2005 Buick LaCrosse CXS 3.6L DOHC V6 from North America
Summary:
This year of the Lacrosse has too many downfalls
Faults:
- Power steering leak at fitting onto the pump.
- Driver's side window switch defective.
- Sunroof seal leak.
- Massive oil blow-by leaking through PCV-Less system into air intake and causing the MAF to get dirty.
- Aluminum rims causing air to leak out.
- Warped brake rotors.
- Transmission is starting to "buck" when it is warmed up.
General Comments:
The DOHC V6 3.6L engine is flawed in this year and certain years. It has massive blow-by of oil. This is not uncommon. Apparently there are problems with the steering also on this model, which I have not experienced. Personally, I think the way the car steers is a road hazard. The Lacrosse of this year is really uncomfortable to steer in general.
Overall, the car has not left us stranded. Although it does have its problems.
The gas mileage is absolutely terrible. 17 MPG average. Sometimes about 20 MPG. This is with a full tune-up and a cleaned MAF.
I would not recommend this car or any GM car with the 3.6L DOHC engine.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 8th October, 2013
29th Jul 2009, 17:14
I am only 24 and I think the LaCrosse is a very nice car, but you are definitely right, most guys my age would never consider one. At one time the average buyer was 69 (the oldest in the industry). I considered a new one when I traded my '99 Park Avenue last year but decided on an '05 Park Avenue with 17 thousand miles. I personally like the looks of the LaCrosse better than the larger Lucerne. I have never driven a Lucerne but know someone who was intending on buying a LaCrosse and decided on the Lucerne after test driving both. The LaCrosse CXL I test drove didn't drive quite as smooth as my grandma's '03 Century but overall was quite comfortable. Unfortuantely the trend is towards less floaty suspensions, I love that floaty ride like in my Park Avenue and will definitely miss it. It saddens me to see the upcoming '10 Lacrosse. It looks like a Camry clone and will probably lose even more Buick customers. I know I wouldn't buy one.