2018 Buick Lacrosse Safety Report
2018 Buick LaCrosse: Excellent Crash Ratings, But Multiple Recalls Address Propulsion, Braking, and Fire Risks.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Buick Lacrosse
Reliability Score
The 2018 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 2018 Buick Lacrosse
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Buick Lacrosse:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loss Of Propulsion / Hesitation To Accelerate Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap can lead to a transmission oil leak and potential loss of propulsion. Multiple complaints describe the car struggling to accelerate or reduced engine power. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Reduced Braking Performance Issues with brake calipers can lead to a reduction in braking performance, increasing crash risk. One complaint mentions the car suddenly accelerating while the brake was engaged. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Fuel Leak / Fire Risk A damaged fuel line can create a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire. No specific complaints directly mention a fuel leak, but the recall highlights this potential. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Thermostat Failure Multiple complaints report thermostat failure around 53,000-56,000 miles, leading to engine temperature issues and diagnostic codes. |
Medium | Occasional | 53000-56000 miles |
| Key Fob/Electrical System Malfunction Complaints about key fob failure to open doors or restart the vehicle, even after battery replacement, indicating potential electrical system issues. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Buick Lacrosse:
Issues related to engine power reduction, hesitation to accelerate, and thermostat failures. Three out of 12 complaints directly mention the engine.
Problems with key fob functionality and general electrical system malfunctions. Three out of 12 complaints mention electrical system issues.
Hesitation to accelerate, transmission issues, and loss of propulsion, directly linked to a major recall. Two out of 12 complaints specifically mention power train issues.
Unintended acceleration or issues with the vehicle failing to respond to accelerator input. One complaint mentions sudden acceleration.
Reduced braking performance, as highlighted by a recall, and one complaint of unintended acceleration while braking.
Potential for fuel leaks due to a damaged fuel line, as per a recall. One complaint mentions fuel/propulsion system issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Buick Lacrosse
Is the 2018 Buick LaCrosse safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Buick LaCrosse received excellent 5-star crash test ratings across all categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover), indicating strong passive safety. However, it has been subject to 3 recalls addressing significant safety concerns related to potential loss of propulsion, reduced braking performance, and fire risk from a fuel leak. While total complaints are low (12), these recalls highlight areas of concern that should be addressed.
What are common problems with the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse, based on NHTSA complaints, are related to the ENGINE (3 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (2 complaints). Specific problems include hesitation to accelerate, reduced engine power, thermostat failures, and key fob malfunctions. These align with the recalls concerning power train and braking issues.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
Yes, the 2018 Buick LaCrosse has 3 active recalls. These include issues with the POWER TRAIN (missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap leading to potential loss of propulsion), SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC (caliper issues causing reduced braking performance), and FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE (damaged fuel line creating a fire risk).
How does the 2018 Buick LaCrosse perform in crash tests?
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse performs exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a perfect 5-star rating in every category: Overall Rating, Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover. This indicates a high level of occupant protection in various collision scenarios.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2018 Buick LaCrosse?
When considering a used 2018 Buick LaCrosse, ensure all 3 recalls have been addressed by a dealership. Pay close attention to any signs of hesitation during acceleration, unusual braking behavior, or engine warning lights, as these align with known issues and recalls. Also, check for proper key fob functionality and engine temperature stability.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should verify all 3 recalls have been completed and be aware of reported issues concerning acceleration, braking, and electrical systems. A pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is highly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Buick Lacrosse
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Buick Lacrosse. The data includes 12 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 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.