2018 Buick LaCrosse
Introduction to the 2018 Buick LaCrosse
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse is a midsize luxury sedan known for its spacious cabin, comfortable ride, and premium features. It is available with three engine options: a 3.6L V6 with 310 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5L four-cylinder with 194 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 with 400 horsepower and 408 lb-ft of torque. The 3.6L V6 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.5L four-cylinder and 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 come with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Owners generally appreciate the LaCrosse’s comfortable and well-equipped interior, refined ride, and strong engine options. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, and other components.
Engine
3.6L V6
- Intake Valve Deposits: Carbon buildup on the intake valves can cause rough idling, hesitation, and reduced power. The issue requires removing the intake manifold and cleaning the valves. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Exhaust Manifold Gasket Failure: The exhaust manifold gasket can fail and cause exhaust leaks, resulting in a loud noise and reduced fuel efficiency. The issue requires replacing the gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
2.5L Four-Cylinder
- Timing Chain Stretch: The timing chain can stretch over time and cause the timing to be off, leading to engine damage. The issue requires replacing the timing chain and related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000
3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6
- Turbocharger Failure: The turbochargers can fail and cause reduced power, increased oil consumption, and excessive exhaust smoke. The issue requires replacing the turbochargers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000
Transmission
Eight-Speed Automatic (3.6L V6)
- Shift Solenoid Failure: The shift solenoids can fail and cause harsh shifting, slipping, or loss of gears. The issue requires replacing the shift solenoids. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
Nine-Speed Automatic (2.5L Four-Cylinder, 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6)
- Transmission Fluid Leak: The transmission fluid pan can develop a leak and cause fluid to leak out. The issue requires replacing the transmission fluid pan and gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Insufficient Cooling: The transmission can overheat and cause slipping, shuddering, or loss of gears. The issue requires replacing the transmission cooler. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
Suspension
- Strut Failure: The front struts can fail and cause a clunking noise, reduced ride comfort, and poor handling. The issue requires replacing the struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
Electrical
- Battery Drain: The electrical system can drain the battery over time, causing difficulty starting the vehicle. The issue requires testing the electrical system and replacing any faulty components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
- Headlight Malfunction: The headlights can malfunction and fail to illuminate properly. The issue requires replacing the headlight bulbs or assemblies. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
Exterior
- Paint Defects: Some owners have reported paint defects, such as bubbling or peeling. The issue requires repainting the affected areas. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
Interior
- Cracked Dashboard: The dashboard can develop cracks over time. The issue requires replacing the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
- Faulty Climate Control System: The climate control system can malfunction and fail to provide proper heating or cooling. The issue requires diagnosing and replacing any faulty components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
Summary
While the 2018 Buick LaCrosse is a generally reliable vehicle, some owners have experienced issues with its engine, transmission, and other components. The severity of the issues varies, and the cost to repair can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. However, it’s important to note that these issues are not universal and may not affect all vehicles.