2009 Buick Allure

The 2009 Buick Allure, also known as the Buick LaCrosse in some markets, is a comfortable and spacious sedan known for its smooth ride and quiet cabin. The 2009 model year offered several engine options: a 2.4L Ecotec inline-4 producing 169 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, a 3.8L Series III V6 producing 200 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L DOHC V6 producing 255 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, or a 6-speed automatic transmission with the 3.0L DOHC V6. Owners often praised the Allure for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and value for money. However, some criticized its somewhat bland styling, and the fuel economy of the larger V6 engines. Common dislikes include electrical glitches and occasional issues with the transmission.

Engine

2.4L Ecotec Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, the fix can range from replacing the PCV valve to replacing the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L Series III V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gaskets are prone to leaking, causing coolant loss, engine misfires, and potential overheating. Symptoms include coolant leaks, rough idle, and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gaskets with an updated design is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L DOHC V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or fail, leading to engine misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, check engine light, and poor performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, guides, and tensioners is the required fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E (4-Speed Automatic - Paired with 2.4L and 3.8L)

• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The TCC can fail, causing shuddering during lockup, poor fuel economy, and eventual transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter is the typical fix. In some cases, a transmission rebuild may be necessary if the transmission has been damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shift solenoid failure can cause harsh or delayed shifting, or a complete loss of certain gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

6T70 (6-Speed Automatic - Paired with 3.0L DOHC V6)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front strut mounts can wear out, causing clunking noises when going over bumps and affecting steering feel.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: On models equipped with the rear air suspension, the compressor can fail, leading to a saggy rear end and a rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the air compressor and checking for leaks in the air lines or air springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working intermittently or completely due to a failing window motor.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The BCM can experience various malfunctions, leading to issues with lights, door locks, and other electrical systems.
  • Solution: Replacing the BCM and reprogramming it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or attempting to seal the existing housing (temporary fix).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, leak, or fail to open/close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Buick Allure, while generally reliable, has some common issues to be aware of. The engine issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure in the 3.8L and timing chain issues in the 3.0L, can be costly to repair. The 4T65-E transmission is known for torque converter and shift solenoid issues. Electrical issues, particularly with the BCM and power windows, can also occur. Overall, the severity of the issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially expensive repairs, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing a used 2009 Buick Allure.