2008 Buick LaCrosse vs 2014 Honda Civic
Too Close to Call on Reliability Alone
These vehicles are neck-and-neck on reliability. The "Best For" breakdown below shows where each pulls ahead — pick the one that matches your priorities.
Reliability Side-by-Side
2008
Buick LaCrosse
Grade A-
A comfortable, value-rich sedan with a strong powertrain foundation, though minor electrical and regional rust issues can arise.
2014
Honda Civic
Grade A-
A smart, practical choice offering segment-leading reliability with very few notable weaknesses.
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
Sell your car for what it's worth.
Log every service. Sell with a signed PDF. Every receipt, mileage-verified, in the buyer's hands.
Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2008 Buick LaCrosse | 2014 Honda Civic |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $400-600 | $400-600 |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., A/C compressor, major service) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 17 / 28 | 30 / 39 |
| MSRP (New) | $23,985 | $18,390 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
1995-2025 toyota 1" wheel spacers 6x5.5 forged aluminum 108mm bore - KSP Performance
1" 5X4.5 / 5x114.3 Hubcentric Wheel Spacers For 1995-2022 Acura & Honda: Accord, Civic, CR-V, TL, RDX, NSX - KSP Performance
2001-2016 Chevy GMC Duramax 6.6L Downpipe for LB7 LLY LBZ LMM LML - KSP Performance
Biggest Risks on Each
2008 Buick LaCrosse
Electrical System
60,000-100,000 mi
Transmission (4T65E)
80,000-120,000 mi
Suspension Components
70,000-110,000 mi
2014 Honda Civic
HVAC System (A/C Compressor)
60,000-100,000 mi
Engine (VTC Actuator)
50,000-90,000 mi
Infotainment/Electrical
Intermittent mi
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
Free · Instant delivery · No account required
Autojunket
Free
per report
Carfax
$44.99
per report
OSC
$9.99/mo
unlimited
Not sure yet? See a real, unblurred sample report →
Editorial Take
Comparing a 2008 Buick LaCrosse and a 2014 Honda Civic highlights a classic automotive decision: whether to opt for an older, larger, more traditional American sedan or a newer, smaller, and more modern Japanese compact. These vehicles represent different philosophies, with the LaCrosse emphasizing comfort, interior space, and a plush ride, while the Civic focuses on fuel efficiency, agile handling, and contemporary technology for its era. Buyers considering these two divergent options are typically weighing factors like purchase price versus long-term cost of ownership, maximum passenger comfort versus practical daily commuting, and outright size versus ease of maneuverability. The key decision factors ultimately revolve around space requirements, budget constraints, desired driving experience, and the importance of modern safety and convenience features. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2008 Buick LaCrosse 1. Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: A common issue, particularly with the 3.8L V6 engine, is premature failure of the upper and lower intake manifold gaskets. This can lead to coolant leaks, misfires, and overheating if not addressed, often affecting vehicles around the 70,000 to 100,000-mile mark. 2. Power Steering Pump Leaks: Many owners have reported power steering fluid leaks from the pump or hoses, which can lead to groaning noises and reduced steering assist if the fluid level drops too low. This is often seen in vehicles over 80,000 miles. 3. Electrical Gremlins: As these cars age, owners might encounter intermittent electrical issues, such as faulty window switches, instrument cluster malfunctions, or problems with the climate control system, typically appearing after 100,000 miles. 2014 Honda Civic 1. A/C Compressor Failure: Some 2012-2015 Civic models, including the 2014, have been known to experience premature air conditioning compressor failures, leading to a lack of cold air. This issue can sometimes manifest around 50,000-80,000 miles. 2. VTC Actuator Noise: Owners of Civics with the 1.8L engine may notice a grinding or rattling noise during a cold start, especially in colder weather. This is often attributed to a faulty VTC (Variable Timing Control) actuator, though it's generally not a catastrophic failure. This can occur at various mileages. 3. Minor Interior Rattles: While overall build quality is good, some owners have reported minor interior rattles or squeaks, particularly from the dashboard or door panels, which can be a nuisance but are not indicative of mechanical issues.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2008 Buick LaCrosse started around $24,000 for a base CX model, while the 2014 Honda Civic LX sedan started around $18,400. In the used market today, the price difference has widened dramatically. A 2008 LaCrosse typically fetches between $4,000 and $7,000, depending on condition, mileage, and engine. A 2014 Honda Civic, being six years newer and a more in-demand model, generally commands between $8,000 and $13,000. Insurance costs for the Civic are generally lower due to its smaller engine, lower replacement cost, and often better safety ratings. Maintenance costs for both can be reasonable, but the Civic generally benefits from Honda's reputation for inexpensive parts and wide availability of mechanics familiar with the brand. Older Buicks, while having readily available parts, might incur higher costs for specific repairs like engine gasket issues or larger components due to the vehicle's age and complexity of some systems. Fuel costs will be significantly lower for the Civic, especially the 1.8L or Hybrid models, which can achieve 30-40+ MPG combined, compared to the LaCrosse's 17-20 MPG combined average. Resale value for the Civic is consistently strong, while the LaCrosse has largely depreciated to its floor due to its age and changing market preferences away from large sedans.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: The 2008 Buick LaCrosse. Its larger interior space, exceptionally comfortable seats, and quiet ride make it superior for transporting families, especially on longer road trips where comfort and rear legroom are paramount. The substantial trunk space is also a clear advantage. Best for commuters: The 2014 Honda Civic. Its superior fuel economy (particularly the 1.8L and Hybrid models), easier maneuverability in traffic and parking, and modern connectivity features like Bluetooth and rearview camera make it a far more practical and cost-effective choice for daily commuting. Best for enthusiasts: The 2014 Honda Civic Si. The LaCrosse Super's V8 offers brute force, but the Civic Si provides a more engaging, nimble, and truly sporty driving experience with its high-revving engine and precise manual transmission. The base LaCrosse models offer no enthusiast appeal. Best value overall: The 2014 Honda Civic. Despite a higher initial used purchase price, the Civic offers significantly better fuel economy, lower average maintenance costs, a stronger reliability record, superior safety features (being six years newer), and significantly higher resale value. It represents a more modern, efficient, and financially prudent long-term ownership proposition.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2008 Buick LaCrosse
Products for 2014 Honda Civic
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.