2009 Buick LaCrosse

2009 Buick LaCrosse

Overview

The 2009 Buick LaCrosse, a mid-size sedan, offered a comfortable and refined driving experience for its era. It was available with a choice of powertrains, including a standard V6 and an optional more powerful V6, catering to different driver preferences. While generally considered a reliable vehicle for its segment, like any automotive model, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers or current owners. Understanding these specific points can help in proactive maintenance and informed decision-making regarding repairs.

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Engine

3.8L V6

Intake Manifold Gasket Leak

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, sweet smell from coolant.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $700

EGR Valve Clogging

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, poor acceleration.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
• Cost: $200 - $500

5.3L V8 (Supercharged)

No widespread issues reported.

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

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)

Torque Converter Shudder

• Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or torque converter replacement.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

Solenoid Failure

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty shift solenoids.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of struts and/or shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Ball Joint Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, steering looseness.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Various warning lights, power window malfunctions, door lock issues, radio problems.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Alternator

Premature Failure

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

Exterior

Body Panels

No widespread issues reported.

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

Lighting

No widespread issues reported.

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

Interior

Climate Control System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or direct airflow correctly.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Infotainment System

No widespread issues reported.

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

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Summary Verdict

The 2009 Buick LaCrosse generally presents a solid reliability record, particularly for its powertrain options. The most commonly cited issues tend to be related to the electrical system, specifically the Body Control Module, and some transmission concerns like torque converter shudder. Engine issues, while present, are often manageable with timely repairs. Suspension components and exterior elements are typically robust. Owners should be aware of potential electrical gremlins and transmission quirks, and address them promptly to maintain optimal performance and longevity. Regular maintenance, especially fluid changes for the transmission, is crucial.