The Buick LaCrosse is a sedan that was in production from 2005 until 2019 in America. It sat just above the Buick Regal, which was the brand’s flagship model. When it was first introduced, it replaced the Century model. In the United States, more than 650,000 LaCrosse models were sold before being discontinued. While this Buick is no longer available in North America, China still has a version of the LaCrosse manufactured.
If you hope to find a high-quality used sedan, it’s important to discuss which LaCrosse models are the best and worst. Our data helps you rank the individual model years, so you can see the clear picture. It’s also valuable information for anyone that wants to sell a Buick LaCrosse. You’ll know whether the sedan is worth holding onto or if you should get rid of it.
We source the reliability data from the thousands of FIXD car scanners installed in current Buick LaCrosse vehicles. These statistics are combined with the survey results from LaCrosse owners. While these two sources provide us with a wealth of information, we don’t stop there. We also add KBB values, safety ratings, fuel economy, and other data to give you the models which are best and worst.
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Best Years |
Why? |
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Highest reliability ratings, minimal ownership expenses, low chance of expensive failures |
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High owner satisfaction, average cost of ownership, minimal mechanical problems |
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Good owner reliability ratings, low cost of maintenance and repairs |
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High-reliability scores, low cost of ownership |
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Worst Years |
Why? |
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Lower reliability ratings, expensive ownership costs, higher chance of transmission repairs |
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Reduced reliability scores, increased chance of expensive repairs, low safety scores |
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Average reliability ratings, higher cost of ownership |
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Average reliability ratings, slight chance of mechanical problems |
Buick LaCrosse Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG, and Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Costs – Year by Year
It’s easy to reference the data needed on all of the LaCrosse models by evaluating our charts and explanations. We lay everything out for you to see, and all of the figures are transparent. Browse through quickly to get a general understanding of the best LaCrosse models or jump ahead to the model year you are thinking of buying. You can find all of the fuel economy ratings, maintenance costs by owner evaluation, and safety ratings below.
We also encourage you to look at some other sedans that may better fit your needs. You can evaluate the Chevrolet Impala, Nissan Maxima, and Ford Taurus models to see if these are better suited to you.
If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USA’s most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.
Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years
To give you the reliability scores, we look at two different factors (the FIXD app and owner surveys). Both of these ratings are graphed on our chart above, so you can quickly see how each LaCrosse model ranks. We evaluate these Buick models by two differing factors:
- The FIXD Reliability score (Green line) – we source this by pulling the data from check engine lights set by Buick LaCrosse sedans over 12,000 miles of driving (1 year’s worth of driving).
- The Owner Reliability score (Gray line) – this information comes from Buick LaCrosse owners who responded to our survey.
Using a 1 to 10 scale, the best Buick LaCrosse models earn a score of 10 (the highest). Models that are ranked the worst would receive a score of 1 (the lowest). An average model scores around 5.
As with most vehicles, the newer the LaCrosse model is, the better it seems to be ranked for reliability. Yet, we also see a pretty high ownership score for the 2013 LaCrosse. For now, we had to exclude the 2018 LaCrosse from our evaluation because there weren’t enough respondents to our survey to give you accurate information. If more people had responded, the rankings may be very different.
Still, you will find a lot of great information from this graph alone, but it’s best to combine it with the others. Put all of the pieces together before deciding which LaCrosse model year is the best for you.
We also recommend looking at the most common reasons for the Check Engine Light on Buick LaCrosse sedans before picking one to buy.
NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the agency responsible for figuring out the safety scores on most passenger vehicles. These scores help consumers decide which cars are good choices for family travel and which ones should be avoided.
We graphed the data above, with the green line representing the average safety scores on Buick LaCrosse models. The gray line represents an average score for all of the vehicles we’ve graphed.
As you can see, all but the 2005 Buick LaCrosse sits above the average rating. Therefore, most of these Buick models are considered safe.
