loaner specialty tool program. A decent DMM will cost you about $30. The schematics can be obtained for free from Free Car Service Manuals from LEMON Manuals. The vacuum pump can also be obtained for "free" from the various auto part stores.

You could have a bad relay, a bad pressure sensor, etc. Also helpful will be a diagnostic chart which can also be found in the service manuals from Free Car Service Manuals from LEMON Manuals.

Good Luck!
Cabby033
· posted in Buick Verano Forum (Excelle)
Replaced 2.4 engine 2014 verano having an air lock issue. Runs for 20 min fine then temp gage goes up and down. Appears air is trapped in the system. Any help ? Thanks
0 Replies · 107 views
R
Last reply · posted in Buick Century Forum
Still looking for a solution to replacing the balancer bolt for a 2005 Buick Century 3.1L SE. I've ordered an ARP 120-2501 balancer bolt (says it fits this car) but I'm out of other options. If this doesn't fit, what other options are there?
34 Replies · 1258 views
C
Here is a link to a Grade 10.9 M12x1.5x45 bolt -


While it is not TTY, it should be strong enough for your application.

Or, you can order ARP M12x1.5x45 bolts from Summit Racing - https://www.summitracing.com/parts/arp-664-1005?seid=srese1
S
Here is a link to a Grade 10.9 M12x1.5x45 bolt -


While it is not TTY, it should be strong enough for your application.

Or, you can order ARP M12x1.5x45 bolts from Summit Racing - https://www.summitracing.com/parts/arp-664-1005?seid=srese1
I think this is the best alternative. I have heard very little negative stuff about ARP, and there is a decent chance the replacement will not be TTY. A re-useable replacement would be ideal in either case. I don't do wrench work professionally anymore except for myself these days. I do deal in obsolete auto parts though.

I do know that at the dealership near by, they reuse those bolts for what it is worth. I also know I have reused them too at our shop with no issue, not to say that it can't happen. All things are possible. However, if a ARP replacement can be found, then that is great. The 3.1L was a very heavily used engine across GMs lineup for several decades, the possibility of there not being a single option makes very little sense. I know that engine was used through and may have been phased out just after the 2005 model year, which I think was the last year before it was replaced by the 3.4L. I think, it's been a minute. All that said, there were millions of those engines and it's variants floating around world wide.

If Dorman does not have one, then making a plea to ARP to produce one specifically for the 3.1L with torque specs should be considered and may take the community to back a representative or just flood their inbox.
C
I think this is the best alternative. I have heard very little negative stuff about ARP, and there is a decent chance the replacement will not be TTY. A re-useable replacement would be ideal in either case. I don't do wrench work professionally anymore except for myself these days. I do deal in obsolete auto parts though.

I do know that at the dealership near by, they reuse those bolts for what it is worth. I also know I have reused them too at our shop with no issue, not to say that it can't happen. All things are possible. However, if a ARP replacement can be found, then that is great. The 3.1L was a very heavily used engine across GMs lineup for several decades, the possibility of there not being a single option makes very little sense. I know that engine was used through and may have been phased out just after the 2005 model year, which I think was the last year before it was replaced by the 3.4L. I think, it's been a minute. All that said, there were millions of those engines and it's variants floating around world wide.

If Dorman does not have one, then making a plea to ARP to produce one specifically for the 3.1L with torque specs should be considered and may take the community to back a representative or just flood their inbox.
You missed the part about the ARP bolts:

Or, you can order ARP M12x1.5x45 bolts from Summit Racing - https://www.summitracing.com/parts/arp-664-1005?seid=srese1
HotZ28
I don't understand all the hysteria from the OP about one frigging bolt in two different threads here! He has got good advice before, just use the old bolt!
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R
I don't understand all the hysteria from the OP about one frigging bolt in two different threads here! He has got good advice before, just use the old bolt!
Yes, two separate threads because I hadn't gotten responses until recently - for which I'm thankful, BTW.
Re-using the existing bolt is certainly a possibility, one which I'm not ruling out but it's not a slam-dunk to go that route as there is plenty of opinion out there to NOT do that.
I am heartened, however, in the number of people who have re-used the bolt seemingly without issue but I'm also hedging my bets by ordering ARP bolts just in case. The real issue is that the manufacturer has stopped making the bolt itself, with every balancer out there ships without the bolt - which just seems asinine.
S
You missed the part about the ARP bolts:

