The 2012 Buick LaCrosse is a mid-size luxury sedan, part of the second generation introduced in 2010. Key trims included the Base, Convenience, Leather, Premium, and Touring models. Known for its quiet and comfortable ride, as well as its stylish design and upscale interior, the LaCrosse offered a blend of luxury and value. Original pricing ranged roughly from $30,000 to $40,000 depending on trim and options.
The Good
The 2012 LaCrosse offers a comfortable and quiet ride, appealing to those seeking relaxation. It provides a stylish and refined design that makes a subtle statement. Practical advantages include reasonable fuel efficiency (especially with the eAssist model) and a good value proposition compared to other luxury sedans. Reliability is generally good.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2012 LaCrosse include the sometimes sluggish performance of the eAssist model. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system and electrical components. The rear visibility can also be somewhat limited due to the car's design. Check for proper operation of all electronics during inspection.
2012 Buick LaCrosse: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Ecotec Inline-4 with eAssist (Mild Hybrid)
- 3.6L V6
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L Ecotec: 182 hp
- 3.6L V6: 303 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.4L Ecotec: 25 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
- 3.6L V6: 17 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.4L Ecotec: Around 9 seconds
- 3.6L V6: Around 6.8 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not Recommended for Towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Cloth upholstery, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and a six-speaker sound system.
- Convenience: Adds features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, and rear parking sensors.
- Leather: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat.
- Premium: Adds premium features such as a premium audio system, navigation system, and a rearview camera.
- Touring: Enhanced suspension, 18" wheels, and unique interior trim.
2012 Buick LaCrosse Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | LaCrosse |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | KANSAS CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1739.53 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 150.37 cm |
| Overall Length | 500.13 cm |
| Overall Width | 185.67 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 283.72 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.4-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $29,960 USD |
| Invoice Price | $28,762 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $860 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
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Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Buick LaCrosse Have?
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse has experienced some frequently reported problems. One common issue revolves around the infotainment system, with complaints of screen failures, freezing, and unresponsive touch controls. Some owners have also reported problems with the electrical system, including issues with the battery, alternator, and various sensors. Premature water pump failure has also been noted. There have been some recalls issued for the 2012 LaCrosse, including issues with the daytime running lights, brake assist, and potential fuel leaks. Long-term reliability can be a concern, particularly with the eAssist system; its components can sometimes fail over time, leading to costly repairs. It is important to check the vehicle's history for any reported issues and completed recall repairs. Regular maintenance, particularly fluid changes, is crucial to mitigate some of these potential problems. Before purchasing, thoroughly inspect the car's electronics and drivetrain.
How long will the 2012 Buick LaCrosse last?
With proper maintenance, a 2012 Buick LaCrosse can realistically last 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-15 years. Regular oil changes, timely fluid replacements, and addressing minor issues promptly are crucial. Long-term durability weaknesses often involve the electrical system and the eAssist components (if equipped). The suspension components may also require attention as the car ages. Rust can become a factor in colder climates where salt is used on roads. Overall, the LaCrosse is reasonably durable with consistent upkeep.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and a six-speaker sound system. Higher trims added features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, premium audio systems, and a navigation system. Available driver-assistance features included rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. Safety features comprised standard airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control. Optional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning were available on some trims.
The infotainment system featured a display screen, which could be upgraded to include navigation. However, this system is relatively outdated compared to modern standards.
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" award. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. These ratings reflect the car's solid construction and comprehensive safety features.
The infotainment system featured a display screen, which could be upgraded to include navigation. However, this system is relatively outdated compared to modern standards.
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The IIHS gave it a "Top Safety Pick" award. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. These ratings reflect the car's solid construction and comprehensive safety features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Summit White
Quicksilver Metallic
Carbon Black Metallic
Crystal Red Tintcoat
White Diamond Tricoat
Mocha Steel Metallic
Atlantis Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Cocoa/Cashmere
Ebony
Choccachino
2012 Buick LaCrosse Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Buick LaCrosse ranged from approximately $30,000 to $40,000 depending on the trim and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from $7,000 to $15,000 depending on condition, mileage, and location. The LaCrosse has depreciated significantly over time, which is typical for luxury sedans. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, vehicle history, trim level, and demand in the local market. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage command higher prices.
2012 Buick LaCrosse Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2012 Buick LaCrosse are generally moderate. Fuel costs will vary depending on the engine choice, with the 2.4L eAssist being more economical. Maintenance costs are average for its class. However, potential repairs, particularly related to the electrical system or eAssist, can be costly. Overall, the LaCrosse is not the most economical car to own but offers a reasonable balance of luxury and affordability.
2012 Buick LaCrosse Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
59.43 liters
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2012 Buick LaCrosse Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Buick LaCrosse Recalls & Defects
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
Recall date
2011-08-03
Recall no.
11v404000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 Buick Lacrosse Passenger Vehicles Manufactured From June 9, 2011, Through July 2, 2011, FOR Failing TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 126, "electronic Stability Control Systems (Esc)." THE Stabilitrak System HAS AN Incorrect Calibration That MAY Cause THE System TO NOT Properly Detect IF A Sensor Were TO Malfunction, and THE Warning Light Indicating That THE System IS NOT Operating Would NOT Illuminate, AS Required IN THE Safety Standard.
