2009 Buick Lacrosse problems

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The Buick LaCrosse is a four-door, front-wheel-drive sedan manufactured by Buick since model year 2005, and marketed variously across four generations for the North American and Chinese markets.

The first-generation LaCrosse replaced the Century and Regal in North America beginning for model year 2005 as a five- or six-passenger, four-door, front-wheel-drive, V6-powered sedan using GM's mid-size W platform—and marketed in Canada as the Buick Allure. Notably, the first generation was also offered with a V8 engine, as a high-performance sub-model marketed as the LaCrosse Super (2008–2009). LaCrosse production and marketing began for China with model year 2006.

The second-generation LaCrosse was introduced for 2010 as a larger premium sedan for North American and Chinese markets using a long-wheelbase (LWB) variant of the Epsilon II platform shared with the Cadillac XTS—and available solely as a five-passenger sedan with a range of four- and six-cylinder engines.

The third generation was introduced for North America and China for model year 2017 using the GM Epsilon platform shared with the Chevrolet Impala, notably offering a mild hybrid powertrain combining 20-kilowatt (27 hp) electric and 2.5-liter Ecotec gasoline engine. North American production ended with the third generation, with model year 2019; however, it continued to be offered in China, with a 2019 facelift.

The fourth-generation LaCrosse, launched in 2023, is currently manufactured and marketed solely in China. It is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

2009 Buick Lacrosse

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Common 2009 Buick Lacrosse problems

The 2009 Buick LaCrosse has several common problems reported by owners, including illuminated engine light, faulty door lock actuator, steering issues, and power steering hose leaks.

The illuminated engine light is a common complaint among LaCrosse owners, with the check engine light reportedly being too sensitive. It may come on even with a loose or worn gas cap, which can be frustrating for owners.

Faulty door lock actuators are another common problem with the 2009 Buick LaCrosse, causing the doors to become stuck and preventing passengers from opening the door from both sides. This issue is widespread in the 2005 to 2014 model years and can cost around $250-$1,000 to fix.

Steering issues have also been reported by several owners, with clunking noises being heard while steering the LaCrosse. This issue is common in the 2005 to 2014 model years and can be fixed for around $250-$1,000.

Power steering hose leaks have been reported by owners of 2005-2010 Buick LaCrosse, with fluids leaking into the cabin. This issue can be costly to fix and may require replacing the power steering hose.

Additionally, the 2009 Buick LaCrosse has had several recalls, including a recall for headlights that may not illuminate due to a faulty headlamp driver module (HDM) and an ignition switch issue that could affect the safe operation of the airbag system.

Overall, while the 2009 Buick LaCrosse has several common problems reported by owners, many of these issues are relatively minor and can be fixed with routine maintenance or repairs. However, it is essential to address recalls as soon as possible and to have a certified mechanic inspect any used vehicle before purchase.

2009 Buick Lacrosse engine

What year is a bad Buick LaCrosse?

According to most previous owners, 2010 was the absolute worst year for the Buick Lacrosse. This model had a serious transmission issue that could cost more than $3,000 to have repaired if your vehicle had the problem. It was one of the most costly repairs and common in this year.

What is the most common problem with the Buick LaCrosse?

Many of the LaCrosse's common problems in this list are fairly minor and can be fixed through a simple replacement.

  • Check Engine Light Turning On. ...
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure. ...
  • Clunking Noises From Steering. ...
  • Headlight Failure. ...
  • Power Steering Hose Leak.

Are Buick LaCrosse expensive to fix?

The average annual repair cost is $569 which means it has average ownership costs.

How many miles will a Buick LaCrosse last?

How long do Buick LaCrosses last? According to thedriveradviser.com, a typical Buick LaCrosse will last around 200,000-220,000 miles. This number is solid for a large sedan, and the vehicle will last even longer if you provide proper care and maintenance during your time as an owner.

Are 2009 Buick LaCrosse good cars?

Like its LeSabre and Century predecessors, the 2009 Buick LaCrosse was engineered to offer an agreeable balance between a supple ride and confident handling. On the highway, it rides smoothly and soaks up bumps with little drama, as you'd expect a midsize family sedan to do.

What is the most common problem with the Buick LaCrosse?

Many of the LaCrosse's common problems in this list are fairly minor and can be fixed through a simple replacement.

  • Check Engine Light Turning On. ...
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure. ...
  • Clunking Noises From Steering. ...
  • Headlight Failure. ...
  • Power Steering Hose Leak.

