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Depends on the situation. I did the calculations and the cost of maintaining my old Mazda6 would have been equal to my new car (including trade-in on the Mazda.) Insurance cost is the same.
@newcarpathia9422 they won’t listen. They are probably looking at a 2015 with 200k miles for $12k. Or a 2007 with 250k for $6k. Don’t worry guys they’ll run forever. Well played
@@snackler6102 have fun replacing that catalytic converter and exhaust system. And be a friend to the earth and don’t straight pipe with your cheap arse. Lmfao
In 2016, I hit a deer in my 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis LS. At that time the car had 325,000 miles and was going to need $1,800.00 in work to make it roadworthy again. There was no way I could replace that car for that money, so I opted to repair it. That was almost 8 years ago and it still runs perfectly. Now, I bought that car almost new and have owned it for almost 30 years and I know how it has been treated. So, what are you waiting for? GREAT VIDEO!
I have two Grand Marquis. A 2006 I've had for 11 years, which now had 381,000 miles, and a 2007, that I bought 6 months ago, with 36,000 miles on it. Best later model cars ever made. A '65 Galaxie or Impala would be easier and cheaper to keep going, because they are so much simpler and have no computer garbage on them.
Im a Toyota guy and I daily drive a 02 LeSabre. These older buicks with the 3.8s are one of the best bangs for your buck. Comfortable, fuel efficient and very DIY friendly, plus parts are plentiful and affordable. Ive been very pleased with mine. Not the best looking car on the road but they are extremely reliable
My 2005 Honda CRV has 291,000 miles on it. It's my daily driver and I commute 32 miles each way to work and back! Never left me stranded on the road. Best car I've ever owned by far.
Just a week ago I bought it for 1800 dollars here in Israel, as soon as I bought it I took it to a workshop, I spent about 2 thousand dollars and fixed all the leaks and problems. The only thing I haven't done yet was a restoration of the steering comb and it needs 2 new front shock absorbers which will cost me another $1000 I think.It's my first car and I got it as a bargain when I saw that a daddy's boy posted it for a very cheap price. I couldn't resist. It was either this one or a Citroen C4 in even worse condition. 😂
Mrs Wizard showed me everything I needed to know about the car....When the cruise control button numbers are worn off , it means the car spent most of its life in 4th or 5th gear at 1800 rpm..Highway driving is easy on the vehicle and nothing but bearings and a few wear parts.... It's a keeper
Or compare the cost of repair to the amount of depreciation on a new car. First year depreciation on even a $25k new car will _far_ exceed a $2,000 repair bill. ... Think more in the order of $6k-$8k. 😢
I have a 2007 Lucerne CX . It's in pretty decent shape and only has 98000 miles on it. Judging by this video, I think I am set for quite a few years..😊
Any car reviewer will tell you that you never save money by buying up. Since this car is otherwise in good shape it is definitely worth spending the money.
3.8 V6 and good bodywork is all you need. Spend 2-3k on refreshing suspension and give a full 100,000 service, clean her up, and its better than having a new car depreciating on you.
I so much agree. Such a good use of $2k. This is a nice car and deserves the maintenance to make it 100%. The taxes and insurance are probably quite low too. This car Ali's a great way to be able to drive comfortably for very low cost.
In addition to the engine, the Lucerne was one of the cars where GM started to get really serious about meaningfully improving their build quality - the panel fit, assembly tolerances, paint finish were all really top-notch on them, and the interior materials were much better than what we were used to from them. Also had insulated glass to muffle outside noise and double thickness rubber motor and transmission mounts to cushion vibration, and a layer of sound deadening insulation laminated between the steel roof pillars. Not the sexiest or most exciting looking car by a long shot, but well made, durable, and very comfortable. Also, I'd argue the bland styling has aged better than trendier ones, it just kind of blends in with traffic rather than really standing out as being old.
The paint peeled off of mine, panels looked like they were cut out by elementary school children. It was reliable but something was always broken. Quiet tune was no joke though. It was the quietest cabin I've ever had.
The quintessential old person's car. A couple grand to fix it versus a car payment they'll probably not live to see the end of. Buick designed these cars for old people. Very simple inside, lots of room, comfortable, easy to get in and out of, not a lot of complicated technology, reliable. They're really a great used value if you are on a budget and need a reliable car that will last. Also not expensive to maintain or fix.
You are so right, just last week I offered up a 2009 lacrosse with 65k to a friend for $6000 and he didn’t think it was a good deal, he was worried about the mileage. As a daily driver for a 72 year old man that car was going to last him for the rest of his life. I’m glad he turned me down because he has a record of poor maintenance and I’d hate seeing that car neglected
There’s people that own these older Buicks with 3.8 and swear by it over a Camry from any year. I’d say worth it, since you know what you’re fixing rather than having to go to used market where it’s a toss up of the condition.
Putting $1600 in a 243K Camry currently. Little bit of tuneup but mainly suspension and brakes. Runs so good I cannot hear it run. Those 3.8 are one of GMs better engines.
First of all, if you like the car & know it's history, keep it. Second, give the Buick a decent wash. It's still winter, no sense detailing it until the weather breaks. A clean car makes me feel better. Lastly, pat yourself on the back for only spending $2K compared to buying something else that would include maybe payments, state sales tax (Michigan is 6%), higher car insurance & other unknown expenses. I've got a 14-year-old car that I'm shooting for 500K miles & have never spent over an annual budget of $2K or $167 a month.
I had a 3800 in an '89 Bonneville when I was in high school and college. Great car that was so easy to work on. Actually coasted it into the parking lot of an auto parts store one time and changed the alternator in under an hour.
That's awesome. I had a '90 for years and I drove it to over 350K miles before the subframe fell out on the driver side due to severe rust. It still ran and drove that way! I parted it out for my '90 Ninety Eight and sent it off. This Ninety Eight is a great car too.
This is the 3.8 Ecotec V6 we have here in Australia in our Holden Commodores. Brilliant engine as long as you change the oil every 5-7,000 kilometers. Rebuild this guys car & why not!
My family is currently getting our 2012 grand caravan with 222k miles fixed, same logic. I had a LeSabre and it was amazing, definitely getting another Buick one day
@@JOHNJ0HN9111 Pretty sure they phased out their 3.8 several years prior to 2012....Chrysler / Jeep corrected the 3.6 in 2014 onward to be bulletproof.
