2008 Buick Allure
The 2008 Buick Allure, also known as the Buick LaCrosse in North America, offered a comfortable and spacious ride. It was available with a range of engine options, including a 3.8L V6 (producing around 200 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque), a 3.6L V6 (producing around 240 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque) and a 5.3L V8. The 3.8L engine was generally mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 3.6L V6 engine was mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 5.3L V8 was mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Allure for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and ample passenger space. Criticisms frequently centered on its somewhat bland styling, average fuel economy, and some reported reliability concerns.
Engine
3.8L V6
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, coolant loss, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. This is a common issue with the plastic intake manifold gaskets degrading over time.
- Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gaskets with updated gaskets that use an improved design.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks (Specifically Lower Intake)
- Description/Symptoms: External coolant leaks, especially near the lower intake manifold area. This can lead to low coolant levels, overheating, and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replacing the lower intake manifold gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
3.6L V6
- Timing Chain Wear/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon start-up, especially when cold. Check engine light with codes related to camshaft/crankshaft correlation. Possible engine misfires and decreased performance.
- Solution: Replacing the timing chains, guides, and tensioners.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
5.3L V8
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, especially under light load. Ticking or tapping noise from the engine. Check engine light with codes related to cylinder deactivation. Potential for significant engine damage if left unaddressed.
- Solution: Replacing the failed AFM lifters. Often, a complete AFM delete is recommended for long-term reliability, which includes replacing the lifters, camshaft, and reprogramming the engine control unit (ECU).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ (depending on the severity of the damage and the chosen solution)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at highway speeds. Transmission slipping or failing to engage gears properly.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter. May also require flushing the transmission fluid and inspecting the transmission for any debris.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Shift Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, erratic shifting behavior, or getting stuck in a single gear. Check engine light may illuminate.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty shift solenoid(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Strut Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and instability.
- Solution: Replacing the front strut mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (for both sides)
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags. The air compressor doesn’t turn on or runs constantly. “Service Ride Control” message displays on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the air compressor assembly or the entire air shock assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Power Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows that operate slowly, erratically, or not at all. Grinding or clicking noises from inside the door panel.
- Solution: Replacing the power window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
- Recalls: None Found
- Remote Key Fob Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Key fob stops working intermittently, not being able to lock or unlock the vehicle, or start the engine.
- Solution: Replacing the key fob battery, reprogramming the key fob, or replacing the key fob.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5-$250+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlight components.
- Solution: Replacing the headlight housing or resealing the existing housing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Driver Information Center (DIC) Display Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Fading or pixelated display on the DIC, making it difficult to read important vehicle information.
- Solution: Replacing the DIC unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The blower motor only works on certain speeds, or not at all.
- Solution: Replacing the blower motor resistor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2008 Buick Allure can be a comfortable and reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the intake manifold gaskets on the 3.8L V6 and timing chains on the 3.6L V6, can lead to costly repairs. Transmission issues, and suspension problems with strut mounts and rear air suspension (if equipped) are other areas to inspect. While some electrical and interior issues are present, they are typically less severe. Overall, a thorough inspection and maintenance history review are crucial before purchasing a 2008 Buick Allure. The severity of potential issues can range from minor inconveniences to significant repair bills, so it’s important to be prepared.