The best way to ensure that you get cheap car insurance for your used car is to make sure it has a solid safety rating.
If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours.
| What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In: |
| Ohio |
| North Carolina |
| Michigan |
| Georgia |
| Texas |
| New York |
| Illinois |
| Pennsylvania |
| California |
MPG – Over The Years
The Buick LaCrosse is a larger sedan. Therefore, it’s not going to have the same fuel economy ratings as a compact car. Yet, it’s still possible to save some money if you choose one of the models that is more fuel-efficient.
Our graph illustrates the average Buick LaCrosse fuel economy numbers by each model year based on data from fueleconomy.gov. The light green line showcases the ratings of gas-powered models based on an average of all the trim levels. The darker green line lays out the E85 LaCrosse models. There’s also a gray line shown above that reveals the fuel economy of the hybrid model years. Based on this data, the two newest gas-powered LaCrosse models or any of the hybrid models are going to give you the best fuel economy.
Current Market Value of All Buick LaCrosse Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each
The Buick LaCrosse is a cheaper used car, with many models hitting bargain prices. Of course, the cost depends heavily on what trim and options the vehicle comes with. You also have to factor in the number of miles on the odometer, which dramatically impacts resale values.
Reliability also plays a part in the resale amount. If the sedan is known for major mechanical issues, the value won’t be as high. Not only that, but one major repair could send the lower-priced LaCrosse to the junkyard, so it’s important to factor that into the equation. Before buying or selling any Buick, it’s best to run your KBB value report to determine approximate prices.
Additionally, if you see two similar LaCrosse models to choose from, you may prefer buying the newer one as long as it’s reliable. The newer model may have better features included and it could give you more miles, making it the better value overall.
When shopping for a used Buick LaCrosse, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!
Important Features Timeline
2005: Brand-new sedan to replace the Century and Regal models
2006: Newly standard side curtain airbags and antilock brakes
2007: Upgraded OnStar system becomes standard on all trims, XM satellite radio offered as an option, new wheel designs released
2008: LaCrosse Super model released with a 300-horsepower V8 engine, sport suspension, and larger wheels
2009: CXS trim discontinued, Bluetooth connectivity debuts
2010: Beginning of the 2nd generation includes a complete redesign, including available all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine option
2011: 3.0L V6 engine discontinued, four-cylinder engine gains electric-assist power steering
2012: New hybrid model released known as the eAssist, optional V6 engine becomes more powerful
2013: Remains mainly unchanged
2014: Refreshed styling, updated technology includes adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, touchscreen interface, and lane change alerts
2015: New base model labeled 1SV, all trims receive the upgraded OnStar system with WiFi and 4G LTE, all models earn standard four-way adjustable headrests and a rearview camera
2016: Newly standard power driver seat, updated IntelliLink infotainment system, dual USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, optional Sport Touring package includes a rear spoiler and 18” wheels
2017: Beginning of the 3rd generation includes a complete redesign with a bigger trunk and improved ride
2018: eAssist re-released in conjunction with 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, V6 pairs with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive becomes available with the Essence trim, new Avenir model overtakes the Premium trim to become the highest level
2019: Sport Touring trim debuts with a V6 engine and front-wheel drive, Premium trim now includes a new air ionizer
The Best Years of the Buick LaCrosse
We found the best LaCrosse models by using the data from our Owner Satisfaction Survey and pairing it with the FIXD Reliability Score. Yet, these weren’t the only two aspects we used. We also include the cost of ownership, trouble code data, safety ratings, and fuel economy to determine which LaCrosse models are worth buying. There’s also a section showing the recalls by model year from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
In our Best & Worst Buick LaCrosse list, we’ve excluded the 2018 model because there was a lack of response from users. A few more respondents could drastically alter the ranking. However, it would be safe to group it with the nearest models since it’s from the same generation with minimal changes.
