buick lacrosse Problems

buick lacrosse 2011 Complaints

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

upon leaving dealership after purchase of new car, turned right to exit and transmission jumped into neutral, almost rear-ended. thought i may have hit shifter. another turn from stop and trans jumped into neutral during turn while entering traffic. just missed being hit and perhaps killed. manually returned to "d". life threatening defect. ret to dealer and demonstrated. next day dealer advised that a "module" on the transmission was installed backwards by gm mfg. advised gm day after occurrence. later gm called and told me car had been repaired and get it or "they" would charge me storage. obviously, after exposing wife and myself to great risk, we did not want that vehicle. now gm will not speak to me as i try to ensure that the autos produced prior and post to mine were verified to ensure they did not have the same life threatening defect and react accordingly. gm seems not to care. pls note: the car "dropped" from drive in neutral everytime i accelerated from a turn into traffic. this problem was demonstrated to the dealer; dealer said park it now. question is how many buicks were manufactured with this very dangerous defect. the 2 times this happened, prior to knowledge of the/a problem, if i had not been able to return to "drive" and proceed with maximum acceleration, we would have been unquestionably hit by approaching cars. had my wife been driving, her reaction would have been slower and she could have easily been killed. this is life threatening. i delayed contacting the ntsb in that i believed gm would take action. i do not believe that to be the situation. help - lives are definitely at risk if any cars prior to or after mine have this defect. suspect poorly trained individual on the line that day "filling" in. poor engineering as dealer stated the part was so designed as it could be installed backwards. please confirm you are taking action as this is a critical defect that could very easily result in death or serious injury as i cannot confirm gm action.

Reported in: MONTGOMERY TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED7BF

SUSPENSION:FRONT

we bought a new 2011 buick lacrosse cxs 11-15-10, drove it 200 miles and the front suspension failed in costco parking lot at 10 mph and no impact. the rim popped open at the center seam creating a big oval opening that locked up on the brake caliper, stopping the wheel which snapped the tie rod end, letting the tire wedge into the inner fender then the a-arm bent and caused some damage to the engine cradle. my wife cracked her head on the side window it went down so fast. the general motors engineer came to investigate the incident, found no impact damage, but refused to discuss the structural failure of the left front suspension. the tire shows no impact bruises and the rim has no damage except for a small chunk on the inside of the rim where the steering ram popped the rim when it locked into the inter fender. my point: if this happened at highway speed it would have caused a major accident. the rim started this chain reaction, but at such a minor speed the suspension should not have failed. i was told that this is a new suspension for the 2011 cxs sport model. please look into this. i do not want to risk my families safety when i feel uncomfortable with the structural integrity of this new suspension and have ask for a refund. gm has denied my request, and now it goes to my attorney. please look into this for consumer safety.

Reported in: CULDESAC ID || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5GDXBF

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

2011 buick lacrosse. consumer states problems with keyless push button start feature system *tgw the consumer stated the manual described the method to move the transmission lever from park to neutral without starting the engine, for the purpose of towing the vehicle or moving it without starting the engine if the battery was dead or the engine will not start for any other reason. the manual stated to set the parking brake which can not be done if the battery is dead because the parking brake is electrically operated. the consumer stated everything stated in the manual, can not be performed in reality. the consumer stated it seemed as though insufficient testing was done on the feature. *jb

Reported in: SURPRISE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5GD9BF

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

2011 buick la crosse. consumer states vehicle has a design defect which is dangerous and a safety issue because the speedometer and tachometer are reflected through the driver side window out onto the side mirror when driving at night *tgw

Reported in: MARICOPA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #:

EQUIPMENT

moonroof front glass of my 2011 buick lacrosse exploded outward while traveling 60 mph on interstate. sounded like a gun going off. climate control was on "auto".

Reported in: MONTGOMERY AL || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED4BF

VISIBILITY

moonroof front glass of my 2011 buick lacrosse exploded outward while traveling 60 mph on interstate. sounded like a gun going off. climate control was on "auto".

Reported in: MONTGOMERY AL || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED4BF

SEATS

memory seat recall does not operate as described.

