2009 Buick Lacrosse
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Buick › Lacrosse › 2009
These records cover every 2009 Buick Lacrosse. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2009 Buick Lacrosse. Newest first.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2006-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT, GMC Envoy XL, 2006-2008 Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7x vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the headlamp driver module (HDM) may overheat and fail, causing the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Headlamps that do not illuminate reduce the driver's ability to see the roadway and reduce the vehicle's visibility to oncoming vehicles, both of which increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HDM, free of charge. The recall began on May 17, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14291.
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2011 Buick…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, a key knocked out of the run position will cause loss of engine power, power steering, and power braking, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 23, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), and 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet). GM's number for this recall is 14299.
Owner complaints
106 complaints3 involved a crash4 involved a fire2 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
The passenger airbag light started coming on and going off intermittently. After several weeks of this, it was on every time the car is driven. Testing by an ASE certified mechanic revealed that the permanent light results in no front seat airbags. The failed part is the seat presence sensor. The…
The passenger airbag light started coming on and going off intermittently. After several weeks of this, it was on every time the car is driven. Testing by an ASE certified mechanic revealed that the permanent light results in no front seat airbags. The failed part is the seat presence sensor. The part is - and hasn't been for quite a while - manufactured by GM. Aftermarket parts are costly and the installation cost is in the hundreds of dollars. Research indicates that this is a well-known and long reported issue. Why not a recall years ago? Other than brakes and steering, could there be any more unsafe components than those affecting airbags? The only remedy other than continuously replacing the faulty part, is a bypass module. If it functions correctly, the airbag will deploy regardless of passenger weight. This puts any child or underweight rider in danger. And, of course, considering the expense, many owners will do nothing with possibly grave consequences. I think you "dropped the ball" big time on this one!
- Exterior lighting
My headlamps have been going out sporadically and until recently I was able to
- Air bags
The air bag light on the dashboard is on all the time.It is available for inspection at any time. I do not know if the bag will go off at any time or does it mean that it won't go off on impact. I am nervous about having someone for a passenger. I have informed the dealership of the problem and…
The air bag light on the dashboard is on all the time.It is available for inspection at any time. I do not know if the bag will go off at any time or does it mean that it won't go off on impact. I am nervous about having someone for a passenger. I have informed the dealership of the problem and they did confirmed the problem, it has not been inspected by the manufacturer or others. The light came on the day after I bought the car from the dealership and it has been on every cents.
- Air bags · Electrical system
Passenger airbag intermittently turns on and off when passenger is seated.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Vehicle speed control
Reduced power/traction control light came on suddenly and reduced car power immediately. This made for a very dangerous situation while passing a truck and entering the highway. The car dropped speed very quickly making for a potentially deadly situation. This problem comes and goes with no warning…
Reduced power/traction control light came on suddenly and reduced car power immediately. This made for a very dangerous situation while passing a truck and entering the highway. The car dropped speed very quickly making for a potentially deadly situation. This problem comes and goes with no warning until it happens. Research shows this IS a big problem for gm vehicles especially the 2009 buick lacross models. It's a disaster waiting to happen if it hasn't happened already. This needs to be recalled asap.
- Engine · Vehicle speed control
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. When the contact started the vehicle, the check engine and service trac system warning indicators illuminated. Also, the vehicle would not exceed 15 to 20 mph when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact took the vehicle to an independent…
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. When the contact started the vehicle, the check engine and service trac system warning indicators illuminated. Also, the vehicle would not exceed 15 to 20 mph when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where the accelerator pedal was replaced, but the failure recurred. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and started an investigation. The manufacturer informed the contact to call nhtsa to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 99,000.
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system
Was driving down road got to my destination parked it and when I came out it would not start found a burnt fuel pump relay changed it and drove it home. 20 min later I drove it again and made it 2 miles same thing happened to relay only when I was driving it.
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
Takata recall.. All of my warning dash lights are on at times or the whole dash, radio and everything go out then comes back, the ignition has been pausing before it turns over, the front end of the car rattles, ABS, t/c and air bags warning lights are almost always on.. I have replaced 1000.00s…
Takata recall.. All of my warning dash lights are on at times or the whole dash, radio and everything go out then comes back, the ignition has been pausing before it turns over, the front end of the car rattles, ABS, t/c and air bags warning lights are almost always on.. I have replaced 1000.00s of dollars to fix the problem and nothing changes. I have replaced the wheel hubs, ignition module, the 700.00 part for the ecbm, nothing changes, I believe its an electrical problem that no one has been to find. it doesnt matter if the car IS stationary, in motion or where I am driving. I need help with my car, please. I dont have pictures , can you please help me
- Engine · Vehicle speed control
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. While driving approximately 40 mph, the throttle began to fail. There were no warning indicators illuminated before or after the failure. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 92,648.
