Last updated: 2026-07-25
Buick Lacrosse Reliability by Year
The Buick Lacrosse averages 76/100 across 2 model years, rated good.
Buick Lacrosse Reliability Overview
The Buick LaCrosse, covering model years 2018 and 2019, holds an average reliability score of 76/100, categorized as good, with annual repair costs averaging $569, slightly above the midsize car segment's $526. Data indicates common issues in the 2018 model with the engine, electrical system, and power train, while the 2019 model frequently sees problems related to the e-shift mechanism and engine. With a reliability rating of 4/5 and a complaint rate of 7.7 to 8.3 per 10,000 sold, the LaCrosse is best suited for buyers aware of these specific concerns and looking for a midsize vehicle with a history of moderate reliability.
Current generation: 4th gen (2023–2023).
Best & Worst Buick Lacrosse Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Buick Lacrosse Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Buick Lacrosse year is 2019 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2018 (75/100).
Buick Lacrosse Years to Avoid
No Buick Lacrosse years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Buick Lacrosse maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Buick Lacrosse Reliability Score Trend
Buick Lacrosse reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 76/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 76/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2019 Buick Lacrosse
2 recalls · 6 complaints
The 2019 Buick Lacrosse has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 6 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Buick Lacrosse. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (3), Engine (2), Electrical System (1).
2018 Buick Lacrosse
3 recalls · 12 complaints
The 2018 Buick Lacrosse has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 12 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Buick Lacrosse. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (3), Electrical System (3), Power Train (2).
Found Your Buick Lacrosse? Check Its History
Every Buick Lacrosse has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Buick Lacrosse Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
4/5
Annual Repair Cost
$569
Repair Frequency
0.3/yr
Major Repair Risk
12%
$43 above the midsize cars average of $526/yr.
Ranked #15 of 24 among midsize cars.
Buick Lacrosse Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Buick Models
Compare all Buick models by reliability
Compare Buick Lacrosse With Similar Sedans
The Buick Lacrosse competes with other midsize sedans such as Chrysler 300, Nissan Maxima, and Dodge Charger.
Chrysler 300 reliability
6 years tracked · 248 complaints
Nissan Maxima reliability
6 years tracked · 84 complaints
Dodge Charger reliability
9 years tracked · 369 complaints
KIA K5 reliability
6 years tracked · 370 complaints
Honda Accord reliability
9 years tracked · 3503 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Buick Lacrosse reliable?
- The Buick Lacrosse has good reliability with an average score of 76/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Buick Lacrosse?
- The best year for the Buick Lacrosse is 2019 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. It has 2 recalls and 6 owner complaints on record. See full 2019 Buick Lacrosseanalysis →
- What are the Buick Lacrosse years to avoid?
- No Buick Lacrosse years in our database are statistical outliers — all tracked model years score consistently within the model average. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Buick Lacrosse?
- The Buick Lacrosse has an estimated annual repair cost of $569, which is $43 above the midsize cars average of $526. This includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs based on independent repair data.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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