2016 Buick LaCrosse

2016 Buick LaCrosse

Overview

The 2016 Buick LaCrosse, a mid-size luxury sedan, generally offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. It was available with two primary powertrain options: a standard 3.6L V6 engine and an optional eAssist mild-hybrid system. While the LaCrosse is known for its quiet cabin and smooth ride, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical concerns reported by owners and technicians, excluding routine maintenance and standard wear and tear. Understanding these potential problems can help prospective buyers and current owners make informed decisions regarding maintenance and repairs.

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Engine

3.6L V6 (LGX)

Coolant Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, low coolant level warning, engine overheating.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking gaskets, hoses, or water pump.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Carbon Buildup

• Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced engine power, decreased fuel efficiency, check engine light.
• Solution: Professional intake manifold cleaning or walnut blasting.
• Cost: $200 - $500

eAssist (2.4L Hybrid)

Battery Pack Issues

• Symptoms: Reduced electric assist, reduced fuel economy, warning lights related to the hybrid system.
• Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
• Cost: $2,000 - $4,000

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6T70/6T75)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $500 - $2,500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Strut Mounts / Bearings

• Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when turning or going over bumps, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn strut mounts and bearings.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Electrical

Infotainment System

Screen Freezing / Unresponsiveness

• Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes, audio issues.
• Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment module.
• Cost: $400 - $1,000

Battery Drain

No major issues reported for this configuration.

Exterior

Body Panels

No widespread issues reported.

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

Interior

Climate Control

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the faulty blend door actuator.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Seat Heaters

No widespread issues reported.

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

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Summary Verdict

The 2016 Buick LaCrosse is generally a reliable vehicle, particularly the powertrain when maintained properly. The most commonly reported issues revolve around the 3.6L V6 engine experiencing coolant leaks and carbon buildup, and the transmission sometimes exhibiting harsh shifting. The eAssist hybrid model has had some reports of battery pack issues. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system glitches and battery drain, are also noted. Interior and exterior components are less prone to significant problems, with blend door actuators being a minor concern in the climate control system. Overall, addressing potential coolant leaks and transmission behavior proactively can contribute to a positive ownership experience.