What year is a bad Buick LaCrosse?

According to most previous owners, 2010 was the absolute worst year for the Buick Lacrosse. This model had a serious transmission issue that could cost more than $3,000 to have repaired if your vehicle had the problem. It was one of the most costly repairs and common in this year.

Why was Buick LaCrosse discontinued?

There was even a fun LaCrosse once, though GM gave up on LaCrosse here after 2019, probably because Buick's core American demo is older and also because Buick's existence in America as a sort of quasi-luxury brand was increasingly confusing.

2009 Buick Lacrosse car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Lacrosse problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Buick Lacrosse vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2009 Buick Lacrosse

The NHTSA has received 106 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Buick Lacrosse. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2009 Buick Lacrosse vehicles.

2024-06-09

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
  • VIN: 2G4WD582091
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The passenger airbag light started coming on and going off intermittently. After several weeks of this, it was on every time the car is driven. Testing by an ASE certified mechanic revealed that the permanent light results in no front seat airbags. The failed part is the seat presence sensor. The part is - and hasn't been for quite a while - manufactured by GM. Aftermarket parts are costly and the installation cost is in the hundreds of dollars. Research indicates that this is a well-known and long reported issue. Why not a recall years ago? Other than brakes and steering, could there be any more unsafe components than those affecting airbags? The only remedy other than continuously replacing the faulty part, is a bypass module. If it functions correctly, the airbag will deploy regardless of passenger weight. This puts any child or underweight rider in danger. And, of course, considering the expense, many owners will do nothing with possibly grave consequences. I think you "dropped the ball" big time on this one!
2023-12-02

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-27
  • VIN: 2G4WD582791
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: My headlamps have been going out sporadically and until recently I was able to
2023-07-13

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
  • VIN: 2G4WD582491
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The air bag light on the dashboard is on all the time.It is available for inspection at any time. I do not know if the bag will go off at any time or does it mean that it won't go off on impact. I am nervous about having someone for a passenger. I have informed the dealership of the problem and they did confirmed the problem, it has not been inspected by the manufacturer or others. The light came on the day after I bought the car from the dealership and it has been on every cents.
2022-12-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-21
  • VIN: 2G4WC582491
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Passenger airbag intermittently turns on and off when passenger is seated.
2019-09-30

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-09-29
  • VIN: 2G4WD582591
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: REDUCED POWER/TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT CAME ON SUDDENLY AND REDUCED CAR POWER IMMEDIATELY. THIS MADE FOR A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION WHILE PASSING A TRUCK AND ENTERING THE HIGHWAY. THE CAR DROPPED SPEED VERY QUICKLY MAKING FOR A POTENTIALLY DEADLY SITUATION. THIS PROBLEM COMES AND GOES WITH NO WARNING UNTIL IT HAPPENS. RESEARCH SHOWS THIS IS A BIG PROBLEM FOR GM VEHICLES ESPECIALLY THE 2009 BUICK LACROSS MODELS. IT'S A DISASTER WAITING TO HAPPEN IF IT HASN'T HAPPENED ALREADY. THIS NEEDS TO BE RECALLED ASAP.
2019-04-09

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-08
  • VIN: 2G4WD582X91
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. WHEN THE CONTACT STARTED THE VEHICLE, THE CHECK ENGINE AND SERVICE TRAC SYSTEM WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. ALSO, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT EXCEED 15 TO 20 MPH WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STARTED AN INVESTIGATION. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT TO CALL NHTSA TO FILE A COMPLAINT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,000.
2018-12-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-12-14
  • VIN: 1G4HD57M49U
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: WAS DRIVING DOWN ROAD GOT TO MY DESTINATION PARKED IT AND WHEN I CAME OUT IT WOULD NOT START FOUND A BURNT FUEL PUMP RELAY CHANGED IT AND DROVE IT HOME. 20 MIN LATER I DROVE IT AGAIN AND MADE IT 2 MILES SAME THING HAPPENED TO RELAY ONLY WHEN I WAS DRIVING IT.
2018-11-18