Reported in: GAITHERSBURG MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5GD8BF

SUSPENSION:REAR

i was driving our buick lacrosse with 3036 miles on it, at 58 mph, when the wheel began to jerk back & forth violently. i was skidding down the road unable to steer. i was able to get to the side of the road and eventually have the car towed in. the right rear tie rod bolt had broken. when this happened the suspension control arm was bent. both parts have been replaced.. we were told they had not seen this happen before and no explanation as to what would have made it happen.

Reported in: GRINNELL IA || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED5BF

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

tl*the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact was involved in a crash while driving approximately 40 mph. the contact stated that the drivers side air bag prematurely deployed without warning. the contact sustained a concussion. the dealer was notified and advised the contact file a complaint with nhtsa. the manufacturer was not aware of the failure. the current mileage was 6,000 and the failure mileage was 5,700. the vin was unavailable. a police report was filed.

Reported in: NEW HARTFORD CT || Crash: Y || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

brakes have failed seven times at low vehicle speed. intermittent problem, dealer could find no cause. brake pedal goes all the way to the floor with no braking. pumping brakes several times causes brakes to start working again. has happened with two different drivers.

Reported in: MCLEAN VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GD5ED2BF

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that the vehicle would stall while driving at various speeds. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where they were unable to diagnose the failure. the manufacturer was not notified. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 4,000 and the current mileage was 4,300.

Reported in: CENTER LINE MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5EC5BF

SUSPENSION

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the service suspension light was illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the failure was not diagnosed, but the contact was allowed to trade the vehicle in. the failure mileage was 400. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: WINDCREST TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the service suspension light was illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the failure and current mileages were 1,810.

Reported in: WINDCREST TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED5BF

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that the transmission was slipping. the failure had progressively gotten worse and the vehicle would violently jerk into gear on an intermittent basis. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was informed that the transmission was not the cause of the failure, but rather the programming of the computer. the dealer stated that the computer was sending incorrect signals to the transmission, causing the failure. the manufacturer was aware of the failure, but there was no remedy for the computer system available. the failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 21,000. sm.

Reported in: ROSEMONT MN || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GA5EC0BF

POWER TRAIN

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. while the vehicle was parked in a residential garage with the engine turned off, the vehicle unexpectedly reversed into the side of the garage door and continued to roll, crashing into a curb which stopped the vehicle. the driver side door and four rims were damaged. the driver side door required replacement and in addition, there was a dent above the front passenger side bumper. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where they informed the contact that the failure was related to the power train. the contact scheduled an appointment with the dealer for diagnosis and collision repair. the manufacturer was not made aware of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 9,142. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: ADMORE OK || Crash: Y || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

the 2011 buick lacrosse with a 3.6 had popping sound upon starting when car was 5 days old; brought to dealership and was asked if i was sure it was my car. they checked vehicle and could find nothing wrong. the problem is intermittent. it popped upon starting 8-9 more times in 3 weeks. upon leaving a restaurant, the vehicle would not start & had no power; onstar was of no use. dealer had car towed to them; kept car for 10 days and put 160 miles on it and i was told that they reprogrammed 3 computers but could not replicate the popping sound. i picked up my car and discovered that it had been hit while at dealership. dealership had car painted. i got my car on tuesday, thursday it popped twice. returned car to dealer again. they told me to pick car up that they could not find a problem. they found that the exhaust expanded upon starting and made a poofing sound. they said that there was nothing more they could do. i have been in touch with buick executive offices. the car has 1087 miles on it. it had 287 when i purchased it and they put 160 miles on it when they had it. i've only had the car 6 weeks and 2 of those weeks it has been in the shop. they refuse to give me another vehicle like the one i have or give my money back. what options are left?? lemon law. i don't really want to do that. i love the ride of the car and the features, but i cannot enjoy it at all and do not feel safe driving it.

Reported in: METAIRIE LA || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED5BF

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owned a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated the vehicle had a push button start engine and when he pushed the button to turn the vehicle off, the engine would start while he was walking away. the vehicle remained on for ten minutes during the last two times the failure occurred; however, the dealer stated it was computerized and offered no assistance. the manufacturer was notified and also stated it was all computerized and offered no assistance. the vin was unavailable. the failure mileage was 435.

