2009 Buick LaCrosse

The 2009 Buick LaCrosse offered a blend of comfort and affordability, appealing to buyers seeking a mid-size sedan with a touch of luxury. Engine options included a 3.8L V6 producing around 200 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L V6 (later in the model year) with around 255 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6L V6 with approximately 300 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the LaCrosse for its smooth ride and spacious interior but criticized its fuel economy and somewhat dated styling.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, white smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, no-start condition, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 No Issues Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Stretching
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light (P0008, P0016, P0017), rattling noise from the engine, poor performance. This can be due to the timing chain stretching, guides breaking, or tensioners failing.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, slipping, inability to accelerate properly.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. Flushing the transmission may also be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front or rear suspension, especially over bumps. Reduced handling stability.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts. Replacing the struts at the same time is often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or clunking noise from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per link
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating, slow or erratic window movement, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with the power locks, unusual noises from the door.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight/Taillight Bulb Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight or taillight bulb not illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty bulb.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $50+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Side Mirror Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Side mirror will not adjust.
  • Solution: Replace the side mirror assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not operating smoothly, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Buick LaCrosse can be a reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues, particularly with the 3.6L engine’s timing chain, transmission issues, and potential electrical problems. Repair costs can vary, but addressing these proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s longevity and overall value. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences like bulb failures to more costly repairs like timing chain replacement.