2007 Buick Lucerne

2007 Buick Lucerne

Overview

The 2007 Buick Lucerne, a comfortable and spacious full-size sedan, offered a range of powertrain options aimed at balancing performance and fuel efficiency. While generally considered a reliable vehicle for its class, like any automotive model, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and technicians. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for the 2007 model year. Understanding these common concerns can help prospective buyers and current owners anticipate and address potential repairs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of their Lucerne.

---

Engine

3.8L V6 (L36)

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, sweet smell of coolant, engine misfires.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets. Early models used plastic, later ones improved but can still fail.
• Cost: $400 - $700

EGR Valve Issues

• Symptoms: Check Engine light, rough idle, poor acceleration, stalling.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve.
• Cost: $200 - $450

4.6L V8 (Northstar L37)

Coolant Leaks (Head Gaskets)

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, milky oil, white smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of head gaskets. This is a more significant repair.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000+

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Repair of leaking seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $300 - $600

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping gears, delayed engagement, transmission fluid leaks.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter and potentially a transmission fluid flush.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Solenoid Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed shifting, transmission warning light, failure to shift into certain gears.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty shift solenoids.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Strut Mount Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Rear Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, uneven ride height, compressor running excessively.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of air springs, lines, or compressor.
• Cost: $500 - $1200+

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM) Issues

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Power windows not working, interior lights flickering, door locks malfunctioning, dashboard warning lights illuminating randomly.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the Body Control Module.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator Failure

Premature Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, electrical system malfunctions, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Standard Body

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Standard Interior

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

---

Summary Verdict

The 2007 Buick Lucerne generally presents as a reliable vehicle, particularly with the more common 3.8L V6 engine. However, owners should be aware of potential issues with intake manifold gaskets and EGR valves on this engine. The 4.6L V8, while offering more power, carries a higher risk of more expensive coolant leaks related to head gaskets. Transmission issues, particularly with the 4-speed automatic, can include torque converter shudder and solenoid problems. Electrical gremlins, often linked to the BCM, and premature alternator failure are also noted concerns. Suspension components like strut mounts and optional rear air suspension can require attention. Overall, with proactive maintenance and awareness of these common issues, the Lucerne can provide dependable service.