Where is the engine number located on the Buick GL8?
4 Answers
The engine number of the Buick GL8 is located at the junction of the engine and the transmission. The entire lineup of this vehicle is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power of 174 kW and a maximum torque of 350 N·m. The engine reaches its peak power at 5,000 rpm, and the maximum torque is available between 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT). The Buick GL8 has a body length of 5,238 mm, a width of 1,878 mm, and a height of 1,776 mm, with a wheelbase of 3,088 mm. The front suspension employs a MacPherson independent suspension, while the rear suspension uses a torsion beam non-independent suspension.
I've encountered the GL8 engine number several times, usually located on the engine block in the engine bay. To be specific, open the hood, stand at the front of the car looking towards the engine, and you'll find a metal tag or engraved area on the front part of the engine facing the radiator. It might be covered by oil stains and require some cleaning. I remember during one repair, the customer's 2.0T model had the number right next to the timing chain cover, and we needed a flashlight to see it clearly. For safety, avoid touching a hot engine to prevent burns, and wearing gloves is recommended. The location of such numbers is generally similar across models, but Buick's design might have minor variations. If you can't find it on a new model, checking the manual or consulting a professional would be more convenient.
Last time I helped my neighbor with the annual inspection, the engine number of his GL8 was right on the side of the engine block. After opening the hood, squat down and look inside from the left side - you'll see the digits engraved on the metal surface, not far from the fan. From my own experience, the location was more concealed on older GL8 models with 3.0L engines - you'd need to use your phone's flashlight. Be patient when searching for the number, don't rush, and clean off any dust or grime as obscured markings can be hard to read. I recommend taking a photo for your records once you find it, so you won't have trouble next time. For Buicks, these numbers are generally located near the engine, never too far away. The position might vary slightly between model years, but it's roughly the same area.
The engine number is crucial for registration or selling a car. For the GL8, open the front hood and locate the engine block. There's usually an engraved area on the top or front. The first time I looked for it, I lacked experience and it took some time, but I eventually found it near the radiator. The process is simple and doesn't require tools, though you might need to crouch down and peek for better visibility. Ensure the car is turned off to prevent accidents. The location is generally fixed, but there might be slight variations depending on the model—for example, hybrid versions might have it in a different spot. It's recommended to try this when the engine is cold.
