The 2018 Buick LaCrosse is a full-size sedan offering a comfortable and refined driving experience. Part of the LaCrosse's third generation (2017-2019), it boasts a sleek, modern design. Key trims include the base, Preferred, Essence, Premium, and Avenir. Pricing typically ranged from around $30,000 to $40,000 when new. Its popularity stems from its quiet cabin, spacious interior, and available upscale features that rival luxury brands, all at a more accessible price point.
The Good
The 2018 LaCrosse offers a smooth and comfortable ride, appealing to those seeking relaxation. Its attractive design and quiet cabin create a premium feel. The V6 engine provides ample power, while decent fuel economy makes it practical. It's a reliable vehicle offering excellent value for those who want luxury without the luxury price tag.
The Bad
Some owners have reported issues with the 2018 LaCrosse's infotainment system, including glitches and slow response times. The nine-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, can sometimes exhibit hesitant shifting. Also, the rear visibility can be limited due to the car's design, making parking maneuvers a challenge.
2018 Buick LaCrosse: Quick Overview
Engine Options:
- 2.5L 4-Cylinder with eAssist (mild hybrid system)
- 3.6L V6
- 2.5L: 194 hp
- 3.6L: 310 hp
- 2.5L: 25 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- 3.6L (FWD): 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- 3.6L (AWD): 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- 3.6L: Around 6.0 seconds
- Not recommended for towing
- Base: Keyless open and start, dual-zone climate control, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera, OnStar.
- Preferred: Adds leather-wrapped steering wheel, driver's seat memory settings, and rear parking sensors.
- Essence: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
- Premium: Adds ventilated front seats, massaging driver's seat, head-up display, and lane departure warning.
- Avenir: Features unique exterior and interior styling, navigation system, wireless charging, and adaptive cruise control.
2018 Buick LaCrosse Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | LaCrosse |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | DETROIT HAMTRAMCK |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3490 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 57.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 197.5 inches |
| Overall Width | 73.5 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 114.4 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Gasoline I4 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Power |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $29,565 |
| Invoice Price | $29,417 |
| Delivery Charges | $925 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Buick LaCrosse Have?
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse generally enjoys decent reliability, but some frequently reported problems include issues with the infotainment system, such as freezing, slow response times, and connectivity problems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Some owners have also noted concerns with the 9-speed automatic transmission, reporting occasional harsh or hesitant shifting, though this isn't a widespread issue.
Recalls for the 2018 LaCrosse have been issued for various concerns, including potential issues with the electronic parking brake and seat belt retractors. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to determine if any recalls are outstanding.
Long-term reliability concerns are relatively minor. Some owners report minor electrical issues and wear-and-tear items as the car ages. Regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can help to mitigate these concerns. It is recommended to check online forums and consumer reports for the most up-to-date information on specific problems and owner experiences.
Recalls for the 2018 LaCrosse have been issued for various concerns, including potential issues with the electronic parking brake and seat belt retractors. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to determine if any recalls are outstanding.
Long-term reliability concerns are relatively minor. Some owners report minor electrical issues and wear-and-tear items as the car ages. Regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can help to mitigate these concerns. It is recommended to check online forums and consumer reports for the most up-to-date information on specific problems and owner experiences.
How long will the 2018 Buick LaCrosse last?
With proper maintenance, a 2018 Buick LaCrosse can realistically reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report reliable service for 10+ years with consistent oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs.
Long-term durability largely depends on driving habits and maintenance. Potential weaknesses over time include wear on suspension components, potential for increased oil consumption in the V6 engine, and eventual degradation of the infotainment system. Rust can also be a concern in regions with heavy road salt use, so rustproofing is advisable.
Long-term durability largely depends on driving habits and maintenance. Potential weaknesses over time include wear on suspension components, potential for increased oil consumption in the V6 engine, and eventual degradation of the infotainment system. Rust can also be a concern in regions with heavy road salt use, so rustproofing is advisable.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Other standard tech includes keyless open and start, dual-zone climate control, a rearview camera, and OnStar.
Available entertainment features include a premium Bose audio system and a navigation system. Driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. A head-up display is also available.
Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Optional safety features depend on the trim level. The 2018 Buick LaCrosse received generally good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). It's recommended to check both agencies' websites for the latest and most specific safety ratings and reports. The Avenir trim offers enhanced safety features compared to the base model.
Available entertainment features include a premium Bose audio system and a navigation system. Driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. A head-up display is also available.
Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Optional safety features depend on the trim level. The 2018 Buick LaCrosse received generally good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). It's recommended to check both agencies' websites for the latest and most specific safety ratings and reports. The Avenir trim offers enhanced safety features compared to the base model.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Summit White
Quicksilver Metallic
Ebony Twilight Metallic
Pepperdust Metallic
Red Quartz Tintcoat
Black Onyx
Rioja Red Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Atmosphere/Cocoa
Ebony
Light Neutral
2018 Buick LaCrosse Prices and Market Value
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse had a starting MSRP of around $30,000, with higher trims like the Avenir reaching upwards of $40,000 when new. Used market prices currently range from approximately $15,000 to $25,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.
Depreciation is moderate for the LaCrosse, aligning with other full-size sedans. Factors affecting resale value include the car's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and geographic location. Vehicles with lower mileage, clean titles, and complete service records command higher prices. The Avenir trim typically holds its value slightly better due to its more luxurious features.
Depreciation is moderate for the LaCrosse, aligning with other full-size sedans. Factors affecting resale value include the car's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and geographic location. Vehicles with lower mileage, clean titles, and complete service records command higher prices. The Avenir trim typically holds its value slightly better due to its more luxurious features.
2018 Buick LaCrosse Cost of Ownership
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse is moderately economical to own. Insurance costs are average for its class. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the 2.5L engine. Maintenance is generally straightforward, but some repairs, particularly related to the infotainment system or transmission, can be more expensive. Long-term ownership costs are manageable with proper maintenance. Overall, it's not the cheapest, but also not excessively costly to own.
2018 Buick LaCrosse Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
15.8 gallons
City Mileage
25 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
35 miles/gallon
2018 Buick LaCrosse Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Buick LaCrosse Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2018-05-31
Recall no.
18v358000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick Lacrosse, Cadillac Ats, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain Vehicles. THE High Pressure Fuel Pump MAY Detach From ITS Mounting Flange, Possibly Resulting IN THE Pump Damaging THE High Pressure Fuel Line.
Consequence
A Damaged Fuel Line CAN Create A Fuel Leak, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE High Pressure Fuel Pump, and High Pressure Fuel Pipe, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 2, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, or GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 18188.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper
Recall date
2018-08-30
Recall no.
18v576000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV Vehicles, GMC Terrain Vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal Vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional Vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles. THE Rear Brake Caliper Pistons MAY Have AN Insufficient Coating Causing GAS Pockets TO Form, Potentially Reducing Rear Brake Performance.
Consequence
A Reduction OF Braking Performance CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Bleed THE Vehicle's Brake System, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 11, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, or GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 18279.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
2020-10-29
Recall no.
20v668000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick Lacrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac Xt4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 Vehicles. THE Start/Stop Accumulator Endcap MAY Have Missing Bolts.
Consequence
Missing Bolts ON THE Start-Stop Accumulator Endcap Could Result IN A Transmission OIL Leak and MAY Progress TO A Loss OF Propulsion, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. A Transmission Fluid Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Increase THE Risk OF Fire.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Start-Stop Transmission Accumulator and Replace IT IF ANY Bolts ARE Missing, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 15, 2020. Owners MAY Contact GMC Customer Service AT 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer Service AT 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202313440.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2018 Buick LaCrosse Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty
72 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty
72 months / 70,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Maintenance
Original warranty
24 months / 24,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Roadside Assistance
Original warranty
72 months / 70,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2018 Buick LaCrosse Insurance
Insurance for a 2018 Buick LaCrosse is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Buick LaCrosse Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse competes with full-size sedans like the Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300, and Nissan Maxima. In terms of performance, the LaCrosse's V6 engine is comparable to its rivals. Features are generally competitive, especially in higher trims. Reliability is similar to the Avalon and Maxima, but perhaps slightly behind the Avalon's reputation.
In terms of price, the LaCrosse generally offers good value, often undercutting the Avalon and Maxima.
Alternatives:
In terms of price, the LaCrosse generally offers good value, often undercutting the Avalon and Maxima.
Alternatives:
- Toyota Avalon: A strong contender with excellent reliability and resale value, but may lack the LaCrosse's styling flair.
- Chrysler 300: Offers a more muscular and aggressive design with available V8 power, but fuel economy suffers.
- Nissan Maxima: Provides a sportier driving experience, but may not be as comfortable on long trips.
Ranks #1491 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1491 | 2018 Buick LaCrosse | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Buick LaCrosse a Good Sedan?
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse is ideal for buyers seeking a comfortable, spacious, and refined full-size sedan without the premium price tag of luxury brands. It's a good choice for those prioritizing a quiet ride and upscale features. It is worth buying used, especially if you can find a well-maintained model with a clean history. The Essence or Premium trims offer the best balance of features and value. Consider having a pre-purchase inspection performed to check for any potential issues, particularly with the transmission or infotainment system. Avoid the base model if you desire leather seats and key driver-assistance features.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.