2016 Buick LaCrosse

The 2016 Buick LaCrosse is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and quiet cabin. It offered a blend of luxury and value, appealing to buyers seeking a more refined driving experience without the premium price tag of some competitors. The 2016 LaCrosse came with two engine options: a 3.6L V6 producing 304 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4L inline-4 with eAssist light hybrid technology, producing 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the LaCrosse’s comfortable seats, smooth ride, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common dislikes included its somewhat bland styling and the fuel economy of the V6 engine.

Engine

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may exhibit rough idling, misfires, or a check engine light with codes related to timing chain issues (e.g., P0008, P0016). The engine may also produce a rattling noise, especially during startup.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides. In some cases, camshaft phasers may also need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can be exacerbated by worn valve seals or piston rings.
  • Solution: A compression test can help diagnose the source of the consumption. Depending on the cause, repairs may involve replacing valve seals, piston rings, or even the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ (depending on the severity and the repair needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4 with eAssist

• eAssist System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The eAssist system, which provides mild hybrid functionality, may fail, resulting in reduced fuel economy, error messages, or the inability to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the eAssist system, which may involve replacing the electric motor/generator, the battery pack, or related control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ (depending on the faulty component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Inspect the transmission fluid level and condition. A fluid change may resolve minor issues. If the problem persists, the transmission may require internal repairs or a complete replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported torque converter shudder or failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the struts/shock absorbers can lead to a bouncy ride, reduced handling, and excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per axle)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience freezing, glitches, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In severe cases, the infotainment system module may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining overnight or within a short period of time, preventing the car from starting.
  • Solution: Test the battery and charging system. Identify and repair any parasitic drains caused by faulty modules or accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove the headlights and dry them out or replace them if the seal is broken.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the solution)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may leak, not open/close properly, or make excessive noise.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks. If the motor or seals are damaged, they may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Buick LaCrosse can have some notable issues, especially with the 3.6L V6 engine’s timing chain and oil consumption problems. The eAssist system in the 2.4L engine and the 6-speed transmission can also present challenges. While some repairs are relatively minor, others can be quite expensive. It’s important to have a thorough inspection done before purchasing a used 2016 LaCrosse, paying close attention to any engine noises or transmission issues.