Buick Lacrosse Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Buick Lacrosse we've analyzed (14 years), these are the 2 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low reliability score, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other Lacrosse years.
Proceed with caution
2010 Buick Lacrosse
The 2010 Buick LaCrosse offers a comfortable ride and premium feel at an accessible price point, making it a compelling choice for many buyers. However, its reliability is hampered by a few significant known issues, particularly with the 3.6L V6 engine's timing chain and certain transmission components, demanding careful inspection and potentially leading to costly repairs. While generally a solid sedan, you must proceed with caution to ensure you're not inheriting a ticking time bomb.
Why this year scores low
The 3.6L LF1/LLT V6 engines are notoriously prone to premature timing chain wear and stretching, often leading to misfires, reduced power, and eventually catastrophic engine failure if not addressed. This is primarily due to extended oil change intervals and oil consumption issues.
The 6T70/6T75 automatic transmission can develop issues with the torque converter, valve body, or solenoid packs, leading to harsh shifting, slipping, or complete loss of gears. TSBs exist for some of these concerns.
Owners frequently report issues with the infotainment system (touchscreen freezing, Bluetooth connectivity), power window switches, climate control malfunctions, and occasional parasitic battery drains due to various module issues.
Proceed with caution
2012 Buick Lacrosse
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse offers a comfortable, upscale experience for a reasonable price, but specific electrical and power steering concerns can lead to unexpected repair bills. While the powertrains are generally robust, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical to identify potential weaknesses and ensure a confident ownership experience.
Why this year scores low
The electric power steering assist system can fail, leading to a complete loss of power steering, often indicated by a warning light on the dash. This is typically due to a faulty EPS motor or control module.
The IntelliLink infotainment system is prone to freezing, lagging, or becoming unresponsive. Other electrical issues include parasitic battery drain, malfunctioning accessory power, and issues with window regulators.
Wear and tear on front lower control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts are common, leading to clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, and degraded ride quality.