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-04-01
  • VIN: 2G4WD582391
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL.. ALL OF MY WARNING DASH LIGHTS ARE ON AT TIMES OR THE WHOLE DASH, RADIO AND EVERYTHING GO OUT THEN COMES BACK, THE IGNITION HAS BEEN PAUSING BEFORE IT TURNS OVER, THE FRONT END OF THE CAR RATTLES, ABS, T/C AND AIR BAGS WARNING LIGHTS ARE ALMOST ALWAYS ON.. I HAVE REPLACED 1000.00S OF DOLLARS TO FIX THE PROBLEM AND NOTHING CHANGES. I HAVE REPLACED THE WHEEL HUBS, IGNITION MODULE, THE 700.00 PART FOR THE ECBM, NOTHING CHANGES, I BELIEVE ITS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM THAT NO ONE HAS BEEN TO FIND. IT DOESNT MATTER IF THE CAR IS STATIONARY, IN MOTION OR WHERE I AM DRIVING. I NEED HELP WITH MY CAR, PLEASE. I DONT HAVE PICTURES , CAN YOU PLEASE HELP ME
2018-02-08

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-01-25
  • VIN: 2G4WD582191
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE THROTTLE BEGAN TO FAIL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED BEFORE OR AFTER THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 92,648.
2017-07-26

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-06-10
  • VIN: 2G4WC582791
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: ABOU 50,XXX MILES THE SERVICE AIRBAG LIGHT IN THE DASH BEGAN TO ILLUMINATE INTERMITTENTLY. IT WOULD OCCUR ONCE A MONTH OR SO. THE DEALER WANTED $1200 TO REPLACE THE AB CONTROL MODULE. FOR THE NEXT 46,XXX MILES IT HAS BEEN THAT WAY UNTIL A FEW DAYS AGO. NOW THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON CONTINUALLY, MEANING THE AIRBAGS ARE INOPERATIVE. SEEMS LIKE A SAFETY ISSUE TO ME!
2017-07-02

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-06-29
  • VIN: 2G4WC582791
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: AT 80XXX MILES THE DRIVERS FRONT DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR BECAME INOPERATIVE. AT 90XXX MILES THE PASSENGER FRONT DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR BECAME INOPERATIVE. AT 96XXX MILES THE PASSENGER REAR DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR BECAME INOPERATIVE. EACH RUNS $250-300 TO REPAIR. NOT REPAIRING LEAVES THE DOOR UNLOCKED (WHILE DRIVING) OR UNLOCKED (WHILE PARKED AND VEHICLE BECOMES ACCESSIBLE TO ANYONE) OR THE DOOR REMAINS LOCKED WHEN TRYING TO EXIT OR ENTER. IN AN EMERGENCY, THIS MAY CAUSE PROBLEMS. SEARCHING THE INTERNET, THERE ARE MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS ON THE LACROSSE.
2017-05-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-05-05
  • VIN: 2G4WD582291
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE AIR BAG MALFUNCTION WARNING LIGHT BLINKS AND THEN REMAINS ON WHEN THE IGNITION IS TURNED ON AND WHEN DRIVING REGARDLESS OF SPEED. THIS CONDITION HAS RESULTED IN THE REPLACING OF THE RELEVANT PART TWICE SINCE I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE IN 2009 ONCE UNDER WARRANTY AND ONCE OUT OF WARRANTY. THIS RECURRING PROBLEM COMPROMISES THE OPERATION OF THE AIR BAGS IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT. THE AIR BAGS IN THIS VEHICLE HAVE NEVER BEEN DEPLOYED SINCE IT HAS BEEN ACCIDENT FREE SINCE PURCHASED NEW.
2016-12-28

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-11-01
  • VIN: 2G4WD582291
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: ORIGINAL PURCHASER OF VEHICLE WITH UNDER 120,000 MILES AND HAVE A "REDUCED POWER / ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SENSOR" PROBLEM AS RECALLED BY GM FOR SOME MAKE AND MODELS AS SAME, BUT NOT MINE AS IT DID NOT MANUFACTURED AT SAME PLANT AS OTHERS (AS I WAS TOLD)? I'M FINDING IT COINCIDENTAL THAT I WOULD HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM?
2016-11-30

AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-03-15
  • VIN: JT3HN86R720
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
  • Summary: THE SENSOR FOR THE PASSENGER AIRBAG ASSOCIATED WITH THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT WORKS ERRATICALLY, AND GENERALLY DOES NOT ENABLE THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG WHEN A PASSENGER IS IN THE SEAT. THIS OCCURS WITH A FULL SIZE ADULT IN THE SEAT. THIS CONDITION SEEMS TO OCCUR REGARDLESS OF IDLING OR DRIVING CONDITIONS. IT GENERALLY REPORTS THROUGH INDICATORS THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG IS TURNED OFF AND THE AIRBAG READINESS INDICATOR IS LIT TO INDICATE A PROBLEM. *TR
2016-11-08

