2018 Buick LaCrosse Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Excellent NHTSA safety ratings across the board (5-star overall).
- Comfortable and quiet cabin ideal for long drives.
- Average reliability, with frequent owner complaints about the electrical system, engine, and powertrain.
- A high volume of TSBs (417) indicates potential underlying complexity and quality control issues.
2018 Buick LaCrosse
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints frequently cite issues within the electrical system, including sudden vehicle shutdowns and problems with the start/stop system. These can range from minor glitches to significant failures impacting drivability.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$4,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Drivers prioritizing comfort and safety over long-term, worry-free reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers who demand impeccable reliability and minimal unexpected repair bills.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Buick LaCrosse Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 5 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 4 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Buick LaCrosse reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 19.
How practical is the 2018 Buick LaCrosse for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 - Brake System Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
Base MSRP is $29,565.
What engine is in the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2018 Buick LaCrosse use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
8 standard and 6 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Buick LaCrosse use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
Top complaint category: electrical system (5 reports, 26.3% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Toyota Avalon and 2018 Chevrolet Impala.