2005 Buick LaCrosse

The 2005 Buick LaCrosse was introduced as a replacement for the Century and Regal. It offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families and those seeking a smooth highway cruiser. However, like any vehicle, the 2005 LaCrosse has its share of common issues. Available engine options included the 3.8L Series III V6 (200 hp, 225 lb-ft of torque) and the 3.6L High Feature V6 (240 hp, 225 lb-ft of torque), both paired with a 4T65-E four-speed automatic transmission. The 3.8L engine is known for its reliability, while the 3.6L offered more power and was only made available in 2005. Common likes include the comfortable ride, spacious interior, and quiet cabin. Dislikes often revolve around the somewhat bland styling, less-than-sporty handling, and some reported reliability issues.

Engine

3.8L Series III V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, rough running engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L High Feature V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Stretching
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, check engine light with codes related to timing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Actuator Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased performance, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft actuator solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, slipping during acceleration, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Could involve valve body repair/replacement, solenoid replacement, or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+ depending on the severity and the required repair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, stalling, or poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (for both sides)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Sag/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low in the rear, especially when loaded, potential clunking noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (for both sides)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Panel Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), dim or non-functional display.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument panel cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly with the remote or power lock switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Actuator Failure (Blend Door/Mode Door)
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or airflow direction properly, clicking noise from behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the HVAC actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the location of the actuator.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Buick LaCrosse, while generally a comfortable and reliable vehicle, does have some common issues. Engine problems like intake manifold leaks (3.8L) and timing chain issues (3.6L) can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, especially harsh shifting, can also be a concern across both engine options. Suspension and electrical problems are less severe in terms of cost and frequency, but can still be frustrating. When considering a 2005 LaCrosse, it is essential to inspect the vehicle thoroughly, check for any signs of these common issues, and have a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant problems down the road.