Or, you can order ARP M12x1.5x45 bolts from Summit Racing - https://www.summitracing.com/parts/arp-664-1005?seid=srese1
I didn't miss that part. The first line was me agreeing with you on the ARP bolt. ARP has a bolt that is for a Harmonic Balancer on a Ford that matches the specs exactly of the one for a 3.1L, btw.
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Chad Cremer
· posted in Buick Classifieds
Testing the waters, In South Dakota, i have a 1986, 1987 - both complete but need work, and a 1990 w rear damage parts car I may be willing to part with. the 86 was my old high school car, and wanted to restore it, but money, time, and well, life has me thinking it may be time to pass them on.
[email protected]
0 Replies · 95 views
W
Last reply · posted in Buick Lucerne Forum
Bought a super clean 2010 Buick Lucerne that was hit in the drivers side. Needs both doors. Let's document and descibe the process.
3 Replies · 147 views
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2007LucerneCXL
This may help you or others of what's inside.
292432.webp
W
Excellent..
But How did you put the picture in?
(I might be blocked from inserting pictures because just signed up today?)
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Administrator
Excellent..
But How did you put the picture in?
(I might be blocked from inserting pictures because just signed up today?)
You should be all set. Looking forward to seeing pictures of this project...
W
Last reply · posted in The Buick Forums Lounge - Introduce Yourself
Hi I'm Jay Elwood, friends call me Woody. My peers in the body shop business call me Wonder Woody. Ha!
I have been in the body shop business since the late 60's
My great-grandfather started Dever's Truck Body in Trotwood Ohio, it was incorporated in 1903 (The same year as Harley-Davidson and Ford) and it is still in operation today. As a child I grew up in the body shop and sweeping floors and by 13 years old I was welding hammering and painting..

I live in Dayton Ohio, in Dayton Ohio we have America's Packard Museum. Beautiful place!
They own President Eisenhower's personal 1947 Packard standard convertible.
You can see that 1947 Packard Standard convertible in the oscar-winning movie 'Carol' shot in Cincinnati.
In 2005-2006 I restored that car for (and at) the Packard Museum, I only did body and Chassis, others did the Mechanicals -brakes engines ..and others did the interior.. but I did the body.
Actress Marra Rooney (sp?) And Cate Blanchett ride around in it .. it's the green Packard convertible.. but I should warn you it's a chick flick..!!

I just found a super clean Ultra nice 2010 Lucerne, 63k Miles !! That was hit in the side. Only needed 2 doors Drivers side, Unbolt the bent doors, bolt on used doors of the same color.. I'm going to document this in the forum for repairing Buicks.. Love this Lucerne !
1 Replies · 153 views
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Administrator
Hi I'm Jay Elwood, friends call me Woody. My peers in the body shop business call me Wonder Woody. Ha!
I have been in the body shop business since the late 60's
My great-grandfather started Dever's Truck Body in Trotwood Ohio, it was incorporated in 1903 (The same year as Harley-Davidson and Ford) and it is still in operation today. As a child I grew up in the body shop and sweeping floors and by 13 years old I was welding hammering and painting..

I live in Dayton Ohio, in Dayton Ohio we have America's Packard Museum. Beautiful place!
They own President Eisenhower's personal 1947 Packard standard convertible.
You can see that 1947 Packard Standard convertible in the oscar-winning movie 'Carol' shot in Cincinnati.
In 2005-2006 I restored that car for (and at) the Packard Museum, I only did body and Chassis, others did the Mechanicals -brakes engines ..and others did the interior.. but I did the body.
Actress Marra Rooney (sp?) And Cate Blanchett ride around in it .. it's the green Packard convertible.. but I should warn you it's a chick flick..!!

I just found a super clean Ultra nice 2010 Lucerne, 63k Miles !! That was hit in the side. Only needed 2 doors Drivers side, Unbolt the bent doors, bolt on used doors of the same color.. I'm going to document this in the forum for repairing Buicks.. Love this Lucerne !
Welcome aboard! And thank you for signing up. I'm glad you found us! Congratulations on your new Buick Lucerne! Is this car replacing anything? Or just something new to work on and perfect? I see your discussion here and I'll be watching. 🙂
D
Last reply · posted in 2011-2017 Buick Regal / Regal GS Forum
How hard it is to switch out the a/c Compressor
2 Replies · 256 views
ulycyc
Enter in your exact model and find AC compressor remove and repair/replace.

D
Thanks so much. Huge help
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