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-15
  • VIN: 2G4WD582X91
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: MY 2009 LACROSSE WILL INTERMITTENTLY DISPLAY THE AIR BAG INDICATOR. I NOTICED THIS WHILE DRIVING THE CAR AROUND TOWN AND THERE IS NO PASSENGER IN THE FRONT SEAT. IT WILL EITHER STAY ON FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS AND THEN DISAPPEAR OR WILL JUST BE ON FOR SHORT PERIODS OF TIME. WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER THEY STATED IT WAS A SENSOR MODULE AND WOULD BE APPROXIMATELY $1300 TO REPLACE. AS OF THIS DATE, I HAVE NOT HAD IT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE ONLY HAS APPROXIMATELY 24,000 MILES. I CHECKED TO SEE IF THERE MIGHT BE ANY RECALLS FOR THIS ISSUE AND THERE WERE NONE. BUT IN CHECKING ONLINE, THIS APPEARS TO BE AN ISSUE WITH MANY BUICKS ESPECIALLY THE 2008. TO ME THIS APPEARS TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED.
2016-08-27

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-01-15
  • VIN: 2G4WD582391
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: SEATBELT LIGHT CAME ON DASH ON; NO AIRBAG LIGHT ALSO ON FOR PASSENGER SIDE. FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED SOMEONE EXITED PASSENGER SEAT WHILE CAR WAS IN PARK. INTERMITTENT CHIME WHETHER SEAT BELT WAS IN USE OR NOT; WHETHER SOMEONE WAS IN PASSENGER SEAT OR NOT. THAT HAS SINCE CEASED TO HAPPEN. DEALER STATES DASH LIGHT ON ALSO MEANS NO AIRBAG FOR DRIVER SIDE. FIX IS OVER $1500. HAVE READ MANY OTHER SIMILAR COMPLAINTS ALL OVER AMERICA WITH OTHER BUICK VEHICLES AND YEARS. HOW IS THIS NOT A RECALL/SAFETY ISSUE?
2016-08-26

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-08-14
  • VIN: 2G4WD582391
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE ENTERING INTERSTATE OFF RAMP I STARTED SLOWING DOWN AND VEHICLE ACCELERATED TO A VERY HIGH SPEED. WITH EXTREME BRAKE PEDAL PRESSURE WAS NOT ABLE TO SLOW VEHICLE DOWN FOR APPROXIMATELY 100 YARDS. I HAD TO CHANGE 3 LANES TO AVOID COLLIONS WITH VEHICLES IN FRONT.
2016-08-26

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-08-16
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 2G4WD582391
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: WHILE ENTERING A PARKING LOT AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AT VERY HIGH RPMS AND JUMPED THE CURB HITTING A TREE, EXTREME PRESSURE ON BRAKE PEDAL WOULD NOT STOP VEHICLE.. THIS WAS THE SECOND TIME IN 2 DAYS THIS PROBLEM OCCURRED..
2016-07-28

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-28
  • VIN: 2G4WD582691
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V755000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. UPDATED 09/28/16*LJ UPDATED 03/14/17*JB
2016-07-11

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-20
  • VIN: 2G4WD582391
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT REMAINED OFF EVEN WHEN THE SEAT WAS OCCUPIED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE DETAILS OF THE REPAIRS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 6,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. ..UPDATED 11/21/16 *BF *TR
2016-06-30

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-30
  • VIN: 2G4WC582291
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V519000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. UPDATED 08/16/16*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. UPDATED 08/17/16.*JB
2016-06-16

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-03-02
  • VIN: 2G4WC582891
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE RECURRED FREQUENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
2016-05-26

STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-05-10
  • VIN: 2G4WC582691
  • Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, THE REAR DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR AND MOTOR FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000. UPDATED 07/13/16*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE LETTERING/DECALS HAD WORN OFF THE CONTROL PANEL. THE DEALER REPLACED THE CONTROL HEAD. THE CONSUMER STATED IT HAS SINCE HAPPENED AGAIN. UPDATED 09/22/16. *JB
2016-05-20

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
  • VIN: 2G4WD582491
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED, BUT NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,975.....UPDATED 07/05/16 *BF IT WAS DETERMINED, THE PASSENGER AIR MODULE HAD AN INTERMITTENT INTERNAL FAILURE. UPDATED 07/14/16. *JB
2016-05-05

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-01-23
  • VIN: 2G4WC582691
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK LACROSSE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V755000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 52,000.