In my opinion miles are just a number if the cars in good shape and there’s no rust or engine and transmission problems. Putting in a little extra money to keep the car going is the way to go. High miles dosnt always tell the state of the vehicle.
I look at it like this, especially with European cars, if you've got it still running past 100-150K, that means you (and/or previous owners) have taken good care of it and done proper maintenance.
This is why I usually buy high mileage cars with good service histories. I remember fixing up an old Subaru I had in 2020, a 2002 Outback with the H6. It had 268,000 miles, but an immaculate interior and exterior. It needed a timing chain assembly and some other minor things. I did it and it ran as good as new. Nobody who saw it could guess that it had almost 300k. And that car wasn't as easy to work on as this (the engine not so much, although everything else was a breeze), but it wasn't bad. These 2000s cars will easily be on the road for another 20 years at this rate.
I was expecting the interior and leather to be thrashed but it’s in remarkable condition. $2000 for all of the work you did is a good value. You guys did a lot. This car is ready to go another 200k or more.
the sad part is because of the age one jerk bumps you from behind insurance writes it off so easily , i had one guy that brought his car into my shop he had one of these , he loved it! he used it to go job hunting until a city bus hit him, now he takes the bus to go job hunting
And you immediately reminded me of what happened to mine last April; the taillights, rear crash bar, rear tail panel, rear bumper wiring harness (mine has rear parking assist, and miraculously it escaped damage!) and trunk lid are no longer available new from GM, so my insurance instantly totaled it. But I was smart and retained salvage on it and fixed it myself using junkyard parts; it’s not totally perfect but the trunk closes, the parking assist still functions perfectly, and the trunk stays mostly dry (during heavy rain it will leak a little bit.) and the best part is that it still has a clean Tennessee title!
I bought my 1998 (built in December 97) Lincoln Town Car 25 foot stretch limousine in March of 2023, with 320,3xx miles on it, for $3900. Drove it for a full month all day doing Uber Eats during April, and then parked it while I saved up. I've put myself in automotive school, and so far I've spent $770 on parts, and done all of the repairs myself; -oil pan/gasket -oil pump / pickup tube with screen (not broken but preventative) -all 8 spark plugs, and right now replaced 2 dead coils, will replace the rest as preventative soon -4 new tires -front row passenger seat belt side mount -one headlight bulb (they work but are uselessly dim, I will replace the other soon) -Both tail lights off a salvage yard town car (they both worked but were cracked and unsightly) There is still a few more things it needs to be reliable long term, but I've had so much fun with this car and currently sits at 321,9xx miles, and is about to return to daily driving next month, as a road trip/camping vehicle, and as a chauffeur vehicle for my clients and and a daily driver!!
Just spent 3k on a 04 Silverado 5.3 v8 with 242k miles. Same question, but answer is its been incredibly reliable picup. Half the repairs i would have done myself in the past but im 73 now. The average cost of repairs were it had to go into a shop over 19 years has been 340$ per year including a complete rebuild of the air, its florida and runs 90% of the time. Priced new trucks, 40 to 50k !! Hope when the time comes i can find a 5 year old car with a great reputation.
Best years trucks . Dont buy new ones terrible now We got over 400k out of a 5.3 and 6.0 LS engine in work trucks . Transmission went on one at 190k pulling heavy trailers . Fuel pump in tank and wheel hubs bearings . Cheap easy to fix .
I just sold my 04 z71 with a bad head gasket for 7k! The older chevy's are pure gold. Parts are abundant and cheap! Try shopping around for a truck and we'll nobody can afford
@@BigjohnZ06 If it is in a Lucern should be past 2005. so The NorthStars should not have head gasket problems or at least not as bad. I’m pretty sure you just got to deal with oil leaks more then head gaskets.
@@mrtyreus0if your gonna get a Lucerne with the v8 northstar verses the v6 engine .. you might as well upgrade to the Cadillac dts both cars were built on same line in hamtramk, Mi… if your trying to go cheaper just get the v6 Lucerne..
My dad has one of these, an '07 with the Northstar. It has 208k miles on it, and while it has some leaks and needs struts [going to replace the Magnaride with regular ones] it is a very good, quiet and well made car. I'd like a 3.8 version as a daily. The Northstar in these is less problematic compared to the earlier ones before the head stud update, but they are tight to work around
I work with a guy who has one of these. It has 400k miles, and the guy beats it to shit. The exhaust doesn't work, half the door panels are missing, with writing that says "please kill me" on the bare metal. I love that thing.
A decent used car will cost double that amount with unknown problems, if it's reliable other than the known repairs needed then it's absolutely worth it.
I got a 1999 Buick Regal With the 3800 V6 they are good cars I’ve always liked Buick cars they are really comfortable and nice I love this car it gets good gas mileage 23 mpg. 😊
My 2001 Chevy Express has 290K on it, over 2 years I have put over 10k into it, the cost of finding a good running Chevy Express conversion van is over $25k, plus you are buying another person problems. I'd rather get everything fixed on mine knowing its been repaired then inherit someone else's basket case. This owner made the right call.
I had a 1999 Monte Carlo Z34 with the 3800 v6. It had over 250,000 miles when I sold it and was still running strong with only minor repairs done like Alternator. Great engines.
I would keep it. My wife's 2008 Lexus IS 250 needed a new alternator and radiator. It was $1700.00. The shop said that the car is in solid condition. I told them that she was looking into replacing it with a 2017 to a 2021 Lexus. He said that he would not do that. His argument was that we've had the car since new, and we know it's history. Even though you want to get another Lexus, it doesn't mean that it won't have its own problems. Someone just brought their 2019 70K mile Lexus in for a new transmission for $10,0000. I with the Buick owners. Keep it.
Thank you for the video Car Wizard. You are correct about the 3800 V6 in many GM cars. I own two Oldsmobiles( 98 and Toronado) with this engine. There are so many GM C, H, and W Bodies that used this engine from Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile and Buick. Holden at GM in Australia used this engine as well in Commodore, Statesman and Caprice. I had to replace the water pump and the pipes/tubes in 2022. I know what you said is indeed true about this job. I also changed over to metal tubes/pipes too. That Lucerne is in great shape as well.
My dad recently had about $2k of work done on the rocker panels of his supercharged GTP with over 300k miles on it recently. Was well worth it to him too. He loves that car.