Reported in: WARWICK RI || Crash: N || VIN #:

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT

2011 buick lacrosse. consumer writes in regards to head rest lock in vehicle *tgw the consumer stated the head rest can not be moved due to the added lock feature. the consumer stated the driver and passenger are forced to look down at the floor in order to be comfortable. the consumer stated there was no support from the seat or the head rest, which causes a stiff neck and shoulders. *jb

Reported in: SEYMOUR WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED5BF

STRUCTURE:BODY

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. while attempting to park the vehicle, the contact could not see the front end of the vehicle hood, fenders, and bumper or the ground in order to verify when to stop. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. the sales manager advised the contact to install a back up bumper camera to the front bumper to assist. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 1,050 . the consumer stated where the hood and dash meet at the windshield, both are rising and the windshield wipers sit on top of that. it is designed for recessed wipers, but the blades are not recessed. they sit above the high part of the dash. one third of the hood surface would be invisible without wiper blades. to see the hood top surface, the consumer must raise the seat and place it forward, so he can his chin over the top of the steering wheel. updated 10/28/11 updated 11/09/2011 *ln

Reported in: INDIANAPOLIS IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5GD9BF

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

this vehicle has the push button keyless start. page 10-89 of the owner manual describes the method to move the transmission lever from park to neutral without starting the engine, for the purpose of towing the vehicle or moving it without starting the engine (if the car battery is dead or the engine will not start for any other reason), such as onto a tow truck for transport to a service center. the manual says to set the parking brake (this cannot be done if the car battery is dead because the parking brake is electrically operated), select the accessory mode (by pushing the start button to show an amber light as described on page 9-20), then squeeze the small lever on the front of the transmission lever, and move it from park to neutral. this does not work. the lever cannot be moved out of park. applying the foot brake does not help. i took the car to liberty buick in peoria, az, and described the problem to salesmen and service advisors. none of them could make it work or explain why. this procedure was tried with another lacrosse with the keyless start feature and it also did not work, verifying that this is a problem with all lacrosse keyless start vehicles. this procedure works with a "keyed start" vehicle if the key is turned to the on position (not the accessory position as stated in the manual). apparently, insufficient testing was done on this feature and it was not correctly programmed into the electronic system of the vehicle. the interlock between the engine, brake, and transmission lever is not released in the accessory mode and there is no on position for the keyless ignition without starting the engine. this means that if my car is in my garage or on a road and the battery is dead or the engine will not start, i will be unable to move it out of the garage or out of traffic or onto a tow truck.

Reported in: SURPRISE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5GD9BF

STEERING

have had continued problems with adjustable steering wheel locking mechanism the dealer has advised that it "is the way it is" returned multiple times . i was to find a major service repair on line about the problem and called the dealership. it was then supposed to be repaired...but within 5 miles of our home on a twisting road the steering wheel became disconnected from the locking devise!!!! i was to loose control of the car due to the way it happened...without any warning and lost control went off the road. i will not drive the car..($40,000 +) due to the way it is now. the dealership..gm..will be sending a tow truck to re service the problem today...(if the safety problem is correctable ) this has been a on going problem and dealership says 'this is the first time we have seen such a problem" (if so..why a service bulletin has been issued ..nhtsa 10038705..reff pi-0462..? the dealership and or gm did not stress the safety concerns of this problem. everything else on this car has worked 100%...with exception of the loss of steering control after servicing after the service was performed for this condition.

Reported in: SOMERSET KY || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GE5GD8BF

STRUCTURE:BODY

i purchased this vehicle a few months ago and have had two near misses. both involving a person as i was turning a corner. the driver has a huge blind spot (14") between the windshield and side window glass which intefers with seeing. in addition, this blind spot is close to the driver, making it much worse.

Reported in: VENICE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED5BF

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

while driving vehicle, vehicle electronics went inopt while cruising down highway at 60 mph. speedometer, instrument cluster, turn signals, navigation and radio were all inopt.

Reported in: KATY TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5GD2BF

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

while driving vehicle, vehicle electronics went inopt while cruising down highway at 60 mph. speedometer, instrument cluster, turn signals, navigation and radio were all inopt.

Reported in: KATY TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5GD2BF

SERVICE BRAKES

while driving vehicle, vehicle electronics went inopt while cruising down highway at 60 mph. speedometer, instrument cluster, turn signals, navigation and radio were all inopt.

