Is the 2012 Buick LaCrosse reliable?

It’s generally a reliable midsize sedan when properly maintained, with the best outcomes coming from consistent oil changes (especially on the 3.6L V6) and timely transmission and cooling system service.

What are the most common 2012 Buick LaCrosse problems?

Common issues include transmission shift concerns, potential timing chain wear on the 3.6L V6 with neglected oil service, intermittent electrical/infotainment glitches, and normal aging suspension components like links, struts, or wheel bearings.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2012 Buick LaCrosse?

Costs are typically moderate for the class, but repairs can get expensive if transmission symptoms or V6 timing-related issues are ignored; budgeting for preventative maintenance helps keep ownership costs predictable.

What are the best years to buy for a used Buick LaCrosse?

Many shoppers prefer later second-generation years with updated features, but the best year depends on maintenance history; a well-documented 2012 can be a strong buy if it has records and a clean inspection.

What should I check before buying a 2012 Buick LaCrosse?

Test drive for smooth shifting, scan for stored trouble codes, verify consistent oil-change records (critical for V6), check for suspension noises and uneven tire wear, and confirm all infotainment and electrical features work properly. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the recommended maintenance schedules to help you buy smarter and maintain your LaCrosse for the long haul.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2012 Buick LaCrosse Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable cruiser with a few significant electronic and steering weak points that demand careful vetting.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

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.

Biggest Strengths

Smooth ride and quiet cabin
Generally robust V6 engine (LFX)
Premium interior feel for its class

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2012 Buick LaCrosse. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Electric Power Steering (EPS)major

Infotainment/Electrical Systemmoderate

Front Suspension Componentsmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

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.

All Buick LaCrosse years ranked →Buick LaCrosse years to avoid →Buick LaCrosse common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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