2012 Buick LaCrosse Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2012 Buick LaCrosse
- Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seats:front assembly:power adjust.
- Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2013 Buick LaCrosse earns a 85.
- The system most likely to surface first: electric power steering (eps) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 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.
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse can be a fantastic value, offering luxury-like comfort and a smooth ride if you find a well-maintained example. However, the recurring issues with the electric power steering and the quirky infotainment system mean you must approach this purchase with a thorough inspection and a budget for po…
Best Model Years
2014-2016 (later models of this generation with minor refinements)
Years to Avoid
None explicitly, but earlier models (2010-2011) may have slightly more pronounced issues and lack some refinements.
Biggest Strengths
- Smooth ride and quiet cabin
- Generally robust V6 engine (LFX)
- Premium interior feel for its class
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2012 Buick LaCrosse, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
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.
2012 Buick LaCrosse Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2012 Buick LaCrosse most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the LaCrosse is still relatively new. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system might start to surface.
Maintenance Zone
This is where more significant wear items begin to show. Expect to address suspension components and keep an eye on the electric power steering. Transmission fluid service is highly recommended.
Elevated Risk Zone
The risk of electric power steering failure increases significantly, and transmission issues like harsh shifting are more likely. Other suspension components may need replacement.
High Risk Zone
Beyond this mileage, be prepared for potential major repairs, including full EPS replacement or transmission rebuilds. Keep a close watch on engine health, especially for the 3.6L timing chain, though less common for this specific engine…
2012 Buick LaCrosse Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2012 Buick LaCrosse on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., EPS or major suspension work)
How Long Does the 2012 Buick LaCrosse Last?
Focus on examples with comprehensive service records and ensure the electric power steering feels solid. Low mileage is a bonus, but proper maintenance history is paramount, especially for vehicles approaching or exceeding 90,000 miles.
What 2012 Buick LaCrosse Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Extremely quiet and refined ride quality.
- Comfortable and spacious interior, especially for rear passengers.
- V6 engine provides ample power for highway cruising.
- High-quality materials and attractive design for its price point.
Common Frustrations
- Infotainment system (IntelliLink) is often buggy, slow, and frustrating to use.
- Electric power steering failures are a common and expensive repair.
- Rear visibility can be somewhat limited due to the styling.
- Fuel economy, especially with the V6, is merely average.
Who Should Buy the 2012 Buick LaCrosse?
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable, quiet, and spacious sedan.
- Commuters who prioritize a smooth ride over sporty handling.
- Buyers who appreciate a premium interior without the luxury brand price tag.
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking cutting-edge infotainment and technology without glitches.
- Those looking for a sporty, engaging driving experience.
How the 2012 Buick LaCrosse Compares to Rivals
The LaCrosse offers a near-luxury experience for less money than its Asian counterparts, but often at the cost of long-term mechanical simplicity and reliability, particularly in the electrical and steering departments.
More Reliable Than
- Chrysler 200
- Nissan Maxima (CVT issues)
Comparable To
- Ford Taurus
- Hyundai Azera
- Dodge Charger
NHTSA Recalls
5 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Buick LaCrosse, Regal and Chevrolet Camaro, as well as certain 2010-2012 Cadillac SRX, Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles, equipped with power height adjustable driver and passenger seats. In the affected vehicles, the bolt that secures the driver's and passenger's power front seat height adjuster may fall out causing the seat to drop suddenly to the lowest vertical position.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Buick LaCrosse and Regal, and model year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco vehicles equipped with eAssist. These vehicles may have a condition in which the Generator Control Module (GCM) may not function properly. This could cause a gradual loss of battery charge and the illumination of the malfunction indicator light.
What breaks on the 2012 Buick LaCrosse?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Buick LaCrosse by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Buick LaCrosse. Click any year for its full report.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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