2017 Buick Lacrosse Safety Report

2017 Buick LaCrosse: 5-Star Safety Rating with Recalls for Suspension and Steering, and Recurring Electrical/Powertrain Complaints

33Complaints
2Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
70/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Electrical System (6)Power Train (5)Suspension (3)Air Bags (2)Engine (2)Vehicle Speed Control (2)Service Brakes (1)Steering (1)Electrical System,Vehicle Speed Control (1)Power Train,Engine (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Buick Lacrosse

The 2017 Buick LaCrosse presents a generally strong safety profile based on NHTSA data, achieving a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, including 5 stars in Frontal, Side, and Rollover crash tests. This indicates excellent performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, despite its strong crash test results, the vehicle has been subject to 2 recalls, both addressing critical safety components. One recall (NHTSA ID: 17V078000) pertains to incorrectly installed rear suspension toe-links, which could lead to a loss of vehicle control and increase crash risk. The second recall (NHTSA ID: 17V077000) addresses improperly sealed electrical connectors in the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system, potentially causing a loss of power steering and increased steering effort, also elevating crash risk. NHTSA has recorded 33 complaints for this model year, with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. The most frequent complaint categories are 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (6 complaints) and 'POWER TRAIN' (5 complaints). Specific complaints within the electrical system include intermittent starting failures, total electrical shutdowns, and issues with the amplifier affecting safety sounds. Power train complaints frequently mention harsh shifts, transmission jerking, failure to shift out of park, and intermittent loss of motive power. While the overall complaint volume is relatively low, the nature of some issues, particularly those related to power train and steering, could pose safety concerns if not addressed. In summary, while the 2017 Buick LaCrosse excels in crash test performance, potential buyers should be aware of the two safety recalls and the recurring complaints related to the electrical system and power train. The recalls are particularly significant as they address fundamental control and steering mechanisms. The low number of overall complaints is positive, but the patterns observed in the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' and 'POWER TRAIN' categories warrant attention.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Buick Lacrosse receives a reliability score of 70 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

Known Issues for the 2017 Buick Lacrosse

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Buick Lacrosse:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Rear Suspension Toe-Link Installation
Rear suspension toe-links may be incorrectly installed, potentially loosening and disconnecting, leading to loss of vehicle control. Subject of recall 17V078000.		 High Rare N/A (manufacturing defect) miles
Electronic Power Steering (Eps) Electrical Connector Seal
Electrical connectors for the EPS system may not be properly sealed, allowing water intrusion and potential loss of power steering. Subject of recall 17V077000.		 High Rare N/A (manufacturing defect) miles
Transmission Shifting Issues
Harsh shifts, jerking, failure to shift out of park, and intermittent 'service transmission' warnings reported by multiple owners.		 Medium Occasional 10000-48000 miles
Electrical System Malfunctions
Intermittent failure to start, total electrical shutdowns, amplifier failure affecting safety sounds, and unexpected window operation.		 Medium Occasional N/A (various) miles
Engine Auto Stop/Start System Failure
Engine fails to restart after auto stop, requiring manual restart, and sometimes resetting vehicle settings.		 Medium Occasional N/A (various) miles
Airbag Warning Light Illumination
Airbag warning light comes on intermittently, sometimes related to steering wheel movement, with dealers reportedly unable to fix.		 Medium Occasional N/A (various) miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Buick Lacrosse:

Electrical System 18% of complaints

Issues include intermittent starting, total electrical shutdowns, amplifier failures affecting safety alerts, and unexpected window operation.

Power Train 15% of complaints

Common complaints involve harsh or abrupt transmission shifts, jerking, difficulty shifting out of park, and intermittent loss of motive power.

Suspension 9% of complaints

Abnormal noises from wheel wells, shuddering, and a recall for incorrectly installed rear toe-links.

Air Bags 6% of complaints

Intermittent illumination of the airbag warning light, often persisting after dealer visits.

Engine 6% of complaints

Problems with the auto stop/start feature failing to restart the engine and check engine light illumination related to catalyst system efficiency.

Vehicle Speed Control 6% of complaints

Cruise control system resetting to higher speeds and accelerating out of control, as well as 'reduced engine power' warnings.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Buick Lacrosse

Is the 2017 Buick LaCrosse safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Buick LaCrosse received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, indicating strong crash test performance. However, it has been subject to two safety recalls concerning the rear suspension and electronic power steering, which are critical safety components. While there are 33 complaints, none report crashes, injuries, or fatalities, suggesting that while issues exist, they haven't frequently led to severe outcomes.

What are common problems with the 2017 Buick LaCrosse?

The most reported issues for the 2017 Buick LaCrosse are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (18% of complaints) and POWER TRAIN (15% of complaints). Electrical problems include intermittent starting and total shutdowns, while power train issues involve harsh transmission shifts and difficulty shifting. There are also recurring complaints about the SUSPENSION and AIR BAGS.

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Buick LaCrosse?

Yes, the 2017 Buick LaCrosse has two recalls. One (NHTSA ID: 17V078000) addresses incorrectly installed rear suspension toe-links that could cause a loss of vehicle control. The other (NHTSA ID: 17V077000) is for improperly sealed electrical connectors in the Electronic Power Steering system, which could lead to a loss of power steering.

How does the 2017 Buick LaCrosse perform in crash tests?

The 2017 Buick LaCrosse performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It achieved 5 stars in Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover tests, indicating a high level of occupant protection in various collision scenarios.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2017 Buick LaCrosse?

When considering a used 2017 Buick LaCrosse, ensure that both safety recalls (rear suspension toe-links and EPS electrical connectors) have been addressed. Pay close attention to the transmission for any harsh shifting or jerking, and check for any intermittent electrical issues or airbag warning lights, as these are common complaint patterns.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given its excellent crash test ratings but notable recalls and recurring electrical/powertrain complaints, ensure all recalls are completed and thoroughly inspect the transmission and electrical system before purchase.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Buick Lacrosse

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Buick Lacrosse. The data includes 33 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Buick Lacrosse an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.