2009 Buick Lacrosse recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2009 Buick Lacrosse.

2015-08-14
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2006-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT, GMC Envoy XL, 2006-2008 Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7x vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the headlamp driver module (HDM) may overheat and fail, causing the headlamps and daytime running lights to not illuminate.
  • Consequence: Headlamps that do not illuminate reduce the driver's ability to see the roadway and reduce the vehicle's visibility to oncoming vehicles, both of which increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HDM, free of charge. The recall began on May 17, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14291.
2014-06-23
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
  • Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille, 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, 2006-2014 Chevrolet Impala, and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
  • Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, a key knocked out of the run position will cause loss of engine power, power steering, and power braking, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 23, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), and 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet). GM's number for this recall is 14299.

Negative 2009 Buick Lacrosse car reviews

  1. Elwyn Grady 2024-10-10

    I purchased this car in 2018 with only 55000 miles and unfortunately, this year has presented some challenges. The dashboard panel light stopped working and after an oil change, the tire pressure sensor malfunctioned, displaying an incorrect reading. Additionally, the speedometer on the dashboard displayed an inaccurate speed. Despite these issues, I am confident that these problems can be resolved. As a newly widowed individual living in a small town, I rely on my car for transportation and I am determined to find a solution. While I would not recommend this make and model, I am optimistic that with the right repairs, it can still be a reliable vehicle.

  2. Jake Morar 2024-09-14

    I purchased the 08 CX as a Company Car. The seats are very supportive and it comes with a lot of standard features for the base model. However, the fuel mileage is not great. I'm lucky to get 24 highway and an average of 16 city. In comparison, my Honda Odyssey gets better mileage despite being taller, heavier, and having more horsepower. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with the car such as the driver seat starting to squeak at 20k miles, the brakes going at 20k miles (almost all highway), and the steering wheel making a clicking sound. Additionally, the left windshield wiper splashes water on the right side and the right wiper misses it. Lastly, the key fob died even after replacing the battery. Although these were minor issues, they were expensive and inconvenient to fix.

  3. Connor Hayes 2024-08-27

    Hey there! I had a bit of a scare when my low oil level light came on and I checked the oil - it was only showing about a 1/4

  4. Ron Luettgen 2024-08-24

    This car has had some issues, but I am confident in my assessment that it should be recalled. The 'service tires' light came on the day after I drove it off the lot, and upon inspection, the dealership claimed that the pressure sensor was cracked. Despite my protests, they refused to pay for the repairs, insisting that it was my fault. The rear struts are faulty, causing the tires to wear too easily, and the car rattles horribly. Additionally, the doors are too low, and I constantly hit my head getting in. The car now whines like a dying cat, and I have to replace the fluid daily. The keyless entry hasn't worked since the third month of owning the car. I know that I am not the only one experiencing these issues, and I believe that the entire car should be recalled. I will be returning to Ford for my next vehicle.

  5. Timmy Runolfsson 2024-07-11

    My wife bought a 2008 CX new from the dealer around the time we first met. It has been driven daily and now has 120K miles. Over the years, we have had to replace the alternator, water pump, power steering pump, steering rack, front inner and outer tie rod ends, front lower control arms, ignition coils, ignition control module, spark plug wires, spark plugs, headlight and taillight bulbs, rear section of fuel line, and tensioner pulley. We also had to take it to the dealership for warranty work on the electrical system and to fix a fuel evap code. While we have had some issues with this vehicle, I have taken good care of it and performed many of the parts replacements myself. The cloth interior is not the best quality and tends to hold lint and hair, and the ergonomics could be improved. Entry and exit can be difficult and the interior space is small compared to the car's exterior dimensions. However, I still appreciate this car and my experience with it. Based on my 30 years of consumer experience with other GM models, I will consider other options in the future.