Something not mentioned (or I missed it) is how well it was maintained mechanically. Original owner, likes that car, has kept it up not just fix when broken...not even a question. Probably paid off 10 years ago at least. $2k per year set aside to keep up isn't bad imo. I'd probably refresh the engine/trans at this point.
Whether it’s worth the investment of the $2k depends on the car wizzard’s opinion of the overall condition. You get another say 2 years it’s worth it. Every year after that is a bonus.
love the 3.8s. their easy to work on. i have a few customers with the 3.8 in them and they run pretty well.. not with that many miles but around160-230k miles
09-11’s the 3.8 went to the 3.9.., how has this car done for you?? I like the 10&11’ Lucerne’s cause they redid the front clip and grill and they have fog lights in them last 2 years … think they just put the csx ( v8 northstar car) front end on it… only way you got fog lights on Lucerne’s from 06-09 was with the v8 car .. all v6 cars front ends were different till 2010.. then the v6 cars had fogs front clip.. last 2 years. Nice car always liked them
Yeah my 09 has the 3.9 I've had both and 3.9 haven't had any problems I bought it with 116,000 and now got 166,000 still runs great no problems whatsoever
@@larrytorrez7079 thanks for chiming in.. I have been looking at Lucerne’s awhile now for a 2nd car and don’t know much about the 3.9 that started in 09-11… I know gm switched to the 3.6 motor for almost all their platforms and have heard horror stories. about them high efficiency engines…
Definitely worth $2k in repairs. Car shopping in 2022, based on the Car Wizard's recommendations, I looked for an older Toyota/Lexus but not many were available and prices were high. Truth be told, what I REALLY wanted was one of the many GM models with the 3800 V6 (I got, funnily enough, a 2007 Buick Lucerne, though it's the el cheapo CX trim). It's got a stuck thermostat, but other than that it has 123k miles and runs perfectly.
You did see that 2 nuts and 20 minutes gets that thermostat changed? test the new one in boiling water to make sure it opens (and closes after you take it out of the water).
When you get put out of action 2 hours from home with a stuck CLOSED thermostat it reminds you about how easily a bad spring can bring you to a screeching halt (after that experience, I wanted to buy a Porsche 911 with the air-cooled flat-6). I also didn't know until watching this video where the thermostat housing was. I was planning to look for it, but the Car Wizard saved me the trouble.
I agree- definitely worth fixing- if it was rusting away, that would be a different story- $2 grand for many more miles vs ~$45K for a new car (of course depending on what it is), and a whole new set of variables. Fix and drive.
Yes, cheaper than a new car payment and it is infinitely better than the new junk that is being produced. Purchased my 1997 F150 for $300. Owner said it was a project and didn't run. Well, lo and behold it fired right up once I got the keys. 165,000 miles later, with the original engine and transmission, it currently has 300,000 miles on it and is still running like a top. When I got the truck it needed a windshield and upper and lower control arms as well as spark plugs and plug wires. All in all, a worthwhile investment.
❤Those Buicks are great. I’ve got two ‘08 Lucerne’s and an ‘06 Allure. Myself, my wife and son just drive the hell out of them. Very easy to maintain indeed.
You will never get ahead making payments on any car, over repairing the one you have. Didn't matter if it's thousands of dollars. You own it outright. Also " new" cars have issues too
I have an 06 lacrosse with only 75,000 miles that’s leaking from the timing cover in the exact same spot. Because of the leak, I parked the car for awhile. Decided to go for a drive cause I had left it sitting for 2 months…. and the water pump locked up. That was a long day. It’s been raining a lot here in Arizona, I’ve been waiting for the weather to warm up a bit so I can tackle that job.
Depends on how reliable the vehicle is before I would dump money into it. I currently own 2 vehicles with 400k on them and spent probably 3 to 4k on each. My daily driver is a 1997 Toyota Camry XLE V6 with the 1MZ-FE Engine I bought in February 2023 for $1,500. Had 360,000 Miles when I bought it since then I have rebuilt the entire suspension, things like CV axles, Struts, shock's wheel bearings, steering knuckles, inner outter tie rods etc. Now a year later I currently have 450,000 on it and still is my daily driver. Oil and oil filter is changed every 5,000 miles and transmission fluid is drained and filled every 10,000 miles and filter is changed every 50,000 miles. My other vehicle is a 2000 Chevrolet suburban LS 1500 with the 5.3 and has just about 400,000 on it, same goes with the engine oil and transmission fluid for it.
Thank you so much for the lucerne video..mine has almost 191,000 miles and runs perfectly. I've got years of driving left in that car. Again..thank you for the video.
My 2005 Lexus RX330 has entered the chat😊 20015k and runs like a champ! When it dies we will get another one. We love it that much! Praying the wife’s new 2024 Prius does the same trick👍
A really lovely car. I recently had to retire my 400,000 mile Volvo 240DL wagon. Running like a top, it was the rot in the structure that rendered it too expensive to repair. I replaced it with a 2004 Toyota Carolla with 100,000 miles on the clock. I figure it will last me for a good number of years if i can keep the body from rusting.
So I have a 06 DTS which is the sister car to this for cheap, but it ran. Yes it has the North Star, but the last iteration so I’m not worried about head gaskets or thread problems, but I had to drop the cradle and reseal the bottom end and did almost everything while the engine was dropped, but in the end I have a good car. Thankfully I had access to a shop and did all the work myself. This platform rides so comfortably. Too bad GM doesn’t make a car like this anymore
@@aliendroneservices6621 haven't had an issue with mine but ill definitely keep that in mind. Might be worth adding on when I do valve cover and intake gaskets.
They were overpriced new for what they were though. The 3800 was great... but outdated in 2007, it was an expensive V6 with the power of a 4cyl, although better torque.
I can get nice cars for 2k all day that just need tune ups, i bought my ford escort 99 for 750$ replaced heatsr core myself, did a full tuneup of everything, still need to do timing belt n water pump kit, im at 93k miles and running excellent dont have more than 1400$ into it including title transfer and tags, now my buick century with 113k miles i bought for 850$ and put 2k into it doing tuneup, tires, and lower intake manifold gaskets and its at 121k miles now So 3500$ all together and got 2nice good looking cars fully tuned with no issues and super low miles Forgot to mention the escort had 89,000 exactly when i bought it
Yes, not only "I would", but "I _did!"_ My 2003 Accord CM5 with a K24A had, coincidentally, 360,000 miles on it when I had a 2006-2007 Acura JDM motor installed. The motor cost about $1,200, and installed, it totalled about $3,000, though there was a new clutch installed at the same time.
