Have to Give 1993 Buick Lesabre Gas To Keep Running

1993 Buick Lesabre 3800 v6.
Question: I have to give my car a lot of gas before it takes off. Is it good if i change the transmission filter ? It smells burned and real black but it runs well no skip tick or cut back just what i'm explaining now, just praying I don't need a transmission.


Answer: Well, with the transmission fluid smelling burned and black in color, that is not a good sign. Changing the transmission filter probably wouldn't help much, and in fact may hurt the situation since you have to add new fluid after a filter change. A lot of times, the old fluid and it's sludge and debris is all that is keeping the inside of the transmission together.

A transmission that is on it's last legs will definitely get worse with a fluid and/or filter change. Unfortunately, from what you describe, you're on your way to needing a transmission overhaul or replacement. Having to give a lot of gas to get going is telling me that something is slipping inside the transmission such as the clutch packs, torque converter, etc.

With an older car like yours, parts get more and more scarce. A cheaper alternative to a rebuild or replacement is to try a used transmission from a quality junkyard. They are usually fairly priced and most times come with a warranty. It all depends on how much you want to spend, but it sure sounds like you'll be needing something soon.


Buick Smells Like Gas

1995 Buick Riviera. Engine Size : V6. Question: My car smells strongly like gas (kind of like A snowmobile when you start it) when its in park. When you start the car the RPMs rev to 3k and then The car dies. It will stay on after you start it a few Times but chugs really bad. It sounds like a diesel when sitting. When you first drive it after starting It almost "drives itself" like I'm pushing on the gas When I'm not. What should we be looking at to get this car fixed?

Answer: Sounds like the car may have a bad vacuum leak, which would cause it to idle very high. But that would not explain the smell of gas. That may be a leaking fuel pressure regulator (FPR). When they go bad, they leak gas into the vacuum line and cause a very rich condition, fuel smell and can cause high idle. Also a good cleaning of carbon from the throttle body and Idle Air Control valve (IAC) may be needed.


Please login to comment

Comments (2)
   ---Subscribe To Your Comment   

  • Guest - rob/ kaplan, la.

    I have a 1993 Buick Lesabre and my question is what do you think my problem is. My transmission goes into the first two gears and that is where it stays. Do you think it may be my modulator or is it something else?

  • Guest - Tech

    In reply to: Guest - rob/ kaplan, la.

    Yes, it could be the vacuum modulator, although this just usually causes late shifts. Also, do the checks in the first question above- checking fluid level and condition, do a filter change and look for debre in the bottom of the pan. But you may need a new trans.