Consequence
THE Improper Diagnosing MAY Cause THE ESC TO Falsely Activate, Resulting IN Sudden Changes IN Vehicle Handling and Deceleration, Particularly AT Higher Speeds, Which MAY Cause THE Driver Difficulty IN Maintaining THE Vehicle's Desired Path OF Travel and Desired Vehicle Speed, and Could Result IN A Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
GM Dealers Will Reprogram THE Electronic Brake Control Module Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON September 12, 2011. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080.
Notes
Gm's Safety Recall Number IS 11222.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System
Recall date
2013-05-06
Recall no.
13v173000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 and 2013 Buick Lacrosse and Regal, and Model Year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco Vehicles Equipped With Eassist. These Vehicles MAY Have A Condition IN Which THE Generator Control Module (Gcm) MAY NOT Function Properly. This Could Cause A Gradual Loss OF Battery Charge and THE Illumination OF THE Malfunction Indicator Light.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicle IS Continued TO BE Driven, THE Engine MAY Stall And/Or THE Vehicle MAY NOT Start. IN Addition, There MAY BE A Burning or Melting Odor, Smoke, and Possibly A Fire IN THE Trunk.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Test THE GCM and Replace IT, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 11, 2013. Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-521-7300. Gm's Recall Campaign Number IS 13136.
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.
Seats:front Assembly:power Adjust
Recall date
2014-07-23
Recall no.
14v447000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2012 Buick Lacrosse, Regal and Chevrolet Camaro, AS Well AS Certain 2010-2012 Cadillac Srx, Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain Vehicles, Equipped With Power Height Adjustable Driver and Passenger Seats. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Bolt That Secures THE Driver's and Passenger's Power Front Seat Height Adjuster MAY Fall OUT Causing THE Seat TO Drop Suddenly TO THE Lowest Vertical Position.
Consequence
IF THE Driver's Seat Unexpectedly Drops, THE Distraction and Altered Seat Position MAY Affect THE Drivers' Control OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Height Adjuster Shoulder Bolts, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed Interim Letters TO Owners ON September 11, 2014. THE Recall Began ON December 26, 2014. Owners MAY Contact GM Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (chevrolet), or 1-800-462-8782 (gmc). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14271.
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.
Suspension:rear
Recall date
2020-12-10
Recall no.
20v764000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2013 Buick Regal, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse Vehicles Sold or Ever Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These Vehicles MAY Have Rear TOE Links That Received Excessive Electrocoating (E-coat) Corrosion Protection, Which Could Cause THE E-coat TO Become Brittle and Break Away When Contacted BY Road Debris. Over Time, THE E-coat MAY Chip Away, Exposing THE Metal TOE Link and Making IT More Susceptible TO Corrosion. Corrosion MAY Eventually Cause THE TOE Link TO Thin and Ultimately TO Fracture.
Consequence
A Rear TOE Link Fracture MAY Reduce THE Driver's Ability TO Control THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Suspension TOE Links and Adjuster Fasteners Free OF Charge. Parts ARE NOT Currently Available. Owners Were Mailed AN Interim Notification ON January 27, 2021, and April 15, 2021. A Third Notification WAS Mailed ON August 19, 201. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202308930.
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.
Suspension:rear
Recall date
2021-12-22
Recall no.
21v00f000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse, 2012-2013 Buick Regal, and 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Sold or Ever Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These Vehicles MAY Have Rear TOE Links That Received AN Improper Amount OF Electrocoating (E-coat) Corrosion Protection, Which Could Cause THE E-coat TO Become Brittle and Break Away When Contacted BY Road Debris. Over Time, THE E-coat MAY Chip Away, Exposing THE Metal TOE Link and Making IT More Susceptible TO Corrosion. Corrosion MAY Eventually Cause THE TOE Link TO Thin and Ultimately Fracture.
Consequence
A Rear TOE Link Fracture MAY Reduce THE Driver's Ability TO Control THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Suspension TOE Links and Adjuster Fasteners, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 27, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212346640. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recalls 20v-764 and 21v-633.
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.
2012 Buick LaCrosse Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2012 Buick LaCrosse Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 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 2012 Buick LaCrosse Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse competed with vehicles like the Toyota Avalon, Ford Taurus, and Chrysler 300. In terms of performance, the LaCrosse's V6 offered adequate power, though the Avalon might feel more responsive. The Chrysler 300 provided a bolder style and available Hemi V8. Feature-wise, the LaCrosse was competitive, offering a good set of amenities for its price point. Reliability is where the Avalon often shines, generally considered more dependable than the LaCrosse. The Taurus provided a larger interior and available all-wheel drive. Price-wise, the LaCrosse was often positioned as a strong value. Alternatives worth considering include the Toyota Avalon for its proven reliability, the Chrysler 300 for its styling and optional V8 power, or a Lexus ES for a more luxurious experience (at a potentially higher price). Each offers a slightly different blend of attributes.
Ranks #1704 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★) |
| 1704 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Buick LaCrosse a Good Sedan?
The 2012 Buick LaCrosse is ideal for buyers seeking a comfortable and stylish mid-size sedan with a touch of luxury at an affordable price point. It's worth buying used if you find a well-maintained example with a clean vehicle history. Opting for a V6 model provides better performance than the eAssist. Thoroughly inspect the electronics and be aware of potential electrical issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended. If reliability is a top priority, consider alternatives like the Toyota Avalon. However, for a blend of comfort, style, and value, the LaCrosse can be a solid choice.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.