2016 Buick LaCrosse Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 2016 Buick LaCrosse
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal.
- Outscores the 2014 Buick LaCrosse by 6 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: electrical system & infotainment (moderate severity).
The 2016 Buick LaCrosse at a glance
- Is the 2016 Buick LaCrosse reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2016 Buick LaCrosse 88/100 (grade A-), categorized as low risk. A comfortable, composed, and generally dependable sedan that offers substantial luxury for the money.
- Should I buy a used 2016 Buick LaCrosse?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2016 Buick LaCrosse. The 2016 Buick LaCrosse represents a fantastic value for a used full-size sedan, offering impressive comfort, quietness, and a generally robust platform. With its strong V6 engine and a comfortable, well-appointed cabin, it's a smart choice for buyers seeking a near-luxury experience without the associated premium c…
- Which Buick LaCrosse years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 2014-2016 (These years represent the refreshed second generation, offering the best balance of modern features and proven reliability before discontinuation).. Years to avoid: Pre-2010 models (First generation, based on an older platform, lacked many of the refinements and reliability improvements of the later models)..
- What are the most common problems with the 2016 Buick LaCrosse?
- The top failure points on the 2016 Buick LaCrosse are Electrical System & Infotainment (typically around 30,000-80,000 miles), Transmission (6-speed automatic) (typically around 60,000-100,000 miles), Engine Sensors & Components (typically around 70,000-110,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2016 Buick LaCrosse?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2016 Buick LaCrosse is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the car should feel like new, with only routine fluid changes and tire rotations expected. Monitor for early signs of IntelliLink quirks during this period.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 2016 Buick LaCrosse?
The 2016 Buick LaCrosse stands out as an exceptional value on the used market, offering a plush, quiet ride and strong V6 performance with surprisingly few widespread reliability concerns. This is one of the safest used full-size sedans you can buy, provided you perform due diligence on a few minor electrical and transmission quirks, making it a confident purchase for the discerning buyer.
The 2016 Buick LaCrosse represents a fantastic value for a used full-size sedan, offering impressive comfort, quietness, and a generally robust platform. With its strong V6 engine and a comfortable, well-appointed cabin, it's a smart choice for buyers seeking a near-luxury experience without the associated premium c…
Best Model Years
2014-2016 (These years represent the refreshed second generation, offering the best balance of modern features and proven reliability before discontinuation).
Years to Avoid
Pre-2010 models (First generation, based on an older platform, lacked many of the refinements and reliability improvements of the later models).
Biggest Strengths
- Smooth, powerful 3.6L V6 engine (when properly maintained)
- Excellent ride comfort and cabin quietness
- Robust overall build quality for its class
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2016 Buick LaCrosse, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The IntelliLink system can suffer from freezing, unresponsiveness, or blank screens. Other electrical gremlins like malfunctioning power windows or sporadic warning lights are less common but do occur.
While largely robust, owners occasionally report harsh shifts, delayed engagement, or specific solenoid failures leading to erratic shifting patterns. Fluid leaks from the pan or case are also noted.
Camshaft position sensors and EVAP system components (like the purge valve or canister) can fail, leading to 'Check Engine' lights and minor performance issues.
2016 Buick LaCrosse Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2016 Buick LaCrosse most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the car should feel like new, with only routine fluid changes and tire rotations expected. Monitor for early signs of IntelliLink quirks during this period.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often triggers major service intervals, including spark plugs (for V6), transmission fluid change (if not already done), and potential brake overhaul. Suspension wear items might start showing signs of fatigue.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond the 90k mark, expect to address potential engine sensor failures (VVT solenoids, EVAP components) and keep a closer eye on transmission performance and fluid levels. Suspension components may require attention.
High Risk Zone
While many LaCrosses reach this mileage with proper care, this is where major components like the alternator, water pump, or more significant transmission repairs could become necessary. Watch for oil leaks and monitor for increased flui…
2016 Buick LaCrosse Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2016 Buick LaCrosse on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2016 Buick LaCrosse Last?
Focus on models with comprehensive service records. While a 2016 LaCrosse with up to 80,000 miles is a strong candidate, well-maintained examples up to 120,000 miles can still offer excellent value, provided they pass a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
What 2016 Buick LaCrosse Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptionally quiet and smooth ride, ideal for long commutes.
- Spacious and comfortable interior with quality materials for the price point.
- Powerful and reliable 3.6L V6 engine provides confident acceleration.
- Upscale features and styling that feel more expensive than they are.
Common Frustrations
- The IntelliLink infotainment system can be frustratingly slow or glitchy.
- Fuel economy, especially with the V6, is merely adequate, not outstanding.
- Some owners find the exterior styling a bit bland or conservative.
- Rear visibility can be somewhat limited due to the design.
Who Should Buy the 2016 Buick LaCrosse?
Best For
- Commuters seeking a comfortable, quiet, and reliable daily driver.
- Retirees or older buyers prioritizing a smooth ride and easy entry/exit.
- Families needing a spacious and safe sedan for road trips.
Not Ideal For
- Performance enthusiasts looking for sporty handling and aggressive dynamics.
- Younger drivers prioritizing cutting-edge technology and connectivity.
How the 2016 Buick LaCrosse Compares to Rivals
The LaCrosse carves a niche as a near-luxury sedan that punches above its weight in comfort and quietness, often outperforming or matching segment competitors in reliability while offering a more upscale experience than its price tag suggests.
More Reliable Than
- Chrysler 300 (pre-2015 models, often lower reliability ratings)
- Nissan Maxima (due to CVT longevity concerns)
- Ford Taurus (often more prone to powertrain and electrical issues)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Impala (shares platform and powertrains, similar reliability)
- Toyota Avalon (excellent reliability, but LaCrosse offers more luxury feel for the price)
NHTSA Recalls
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles and 2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500, Trax, Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle, GMC Sierra 1500, Buick Encore, and 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Spark EV and SS vehicles. In the affected vehicles, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Spark EV, Caprice PPV and SS vehicles, 2014-2017 Buick Encore and Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, 2015-2016 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Trax, Suburban and Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, and 2015-2017 GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 vehicles. While being previously remedied for recall 16V-651, the affected vehicles may not have received the complete software update necessary to remedy the recall condition. Without the update, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.
What breaks on the 2016 Buick LaCrosse?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Buick LaCrosse by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the Buick LaCrosse. Click any year for its full report.
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Where the 2016 Buick LaCrosse report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sell your 2016 Buick LaCrosse for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Buick LaCrosse. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
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