Bulletin No.: 15272
Date: October 2015

Recall Bulletin
PRODUCT EMISSION RECALL
SUBJECT:

Carbon Monoxide Emissions

MODELS:

2009-2011 Buick Lucerne
Equipped with 3.9L Engine (RPO LGD)

CONDITION
General Motors has decided to conduct a Voluntary Emission Recall involving certain 20092011 model year Buick Lucerne vehicles equipped with a 3.9L engine (RPO LGD). The fuel
control system may not adequately control carbon monoxide emissions under certain operating
conditions.
CORRECTION
Dealers are to reprogram the engine control module (ECM) with fuel control calibration
modifications.
VEHICLES INVOLVED
All involved vehicles are identified by Vehicle Identification Number on the Investigate Vehicle
History screen in GM Global Warranty Management system. Dealership service personnel
should always check this site to confirm vehicle involvement prior to beginning any required
inspections and/or repairs. It is important to routinely use this tool to verify eligibility because
not all similar vehicles may be involved regardless of description or option content.
For dealers with involved vehicles, a listing with involved vehicles containing the complete
vehicle identification number, customer name, and address information has been prepared and
will be provided to US and Canadian dealers through the GM GlobalConnect Recall Reports, or
sent directly to export dealers. Dealers will not have a report available if they have no involved
vehicles currently assigned.
The listing may contain customer names and addresses obtained from Motor Vehicle
Registration Records. The use of such motor vehicle registration data for any purpose other
than follow-up necessary to complete this recall is a violation of law in several
states/provinces/countries. Accordingly, you are urged to limit the use of this report to the followup necessary to complete this recall.
PART INFORMATION
Parts are not required for this procedure.

Copyright 2015 General Motors. All Rights Reserved.

Page 2

October 2015

Bulletin No.: 15272

SERVICE PROCEDURE
Note:


Do NOT attempt to order the calibration number from GM Customer Care and
Aftersales. The calibration numbers required for this service procedure are programmed
into control modules via a Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI) with the calibration
update. If you cannot access the calibration, call the Techline Customer Support Center
and it will be provided.



DO NOT program a control module unless directed to by a service procedure or a
service bulletin. If the ECU is not properly configured with the correct calibration
software, the ECU will not control all of the vehicle features properly.



Ensure the programming tool is equipped with the latest software and is securely
connected to the data link connector. If there is an interruption during programming,
programming failure or ECU damage may occur.



Stable battery voltage is critical during programming. Any fluctuation, spiking, over
voltage or loss of voltage will interrupt programming. Install the EL-49642 SPS
Programming Support Tool to maintain system voltage. If not available, connect a fully
charged 12 V jumper or booster pack disconnected from the AC voltage supply. DO
NOT connect a battery charger.



Turn OFF or disable systems that may put a load on the vehicles battery such as;
interior lights, exterior lights (including daytime running lights), HVAC, radio, etc.



During the programming procedure, follow the SPS prompts for the correct ignition
switch position.



Clear DTCs after programming is complete. Clearing powertrain DTCs will set the
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) system status indicators to NO.

1.

Install a scan tool.

2.

Record the engine oil life remaining and transmission fluid life remaining, if equipped.

3.

Disconnect scan tool.

4.

Install EL-49642 SPS Programming Support Tool.

5.

Access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions.

6.

On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select Engine Control Module – Programming
and follow the on-screen instructions.

7.

Disconnect EL-49642 SPS Programming Support Tool.

Note: The Crankshaft Position System Variation Learn may be needed after programming. Refer
to Crankshaft Position System Variation Learn in SI.
8.

Install a scan tool.

9.

Use the scan tool to reset the Engine Oil Life Remaining back to the original percentage
recorded before the module was reprogrammed, if equipped.

10. Use the scan tool to reset the Transmission Fluid Life Remaining back to the original
percentage recorded before the module was replaced, if equipped.