Reported in: KATY TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5GD2BF

SERVICE BRAKES

sudden and unexpected acceleration during a low speed (<5 mph) tight left hand turn. first incident resulted in crash against house wall, damage to vehicle. vehicle repaired below insurance deductible, no damage to structure. second incident in a parking lot, on or about may 16, 2012, able to stop vehicle with no crash. third incident occurred at neighbors house june 26, 2012, causing crash. damage to vehicle and garage door. all incidents occurred when lifting from accelerator prior to stepping on the brake to shift into reverse (vehicle still in drive, no braking). after 3rd incident vehicle was drivable but was towed to the selling/servicing buick dealer. vehicle is still being investigated by dealer. condition does not occur every time in the same tight left hand turn. type of turn is 90 degrees in driveways to side loading garages and into parking spaces.

Reported in: SOUTHPORT NC || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED0BF

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

sudden and unexpected acceleration during a low speed (<5 mph) tight left hand turn. first incident resulted in crash against house wall, damage to vehicle. vehicle repaired below insurance deductible, no damage to structure. second incident in a parking lot, on or about may 16, 2012, able to stop vehicle with no crash. third incident occurred at neighbors house june 26, 2012, causing crash. damage to vehicle and garage door. all incidents occurred when lifting from accelerator prior to stepping on the brake to shift into reverse (vehicle still in drive, no braking). after 3rd incident vehicle was drivable but was towed to the selling/servicing buick dealer. vehicle is still being investigated by dealer. condition does not occur every time in the same tight left hand turn. type of turn is 90 degrees in driveways to side loading garages and into parking spaces.

Reported in: SOUTHPORT NC || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED0BF

POWER TRAIN

sudden and unexpected acceleration during a low speed (<5 mph) tight left hand turn. first incident resulted in crash against house wall, damage to vehicle. vehicle repaired below insurance deductible, no damage to structure. second incident in a parking lot, on or about may 16, 2012, able to stop vehicle with no crash. third incident occurred at neighbors house june 26, 2012, causing crash. damage to vehicle and garage door. all incidents occurred when lifting from accelerator prior to stepping on the brake to shift into reverse (vehicle still in drive, no braking). after 3rd incident vehicle was drivable but was towed to the selling/servicing buick dealer. vehicle is still being investigated by dealer. condition does not occur every time in the same tight left hand turn. type of turn is 90 degrees in driveways to side loading garages and into parking spaces.

Reported in: SOUTHPORT NC || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED0BF

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that while driving 5 mph and attempting to turn into an intersection, another vehicle jumped the medium and crashed into the driver side of the contact's vehicle. the contact mentioned that none of the air bags deployed. a police report was filed and the driver sustained injuries to the neck, back and leg. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the air bag system was performing up to standards. the manufacturer was made aware of the issue who advised the contact that they would send an engineer to further investigate the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 15,000. updated 8/23/12 *cn the consumer stated that the sensors did not notify onstar as it was designed to do even if the airbags do not deploy. general motors found there was no defect with the airbags. updated 09/06/2012 *js

Reported in: VERNON CT || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED8BF

STRUCTURE:BODY

the posts on the front right and left side restrict visibility to a serious degree. because of the post on the front right side of the car blocking visibility i have had near misses, and actually caused me to hit a curb and get a flat tire. other times i haven't seen people on the right side of my car. the post and mirrors size and location makes it a very dangerous.

Reported in: ARROYO GRANDE CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that the air bag light illuminated when the front passenger seat was occupied, indicating that the air bag was not functioning. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for a diagnosis. the dealer contacted technical support, who instructed the dealer not to modify the vehicle because it was designed to only recognize certain weights of individuals. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure and current mileages were 11,290. updated 8/31/12 *cn the consumer stated the manufacturer was notified and reported the vehicle operated as designed. updated 09/11/2012 *js

Reported in: SPRING HILL FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED0BF

