2013 Buick LaCrosse

The 2013 Buick LaCrosse is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior. Engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 with eAssist (mild hybrid system), a 3.6L V6 engine, and a 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder engine was offered later in the model year. The 3.6L V6 produces 303 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the LaCrosse’s quiet cabin, smooth ride, and elegant styling. Common dislikes include the sometimes-confusing infotainment system, relatively soft handling, and the less-than-stellar fuel economy of the V6. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 with eAssist

• eAssist System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery failing prematurely, leading to reduced fuel economy and eventual inability to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the eAssist battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warnings, noticeable drop in oil level between changes, blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of Piston Rings or Engine Replacement (depending on the severity).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Engine misfires, check engine light illuminated. Diagnostic codes related to timing chain issues.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, stalling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbo Inline-4 No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, harsh engagement.
  • Solution: Transmission flush and fluid change, valve body repair or replacement, or full transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in turns, leaking fluid from struts/shocks, clunking noises when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ (per axle)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the infotainment system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks that don’t respond to the key fob or door switch, intermittent locking/unlocking, strange noises from the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per door)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck when opening/closing. Sunroof leaks when closed.
  • Solution: Replacing sunroof motor, repairing sunroof tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag Light on instrument cluster
  • Solution: Have airbag system inspected. May require new module or sensor depending on codes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Buick LaCrosse, while generally a comfortable and stylish sedan, can experience several notable issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.6L V6 (timing chain) and the 2.4L Inline-4 eAssist (excessive oil consumption, eAssist system failures), can be expensive to address. Transmission issues can also lead to significant repair costs. Electrical gremlins, primarily within the infotainment system, and suspension component wear are also common concerns. Overall, while some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite costly to repair, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection essential.