Page 3

October 2015

Bulletin No.: 15272

11. Disconnect the scan tool.
12. CALIFORNIA, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE,
OREGON, VERMONT, & WASHINGTON VEHICLES ONLY: Install a Recall Identification
Label. Also, for California vehicles complete a “Proof of Correction” certificate upon recall
completion.
RECALL IDENTIFICATION LABEL - California/Connecticut/Delaware/Maryland/Massachusetts/
Maine/Oregon/Vermont/Washington Vehicles Only
Place a Recall Identification Label on each vehicle corrected in accordance with the instructions
outlined in this Product Recall Bulletin. Each label provides a space to include the recall number
and the five-digit dealer code of the dealer performing the recall service. This information may
be inserted with a ballpoint pen.
Put the Recall Identification Label on a clean and dry surface of the radiator
core support in an area that will be visible to people servicing the vehicle.
When installing the Recall Identification Label, be sure to pull the tab to
allow adhesion of the clear protective covering. Additional Recall
Identification Labels for US dealers can be obtained from Dealer Support
Materials
by
ordering
on
the
web
from
DWD
Store,
www.gmglobalconnect.com, and then click on the DWD Store link.
Request Item Number S-1015 when ordering.

GM
RECALL

15272
COMPLETED
DEALER CODE

ED
99-999

DO NOT REMOVE

WARRANTY TRANSACTION INFORMATION
Submit a transaction using the table below. All transactions should be submitted as a ZFAT
transaction type, unless noted otherwise.
Labor
Code
9101770

Description
Engine Control Module Reprogramming with SPS

Labor
Time
0.4

CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION – For US and Canada
General Motors will notify customers of this recall on their vehicle (see copy of customer letter
included with this bulletin).
In order to ensure full protection under the emission warranty, and the right to participate in future
recalls, the customer notification letter recommends that customers have their vehicles serviced
as soon as possible. It also advises that failure to do so could legally be determined to be lack
of proper maintenance. The vehicle may fail a state or local emission inspection test if the recall
work is not completed.
CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION - For Export
Letters will be sent to known owners of record located within areas covered by the U.S. Clean
Air Act. For owners outside these areas, dealers should notify customers using the attached
sample letter.
In order to ensure full protection under the emission warranty, and the right to participate in future
recalls, the customer notification letter recommends that customers have their vehicles serviced
as soon as possible. It also advises that failure to do so could legally be determined to be lack

Page 4

October 2015

Bulletin No.: 15272

of proper maintenance. The vehicle may fail a state or local emission inspection test if the recall
work is not completed.
DEALER RECALL RESPONSIBILITY
All unsold new vehicles in dealers' possession and subject to this recall must be held and
inspected/repaired per the service procedure of this recall bulletin before customers take
possession of these vehicles.
Dealers are to service all vehicles subject to this recall at no charge to customers, regardless of
mileage, age of vehicle, or ownership, from this time forward.
Customers who have recently purchased vehicles sold from your vehicle inventory, and for which
there is no customer information indicated on the dealer listing, are to be contacted by the dealer.
Arrangements are to be made to make the required correction according to the instructions
contained in this bulletin. A copy of the customer letter is provided in this bulletin for your use in
contacting customers. Recall follow-up cards should not be used for this purpose, since the
customer may not as yet have received the notification letter.
In summary, whenever a vehicle subject to this recall enters your vehicle inventory, or is in your
dealership for service in the future, you must take the steps necessary to be sure the recall
correction has been made before selling or releasing the vehicle.
***THE FOLLOWING 2 PARAGRAPHS ARE NOT FOR CANADA OR EXPORT***
When a California emissions recall is completed by a GM dealer, the dealer must provide the
vehicle owner a “Proof of Correction Certificate” which the owner may need to present to the
California Department Of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when renewing their vehicle registration.
Without this correction certificate, the owner may be unable to renew their vehicle registration.
Additional Certificates can be obtained, at no charge, from Dealer Support Materials by ordering
on the web from the DWD Store, www.gmdealerworld.com, and then click on the DWD Store
link; request GM Item Number 1825 when ordering.