We have a 2005 Buick Lacrosse with the same engine....only 85,000 miles on it...some quirks related to age but daughter is using it as her commuter car for work and grad school. Grandpa had it so we know the full history....and I can't see buying something newer just yet.
We just had an 06 F250 5.4 in the shop with 500,000km on it, $6500 including discounts and the customer was happy to spend that money because it's been a good truck to them
Yes it is worth the $2,000 and more as with the insane prices of new vehicles as well as a lot of the used - they are all helping to cost justify keeping what you have and fix it - especially if replacing it would involved debt and payments.
YES... I put $15,000 in a 290,000 mile 1968 Chrysler 300 2 door I own..Car looks and runs like new,looks like a show car but I drive it often..I owned it since the 1990's when I was really young lol...The car makes me feel 22 again!
I bought a 2003 Lesabre for 2k. 66 thousand miles and interior and body cleaned and polished to new condition. I did the work. Complete new suspension ,tires, brakes and a replacement trans. Complete tune up and everything that was a simple bolt on was replaced. Have about 6k into it now. It is a new car now. Looks great and rides like a dream.
Am I the only person who likes to take older cars and recondition them? The new cars are mostly rolling piles of junk with fancy computers all over them.
I would put $5k into my 1999 very rare factory Toyota Camry TRD Molly Design stick shift sport car that I put 403,000 miles on it out of the total 407,000 miles now. (I bought it when the Toyota rep returned to the dealer with 4k miles) No engine light just overheat sometimes. The shop told me do not use it anymore due to high mileage. Maybe I ship it to you soon to maintain it so I can put another 100k miles on it!
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Huh
Why would you @Car Wizard want to be doing that on a 2008 BUICK model
🤔 😶 😮
What do you think of the Pontiac torrent? @CarWizard
Car wizard I have a 2011 Lucerne I love it it has 186k curious as to what you think about the 3.9l I've never heard you speak on this engine
It beats a new car payment
2k is just 2 or 3 car payments and you have a paid off vehicle
@@clayornelas7537 Exactly and insurance is a lot cheaper and Parts sure are cheaper
Depends on the situation. I did the calculations and the cost of maintaining my old Mazda6 would have been equal to my new car (including trade-in on the Mazda.) Insurance cost is the same.
@newcarpathia9422 they won’t listen. They are probably looking at a 2015 with 200k miles for $12k. Or a 2007 with 250k for $6k. Don’t worry guys they’ll run forever. Well played
@@snackler6102 have fun replacing that catalytic converter and exhaust system. And be a friend to the earth and don’t straight pipe with your cheap arse. Lmfao
It has the 3.8, it looks good, it’s still not over 20 years old.
Only 2k? Yeah I’d do it
That’s a no brainer. Best V6 engine ever made; well, Domestic Wise that is.
$2K is fine if it 'really gets fixed'
Best car it went in was the Pontiac Bonneville.@@boogitybear2283
I agree William especially if the wizard is doing the work.
@@joecifelli1253Came to say this
In 2016, I hit a deer in my 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis LS. At that time the car had 325,000 miles and was going to need $1,800.00 in work to make it roadworthy again. There was no way I could replace that car for that money, so I opted to repair it. That was almost 8 years ago and it still runs perfectly. Now, I bought that car almost new and have owned it for almost 30 years and I know how it has been treated. So, what are you waiting for? GREAT VIDEO!
How many miles now?
I have two Grand Marquis. A 2006 I've had for 11 years, which now had 381,000 miles, and a 2007, that I bought 6 months ago, with 36,000 miles on it. Best later model cars ever made. A '65 Galaxie or Impala would be easier and cheaper to keep going, because they are so much simpler and have no computer garbage on them.
3:49
Nice
@@513SBF 497,000 miles and it purrs like a kitten. Easily one of the best cars I have EVER owned.
Im a Toyota guy and I daily drive a 02 LeSabre. These older buicks with the 3.8s are one of the best bangs for your buck. Comfortable, fuel efficient and very DIY friendly, plus parts are plentiful and affordable. Ive been very pleased with mine. Not the best looking car on the road but they are extremely reliable
I'm a Honda guy, '12 Accord Coupe bought new, zero problems. But I always loved these 3800s, and I think these older Buicks look good.
I got 289k on my 2000 4Runner 3.4 5vzfe motor ! Best engine ever ! Lifted 5 inches on 33 inch Mickey Thompson tires!
My 2005 Honda CRV has 291,000 miles on it. It's my daily driver and I commute 32 miles each way to work and back! Never left me stranded on the road. Best car I've ever owned by far.
@@SammyKurts-ku2ht i have a 01 4runner with 210k and i absolutely love it. Favorite vehicle ive owned!!
Just a week ago I bought it for 1800 dollars here in Israel, as soon as I bought it I took it to a workshop, I spent about 2 thousand dollars and fixed all the leaks and problems. The only thing I haven't done yet was a restoration of the steering comb and it needs 2 new front shock absorbers which will cost me another $1000 I think.It's my first car and I got it as a bargain when I saw that a daddy's boy posted it for a very cheap price. I couldn't resist. It was either this one or a Citroen C4 in even worse condition. 😂
Mrs Wizard showed me everything I needed to know about the car....When the cruise control button numbers are worn off , it means the car spent most of its life in 4th or 5th gear at 1800 rpm..Highway driving is easy on the vehicle and nothing but bearings and a few wear parts.... It's a keeper
I now measure repairs in Average New Car Payment Units.
$2000 is about 3 units at $750 a month.
Or compare the cost of repair to the amount of depreciation on a new car. First year depreciation on even a $25k new car will _far_ exceed a $2,000 repair bill. ... Think more in the order of $6k-$8k. 😢
For years I've said if a car gives you one month no trouble that's worth 100. Probably 200 today
the funniest is even old mercedes cost fixing less then new car
Thank goodness I don't have monthly payments for a vehicle
@@Draconius1000 Yes, but MB actually used to care in the old days
I have a 2007 Lucerne CX . It's in pretty decent shape and only has 98000 miles on it. Judging by this video, I think I am set for quite a few years..😊
No. I would sell it to Hoovie for $5000 instead.