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

when turning left at a traffic light, my car lost power and i wasn't sure i was going to make it around the corner. after a few seconds my car regained power. 45 minutes later, i made a right turn into heavy traffic and then felt a sudden lurch. i looked in the rear view mirror and saw that my trunk had popped open. i managed to get off the highway, parked the car and turned off the ignition. i got out, closed the trunk, got back in the car, and fastened my seatbelt. before i could close the door, the trunk popped open again. this occurred three times before the trunk finally stayed closed. a few minutes later, i parked the car, opened the door, started to get out and the warning chime sounded. i got back in and saw that the on the console shift lever that indicates your car is in park was lit up even though the car was turned off. in order to get the light to go off, i had to restart my car and then turn it off again. next i pushed the onstar phone button and asked to call my home. i got a busy signal. i called a second time and my husband at the number i was calling, heard me telling onstar call my home but i couldn't hear him trying to talk to me. all of these things happened within 1 1/2 hours. the next day, i found that i could not lock the door by touching the lock spot on the outside door handle. then i could not unlock the car door by pulling on the door handle when the key was in my pocket. i have had the car for 1 year and eight months and the driver's memory seat has often lost its memory. sometimes just one button but most of the time both buttons. prior to this i had been having trouble with my trunk. i'd leave my car parked in a public parking lot and come out to find my trunk wide open. on may 3rd the gm dealer replaced a part hoping to fix this problem.

Reported in: PIGEON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GD5ED1BF

ENGINE

when turning left at a traffic light, my car lost power and i wasn't sure i was going to make it around the corner. after a few seconds my car regained power. 45 minutes later, i made a right turn into heavy traffic and then felt a sudden lurch. i looked in the rear view mirror and saw that my trunk had popped open. i managed to get off the highway, parked the car and turned off the ignition. i got out, closed the trunk, got back in the car, and fastened my seatbelt. before i could close the door, the trunk popped open again. this occurred three times before the trunk finally stayed closed. a few minutes later, i parked the car, opened the door, started to get out and the warning chime sounded. i got back in and saw that the on the console shift lever that indicates your car is in park was lit up even though the car was turned off. in order to get the light to go off, i had to restart my car and then turn it off again. next i pushed the onstar phone button and asked to call my home. i got a busy signal. i called a second time and my husband at the number i was calling, heard me telling onstar call my home but i couldn't hear him trying to talk to me. all of these things happened within 1 1/2 hours. the next day, i found that i could not lock the door by touching the lock spot on the outside door handle. then i could not unlock the car door by pulling on the door handle when the key was in my pocket. i have had the car for 1 year and eight months and the driver's memory seat has often lost its memory. sometimes just one button but most of the time both buttons. prior to this i had been having trouble with my trunk. i'd leave my car parked in a public parking lot and come out to find my trunk wide open. on may 3rd the gm dealer replaced a part hoping to fix this problem.

Reported in: PIGEON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GD5ED1BF

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

when turning left at a traffic light, my car lost power and i wasn't sure i was going to make it around the corner. after a few seconds my car regained power. 45 minutes later, i made a right turn into heavy traffic and then felt a sudden lurch. i looked in the rear view mirror and saw that my trunk had popped open. i managed to get off the highway, parked the car and turned off the ignition. i got out, closed the trunk, got back in the car, and fastened my seatbelt. before i could close the door, the trunk popped open again. this occurred three times before the trunk finally stayed closed. a few minutes later, i parked the car, opened the door, started to get out and the warning chime sounded. i got back in and saw that the on the console shift lever that indicates your car is in park was lit up even though the car was turned off. in order to get the light to go off, i had to restart my car and then turn it off again. next i pushed the onstar phone button and asked to call my home. i got a busy signal. i called a second time and my husband at the number i was calling, heard me telling onstar call my home but i couldn't hear him trying to talk to me. all of these things happened within 1 1/2 hours. the next day, i found that i could not lock the door by touching the lock spot on the outside door handle. then i could not unlock the car door by pulling on the door handle when the key was in my pocket. i have had the car for 1 year and eight months and the driver's memory seat has often lost its memory. sometimes just one button but most of the time both buttons. prior to this i had been having trouble with my trunk. i'd leave my car parked in a public parking lot and come out to find my trunk wide open. on may 3rd the gm dealer replaced a part hoping to fix this problem.