Positive 2009 Buick Lacrosse car reviews

  1. Chad Bogan 2025-01-03

    I purchased this car last year with 96K miles for $9000. The previous owner was the dealership, and they took great care of it. I've had some maintenance done, including replacing the evap sensor and repairing the ABS sensor, as well as getting new tires and front brakes and regular oil changes. The ride is comfortable and predictable, although it's not a sporty handling car. It gets good gas mileage, with 18 mpg in town and 25 mpg on the highway. The car also has side airbags for added safety. I currently have 120k miles on it and plan to keep it for a while, as it has been trouble-free. The engine has a timing chain instead of a belt, and it's a 3.8 with an improved steel intake that doesn't have the leaks that prior GM engines had. This was the last year for this version of the car.

  2. Darius Goodwin 2024-10-26

    I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my 2009 Buick Lacrosse. I purchased it in April 2009 after selling my 2006 LaCrosse to a relative. I have to say, this new vehicle is just as good as my older one. I specifically chose this model because it has the last of the 3800 engines, which I believe are more reliable than newer engines with more horsepower. The vehicle is very comfortable and responsive, making for a great driving experience. The only issue I've had is the battery running down after sitting for 3 days, but the dealer found no problem and it hasn't happened again. Still, it's a concern that it could happen when I'm far from home. Despite having an 'antiquated' 4-speed transmission, it's smooth, responsive, and gets great mileage. Thanks for listening!

  3. Grant Padberg 2024-10-21

    If you service the transmission, this car will last forever. I met someone who drove their car for 600,000 miles, servicing the transmission every 75,000 miles.

  4. Elijah Volkman 2024-10-19

    We recently bought a car in Flint, Michigan and drove it to our winter home in Arizona. What a ride it was! We had forgotten how wonderful it is to drive and ride in a Buick. We took it in for some upgrades and now it looks absolutely adorable! Not only is it pretty, but it's also sharp! We even added a spoiler to make it look even more stylish. I always get a kick out of Tiger's commercial that says, 'A Buick was always a car for my parents' age.' Well, that may be true for us, but our 2008 Buick is definitely not from the 1970s! It is a ride that has no competition, and it surpasses any other car on the road.

  5. Brenden Daniel 2024-10-11

    I bought the Lacrosse for my wife and I must say, it handles even better than a Cadillac CTS! It's a fun car to drive and very comfortable. As someone who has owned Buicks for 30 years, I can attest that I have only had a few problems. Don't believe all the negativity about American cars, do your own research and test them for yourself. I did have one slight issue with the navigation, but Buick called me personally to ensure that the dealer repaired the problem. This experience more than proved to me that they truly care!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2009 Buick Lacrosse problems:

2009 Buick LaCrosse Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
2009 Buick LaCrosse Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2009-buick-lacrosse/problems

Top 2009 Buick LaCrosse Problems · Door Lock Mechanism Sticks · Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue · High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid · The ...

2009 Buick LaCrosse Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2009 Buick LaCrosse Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/buick/lacrosse/2009/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2009 Buick LaCrosse? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

Q&A: 2009 Buick Lacrosse CX - Engine Problems & Solutions
Q&A: 2009 Buick Lacrosse CX - Engine Problems & Solutions
https://www.justanswer.com/buick/gprqb-2009-buick-lacrosse-3-8-liter-engine-one-day.html

May 3, 2021 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.

Buick LaCrosse Transmission Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds ...
Buick LaCrosse Transmission Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds ...
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/8230/buick/lacrosse/buick-lacrosse-transmission-problems

Jul 26, 2007 ... Hard transmission up shifts are a common problem with these transmissions caused by a weak or faulty electronic solenoid. Most times this ...

2009 Buick LaCrosse CX all 3 passenger power door locks wont ...
2009 Buick LaCrosse CX all 3 passenger power door locks wont ...
https://www.justanswer.com/car/cuitd-2009-buick-lacrosse-cx-passenger-power-door-locks-wont.html

Sep 2, 2019 ... The internet has many reports of this and similar door lock issues on this generation of vehicle. If was just one door I would be suspicious of ...

Other years of Buick Lacrosse

buick lacrosse 2010 photo
Lacrosse 2010
Buick

185

2

25

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buick lacrosse 2011 photo
Lacrosse 2011
Buick

165

4

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
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buick lacrosse 2012 photo
Lacrosse 2012
Buick

192

5

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick lacrosse 2013 photo
Lacrosse 2013
Buick

115

5

17

  • 5
  • 4
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  • 1
buick lacrosse 2014 photo
Lacrosse 2014
Buick

58

5

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick lacrosse 2015 photo
Lacrosse 2015
Buick

40

3

15

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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