Influencers make money on everything.
Lol
solid
Lol 😮
Well played, good sir!
Any car reviewer will tell you that you never save money by buying up. Since this car is otherwise in good shape it is definitely worth spending the money.
Absolutely
I would keep it running. Can barely buy anything good for $2000 anymore
Can get another one with lower kms for another 2k or so
@@nicholas440No telling how that other car was treated.
@@nicholas440 Yeah but it's going to be beat to crap and probably have an accident or two on record.
@@nicholas440You clearly aren’t from America. Even a non running vehicle will cost more than 2k.
@@jawshyy nah I'm Canadian. I bought my 09 Chrysler 300c with the 5.7 Hemi for $4500. That was 3 years ago and it's still around.
3.8 V6 and good bodywork is all you need. Spend 2-3k on refreshing suspension and give a full 100,000 service, clean her up, and its better than having a new car depreciating on you.
That $2-3k in suspension work will go another 150-200k miles. Plus some routine fluid changes and the like.
How about the transmissions?
I so much agree. Such a good use of $2k. This is a nice car and deserves the maintenance to make it 100%.
The taxes and insurance are probably quite low too. This car Ali's a great way to be able to drive comfortably for very low cost.
In addition to the engine, the Lucerne was one of the cars where GM started to get really serious about meaningfully improving their build quality - the panel fit, assembly tolerances, paint finish were all really top-notch on them, and the interior materials were much better than what we were used to from them. Also had insulated glass to muffle outside noise and double thickness rubber motor and transmission mounts to cushion vibration, and a layer of sound deadening insulation laminated between the steel roof pillars. Not the sexiest or most exciting looking car by a long shot, but well made, durable, and very comfortable. Also, I'd argue the bland styling has aged better than trendier ones, it just kind of blends in with traffic rather than really standing out as being old.
The paint peeled off of mine, panels looked like they were cut out by elementary school children. It was reliable but something was always broken. Quiet tune was no joke though. It was the quietest cabin I've ever had.
I bought a 94 Regal GS with 280k from a good friend for my daughter, ran flawless, even the A/C blew cold, those engines engines are bulletproof!
The quintessential old person's car. A couple grand to fix it versus a car payment they'll probably not live to see the end of. Buick designed these cars for old people. Very simple inside, lots of room, comfortable, easy to get in and out of, not a lot of complicated technology, reliable. They're really a great used value if you are on a budget and need a reliable car that will last. Also not expensive to maintain or fix.
That's why China loves it...🥰
Why don't you get one?
Old people have learned what works and don't need likes for their self-worth
@@safffff1000 that's what they told ya? Nice 👍
@@safffff1000they just don't drive much so mileage stays low
You are so right, just last week I offered up a 2009 lacrosse with 65k to a friend for $6000 and he didn’t think it was a good deal, he was worried about the mileage. As a daily driver for a 72 year old man that car was going to last him for the rest of his life. I’m glad he turned me down because he has a record of poor maintenance and I’d hate seeing that car neglected
There’s people that own these older Buicks with 3.8 and swear by it over a Camry from any year. I’d say worth it, since you know what you’re fixing rather than having to go to used market where it’s a toss up of the condition.
Better interior than a Camry imo
Exactly
Gm has bad power steering racks from those years
Putting $1600 in a 243K Camry currently. Little bit of tuneup but mainly suspension and brakes. Runs so good I cannot hear it run. Those 3.8 are one of GMs better engines.
im 100% shure thats been replaced by now lol at over 300k miles @@kalashnikov1343
Provided the transmission still has plenty of life left in it I wouldn't hesitate to spend $2k to keep it on the road.
At 360K miles I say spend the $2K. It's been proven to last long. So, $2K will only make it last longer.
First of all, if you like the car & know it's history, keep it. Second, give the Buick a decent wash. It's still winter, no sense detailing it until the weather breaks. A clean car makes me feel better. Lastly, pat yourself on the back for only spending $2K compared to buying something else that would include maybe payments, state sales tax (Michigan is 6%), higher car insurance & other unknown expenses. I've got a 14-year-old car that I'm shooting for 500K miles & have never spent over an annual budget of $2K or $167 a month.
I had a 3800 in an '89 Bonneville when I was in high school and college. Great car that was so easy to work on. Actually coasted it into the parking lot of an auto parts store one time and changed the alternator in under an hour.
That's awesome. I had a '90 for years and I drove it to over 350K miles before the subframe fell out on the driver side due to severe rust. It still ran and drove that way! I parted it out for my '90 Ninety Eight and sent it off. This Ninety Eight is a great car too.
I drove an 05 LeSabre with the 3800 on 2800 mile round trip. While not the most exciting car, it was exceedingly comfortable.
This is the 3.8 Ecotec V6 we have here in Australia in our Holden Commodores. Brilliant engine as long as you change the oil every 5-7,000 kilometers. Rebuild this guys car & why not!
My family is currently getting our 2012 grand caravan with 222k miles fixed, same logic. I had a LeSabre and it was amazing, definitely getting another Buick one day
make sure its a 3.8.. the 3.6 and and stuff are junk and i mean junk... you'll see it in the shop more they you'll drive it..
@@JOHNJ0HN9111 ours is the 3.6, and it's been mostly trouble free so far, it's in the shop for emissions and brakes
@@JOHNJ0HN9111 Right
@@JOHNJ0HN9111 Pretty sure they phased out their 3.8 several years prior to 2012....Chrysler / Jeep corrected the 3.6 in 2014 onward to be bulletproof.
In my opinion miles are just a number if the cars in good shape and there’s no rust or engine and transmission problems. Putting in a little extra money to keep the car going is the way to go. High miles dosnt always tell the state of the vehicle.
Yeah miles are just a number. This thing will run till over 3 million miles
I look at it like this, especially with European cars, if you've got it still running past 100-150K, that means you (and/or previous owners) have taken good care of it and done proper maintenance.
This is why I usually buy high mileage cars with good service histories.
I remember fixing up an old Subaru I had in 2020, a 2002 Outback with the H6. It had 268,000 miles, but an immaculate interior and exterior. It needed a timing chain assembly and some other minor things. I did it and it ran as good as new. Nobody who saw it could guess that it had almost 300k. And that car wasn't as easy to work on as this (the engine not so much, although everything else was a breeze), but it wasn't bad.
These 2000s cars will easily be on the road for another 20 years at this rate.
correct the engine is not a wear and tare part.
Totally agree
I was expecting the interior and leather to be thrashed but it’s in remarkable condition. $2000 for all of the work you did is a good value. You guys did a lot. This car is ready to go another 200k or more.
Owning a Buick with a 3.8 and it has over 450,000 miles. I have to agree that it makes sense to fix this one. These engines really are that good.
I would never use better help after they sold off people's personal information. Wizard needs to drop that sponsorship!
I dislike selling out in general. I need to delete YT.
I have a 2005 Chevy suburban with 520,000 miles. Bought it new and I would spend $2,000 on it in a minute.
I drive a 2010 Buick Lacrosse CXL with only 64k on the odometer. I absolutely love this car. 🤓
the sad part is because of the age one jerk bumps you from behind insurance writes it off so easily , i had one guy that brought his car into my shop he had one of these , he loved it! he used it to go job hunting until a city bus hit him, now he takes the bus to go job hunting
And you immediately reminded me of what happened to mine last April; the taillights, rear crash bar, rear tail panel, rear bumper wiring harness (mine has rear parking assist, and miraculously it escaped damage!) and trunk lid are no longer available new from GM, so my insurance instantly totaled it. But I was smart and retained salvage on it and fixed it myself using junkyard parts; it’s not totally perfect but the trunk closes, the parking assist still functions perfectly, and the trunk stays mostly dry (during heavy rain it will leak a little bit.) and the best part is that it still has a clean Tennessee title!
I bought my 1998 (built in December 97) Lincoln Town Car 25 foot stretch limousine in March of 2023, with 320,3xx miles on it, for $3900. Drove it for a full month all day doing Uber Eats during April, and then parked it while I saved up.
I've put myself in automotive school, and so far I've spent $770 on parts, and done all of the repairs myself;
-oil pan/gasket
-oil pump / pickup tube with screen (not broken but preventative)
-all 8 spark plugs, and right now replaced 2 dead coils, will replace the rest as preventative soon
-4 new tires
-front row passenger seat belt side mount
-one headlight bulb (they work but are uselessly dim, I will replace the other soon)
-Both tail lights off a salvage yard town car (they both worked but were cracked and unsightly)
There is still a few more things it needs to be reliable long term, but I've had so much fun with this car and currently sits at 321,9xx miles, and is about to return to daily driving next month, as a road trip/camping vehicle, and as a chauffeur vehicle for my clients and and a daily driver!!
Just spent 3k on a 04 Silverado 5.3 v8 with 242k miles. Same question, but answer is its been incredibly reliable picup. Half the repairs i would have done myself in the past but im 73 now. The average cost of repairs were it had to go into a shop over 19 years has been 340$ per year including a complete rebuild of the air, its florida and runs 90% of the time. Priced new trucks, 40 to 50k !! Hope when the time comes i can find a 5 year old car with a great reputation.
Best years trucks .
Dont buy new ones terrible now
We got over 400k out of a 5.3 and 6.0 LS engine in work trucks .
Transmission went on one at 190k pulling heavy trailers .
Fuel pump in tank and wheel hubs bearings .
Cheap easy to fix .
I just sold my 04 z71 with a bad head gasket for 7k! The older chevy's are pure gold. Parts are abundant and cheap! Try shopping around for a truck and we'll nobody can afford
Lucernes are awesome. Got mine with 67k miles for $4k in 2018. V8, Harmon Karman audio. Great car.
V8? Is that the Northstar? Probably has the Mag Ride too... Literal dream car.
If it's a Northstar V8, it's going to need new head studs or head bolts.
@@BigjohnZ06 If it is in a Lucern should be past 2005. so The NorthStars should not have head gasket problems or at least not as bad. I’m pretty sure you just got to deal with oil leaks more then head gaskets.
@@BigjohnZ06not late 04’ builds ( 2005) and up 05-11 are good they finally went to ls coarse threaded headbolts …
@@mrtyreus0if your gonna get a Lucerne with the v8 northstar verses the v6 engine .. you might as well upgrade to the Cadillac dts both cars were built on same line in hamtramk, Mi… if your trying to go cheaper just get the v6 Lucerne..
My dad has one of these, an '07 with the Northstar. It has 208k miles on it, and while it has some leaks and needs struts [going to replace the Magnaride with regular ones] it is a very good, quiet and well made car. I'd like a 3.8 version as a daily. The Northstar in these is less problematic compared to the earlier ones before the head stud update, but they are tight to work around
I work with a guy who has one of these. It has 400k miles, and the guy beats it to shit. The exhaust doesn't work, half the door panels are missing, with writing that says "please kill me" on the bare metal. I love that thing.
A decent used car will cost double that amount with unknown problems, if it's reliable other than the known repairs needed then it's absolutely worth it.
I got a 1999 Buick Regal With the 3800 V6 they are good cars I’ve always liked Buick cars they are really comfortable and nice I love this car it gets good gas mileage 23 mpg. 😊
Wow, that water pump clock is awesome! Would look great on a shop desk.
My 2001 Chevy Express has 290K on it, over 2 years I have put over 10k into it, the cost of finding a good running Chevy Express conversion van is over $25k, plus you are buying another person problems. I'd rather get everything fixed on mine knowing its been repaired then inherit someone else's basket case. This owner made the right call.
I had a 1999 Monte Carlo Z34 with the 3800 v6. It had over 250,000 miles when I sold it and was still running strong with only minor repairs done like Alternator. Great engines.
My 3.8L impala 2000 still runs like a champ
The Lucerne has aged well imo
I would keep it. My wife's 2008 Lexus IS 250 needed a new alternator and radiator. It was $1700.00. The shop said that the car is in solid condition. I told them that she was looking into replacing it with a 2017 to a 2021 Lexus. He said that he would not do that. His argument was that we've had the car since new, and we know it's history. Even though you want to get another Lexus, it doesn't mean that it won't have its own problems. Someone just brought their 2019 70K mile Lexus in for a new transmission for $10,0000. I with the Buick owners. Keep it.
Thank you for the video Car Wizard. You are correct about the 3800 V6 in many GM cars. I own two Oldsmobiles( 98 and Toronado) with this engine. There are so many GM C, H, and W Bodies that used this engine from Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile and Buick. Holden at GM in Australia used this engine as well in Commodore, Statesman and Caprice. I had to replace the water pump and the pipes/tubes in 2022. I know what you said is indeed true about this job. I also changed over to metal tubes/pipes too. That Lucerne is in great shape as well.
My dad recently had about $2k of work done on the rocker panels of his supercharged GTP with over 300k miles on it recently. Was well worth it to him too. He loves that car.
Something not mentioned (or I missed it) is how well it was maintained mechanically. Original owner, likes that car, has kept it up not just fix when broken...not even a question.
Probably paid off 10 years ago at least. $2k per year set aside to keep up isn't bad imo. I'd probably refresh the engine/trans at this point.
Whether it’s worth the investment of the $2k depends on the car wizzard’s opinion of the overall condition. You get another say 2 years it’s worth it. Every year after that is a bonus.
With the upgrades to the cooling system (which was the 3800's Achilles heel), it will last way more than 2 years if routine maintenance is done.
I hate to be the one to say it, supporting betterhelp is bad, I understand gotta make money, but certain things aren't worth supporting.
Yup, others say look at the online reviews as well... I just skip over that advertising of the RUclipsrs video
love the 3.8s. their easy to work on. i have a few customers with the 3.8 in them and they run pretty well.. not with that many miles but around160-230k miles
Tons of Buick Lasaber's and park avenue's older than that still on the road in my area
Are some mid 90's Camrys around here in good shape.
Got a 09 Buick Lucerne awesome car still runs like a new car and gets average 28 miles mpg
That's pretty good for a V6!
Second Buick I've owned 2000 LeSabre that put 300,000 on and in regular oil changes never used a drop of oil. And no mechanical issues.
09-11’s the 3.8 went to the 3.9.., how has this car done for you?? I like the 10&11’ Lucerne’s cause they redid the front clip and grill and they have fog lights in them last 2 years … think they just put the csx ( v8 northstar car) front end on it… only way you got fog lights on Lucerne’s from 06-09 was with the v8 car .. all v6 cars front ends were different till 2010.. then the v6 cars had fogs front clip.. last 2 years. Nice car always liked them
Yeah my 09 has the 3.9 I've had both and 3.9 haven't had any problems I bought it with 116,000 and now got 166,000 still runs great no problems whatsoever
@@larrytorrez7079 thanks for chiming in.. I have been looking at Lucerne’s awhile now for a 2nd car and don’t know much about the 3.9 that started in 09-11… I know gm switched to the 3.6 motor for almost all their platforms and have heard horror stories. about them high efficiency engines…
Definitely worth $2k in repairs. Car shopping in 2022, based on the Car Wizard's recommendations, I looked for an older Toyota/Lexus but not many were available and prices were high. Truth be told, what I REALLY wanted was one of the many GM models with the 3800 V6 (I got, funnily enough, a 2007 Buick Lucerne, though it's the el cheapo CX trim). It's got a stuck thermostat, but other than that it has 123k miles and runs perfectly.
You did see that 2 nuts and 20 minutes gets that thermostat changed?
test the new one in boiling water to make sure it opens (and closes after you take it out of the water).
When you get put out of action 2 hours from home with a stuck CLOSED thermostat it reminds you about how easily a bad spring can bring you to a screeching halt (after that experience, I wanted to buy a Porsche 911 with the air-cooled flat-6). I also didn't know until watching this video where the thermostat housing was. I was planning to look for it, but the Car Wizard saved me the trouble.
I have a 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis with almost 200000 miles and I just invested nearly $3000.00 dollars in it. Totally worth it.
LOL!!!!!!! SURE....
Panther bodies are very reliable.
I agree- definitely worth fixing- if it was rusting away, that would be a different story- $2 grand for many more miles vs ~$45K for a new car (of course depending on what it is), and a whole new set of variables. Fix and drive.
Yes, cheaper than a new car payment and it is infinitely better than the new junk that is being produced. Purchased my 1997 F150 for $300. Owner said it was a project and didn't run. Well, lo and behold it fired right up once I got the keys. 165,000 miles later, with the original engine and transmission, it currently has 300,000 miles on it and is still running like a top. When I got the truck it needed a windshield and upper and lower control arms as well as spark plugs and plug wires. All in all, a worthwhile investment.
❤Those Buicks are great. I’ve got two ‘08 Lucerne’s and an ‘06 Allure. Myself, my wife and son just drive the hell out of them. Very easy to maintain indeed.
You’re creeping up on 1 million subs!! 😎 awesome and well-earned.
You will never get ahead making payments on any car, over repairing the one you have.
Didn't matter if it's thousands of dollars. You own it outright. Also " new" cars have issues too
Buick 3.8 is all I had to hear. It's worth every penny.
Probably one of the last of the super comfy boat like Buicks
Wouldn't you really rather have a Buick
Watching this made me feel a bit better about being a Lucerne owner… cheers 🙃
Well this definitely makes me feel good about my Grand Prix GTP with 175K miles!
My old park ave had a broken piston and it still ran fine. That engine doesn't die.
If the body/frame is solid, the answer is yes.
Bought a 07 Buick Lucerne 3.8 for 3k a few years ago runs great! Sister didnt blow it up so its a solid vehicle.
Great piece Wizard, enjoyed
I probably will never aford that clock. I have gotto admire her artistry. Congrats from Newfoundland. Wish there were a few more mechanics like you.
My 2007 Lincoln Town Car has over 500,000 miles on it and still going strong.
That car is more reliable than any new car!!
I have an 06 lacrosse with only 75,000 miles that’s leaking from the timing cover in the exact same spot. Because of the leak, I parked the car for awhile. Decided to go for a drive cause I had left it sitting for 2 months…. and the water pump locked up. That was a long day. It’s been raining a lot here in Arizona, I’ve been waiting for the weather to warm up a bit so I can tackle that job.