- Air bags
Abou 50,xxx miles the service airbag light in the dash began to illuminate intermittently. it would occur once a month or so. the dealer wanted $1200 to replace the ab control module. for the next 46,xxx miles it has been that way until a few days ago. Now the airbag light IS on continually, meaning the airbags are inoperative. seems like a safety issue to me!
- Electrical system
At 80xxx miles the drivers front door lock actuator became inoperative. at 90xxx miles the passenger front door lock actuator became inoperative. at 96xxx miles the passenger rear door lock actuator became inoperative. each runs $250-300 to repair. Not repairing leaves the door unlocked (while…
At 80xxx miles the drivers front door lock actuator became inoperative. at 90xxx miles the passenger front door lock actuator became inoperative. at 96xxx miles the passenger rear door lock actuator became inoperative. each runs $250-300 to repair. Not repairing leaves the door unlocked (while driving) or unlocked (while parked and vehicle becomes accessible to anyone) or the door remains locked when trying to exit or enter. In an emergency, this may cause problems. searching the internet, there are many complaints about this on the lacrosse.
- Air bags
The air bag malfunction warning light blinks and then remains on when the ignition IS turned on and when driving regardless of speed. this condition has resulted in the replacing of the relevant part twice since I purchased this vehicle in 2009 once under warranty and once out of warranty. this…
The air bag malfunction warning light blinks and then remains on when the ignition IS turned on and when driving regardless of speed. this condition has resulted in the replacing of the relevant part twice since I purchased this vehicle in 2009 once under warranty and once out of warranty. this recurring problem compromises the operation of the air bags in the event of an accident. the air bags in this vehicle have never been deployed since it has been accident free since purchased new.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Original purchaser of vehicle with under 120,000 miles and have a "reduced power / accelerator pedal position sensor" problem as recalled by gm for some make and models as same, but not mine as it did not manufactured at same plant as others (as I was told)? I'm finding it coincidental that I would have the same problem?
- Air bags · Seats
The sensor for the passenger airbag associated with the front passenger seat works erratically, and generally does not enable the front passenger airbag when a passenger IS in the seat. This occurs with a full size adult in the seat. This condition seems to occur regardless of idling or driving…
The sensor for the passenger airbag associated with the front passenger seat works erratically, and generally does not enable the front passenger airbag when a passenger IS in the seat. This occurs with a full size adult in the seat. This condition seems to occur regardless of idling or driving conditions. It generally reports through indicators that the front passenger airbag IS turned off and the airbag readiness indicator IS lit to indicate a problem. *tr
- Air bags
My 2009 lacrosse will intermittently display the air bag indicator. I noticed this while driving the car around town and there IS no passenger in the front seat. it will either stay on for a couple of days and then disappear or will just be on for short periods of time. when I took it to the…
My 2009 lacrosse will intermittently display the air bag indicator. I noticed this while driving the car around town and there IS no passenger in the front seat. it will either stay on for a couple of days and then disappear or will just be on for short periods of time. when I took it to the dealer they stated it was a sensor module and would be approximately $1300 to replace. as of this date, I have not had it repaired. the vehicle only has approximately 24,000 miles. I checked to see if there might be any recalls for this issue and there were none. but in checking online, this appears to be an issue with many buicks especially the 2008. to me this appears to be a safety issue that should be addressed.
- Air bags
Seatbelt light came on dash on; no airbag light also on for passenger side. First time it happened someone exited passenger seat while car was in park. Intermittent chime whether seat belt was in use or not; whether someone was in passenger seat or not. That has since ceased to happen. Dealer…
Seatbelt light came on dash on; no airbag light also on for passenger side. First time it happened someone exited passenger seat while car was in park. Intermittent chime whether seat belt was in use or not; whether someone was in passenger seat or not. That has since ceased to happen. Dealer states dash light on also means no airbag for driver side. Fix IS over $1500. Have read many other similar complaints all over america with other buick vehicles and years. How IS this not a recall/safety issue?
- Unknown or other · Vehicle speed control
While entering a parking lot at approximately 20 mph vehicle suddenly accelerated at very high rpms and jumped the curb hitting a tree, extreme pressure on brake pedal would not stop vehicle.. This was the second time in 2 days this problem occurred..
