2010 Buick Allure

The 2010 Buick Allure (also sold as the Buick LaCrosse in the US) is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. Engine options include a 2.4L Ecotec inline-4 producing 169 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L V6 producing 255 hp and 217 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6L V6 producing 280 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Allure for its smooth ride and quiet cabin, but common complaints revolve around electrical issues and some drivetrain concerns.

Engine

2.4L Ecotec Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Burning oil at a higher rate than normal, requiring frequent oil top-offs. This can lead to fouled spark plugs, catalytic converter damage, and eventually engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings, valve seals, or even the entire engine in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft/crankshaft correlation. Can lead to engine damage if the chain breaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, sprockets, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough running, or difficulty starting. Check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacing the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft/crankshaft correlation. Can lead to engine damage if the chain breaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, sprockets, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or harsh shifting between gears, slipping during acceleration, or failure to shift properly.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush/replacement, valve body repair/replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) - $3,500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, either intermittently or completely.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a short period, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessories, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Radio Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Radio or navigation system malfunctioning, screen freezing, or not turning on.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the radio or navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Sealing or replacing the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin from the sunroof, often during rain.
  • Solution: Clearing the sunroof drain tubes or resealing the sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Buick Allure, while generally a comfortable and reliable vehicle, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption (particularly with the 2.4L) and timing chain issues on both the 2.4L and 3.6L V6s can be costly to repair. Electrical issues, such as power window failures and battery drain problems, are also relatively frequent. While some issues, like strut mount failure and sunroof leaks, are common on many vehicles of this age, the potential for engine and transmission repairs should be factored into the purchase decision. The severity and cost of these potential repairs range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so a thorough inspection is recommended before buying a used 2010 Buick Allure.