Is the 2013 Buick LaCrosse reliable?

Overall reliability is typically solid for a comfort-focused midsize sedan, especially with good maintenance, but it’s important to watch for known issues like electrical glitches, transmission behavior, and maintenance-sensitive V6 concerns.

What are the most common 2013 Buick LaCrosse problems?

Frequently reported issues include infotainment/electrical quirks, occasional harsh or hesitant shifting, higher-mileage suspension wear, and on some 3.6L V6 cars, timing chain wear tied to poor oil-change history.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2013 LaCrosse?

Costs are generally moderate for the class; routine maintenance is straightforward, but repairs can add up if you’re addressing suspension work, electrical modules, or neglected powertrain service.

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

Many shoppers prefer later second-generation models with updated features and proven service history; the best “year” is often the one with complete maintenance records, fewer owners, and a clean inspection report.

What should I check before buying a used 2013 Buick LaCrosse?

Verify service records (especially oil changes), scan for stored engine/transmission codes, test all infotainment functions, check for smooth shifting on a long drive, and inspect tires/suspension for noise, uneven wear, or vibration. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, option details, and the factory maintenance schedules to keep your 2013 Buick LaCrosse running at its best.

HomeVehicles

Vehicles Compare Blog Get Report

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

2013 Buick LaCrosse Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

85/ 100

LOW RISK

Grade: B+

A comfortable, value-packed cruiser that requires attention to its electrical system and transmission history.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2013 Buick LaCrosse?

The 2013 Buick LaCrosse presents a compelling option for those seeking a comfortable and quiet ride without breaking the bank. While generally robust, buyers must be aware of potential electrical quirks and specific transmission issues that can arise; however, with diligent maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection, this sedan offers a very satisfying ownership experience.

Biggest Strengths

Smooth ride and quiet cabin experience
Reliable V6 engine option (3.6L)
Strong resale value retention for a domestic luxury sedan

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2013 Buick LaCrosse. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Transmission (6-speed Automatic)major

Electrical System & Infotainmentmoderate

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.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Buick LaCrosse vehicles, manufactured between April 25, 2012, through March 6, 2013, and model year 2013 Cadillac SRX vehicles, manufactured between May 29, 2012, through February 18, 2013 for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect." A software problem may cause the transmission to inadvertently shift to Sport mode removing any transmission-related engine braking effect.

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 2013 Buick LaCrosse?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time

Just bought a 2013 Buick LaCrosse? Keep it that way.

Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.

Buick LaCrosse by Year

Compare reliability scores 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 →

If You're Considering This, Also Look At

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.

2011 ToyotaLand Cruiser

Relevant Products for Your 2013 Buick LaCrosse

Parts and accessories matched to your 2013 Buick LaCrosse

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report