2011 Buick Lucerne Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The electrical system is the most significant concern, with a documented risk of the rear fuse box and fuel pump relay overheating and melting due to seat bracket interference, posing a fire hazard.
- Inspect the service brakes and vehicle speed control systems thoroughly, as these are also common complaint areas.
- Two recalls were issued, one for power steering fluid leaks and another for ignition switch issues that could cause engine stall. Confirm these have been addressed.
- Fuel economy is a modest 18 MPG combined, contributing to higher running costs.
2011 Buick Lucerne
Critical Failure Risk
The rear fuse box and fuel pump relay can overheat and melt due to interference from the seat bracket. This poses a significant fire risk and can cause the engine to fail to start.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 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
Buyers prioritizing comfort and a smooth ride over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a dependable, trouble-free daily driver.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2011 Buick Lucerne Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Buick Lucerne.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic 4-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
CarFocal account required
See the full 2011 Buick Lucerne buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 20 reports
2. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Usage: 4 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System
Est. shop cost: $100 - $180
Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.
Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $
Already have an account? Log in
FAQ
Is the 2011 Buick Lucerne reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Buick Lucerne is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 58.
How practical is the 2011 Buick Lucerne for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Buick Lucerne is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Buick Lucerne?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Fuse Box/Wiring) (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).
What engine is in the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
Engine specs list 8 • 4.6.
What transmission does the 2011 Buick Lucerne use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Buick Lucerne, transmission is Automatic 4-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Buick Lucerne, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2011 Buick Lucerne use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Buick Lucerne, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 4-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 2/5 • Rollover 5/5.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
Top complaint category: electrical system (20 reports, 34.5% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Buick Lucerne?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Toyota Avalon and 2011 Ford Taurus.