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2011 Buick LaCrosse Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2011 Buick LaCrosse Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Engine and suspension issues are the most frequently reported problems, potentially leading to costly repairs.
  • Electrical system faults are also common, impacting various vehicle functions.
  • While safety ratings are high, verify that all recalls, particularly those concerning suspension and HVAC, have been addressed.
  • Fuel economy is average for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 20 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Buick LaCrosse

The 2011 Buick LaCrosse offers a comfortable ride and a premium feel for its class, but potential buyers should be aware of its documented reliability issues. With a 3.6L V6 engine and front-wheel drive, it delivers adequate power for daily driving. However, a high volume of complaints and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) point to underlying quality concerns. Safety ratings are strong, with a 5-star overall score from NHTSA, but the number of recalls and the nature of common complaints warrant careful consideration.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls address rear suspension toe links susceptible to corrosion and fracture, particularly in certain climates. This can lead to alignment issues and potential loss of control.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

241
Engine29
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.9/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing comfort and a quiet cabin over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Buick LaCrosse Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 29 reports

2. Suspension

Usage: 25 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 Buick LaCrosse reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 241.

How practical is the 2011 Buick LaCrosse for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Rear Suspension Toe Links (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2011 Buick LaCrosse use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Buick LaCrosse use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

Top complaint category: engine (29 reports, 12% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Buick LaCrosse?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Toyota Avalon and 2011 Ford Taurus.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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