2016-2017 Buick LaCrosse
FIXD Reliability Score: 7-8/10
Owner Reliability Score: 10/10
KBB Value: $15,627-$19,364
Fuel Economy: 23-24 mpg (gas), 29 mpg (hybrid)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250
Safety Rating: 4.6-4.8/5
As the newest models in our roundup, these would be among the best to purchase because of the higher reliability and low cost of ownership.
The Owner Reliability score of both the 2016 and 2017 Buick LaCrosse models is a perfect 10 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2016 LaCrosse earns 8 out of 10, while the 2017 Buick is ranked at 7 out of 10.
The 2016 Buick LaCrosse has a crash test rating of 4.8 (out of 5), while the 2017 Buick sedan sits at 4.6 (out of 5). Both of these ratings are well above the average, proving that they are safe options.
The 2016 Buick LaCrosse also offered a hybrid powertrain with a fuel economy ranking of 29 mpg.
Furthermore, the cost of ownership is as low as it gets. At an average of $250 a year for either model, you won’t be expected to break the bank. Yet, some of these models may still be covered by warranty protection. During this time, Buick offered a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Once this coverage expires, the cost of ownership may rise slightly.
With the 2016 Buick LaCrosse, you may need to deal with the EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition (P0496) code or the Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Medium (P0442) DTC. The most common diagnostic trouble code (DTC) among the 2017 Buick LaCrosse models is the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) fault. With this problem, you may need to replace the engine coolant thermostat, costing between $477 and $512. The 2017 LaCrosse also deals with the System Too Lean – Bank 2 (P0174) code and the System Too Lean – Bank 1 (P0171) DTC. These two problems could easily be related.
Both the 2016 Buick LaCrosse and the 2017 Buick LaCrosse has two recalls.
2014 Buick LaCrosse
FIXD Reliability Score: 5/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8/10
KBB Value: $10,426
Fuel Economy: 23 mpg (gas), 28 mpg (hybrid), 15 mpg (E85)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $600
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
This LaCrosse maintains good reliability scores with minimal mechanical issues, proving it’s still a top contender.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2014 Buick LaCrosse model is 8 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2014 LaCrosse earns 5 out of 10.
The 2014 Buick LaCrosse has a crash test rating of 4.8 (out of 5). This score remains above average.
With ownership costs, the 2014 LaCrosse model continues to excel, averaging just $600 a year. The only system that seems to occasionally cause higher repair bills is the brakes.
The most common DTC with the 2014 Buick LaCrosse is the Exhaust Camshaft Timing- Over-Advanced Bank 2 (P0024) code. There’s also an elevated risk of the Camshaft Position Timing- Over-Advanced Bank 2 (P0021) DTC. The third most common trouble code is the Cold Start’ B’ Camshaft Position Timing Performance Bank 2 (P05CF) DTC. These three trouble codes could be related to one another.
The 2014 Buick LaCrosse is subject to five recalls.
2011-2013 Buick LaCrosse
FIXD Reliability Score: 3-5/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8-10/10
KBB Value: $5,193-$8,694
Fuel Economy: 21-23 mpg (gas), 28-29 mpg (hybrid), 14.5-14.67 mpg (E85)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $500-$750
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
As older LaCrosse models, these still excel with reliability ratings, ownership costs, and safety scores.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2011 and 2012 Buick LaCrosse models is 8 out of 10, while the 2013 LaCrosse earns a perfect 10 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2011 LaCrosse earns 4 out of 10, the 2012 LaCrosse model has a 5 out of 10 ranking, and the 2013 LaCrosse is rated at 3 out of 10.
The 2011 Buick LaCrosse wasn’t offered as a hybrid model. With the 2012 LaCrosse, you can expect 28 mpg with the hybrid, or 29 mpg with the 2013 Buick sedan. Additionally, the 2011 Buick LaCrosse doesn’t have an E85 option, but the 2012 sedan earns a rating of 14.67 mpg and the 2013 LaCrosse is ranked at 14.5 mpg. To save the most money at the pump, it’s best to choose a hybrid model, when possible.
The 2011 to 2013 Buick LaCrosse models have a crash test rating of 4.6 (out of 5). This score remains above average.
We couldn’t be any happier with the 2011-2013 LaCrosse ownership costs. The lowest of the bunch is the 2013 model ($500 a year), while the 2011 LaCrosse is on the higher end of the spectrum ($750 a year). Of the three, the 2011 and 2013 models have a slightly higher chance of engine repairs, and the 2013 may also deal with minor transmission issues.
The two most common DTCs with the 2011 Buick LaCrosse include the Engine Position System Performance Bank 1 (P0008) code and the Crankshaft Position – Camshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B (P0017) code. Both of these could be serious issues, with the second often related to the timing chain, costing an average of $1,046 to $1,615 to repair.
Additionally, both the 2011 and 2012 models deal with the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code. A new catalytic converter to fix these problems could cost $1,538 to $2,041. Thankfully, there’s usually enough value left in these model years to fix it. Additionally, both the 2012 and 2013 models show a higher instance of the EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition (P0496) DTC.
The 2011 Buick LaCrosse has four recalls, while the 2012 Buick LaCrosse shows five recalls and two investigations. The 2013 Buick LaCrosse also has five recalls and two investigations.
2015 Buick LaCrosse
FIXD Reliability Score: 8/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8/10
KBB Value: $7,238
Fuel Economy: 23 mpg (gas), 28 mpg (hybrid), 15.5 mpg (E85)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $813
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
The 2015 Buick LaCrosse ended up at the bottom of our best list because there’s an elevated cost of ownership and additional mechanical issues, but it’s still rated to be reliable.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2015 Buick LaCrosse model is 8 out of 10. With the FIXD Reliability score, the 2015 LaCrosse also earns 8 out of 10.
The 2015 Buick LaCrosse has a crash test rating of 4.8 (out of 5). This score is one of the highest among the models.
As far as the average ownership costs are concerned, the 2015 Buick sedan is rated at $813 a year. There are also increased reports of expensive engine, brake, and AC/heat repairs.
The 2015 Buick LaCrosse has the biggest issue with the EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition (P0496) DTC. It also struggles with the System Too Lean – Bank 2 (P0174) code and the System Too Lean – Bank 1 (P0171) DTC, but these two problems are often related.
The 2015 Buick LaCrosse shows three recalls.
The Worst Years of the Buick LaCrosse
We investigated the same data to pick the best Buick LaCrosse models as we did to determine the model years you need to avoid. These sedans have more reliability issues, higher maintenance costs, and deal with some regular repairs. This list starts with the worst of the worst and moves towards some that may be acceptable.
2009 Buick LaCrosse
FIXD Reliability Score: 5/10
Owner Reliability Score: 6/10
KBB Value: $3,135
Fuel Economy: 20 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,625
Safety Rating: 4.67/5
This Buick LaCrosse model is rated the worst of the worst. While it still maintains decent reliability ratings, the cost of ownership and the chance of mechanical failure voids anything good about it.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2009 LaCrosse is 6 out of 10. In comparison, the FIXD Reliability score of the 2009 Buick sedan is 5 out of 10, so still among the average.
The 2009 Buick LaCrosse models have a crash test rating of 4.67 (out of 5). This score is pretty close to perfect and above average.
The trouble is the maintenance cost. Owners are reporting an average cost of $1,625 a year, which is more than any sedan should cost. Plus, there’s an increased chance of transmission and AC/heat repairs.
The most probable DTC with the 2009 Buick LaCrosse is the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code. A new catalytic converter to fix this issue could cost $1,538 to $2,041. It also shows a higher instance of the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) fault. With this problem, you may need to replace the engine coolant thermostat, costing between $477 and $512. There’s also a possibility for the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch “D”/”E” Voltage Correlation (P2138) code.
On the bright side, there are only two recalls for the 2009 Buick LaCrosse.
2005-2006 Buick LaCrosse
FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10
Owner Reliability Score: 6-7/10
KBB Value: $2,694-$4,383
Fuel Economy: 21 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $750-$861
Safety Rating: 4.0-4.67/5
The first two Buick LaCrosse models ever made are considered some of the worst. Not only is there an increased chance of higher repair bills, but the resale value is too low to be worth fixing in some cases.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2005 LaCrosse is 7 out of 10, while the 2006 model earns 6 out of 10. In comparison, the FIXD Reliability score of both Buick sedans is 1 out of 10, which is the worst it can get.
The 2005 Buick LaCrosse models have a crash test rating of 4.0 (out of 5), which is below average. However, the 2006 Buick sedan does better at 4.67 (out of 5).
As far as maintenance costs, the 2005 LaCrosse averages $861 a year, and the 2006 model sits at $750 a year. The 2005 sedan has a higher chance of transmission trouble, while the 2006 Buick is known for brake issues. Either way, once the repair bill gets too high, these cars will only be good enough for the junkyard.
With both models, the biggest concern is the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) fault. With this problem, you may need to replace the engine coolant thermostat, costing between $477 and $512. There’s also a chance for the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code with the 2005 Buick. A new catalytic converter to fix this issue could cost $1,538 to $2,041. Additionally, the 2006 LaCrosse may deal with the Heated O2 Sensor (HO2S) Heater Resistance – Bank 1, Sensor 1 (P0053) DTC. A new heated oxygen sensor is a cheaper fix at just $153 to $306.
The 2005 Buick LaCrosse shows five recalls. While the 2006 Buick LaCrosse only has four recalls, it does show an investigation by the NHTSA.
2010 Buick LaCrosse
FIXD Reliability Score: 3/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8/10
KBB Value: $4,486
Fuel Economy: 21 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $925
Safety Rating: 4.67/5
The 2010 Buick LaCrosse is the first of the second generation, so there were bound to be some issues. With an increased cost of repair and some mechanical troubles, it’s best to avoid this model.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2010 LaCrosse is 8 out of 10. In comparison, the FIXD Reliability score of this 2010 model is 3 out of 10.
The 2010 Buick LaCrosse models have a crash test rating of 4.67 (out of 5). This rating is above average, so at least the sedan is considered safe.
As far as maintenance costs, the 2010 LaCrosse averages $925 a year. There’s also an increased chance of engine, transmission, brake, and fuel system malfunctions.
Among the top-known DTCs with the 2010 Buick LaCrosse, we have the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code and the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 2 (P0430) code. Both of these issues may require a new catalytic converter, costing $1,538 to $2,041. There’s also the chance for the System Too Rich Off Idle Bank 2 (P2190) DTC, which could be an oxygen sensor, mass airflow (MAF) sensor, or even the Powertrain Control Module. It’s best to seek the advice of a mechanic for further diagnosis.
There are only two recalls for the 2010 Buick LaCrosse.
2007-2008 Buick LaCrosse
FIXD Reliability Score: 1-3/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8/10
KBB Value: $3,141-$3,206
Fuel Economy: 20-21 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $607-$875
Safety Rating: 4.5-4.67/5
Finishing out our list of the worst Buick LaCrosse models is the 2007 and 2008 years. These show an increased likelihood of expensive repairs, which isn’t good considering the lower resale value.
The Owner Reliability score of the 2007 and 2008 LaCrosse is 8 out of 10. In comparison, the FIXD Reliability score of this 2007 model is 3 out of 10, while the 2008 LaCrosse only earns 1 out of 10.
The 2007 Buick LaCrosse models have a crash test rating of 4.5 (out of 5). Doing a little better is the 2008 Buick LaCrosse, with a score of 4.67 (out of 5).
Owners estimate that the 2007 Buick LaCrosse may cost $875 a year to own. Ranking slightly better is the 2008 LaCrosse, at $607 a year. However, there are increased reports of mechanical troubles with both models. They are both known for brake trouble, while the 2007 Buick sedan is also recorded as having engine and transmission issues, and the 2008 LaCrosse tends to produce higher AC/heat repair bills.
Again, both the 2007 and 2008 Buick LaCrosse deals with the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code that may require a new catalytic converter, costing $1,538 to $2,041. The 2007 LaCrosse has also been known to deal with the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) fault. With this problem, you may need to replace the engine coolant thermostat, costing between $477 and $512. On the other hand, the 2008 Buick LaCrosse shows a higher chance of the Throttle Position Sensor Intermittent (P1125) code.
The 2007 Buick LaCrosse shows four recalls and one investigation. In comparison, the 2008 Buick LaCrosse has two recalls and one investigation.
FAQs
What years of the Buick LaCrosse have engine and/or transmission problems?
According to our data the 2007, 2010-2011, 2013, and 2015 Buick LaCrosse models deal with more expensive engine repairs. There’s also a higher instance of transmission repairs with the 2005, 2007, 2009-2010, 2013, and 2016 sedans.
What is considered high mileage for a Buick LaCrosse?
The Buick LaCrosse is considered a luxury sedan, yet there’s no way of knowing for sure how long it will last. The most important factor in this car’s longevity is how well it was maintained and cared for. If it received regular service, a Buick LaCrosse could see 150,000 miles on the odometer.
Based on our data, a high-mileage Buick LaCrosse could be considered anything over 100,000 miles.
The 2005 Buick LaCrosse has the highest mileage in our surveys at 158,000 miles, but it’s unlikely that you’ll see many of the sedans getting this high of mileage. If you hope to buy a high-mileage LaCrosse, remember that the resale value goes down accordingly.
Do any hybrid years have problems?
The Buick LaCrosse had a hybrid powertrain from 2012 to 2016 and again in 2018 and 2019. The reviews on the hybrid powertrain are daunting, with many people complaining that it is underpowered. However, the only model years that seem to have trouble with the engine in our survey are 2013 and 2015. Even still, it’s unclear whether these drivers are complaining about the gas-powered or hybrid motor.
What other vehicles should I consider?
The Buick lineup no longer contains any cars. Instead, all you’ll find are SUVS, such as the Envision, Encore, and Enclave. If you want an older Buick car, you may consider the Buick Regal or Buick Verano.
If you are willing to try another brand, consider the Kia Cadenza, Toyota Avalon, Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Nissan Maxima, and Ford Taurus.
What owners of the Buick LaCrosse like to use their car for:
Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5
| Frequent Use Categories: | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | ***** |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | *** |
| Hauling/Towing | * |
| Office on Wheels | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * |
| Luxurious Driving | *** |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | * |
A Note About Data and Information Sources
This article has many details about Buick LaCrosse’s reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.
- FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App.
The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing.
This is an objective score.
- Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Buick LaCrosse owners who use FIXD.
The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Buick LaCrosse.
This is a subjective score.
To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:
How reliable would you say your Buick LaCrosse is?
a. Just point A to point B driving
b. A Daily Commuter
c. Good for a 100 mile road trip
d. Good for a 500 mile road trip
e. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem
From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:
a. = 2
b. = 4
c. = 6
d. = 8
e. = 10
Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is.
One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.
Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.
Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others.
It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars.
Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data.
We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.
- KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Buick LaCrosse with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
- Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Buick LaCrosse owners
- Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.
References
- Buick LaCrosse, wikipedia.org. Retrieved August 4, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buick_LaCrosse
- Buick LaCrosse reviews, edmunds.com. Retrieved August 7, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/buick/lacrosse/2019/review/
- Buick Warranty and Protection Plans, buick.com. Retrieved August 8, 2023, from https://www.buick.com/owners/warranty-protection-plans
Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.
