Common Buick LaCrosse problems include cold start misfires and timing chain issues. These are the top 5 most common issues owners run into with the 2nd generation 2010 to 2016 Buick LaCrosse.
Top 5 Problems on the 2nd Gen Buick LaCrosse: 2010 to 2016
1. Cold Start Misfire
Symptoms of a Cold Start Misfire
- Check engine light is on with the engine misfiring and rumbling in the cold
Causes of a Cold Start Misfire
Most modern vehicles have direct fuel injection where the fuel injector sprays fuel directly into the engine cylinder. The fuel doesn’t pass the valves, causing carbon build-up on them. This can turn on a check engine light.
How to Fix a Cold Start Misfire
Clean the engine with carbon cleaner. The steps include running the engine, disconnecting one of the hoses leading to the intake, and dumping the cleaner into the engine, which may also require the use of a special tool. With the engine running, you’ll rev it up to let the chemical coat the valves. Let the vehicle sit 1.5 hours to 2 hours and then drive with high revs to get the engine working to clean off the valves.
2. Timing Chain Failure
Symptoms of Timing Chain Issues
There may be no noticeable differences in drivability. A rattling may be heard at the front of the engine but most commonly a check engine light turns on with a timing chain code.
Causes of Timing Chain Issues
The timing chains are lubricated with oil. They connect the bottom of the engine to the top and synchronize the engine’s timing. Over time they can stretch and wear out.
How to Fix Timing Chain Issues
If the timing chains are stretched or worn, they need to be replaced. Since they are located internally at the front of the engine, it can be a detailed job.
How to Prevent Timing Chain Issues
Change the oil regularly at the manufacturer’s recommended interval with the appropriate oil and the timing chains will last longer.
3. Throttle Body Assembly Failure
Symptoms of Throttle Body Assembly Failure
- Check engine light for code P2135
Causes of Throttle Body Assembly Problems on the 2010 to 2016 Buick LaCrosse
Sensors in the throttle body need to align properly. When the sensors are out of sync, it can trigger a check engine light.
How to Fix Throttle Body Assembly Failure
Check the wiring and the electrical connector on the throttle body. With the 2010 to 2016 Buick LaCrosse, it’s usually the throttle body sensors that have failed. The sensors can sometimes be replaced separately, but it’s generally easier to replace the throttle body. Cleaning the throttle body will not fix this issue since it’s an internal electrical problem with the throttle body.
4. Wheel Speed Sensor Issues
Symptoms of Wheel Speed Sensor Issues
- ABS light is on with an ABS code
Causes of Wheel Speed Sensor Problems on the 2010 to 2016 Buick LaCrosse
Flex in the ABS wire can cause the sensor to break internally. The tone ring on the hub can also break, crack, and lose pieces. This can cause a break in the signal, triggering the ABS light.
How to Fix Wheel Speed Sensor Issues
The wheel speed sensor goes through the knuckle and reads a ring on the hub itself. Replace the speed sensor if it is defective.
If the tone ring on the hub is broken, replace the wheel hub bearing.
5. Door Latch Actuator Failure
Symptoms of Door Latch Actuator Failure
- Remote key fob won’t lock or unlock the door
Causes of Door Latch Actuator Failure
The door latch actuator tends to fail on the door latches on the 2nd gen 2010 to 2016 Buick LaCrosse.
How to Fix Door Latch Actuator Failure
If the key fob won’t open the door, try the ignition key. Since the actuator is part of the door latch’s assembly, the entire door latch assembly needs to be replaced. If you manage to purchase an actuator separately, the repair still requires removing the door latch assembly.
Fix Your Own Buick LaCrosse
Fix parts like the brakes and headlights on the 2010 to 2016 Buick LaCrosse with step-by-step instructions from real mechanics in 1A Auto’s how-to videos.
2nd Generation Buick LaCrosse Model Years
- 2010 Buick LaCrosse
- 2011 Buick LaCrosse
- 2012 Buick LaCrosse
- 2013 Buick LaCrosse
- 2014 Buick LaCrosse
- 2015 Buick LaCrosse
- 2016 Buick LaCrosse
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Shop 2010 to 2016 Buick LaCrosse Parts
Keeps getting water on passenger back up to two inches. Took it for wash. Could not see where water is coming in. Thank you for your help!