Reported in: PIGEON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GD5ED1BF

WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS

front left tire and rim came off. spoke of the wheel remained. left rear tire blew. fragments from left front wheel pierced tire. police report 31-798-12... updated 11/07/12 *bf

Reported in: CLARKSTON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED1BF

TIRES

front left tire and rim came off. spoke of the wheel remained. left rear tire blew. fragments from left front wheel pierced tire. police report 31-798-12... updated 11/07/12 *bf

Reported in: CLARKSTON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED1BF

WHEELS

front left tire and rim came off. spoke of the wheel remained. left rear tire blew. fragments from left front wheel pierced tire. police report 31-798-12... updated 11/07/12 *bf

Reported in: CLARKSTON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED1BF

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that while parked he attempted to start the vehicle but the ignition failed to start. the vehicle was towed to a dealer who unable to diagnosed the failure. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 24,000 and the current failure mileage was 30,000. the vin number was unavailable.

Reported in: FAIRFIELD CT || Crash: N || VIN #:

EQUIPMENT

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that after exiting his vehicle and coming back a few moments later, he noticed that the trunk was open. the contact believed the trunk released on the remote key was very sensitive and released the trunk while he was away. the manufacturer was contacted and they advised him that they would look into the matter. also, the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they advised him that they would order two new remotes. the failure mileage was approximately 50. the current mileage was approximately 20,000....updated 01/04/13 *bf the dealer replaced both remotes. however, they stated the remotes would probably continue to exhibit the exact same problem, as the new remotes, as they are identical to the old ones.

Reported in: PENSACOLA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED0BF

STRUCTURE

blind spot warning system (bsws) inoperative que on vehicle multi function information display (mfid), located behind the steering wheel in a 3"x4" area is inadequate. the bsws on this vehicle is very sustainable to road spray during rain events that renders this system inoperative. the issue is in the warning that is displayed to the driver when this occurs. the message displayed is only shown for approximately 5 secs, then is removed without any driver action acknowledgement . no icon is shown to remind drivers of active messages. if this message is missed, the driver is not aware that this system is inoperative. also, there is no message telling the driver when this system becomes operational again. two possible outcomes. 1. the driver does not believe in the system, losing the benefit of this valuable system, especially in this vehicle model with its large blind spots, or 2. the driver believing in the system and turns into traffic, not realizing that the system has become inop and unaware because of the missed message on the mfid. these are basic human factors issues that have been dealt with in the aviation industries for years. the industry needs to address these types of issues as we continue to increase our reliance on automation in these vehicles. the lack of a standard and standards between manufacturers will become a significant player in coming years.

Reported in: KINGWOOD TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED8BF

VISIBILITY/WIPER

blind spot warning system (bsws) inoperative que on vehicle multi function information display (mfid), located behind the steering wheel in a 3"x4" area is inadequate. the bsws on this vehicle is very sustainable to road spray during rain events that renders this system inoperative. the issue is in the warning that is displayed to the driver when this occurs. the message displayed is only shown for approximately 5 secs, then is removed without any driver action acknowledgement . no icon is shown to remind drivers of active messages. if this message is missed, the driver is not aware that this system is inoperative. also, there is no message telling the driver when this system becomes operational again. two possible outcomes. 1. the driver does not believe in the system, losing the benefit of this valuable system, especially in this vehicle model with its large blind spots, or 2. the driver believing in the system and turns into traffic, not realizing that the system has become inop and unaware because of the missed message on the mfid. these are basic human factors issues that have been dealt with in the aviation industries for years. the industry needs to address these types of issues as we continue to increase our reliance on automation in these vehicles. the lack of a standard and standards between manufacturers will become a significant player in coming years.

Reported in: KINGWOOD TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED8BF

SUSPENSION

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that while driving at various speeds over a bump, a loud knocking noise continuously emitted from the front passenger's side. the failure occurred whenever encountering uneven road surfaces or bumps. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis. the technician stated that the failure was contributed to the front end suspension and the vehicle performed as designed. the manufacturer was notified of the defect. the approximate failure mileage was 10,000.

Reported in: PHILADELPHIA PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5EDXBF

SERVICE BRAKES

backing into parking space when brakes failed. no prior warning or failure lights ever came on.

Reported in: CLEVELAND TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED0BF

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated that while decelerating, the vehicle suddenly accelerated without warning. the vehicle was taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and agreed to send a engineer to inspect the vehicle. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 24,000.