- Power train · Vehicle speed control
While entering interstate off ramp I started slowing down and vehicle accelerated to a very high speed. With extreme brake pedal pressure was not able to slow vehicle down for approximately 100 yards. I had to change 3 lanes to avoid collions with vehicles in front.
- Exterior lighting
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v755000 (exterior lighting); however, the part needed to repair the vehicle was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair.…
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v755000 (exterior lighting); however, the part needed to repair the vehicle was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. updated 09/28/16*lj updated 03/14/17*jb
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. While driving 30 mph, the passenger side air bag warning light remained off even when the seat was occupied. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The details of the repairs were not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 6,000. The vin was not available. ..Updated 11/21/16 *bf *tr
- Exterior lighting
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v519000 (exterior lighting); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The…
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v519000 (exterior lighting); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. updated 08/16/16*lj the consumer stated the vehicle was repaired. Updated 08/17/16.*jb
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. While driving 30 mph, the passenger side air bag light remained illuminated. The failure recurred frequently. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.
- Latches/locks/linkages · Structure
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. While the vehicle was stationary, the rear door lock actuator and motor failed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 60,000. Updated 07/13/16*lj the consumer stated the lettering/decals had…
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. While the vehicle was stationary, the rear door lock actuator and motor failed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 60,000. Updated 07/13/16*lj the consumer stated the lettering/decals had worn off the control panel. the dealer replaced the control head. The consumer stated it has since happened again. updated 09/22/16. *Jb
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. While driving 55 mph, the passenger side air bag light illuminated without warning. The vehicle was diagnosed, but not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 38,975.....updated 07/05/16 *bf it was determined, the passenger air module had an intermittent internal failure. Updated 07/14/16. *Jb
- Exterior lighting
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. While driving various speeds, the headlights failed intermittently. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v755000 (exterior lighting); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer…
TL* the contact owns a 2009 buick lacrosse. While driving various speeds, the headlights failed intermittently. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v755000 (exterior lighting); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 52,000.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11011782This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads. The J-35616-64B is the latest test probe released for checking tension or probing the .64 series terminals. The test probe terminal has been released in the terminal repair kit (J-38125-620H) located in Lear Tray 7 part number 963716-2. There are 5 terminated leads in a package part number is 13505346, which can be ordered through your normal General Motors Customer Care and Aftersales parts channel.
- 11009531This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11009088This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.
- 11008956This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
- 11007936This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007935This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 11007196This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes B3055, B3060, and/or B3935. Technician should not replace any parts for this concern. If unable to duplicate the concern ask if the customer uses any Radio Frequency Identification Devices when the concern is present. Dealer should also direct their customers to the appropriate section in the Owner manuals that references that the device complies.
- 11007116This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
- 11007095This bulletin provides information on the TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Licensed Brands and the TOP TIER Diesel Fuel Licensed Brands that are recommended for use in all GM vehicles and the TOP TIER FUELS website URL.
- 11007091This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
- 11006682This service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11006353This service bulletin provides inspection/diagnosis/correction information on a cold start misfire and/or rough idle and DTC P0300 that may also be set.
- 11006278This service bulletin describes the U.S. Dealer Special Tool Loan Program process.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004727This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 11001325This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information to cover GMs policy on performing GM covered vehicle services and maintenance on vehicles originating/sold in Canada.
- 11001321This bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 11000162The intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them.
- 11000160This service bulletin provides information on proper use of floor mats.
- 11000158This service bulletin includes information on Interior Cleaning - Instrument Panel (IP), Hard or Plastic Surfaces, Seats, Carpet, Leather, Vinyl, Fabric Cleaner, Stain Remover, Restorer - Product Availability.
- 11000119This service bulletin provides technicians with information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
- 10254240Information on COAX Repair Kit Availability.
- 10253770This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Tire Radial Force Variation (RFV).
- 10253632Rear and Side Tempered Glass Spots.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10251888This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10250505This service bulletin provides information on the cold start control system in DI engines to reduce cold start emissions and improve fuel economy.
- 10250347This Warranty Admin service bulletin provides guidelines for Dealers Not Required and for Dealers Required to Contact the PQC for engine or transmission assembly replacement and explains the PQC process, GWM Transaction submission, vehicle service record retention and proper handling of assembly returns for Canadian Dealers only.
Every Buick Lacrosse model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.