Au7o mascotAu7o
Known IssuesTest Hub demo
  1. Au7o
  2. /
  3. Known Issues
  4. /
  5. Buick
  6. /
  7. Lucerne
Buick · Known Issues

2011 Buick Lucerne Problems: 6 Known Issues

2011 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

Share:@au7o.io

2011 · All trims · All engines

Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.

No email neededHow interest is saved

Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy

Visual coming soon

Your interest helps us choose what to build next.

Visual Known Issues · Coming soon

$4.99/month plus taxes at launch · No payment today

Preview the XT6 example
Known IssuesMotorcycle IssuesDTC LookupDrivePricingAboutTermsPrivacyCookiesConsentData rightsCopyrightFeedback
Share:@au7o.io

Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data protection representation

DataRep representative in the United KingdomDataRep representative in the European Union
Au7o · 2026
Built for DIY mechanics. Privacy-first.
Explore free Hub demo
Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2011 Buick Lucerne has 6 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical. The most serious are Fuel Pump Relay Overheats and Melts Fuse Box (Crank/No-Start, Stalling), Ignition Switch Can Slip Out of Run Position, Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Gasket / Head Bolt Thread Failure ($2,500-$5,000 repair) and Lucerne Northstar V8 Head Bolt Pull / Coolant Loss ($3,500-$7,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $250 to $7,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Lucerne Engine3
  • Lucerne Fuel System1
  • Lucerne Safety/Recalls1
  • Lucerne Suspension1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ
Get Started
Back to top

In This Article

  • Engine3
  • Fuel System1
  • Safety/Recalls1
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls5
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS201120102009200820072006

On the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, on V8 (4.6L Northstar) Lucernes, the aluminum block's head-bolt threads can strip, allowing the head gaskets to lose clamping force and fail. This typically shows up between roughly 100,000-160,000 miles as overheating, coolant loss with no visible external leak, and combustion gases in the cooling system. It is a known structural weakness of the Northstar, not a simple gasket wear-out.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine overheating
  • Coolant level drops with no visible leak
  • White smoke from exhaust
  • Milky/foamy oil
  • Bubbles in coolant reservoir
  • Rough running / misfire

How to Fix

Proper repair requires removing the heads and installing oversized thread inserts (e.g., a head-stud/Time-Sert kit) before fitting new head gaskets. This is labor-intensive (engine often pulled), so repair bills commonly run several thousand dollars; some owners replace the engine instead.

Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $5,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne 4.6L L37 Northstar V8, the 4.6L Northstar V8 in 2006-2011 Lucerne CXS/Super (and STS, DTS, Cadillac SLS) is known for head-bolt thread pull from the aluminum block. Bolts back out of the block (rather than head gasket failing outright), allowing combustion gases into the coolant. Symptoms: coolant loss, white smoke, overheating, eventually no-start.

This issue also affects: Cadillac CT5, Cadillac DeVille, Cadillac DTS

Common Symptoms

  • white smoke
  • coolant loss
  • overheating
  • sweet exhaust smell
  • rough running

How to Fix

Northstar "time-sert" head bolt repair is the durable fix — block must be removed (engine out or in some cases above-engine work), threads drilled out, larger steel inserts installed. $3,500-$6,000 specialist labor. Some owners try "Block-Tite" / sealants as a band-aid; not durable. Watch coolant level monthly.

Typical repair cost:$3,500 - $7,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Manually Verified
High Confidence

On the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, a failing electronic throttle body or throttle position sensor triggers a 'Reduced Engine Power' message and limp mode, with rough or surging idle and hesitant acceleration. The condition is common enough that GM issued a special coverage adjustment extending the throttle body warranty on some 2009-2011 cars.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Cobalt, Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Suburban

Common Symptoms

  • 'Reduced Engine Power' message
  • Limp mode / very limited acceleration
  • Rough or surging idle, RPM jumping
  • Hesitation on acceleration
  • Check engine light

How to Fix

Clean the throttle body first; if the TPS/electronic throttle body has failed, replace it and perform the required throttle relearn so the computer sets correct idle and full-throttle positions. GM Special Coverage extended this to 10 years / 120,000 miles on covered 2009-2011 models.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $600

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2008-2011 Buick Lucerne, on 2008-2011 Lucernes the fuel pump relay terminals in the rear fuse box (located under the rear seat) overheat and melt, partly because the rear seat bracket presses on the fuse box lid. This burns the relay socket, cuts power to the fuel pump, and causes stalling, no-starts, and a potential underseat fire hazard. It is frequently mistaken for a failed fuel pump.

Common Symptoms

  • Crank but no start
  • Engine stalls and dies, sometimes in traffic
  • No fuel pump prime sound at key-on
  • Burning/melted plastic smell from under rear seat
  • Intermittent loss of power

How to Fix

Repair the melted fuse box terminal/relay socket and replace the fuel pump relay; severe cases require replacing the fuse box. Inspecting and re-terminating the relay circuit (rather than just swapping the pump) is the correct fix. Some owners relocate/upgrade the relay terminal to prevent recurrence.

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, on 2006-2011 Lucernes, the weight of keys on the ring combined with a jarring bump or rough road can knock the ignition switch out of the 'run' position. This shuts off the engine while driving and disables power assist. If the switch is not in run, the airbags may not deploy in a crash.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine suddenly shuts off while driving
  • Loss of power steering and power brakes
  • Warning lights flash
  • Airbag warning light
  • Key can be bumped out of run position

How to Fix

Covered under NHTSA recall 14V355000 (part of GM's large 2014 ignition-switch campaign). Dealers inspect/replace the ignition key/switch components. As an interim measure GM advised drivers to use only the ignition key with nothing else on the ring until the remedy was performed.