Reported in: RICHBORO PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED5BF

POWER TRAIN

i noticed this problem not long after getting car when stopped in drive going from brake to gas car seems to act like its on oil slick then catches on with a sudden jerk. it will also when going from gas to brake even on incline will lunge forward it also will just suddenly speed up with out any acceleration its like the car is in cruise control. i have had car in several times and always they cant tell me anything i'm not the only person who notices this anyone who is in car asks what was that or what just happened.

Reported in: CINCINNATI OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5GD1BF

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i noticed this problem not long after getting car when stopped in drive going from brake to gas car seems to act like its on oil slick then catches on with a sudden jerk. it will also when going from gas to brake even on incline will lunge forward it also will just suddenly speed up with out any acceleration its like the car is in cruise control. i have had car in several times and always they cant tell me anything i'm not the only person who notices this anyone who is in car asks what was that or what just happened.

Reported in: CINCINNATI OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5GD1BF

STRUCTURE:BODY

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated while driving approximately 50 mph another vehicle unexpectedly crashed into the front end of the vehicle. the vehicle swerved and crashed into the guard rail. the driver sustained bruises. a police report was filed. there were two other vehicles involved and one of the driver's suffered from an unknown injury. the vehicle was towed to a collision center and repaired. the air bags failed to deploy upon impact. there was also damage to the front sub frame. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 15,449.

Reported in: TOMS RIVER NJ || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GC5GD1BF

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2011 buick lacrosse. the contact stated while driving approximately 50 mph another vehicle unexpectedly crashed into the front end of the vehicle. the vehicle swerved and crashed into the guard rail. the driver sustained bruises. a police report was filed. there were two other vehicles involved and one of the driver's suffered from an unknown injury. the vehicle was towed to a collision center and repaired. the air bags failed to deploy upon impact. there was also damage to the front sub frame. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 15,449.

Reported in: TOMS RIVER NJ || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GC5GD1BF

SEATS

i recently bought a used 2011 buick lacrosse cxl. i like the car a lot but after a few trips i noticed that my neck and head position was constantly being pushed forward making me more and more uncomfortable. i also noticed that the headrest is so large that it is difficult to see behind me especially to the left for oncoming traffic or obstacles. i understand that the manufacturers were required by nhtsa to make the headrests too far forward and too large for "safety" reasons. if so, you have succeeded in making my time behind the wheel both uncomfortable and less safe because my neck is constantly being pushed forward and i can't see behind me very well. i doubt that you will respond or, more unlikely, make changes to improve this problem but i have to do something to express my outrage at what you have done.

Reported in: COMFORT TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED8BF

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2011 buick lacrosse. consumer writes in regards to engine malfunction. *smd the consumer stated she was driving down the road, when the vehicle shut down, the dashboard read, engine is losing pressure. the vehicles speed dropped to 10 mph and began shaking out of control. the consumer stated the incident happened a total of 4 times between january and february. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the dealer stated the water pump and balance shaft chain needed to be replaced. on february 2, 2013, the dealer only found a half quart of oil in the vehicle. the consumer took the vehicle to where it was purchased from and the only thing they found was moisture in certain areas. the most recent incident happened on january 6, 2014, where the check engine light illuminated. *jb updated 03/13/14

Reported in: HAMER SC || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN

new buick with less than 30,000 miles (18 months old), left rear wheel bearing went bad and had to be replaced. 48,000 (22 months old) both right and left (again) rear wheel bearings bad and had to be replaced. three rear wheel bearings, less than 50,000 miles car less than 2 years old....seems more than a bit excessive.

Reported in: MANSFIELD OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 1G4GC5EDXBF

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

while turning left at a major intersection, car lurched forward and gained speed/momentum while at same time steering wheel became stiff and very difficult to turn & driver could not control the car. car did not complete the left turn but rather continued driving as if all on its own and crashed into a high curb on right side of car. air bags did not deploy; front car parts simply crumbled and fell off; suspension was ruined; car tire was punctured along with the tire rim being cracked clear through in a couple of areas. driver was injured with head injury, cracked rib, and broken rt. forearm. car was totalled out by the insurance company.

