Several Questions with the 02...

[Turbosax2005]

My 02 LeSabre is quikly approaching 140k miles, and for the most part she rides and drives like she did when i bought her with 64k. However, as she gets older she is starting to show her age just a little and I have a few questions.

1. The Fuel Level Sensor has gone kaput, I read the Common Problems article on how to do it and am planning on doing it at some point this summer, I know it isn't in the same area but should I just go ahead and do the Fuel Filter as well since I am working on the fuel system? It has not been replaced since I've bought the car and I figure it couldn't hurt.

2. There is an occasional clunk and squeak coming from the front end while I am driving down the road, when I go over bumps in the road. I doubt it is the ISS because the car will if anything squeak when it turns but it doesn't clunk. The car had both front springs replaced in January, but not the shocks because I didn't have the money at the time. Could it be the shocks going out or is it a bushing in the front end that is worn and due to be replaced?

3. I also read the Common Problems article on the fogging of the headlights and I'm a little confused, the lights are smooth, but it does not look like there are any cracks that I can see in them, so I have no idea if I can fix them or if they are toast.


Any thoughts are appreciated! I'll try to get some pictures taken tomorrow and put them up in the Rides section to show her off.

[MrT]

I have a 2002 Bonneville SLE and the fuel filter is under the rear of the car on the driver's side just forward of the gas tank. I would replace the fuel filter, it is an inexpensive item. I paid $12 at my local NAPA store. I am an old timer (60 yrs old) and I replace fuel filters every two years, I do not let them go over 40k miles. I assume that the fuel filter is located in a similar spot on your Buick.

If your front end noise is not the ISS, then check the front struts and strut mounts. While your under the front end, look for obvious problems with the front suspension joints, bolts etc. Check your streering rack also. That noise could be from a number of things. I would start with the front strut mounts.

I have never had to do the light assemblies on my Bonneville.

Good luck.

[00Beast]

#1: Yes. I did a write-up in Techinfo. I replace mine yearly.

#2: Check for a worn out sway-bar link, and give everything a thorough inspection.

#3: The outer layer on them is what gets cloudy and yellow. You need to remove that layer and seal them.