Depends on how reliable the vehicle is before I would dump money into it. I currently own 2 vehicles with 400k on them and spent probably 3 to 4k on each. My daily driver is a 1997 Toyota Camry XLE V6 with the 1MZ-FE Engine I bought in February 2023 for $1,500. Had 360,000 Miles when I bought it since then I have rebuilt the entire suspension, things like CV axles, Struts, shock's wheel bearings, steering knuckles, inner outter tie rods etc. Now a year later I currently have 450,000 on it and still is my daily driver. Oil and oil filter is changed every 5,000 miles and transmission fluid is drained and filled every 10,000 miles and filter is changed every 50,000 miles. My other vehicle is a 2000 Chevrolet suburban LS 1500 with the 5.3 and has just about 400,000 on it, same goes with the engine oil and transmission fluid for it.
Thank you so much for the lucerne video..mine has almost 191,000 miles and runs perfectly.
I've got years of driving left in that car.
Again..thank you for the video.
Keep an eye on those plastic water pump elbows?
First thing I looked at before I bought it.
It has the upgraded metal ones.
Yes I would. Same as I would always repair a Honda, Toyota, or Lexus - for daily cars. The are practical, reliable and last longer.
My 2005 Lexus RX330 has entered the chat😊 20015k and runs like a champ! When it dies we will get another one. We love it that much! Praying the wife’s new 2024 Prius does the same trick👍
The rubbed off button is the "Set" and "Coast" button. Obviously a lot of highway cruising miles.
Or a GM product that wears off after 10 uses...
I love how your give the facts about that particular GM gem.
A really lovely car. I recently had to retire my 400,000 mile Volvo 240DL wagon. Running like a top, it was the rot in the structure that rendered it too expensive to repair. I replaced it with a 2004 Toyota Carolla with 100,000 miles on the clock. I figure it will last me for a good number of years if i can keep the body from rusting.
Get it undercoated while it's still clean. That will make it way easier to keep rust away.
Have an 05 Lesabre with 473K on it. Keep up on general maintenance and they will get you where you want to be.
So I have a 06 DTS which is the sister car to this for cheap, but it ran. Yes it has the North Star, but the last iteration so I’m not worried about head gaskets or thread problems, but I had to drop the cradle and reseal the bottom end and did almost everything while the engine was dropped, but in the end I have a good car. Thankfully I had access to a shop and did all the work myself. This platform rides so comfortably. Too bad GM doesn’t make a car like this anymore
I would recommend a throttle body clean. My 3.8l needed it. Helped a ton at idle and response of peddle.
And an EGR clean-out (and PVC valve replacement).
@@aliendroneservices6621 haven't had an issue with mine but ill definitely keep that in mind. Might be worth adding on when I do valve cover and intake gaskets.
Any old car that has front split bench seating and column shifter is worth saving since that is not offered anymore unfortunately
These Lucerne's are great sedans from General Motors.
Go buy one
They were overpriced new for what they were though. The 3800 was great... but outdated in 2007, it was an expensive V6 with the power of a 4cyl, although better torque.
the northstar one eh idk
I have a 08 cx trim 3.8l I bought from my aunts estate. It has 78,000 miles it gets 26 mpg solidly. I even have the same color as that one.
I can get nice cars for 2k all day that just need tune ups, i bought my ford escort 99 for 750$ replaced heatsr core myself, did a full tuneup of everything, still need to do timing belt n water pump kit, im at 93k miles and running excellent dont have more than 1400$ into it including title transfer and tags, now my buick century with 113k miles i bought for 850$ and put 2k into it doing tuneup, tires, and lower intake manifold gaskets and its at 121k miles now So 3500$ all together and got 2nice good looking cars fully tuned with no issues and super low miles
Forgot to mention the escort had 89,000 exactly when i bought it
I had a friend who bought a used truck. Just the taxes and plates were more than $1000.
Same with my Dodge. Buying it busted, though, I paid tax on a $13,000 truck and another $3000 or so of parts but not a dime of tax on labor.
I prefer the older looking Buicks the 3/8 are great but body wise I prefer the old ones
Yes, not only "I would", but "I _did!"_ My 2003 Accord CM5 with a K24A had, coincidentally, 360,000 miles on it when I had a 2006-2007 Acura JDM motor installed.
The motor cost about $1,200, and installed, it totalled about $3,000, though there was a new clutch installed at the same time.
That’s a very nice Buick. Lucerne luxury car the parts are not that expensive just the labor.
That's a great deal. Cars are expensive. I've got well over 300k on my 07 expedition still runs great
This car lived an easy 20 years and lived with an owner that cares for it's vehicle. Lovely looking car for such high miles
We have a 2005 Buick Lacrosse with the same engine....only 85,000 miles on it...some quirks related to age but daughter is using it as her commuter car for work and grad school. Grandpa had it so we know the full history....and I can't see buying something newer just yet.
We just had an 06 F250 5.4 in the shop with 500,000km on it, $6500 including discounts and the customer was happy to spend that money because it's been a good truck to them
Yes it is worth the $2,000 and more as with the insane prices of new vehicles as well as a lot of the used - they are all helping to cost justify keeping what you have and fix it - especially if replacing it would involved debt and payments.
YES...
I put $15,000 in a 290,000 mile 1968 Chrysler 300 2 door I own..Car looks and runs like new,looks like a show car but I drive it often..I owned it since the 1990's when I was really young lol...The car makes me feel 22 again!
Even the 1998 Oldsmobile Intrigue had the Buick 3800 for that year only
I bought a 2003 Lesabre for 2k. 66 thousand miles and interior and body cleaned and polished to new condition. I did the work. Complete new suspension ,tires, brakes and a replacement trans. Complete tune up and everything that was a simple bolt on was replaced. Have about 6k into it now. It is a new car now. Looks great and rides like a dream.
Am I the only person who likes to take older cars and recondition them? The new cars are mostly rolling piles of junk with fancy computers all over them.
I do the same within reason.
Not replacing engines/transmissions. Brake lines and spark plugs fine.
I would put $5k into my 1999 very rare factory Toyota Camry TRD Molly Design stick shift sport car that I put 403,000 miles on it out of the total 407,000 miles now. (I bought it when the Toyota rep returned to the dealer with 4k miles) No engine light just overheat sometimes. The shop told me do not use it anymore due to high mileage. Maybe I ship it to you soon to maintain it so I can put another 100k miles on it!
Your customer is correct. Can't replace it for 2k.
I have the same 07 Buick Lucerne CXL. Mine only has 88k on it. Good to see one with that many miles.