Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Buick Lacrosse
The 2017 Buick LaCrosse is generally dependable, but with some recalls and owner complaints, attention to suspension and steering vulnerabilities is crucial. Checking for recall fixes and thorough inspection can ensure a safer purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Buick Lacrosse has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 36 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #17V267000 Rear Suspension Toe-Link may Disconnect NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V116000 Improperly Sealed Power Steering Connectors NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 11 complaints
- Power Train 9 complaints
- Engine 5 complaints
- Suspension 4 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 4 complaints
- Unknown or Other 3 complaints
Known issues to inspect
Rear toe-links may disconnect
How to check: Inspect rear suspension for loose or missing toe-links.
EPS connectors may corrode
How to check: Check for corrosion on power steering connectors.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from engine start-up.
Red flag: Loud knocking or grinding sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Gauge the smoothness of the idle.
Red flag: Rough, uneven idling
- 03
Low-speed driving
What to check: Steering responsiveness and ease of turn.
Red flag: Stiff or jerky steering
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Power delivery and gear shifts smoothness.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerky shifts
- 05
Braking at speed
What to check: Brakes respond smoothly without noise.
Red flag: Pulsing sensation or squealing noises
- 06
Turning corners
What to check: Listen for suspension noises like clunks.
Red flag: Loud clunking during turns
- 07
Highway cruising
What to check: Ensure no vibrations through steering wheel.
Red flag: Persistent vibrations
- 08
Before parking
What to check: Test steering at full lock left/right.
Red flag: Grinding or resistance at full lock
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recalls been addressed?
- Any recent suspension repairs?
- Does the power steering function smoothly?
- Have you noticed any unusual noises?
- How is the tire tread wear?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service history
- Accident report
- Title status and history
- Warranty paperwork
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Buick Lacrosse at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 Buick Lacrosse? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.