Reported in: WHITTIER CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED9BF

STRUCTURE:BODY

while turning left at a major intersection, car lurched forward and gained speed/momentum while at same time steering wheel became stiff and very difficult to turn & driver could not control the car. car did not complete the left turn but rather continued driving as if all on its own and crashed into a high curb on right side of car. air bags did not deploy; front car parts simply crumbled and fell off; suspension was ruined; car tire was punctured along with the tire rim being cracked clear through in a couple of areas. driver was injured with head injury, cracked rib, and broken rt. forearm. car was totalled out by the insurance company.

Reported in: WHITTIER CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED9BF

STEERING

while turning left at a major intersection, car lurched forward and gained speed/momentum while at same time steering wheel became stiff and very difficult to turn & driver could not control the car. car did not complete the left turn but rather continued driving as if all on its own and crashed into a high curb on right side of car. air bags did not deploy; front car parts simply crumbled and fell off; suspension was ruined; car tire was punctured along with the tire rim being cracked clear through in a couple of areas. driver was injured with head injury, cracked rib, and broken rt. forearm. car was totalled out by the insurance company.

Reported in: WHITTIER CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GE5ED9BF

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

2011 buick lacrosse. consumer writes in regards to vehicle integrated flip key system. *smd the consumer stated he noticed a problem while driving his mother's vehicle. in order to activate the ignition, the driver must extend the buick integrated flip key. after the flip key was inserted into the ignition, the driver must turn the buick integrated flip key device to start the vehicle. during the process, the driver often inadvertently placed pressure with his or her thumb or index finger on the trunk latch disengagement switch. the switch disengaged the trunk security latch. however, the trunk did not open, to the point where it was noticeable to the driver or passengers. however, while stopping, the un-latched trunk inevitably opened.

Reported in: PASCO WA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2011 buick lacrosse. consumer writes in regards to vehicle integrated flip key system. *smd the consumer stated he noticed a problem while driving his mother's vehicle. in order to activate the ignition, the driver must extend the buick integrated flip key. after the flip key was inserted into the ignition, the driver must turn the buick integrated flip key device to start the vehicle. during the process, the driver often inadvertently placed pressure with his or her thumb or index finger on the trunk latch disengagement switch. the switch disengaged the trunk security latch. however, the trunk did not open, to the point where it was noticeable to the driver or passengers. however, while stopping, the un-latched trunk inevitably opened.

Reported in: PASCO WA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES

attempted to stop for red traffic light; applied brakes but they failed to stop vehicle. car then accelerated -- used both feet on brake pedal unsuccessfully. steering wheel locked up launching car into vehicles parked in a used car dealership lot.

Reported in: WEST MIFFLIN PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED6BF

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

attempted to stop for red traffic light; applied brakes but they failed to stop vehicle. car then accelerated -- used both feet on brake pedal unsuccessfully. steering wheel locked up launching car into vehicles parked in a used car dealership lot.

Reported in: WEST MIFFLIN PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED6BF

STEERING

attempted to stop for red traffic light; applied brakes but they failed to stop vehicle. car then accelerated -- used both feet on brake pedal unsuccessfully. steering wheel locked up launching car into vehicles parked in a used car dealership lot.

Reported in: WEST MIFFLIN PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 1G4GC5ED6BF

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

on more than 10-15 occasions i've experienced intermittent failure of the keyless ignition, whereby there is only one click and then no ability to start my vehicle unless i continue to press the button while turning off any and all ac, radio, power etc. i purchased the car used 1 year ago in excellent condition but noticed that it already had a new battery that was installed earlier in 2013.the vehicle is a 2011 and that seemed very odd. what i've noticed is that the battery terminals continually corrode mostly on the "positive" terminal and i've removed and brushed them several times and tighten, and that seems to work when it just absolutely won't start. big inconvenience when i'm usually dressed in a suit... unfortunately, i've taken it to three different gm buick dealerships over the past month and a half and it never will reproduce the defect when i'm there, so they've not been able to evaluate and remedy. noticed service bulletin pi-0412 for parasitic drain/discharge so now i'll take it to another dealership to see if they can determine the cause based on this. very frustrating to not be able to have this diagnosed and corrected before i potentially find myself totally stranded away from home.

Reported in: BUFORD GA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE

when driving over a bump or turning car will sometimes shut off and the steering will lock up.

Reported in: HOUSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: