2015 Buick Lacrosse Safety Report

The 2015 Buick LaCrosse presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, including 5 stars overall, 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover, its complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. With 44 total complaints, 5 crashes, and 4 injuries reported, there are specific areas of concern that potential buyers should be aware of. The most frequently reported issues revolve around the steering system and electrical components, with air bag related complaints also being significant, especially given the recall history. The recall history for the 2015 Buick LaCrosse is particularly noteworthy, with three recalls specifically addressing air bag issues. Two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 16V651000 and 16V651000) relate to the failure of frontal air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy, increasing the risk of injury. A third recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 15V421000) addresses a potential rupture of the side impact air bag inflator. These recalls directly correlate with some of the reported complaints, including instances where air bags failed to deploy in crashes, as detailed in the complaint data. The high number of steering complaints (10 out of 44 total) indicates a recurring problem with power steering assist failing, often while driving, which is a critical safety concern. Common complaint patterns include sudden loss of power steering, often accompanied by warning messages, and various electrical system malfunctions affecting components like headlights, radio, and even vehicle starting. Transmission issues, such as jerking or slippage, are also reported, though less frequently than steering or electrical problems. The presence of multiple air bag recalls, combined with complaints of non-deployment in crashes, suggests that while the vehicle performed well in controlled crash tests, real-world deployment reliability has been a significant concern for this model year. Overall, while the crash test ratings are reassuring, the high number of steering and electrical complaints, coupled with critical air bag recalls, points to potential reliability and safety issues that warrant careful consideration.

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring power steering and electrical issues, and ensure all three air bag-related recalls have been addressed due to reported failures and injury risks.