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Buick Lacrosse Problems

The Buick LaCrosse is a full-size sedan produced from 2005 to 2019, representing Buick's flagship sedan offering. With over 5,700 complaints and only 2 reported deaths, the LaCrosse offers traditional American luxury with improving reliability over its production run. The LaCrosse evolved from a conservative design to a more stylish vehicle that could compete with import sedans. Different generations offer distinct ownership experiences.

5,756
Total Complaints
43
Total Recalls
15
Model Years
2
Reported Deaths
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2014 2015 2016

Common Problem Categories

Electrical System 1,168
Exterior Lighting 988
Air Bags 500
Steering 452
Engine 426

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2019 14 2 0 0 Good
2018 38 3 0 0 Good
2017 82 2 0 0 Good
2016 108 2 6 4 Good
2015 108 3 12 0 Good
2014 178 5 24 2 Good
2013 392 5 10 6 Average
2012 594 5 30 8 Below Average
2011 482 4 54 4 Average
2010 550 2 18 28 Average
2009 292 2 10 16 Average
2008 686 2 32 18 Below Average
2007 650 2 18 50 Below Average
2006 760 2 50 22 Below Average
2005 822 2 26 16 Below Average

Buick Lacrosse Years to Avoid

The 2005 Buick LaCrosse is the worst year to avoid, being the first year of production with typical launch quality issues. The 2005-2009 first-generation models share the 3800 V6's intake manifold gasket concerns that affected other GM vehicles. These years also experienced power steering pump failures and electrical issues with the instrument cluster. The 2010-2013 second-generation models with the 3.6L V6 had some timing chain concerns similar to other GM vehicles with this engine. Transmission shuddering affected some 2014-2016 models.

Best Buick Lacrosse Years

The 2019 model year represents the most refined LaCrosse before discontinuation. The 2017-2019 models offer excellent comfort and technology with resolved earlier issues. The 2014-2016 models with the 3.6L V6 and 6-speed automatic provide good value when properly maintained. Look for examples with documented dealer service history.

Frequently Asked Questions