2009 Buick Lucerne

The 2009 Buick Lucerne is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. Engine options included a 3.9L V6 producing around 227 horsepower and 237 lb-ft of torque and a 4.6L Northstar V8 generating around 292 horsepower and 288 lb-ft of torque. The V6 was paired with a 4T65E four-speed automatic transmission, while the V8 was paired with a 4T80E four-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Lucerne for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and ample trunk space. Common complaints include lackluster fuel economy for the V8 and some reported issues with electrical components.

Engine

3.9L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idle, coolant leak near the intake manifold, and possible overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine light with codes indicating catalytic converter inefficiency, reduced engine performance, and potential failure to pass emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L Northstar V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Addressing the root cause, which may involve piston ring replacement or valve stem seal replacement. In some cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $5000+ (depending on the severity and chosen repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idle, check engine light with codes related to ignition coil malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per coil
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65E (Paired with 3.9L V6)

• Shift Flare/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or erratic shifting between gears, “flare” where the engine revs up between shifts, and potential loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn clutches, valve body repair/replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4T80E (Paired with 4.6L Northstar V8)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, slow or erratic window movement, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, including issues with the headlights, taillights, door locks, or power windows.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Removal of the headlight and drying out the inside or replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (DIY) - $500+ for replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heated Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Heated seats not working or only partially working.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 Buick Lucerne, while generally reliable, has several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The 3.9L V6 may experience intake manifold gasket failure and catalytic converter issues. The 4.6L V8 can suffer from oil consumption and ignition coil failures. Transmission problems, especially shift flares, can occur with the 4T65E transmission paired with the V6. Electrical issues, such as power window regulator failure and BCM problems, are also relatively common. Suspension issues like strut mount failure can affect ride quality. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. Costs to fix can range from a few hundred dollars for some minor issues to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission work.