Which Year

[FXR_1340]

I dont want to start a slanging match, but I am interested in the groups view on the best years to look for on a LeSabre and why?

After some research I favour 1995 - 2005. Dont ask me why coz I dont know🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️ Those years just gives me a "warm, fuzzy feeling"

 

[02LTD2.0]

For overall build quality 1996-1999.
Aesthetically 2000-2005

 

[RD_Atlanta]

For overall build quality 1996-1999.
Aesthetically 2000-2005

I like the 2000-2005 years. Within that range, I would prefer the 2003-2005 but they are all good in my view. To me, installing the battery under the rear seat on the 2000-2005 was a huge plus (the battery last longer due to getting it away from the engine heat and frees up space under the hood.
There is a definite downside which is the dash pad will come unglued from the plastic frame its glued to, once it detaches, it's not pretty to look at but it doesn't really hurt anything functionally (but it really does look bad). I have a 2003, 2004 & 2005. I've removed the dash pad on all (3) and drilled holes along the length of the front edge (where it will come unglued) and installed short self tapping screws (rivets also work well, there is room for either). After doing that, it will never detach.
Here are a couple of helpful video links for R&R the dash pad & installing rivets (again short self tapping screws worked fine for me). If GM had wrapped the vinyl around the edge of the plastic support frame and used a little more adhesive, it probably would have not been a problem but they all fail.

One foot note: The vertical bracket in the center of the dash pad is real PITA to remove (as is shown in the first video), you can get it but it does take patience. I chose to leave this bracket out because it's so difficult to work with and the dash stays in place fine with the hold down screws.

 

[FXR_1340]

I like the 2000-2005 years. Within that range, I would prefer the 2003-2005 but they are all good in my view. To me, installing the battery under the rear seat on the 2000-2005 was a huge plus (the battery last longer due to getting it away from the engine heat and frees up space under the hood.
There is a definite downside which is the dash pad will come unglued from the plastic frame its glued to, once it detaches, it's not pretty to look at but it doesn't really hurt anything functionally (but it really does look bad). I have a 2003, 2004 & 2005. I've removed the dash pad on all (3) and drilled holes along the length of the front edge (where it will come unglued) and installed short self tapping screws (rivets also work well, there is room for either). After doing that, it will never detach.
Here are a couple of helpful video links for R&R the dash pad & installing rivets (again short self tapping screws worked fine for me). If GM had wrapped the vinyl around the edge of the plastic support frame and used a little more adhesive, it probably would have not been a problem but they all fail.

One foot note: The vertical bracket in the center of the dash pad is real PITA to remove (as is shown in the first video), you can get it but it does take patience. I chose to leave this bracket out because it's so difficult to work with and the dash stays in place fine with the hold down screws.

Thanks. The advice and experience contained in your response is most welcomed.🙂

 

[02LTD2.0]

Regarding the dash pads in 2000 to 2005 I find it interesting that the warping is confined to the LeSabre and doesn't seem to happen to the Pontiac Bonneville.

 

[RD_Atlanta]

That's a good point, I haven't looked at the Bonneville dash. Setting this issue aside, I should have added the reason that I own the 2000-2005 LeSabre's is I think they are very practical cars to own that are easy to work on. Below are some other items that I could add to the pros and cons list but these items are not peculiar to the LeSabre for those who like to get deeper into the weeds.
1. The 4T65e transmission (again not peculiar to the LeSabre) has issues which can be worked around to help them to have a longer life.
- I installed a separate cooler for the transmission. It's controversial if these help the trans last longer but I think they do and its not difficult to install.
- I installed a 'TransGo Shift Kit 4T65E' shift kit. More specifically, I only installed stronger 1-2 & 2-3 accumulator springs & piston travel limits (both are accessible through the pan. I recommend taking the time to make those two pistons fit well & float freely. These are not difficult to install, you just need to take your time and be organized.
- I prefer to spend a little extra and install a pan with a drain plug.
All the above can be done on a Saturday.
- Finally on the transmission, I prefer to use tuning software like Jet, HPT or EFILive (I prefer Jet) and fine tune the transmission shift points and shift timing.
2. The headliner cloth will have to be replaced (as with all cars). I used to install these myself but I'm older now and I pay a local guy who is younger and more capable to install it than I am these days.
3. The rear air shocks will eventually leak. I used to replace the air shocks but this last time, I paid $10 more for a set of spring loaded shocks. I pulled the compressor fuse (under the back seat) and left the compressor & pneumatic lines in place. This way, if the next owner prefers the air suspension system, it's all in place. After trying the spring loaded shocks, I've decided this is the style that I prefer, so I will convert my other (2) LeSabre's when they inevitably start to leak. Either rear shock type are easy to install.