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that
may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the tools,
equipment, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to
your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

We Support
Voluntary Technician
Certification

Page 5

October 2015

Bulletin No.: 15272
October 2015

This notice applies to your vehicle, VIN: ___________________________________________
Dear General Motors Customer:
This notice is sent to inform you that General Motors is conducting a voluntary emission recall
that includes your vehicle.
Reason For This Recall: On certain 2009-2011 model year Buick Lucerne vehicles equipped
with a 3.9L engine, the fuel control system may not adequately control carbon monoxide
emissions under certain operating conditions.
What Will Be Done: Your GM dealer will reprogram the engine control module (ECM) with
fuel control calibration modifications. This service will be performed for you at no charge.
What You Should Do: Please contact your GM dealer as soon as possible to arrange a
service date. Instructions for making this correction have been sent to your dealer. Please ask
your dealer if you wish to know how much time will be needed to schedule, process, and repair
your vehicle.
If you have any questions or need any assistance, just contact your dealer or the appropriate
Customer Assistance Center at the number listed below.
Division

Number

Buick
Guam
Puerto Rico – English
Puerto Rico – Español
Virgin Islands

1-800-521-7300
65-6267-1752
1-800-496-9992
1-800-496-9993
1-800-496-9994

Text Telephones
(TTY)
1-800-832-8425

Emission Law Information: In order to ensure your full protection under the emission
warranty made applicable to your vehicle by state and federal law, and your right to participate
in future recalls, it is recommended that you have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
Failure to do so could legally be determined to be lack of proper maintenance of your vehicle.
Also, your vehicle may fail a state or local emission inspection if this recall is not accomplished.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) requires vehicle emission recalls be completed
prior to California registration renewal. Uncorrected emission recalls will result in the inability
to renew your California vehicle registration.
At the time of emission recall completion, your California dealer will issue a "Proof of
Correction Certificate". Keep this certificate and, if required, present it to the Department of
Motor Vehicles when renewing your California registration as proof of recall completion.
We are sorry to cause you this inconvenience; however, we have taken this action in the
interest of your continued satisfaction with our products.

Page 6

October 2015
Jeffrey M. Boyer
Vice President
Global Vehicle Safety

15272

Bulletin No.: 15272

Alert Details

Page 1 of 1

15272 - Product Emission Recall - Carbon Monoxide Emissions
Updated Date: Oct 19, 2015 12:45 ET

GM CUSTOMER CARE AND AFTERSALES
DCS3803
URGENT - DISTRIBUTE IMMEDIATELY
Date:

October 19, 2015

Subject:

15272 - Emission Recall
Carbon Monoxide Emissions

Models:

2009-2011 Buick Lucerne Equipped with 3.9L Engine
(RPO LGD)

To:

All Buick Dealers

General Motors is releasing Emission Recall 15272 today. The total number of U.S. vehicles involved is approximately 71,000. Please see the attached bulletin for details.
Customer Letter Mailing
The customer letter mailing will begin on October 26, 2015.
Global Connect (GWM)
The "Investigate Vehicle History" (IVH) screen will be updated October 19, 2015. A list of involved vehicles in dealer inventory is attached to this message.
Campaign Initiation Detail Report (CIDR)
The CIDR will be available October 19, 2015.
15272 Bulletin.pdf

15272 Inventory VIN List.xlsx

About this Alert
Reference Number: GCUS-3-323
Published to: Home Page
Version: 1.0
Alert Type: Product Emissions
Original Published Date: Oct 19, 2015 12:45 ET
Expires: Dec 18, 2015 0:00 ET
Contact : [email protected]

https://dealer.autopartners.net/portal/uscontent/alerts/Pages/GCUS-3-323.aspx

10/19/2015