For the 1982 Buick LeSabre with the 5.7L 8-cylinder Diesel (Engine Code N), the engine oil capacity is 7 quarts (including filter replacement). Recommended viscosities include 10W-30 for temperatures below 16°C, 15W-40 for -18 to 16°C, and 30 weight for continuous driving above 0°C. AMSOIL recommends using Signature Series 10W-30 Max-Duty Diesel Oil paired with an AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO64-EA).
What oil does a 1982 Buick LeSabre 5.7L Diesel take?
The 1982 Buick LeSabre with the 5.7L 8-cylinder Engine Code N requires an oil grade of CF. The specific viscosity depends on your operating environment: use 10W-30 for temperatures below 16°C, 15W-40 for temperatures between -18 to 16°C, and a 30 weight oil is preferred for continuous driving when temperatures are above 0°C.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the vehicle specifications, AMSOIL provides high-performance synthetic options for your diesel engine and transmission systems to ensure longevity and efficiency.
Engine Oil & Filter Kits
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| Signature Series 5W-30 Max-Duty Diesel Oil | DHDQT-EA |
| Signature Series 10W-30 Max-Duty Diesel Oil | DTTQT-EA |
| Heavy-Duty 10W-30 Synthetic Diesel Oil | ADNQT-EA |
| AMSOIL Oil Filter | EAO64-EA |
Coolant & Transmission Fluids
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze/Coolant | ANTPC1G-EA |
| Propylene Glycol Antifreeze & Coolant | ANT1G-EA |
| Signature Series Fuel-Efficient ATF | ATLPK-EA |
| OE Fuel-Efficient ATF | OTLQT-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications
| Viscosity Range | Condition |
|---|---|
| 10W-30 | Below 16°C |
| 15W-40 | -18 to 16°C |
| 30 | Above 0°C (Preferred for continuous driving) |
Oil Specification: CF
Engine Oil Capacity & Torque
| Component | Capacity/Torque |
|---|---|
| Total Oil Capacity | 7 quarts (with filter) |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 30 ft/lbs |
Note: Always check the oil level after refilling.
How much transmission fluid does it take?
Capacity varies depending on your specific automatic transmission model (THM series). All listed models have been updated from Dexron II or III to Dexron VI per manufacturer technical service bulletins.
Transmission Capacity Details
| Transmission Model | Total Fill | Initial Fill |
|---|---|---|
| THM250C (3-speed) | 10.8 quarts | 4 quarts |
| THM350C (3-speed) | 10 quarts | 3 quarts |
| THM325-4L (4-speed) | 10 quarts | 3.2 quarts |
| THM200-4R (4-speed) | 11 quarts | 5 quarts |
Coolant Specifications
The cooling system capacity for this vehicle is 18 quarts. AMSOIL offers both pre-mix and concentrated options to maintain engine temperature and protect internal components.
| Product Type | Formulation |
|---|---|
| ANTPC1G-EA | Ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix |
| ANT1G-EA | Concentrated (requires mixing with distilled or high-quality water) |
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
Maintaining a vintage diesel engine requires addressing specific lubrication challenges common to early 1980s GM technology.
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Wear | Diesel engines face high pressure and friction. | DTTQT-EA | Delivers up to 6X more wear protection. | Requires regular oil changes. |
| Contaminants | Small particles can cause abrasive wear. | EAO64-EA | 99% efficiency at 20 microns. | Filter must be replaced per interval. |
| Extreme Temps | Viscosity changes can affect lubrication. | DHDQT-EA | Excels in extreme temperatures. | Not a substitute for proper viscosity selection. |
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
- Fuel System: Regular inspection of fuel filters is critical for diesel longevity.
- Cooling System: Verify coolant specifications to prevent corrosion in older engine blocks.
- Oil Level: After every oil refill, always check the oil level manually.
- Thermal Management: Because these engines have distinct thermal requirements compared to gasoline counterparts, verify all fluid specifications via a workshop manual.
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
NHTSA research indicates one recall for this model year:
- Campaign 82V012000: Related to the Fuel Injection System. The governor weight retainer in the injection pump may fail, potentially causing the throttle valve to stick. The remedy involves dealer replacement of the governor weight assembly at no cost.
Note: Owners should always verify open recalls by VIN through an authorized dealer or the NHTSA website.
NHTSA Complaint Note: One owner report was noted regarding “Vehicle Speed Control,” specifically that cruise control might disengage while braking. Please note that NHTSA complaints are owner reports and should not be treated as verified defects.
About this vehicle
The 1982 Buick LeSabre represents a specific era in General Motors’ history, where the Buick division was positioned as a premium brand offering full-size vehicles designed for comfort and utility. The LeSabre nameplate has historically served as Buick’s entry-level full-size offering across multiple generations.
This specific model is equipped with a 5.7L 8-cylinder diesel engine (Engine Code N). Owners of this vintage diesel should prioritize the integrity of the fuel system and glow plug functionality. Given the age of these vehicles, maintenance research should focus on cooling system efficiency and ensuring that all lubrication meets the distinct requirements of early 1980s GM diesel technology. Because these engines have different thermal and lubrication needs than gasoline models, diligent fluid verification is essential for long-term reliability.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the oil capacity for my 1982 Buick LeSabre Diesel?
The engine requires 7 quarts of oil when performing a change that includes the filter.
Which AMSOIL oil is best for extreme temperatures?
AMSOIL Signature Series Max-Duty Diesel Oils, such as DTTQT-EA, are designed to excel in extreme temperatures and maintain proper viscosity.
Does my transmission need Dexron VI?
Yes. The manufacturer’s technical service bulletin has updated the specification from Dexron II or III to Dexron VI for these automatic transmissions.
How often should I change my diesel oil?
While AMSOIL products like the Signature Series allow you to confidently extend drain intervals, you should always follow the guidance in your specific workshop manual.
What should I check regarding my cooling system?
You should verify coolant specifications to prevent corrosion and ensure the capacity (18 quarts) is maintained with a proper mix like AMSOIL’s 50/50 pre-mix.
Is there a recall on my 1982 LeSabre diesel?
There is a known recall regarding the fuel injection pump governor weight assembly. You should verify your specific VIN with a dealer to see if this applies to your vehicle.
Disclaimer: Not all information provided has been verified by the manufacturer. Always consult your owner’s manual or a certified mechanic before performing maintenance.