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, lucernes with the rear automatic load-leveling air suspension (common on CXL/CXS) develop a sagging or uneven rear ride height as the system ages. Causes include leaking air shocks, a failed air compressor, a stuck relief solenoid (built into the compressor and not separately serviceable), height-sensor faults, or leaks in the air lines—road grime over time is a common contributor.

Common Symptoms

  • Rear end sits low or sags, especially when loaded
  • Rear does not rise/level after start-up
  • Harsh 'rides like a tank' rear ride
  • Compressor runs continuously or not at all

How to Fix

Diagnose the specific failure point: replace leaking air shocks, the height sensor, or the air compressor (the relief valve is integral to the compressor, so a stuck valve means a full compressor replacement). Some owners convert to conventional non-air shocks/coils to eliminate the system.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $700

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
NHTSA Recalls5 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

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 Lucerne, 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille, 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, 2006-2014 Chevrolet Impala, and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.

Campaign #14V35500023/06/2014

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010-2011 DTS AND BUICK LUCERNE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH V8 ENGINES. THE STARTER OR ALTERNATOR CABLE IS IN CONTACT WITH THE POWER STEERING RETURN LINE. IF EITHER THE STARTER OR ALTERNATOR CABLE IS CONTACTING THE POWER STEERING RETURN LINE, THE CABLE COULD WEAR THROUGH THE LINE, CAUSING A POWER STEERING FLUID LEAK.

Campaign #10V55300005/11/2010

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

🔧
A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
Get ahead of Buick Lucerne problems — free
Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your Buick Lucerne. Free, no account needed.

Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.

Other Buick Models

Buick Encore25Buick Cascada22Buick Regal13Buick Enclave13Buick Envision12Buick Encore GX12

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Buick Lucerne problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2011 Buick Lucerne has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Fuel Pump Relay Overheats and Melts Fuse Box (Crank/No-Start, Stalling), Ignition Switch Can Slip Out of Run Position, Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Gasket / Head Bolt Thread Failure. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Buick Lucerne reliable?

The 2011 Buick Lucerne has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Fuel Pump Relay Overheats and Melts Fuse Box (Crank/No-Start, Stalling) and Ignition Switch Can Slip Out of Run Position and Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Gasket / Head Bolt Thread Failure and Lucerne Northstar V8 Head Bolt Pull / Coolant Loss. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Buick Lucerne problems?

Repair costs for known Buick Lucerne issues range from $250 to $7,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2008-2011 Buick Lucerne Fuel Pump Relay Overheats and Melts Fuse Box (Crank/No-Start, Stalling)?

On 2008-2011 Lucernes the fuel pump relay terminals in the rear fuse box (located under the rear seat) overheat and melt, partly because the rear seat bracket presses on the fuse box lid. This burns the relay socket, cuts power to the fuel pump, and causes stalling, no-starts, an… Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne Ignition Switch Can Slip Out of Run Position?

On 2006-2011 Lucernes, the weight of keys on the ring combined with a jarring bump or rough road can knock the ignition switch out of the 'run' position. This shuts off the engine while driving and disables power assist. If the switch is not in run, the airbags may not deploy in… Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

GM IS RECALLING 857,735 MY 2006-2008 BUICK LUCERNE; CADILLAC DTS; HUMMER H2; MY 2007-2008 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; GMC ACADIA, SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL, SATURN OUTLOOK; AND MY 2008 BUICK ENCLAVE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WIPER WASHER FLUID SYSTEM. A SHORT CIRCUIT ON THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE WASHER FLUID HEATER MAY OVERHEAT THE CONTROL-CIRCUIT GROUND WIRE.

Campaign #08V44100028/08/2008

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 BUICK, LUCERNE; CADILLAC DTS; HUMMER H2; MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 BUICK ENCLAVE; CADILLAC CTS; MODEL YEAR 2007-2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; GMC ACADIA, SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL; SATURN OUTLOOK; AND MODEL YEAR 2009 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WASHER FLUID SYSTEM (HWFS). A RECALL WAS IMPLEMENTED IN 2008 TO ADD A FUSE TO THE CONTROL CIRCUIT HARNESS TO ADDRESS THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF A PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD (PCB) ELECTRICAL SHORT. HOWEVER, THERE HAVE BEEN NEW REPORTS OF THERMAL INCIDENTS ON HWFS MODULES AFTER THIS IMPROVEMENT WAS INSTALLED. THESE INCIDENTS RESULTED FROM A NEW FAILURE MODE ATTRIBUTED TO THE DEVICE'S THERMAL PROTECTION FEATURE. THE SIGNIFICANCE VARIES FROM MINOR DISTORTION TO CONSIDERABLE MELTING OF THE PLASTIC AROUND THE HWFS FLUID CHAMBER.

Campaign #10V24000004/06/2010

STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 118, 'POWER OPERATED WINDOW, PARTITION, AND ROOF PANEL SYSTEMS.' UNDER THE STANDARD, THE SUNROOF MAY ONLY BE CLOSED WHEN THE IGNITION IS ON, OR AFTER THE IGNITION IS TURNED OFF, BUT BEFORE EITHER OF THE FRONT DOORS ARE OPENED. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CONDITION WHERE THE SUNROOF CAN BE CLOSED AFTER THE IGNITION IS TURNED OFF AND THE DOORS ARE OPENED.

Campaign #07V46800004/10/2007

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne Northstar 4.6L V8 Head Gasket / Head Bolt Thread Failure?

On V8 (4.6L Northstar) Lucernes, the aluminum block's head-bolt threads can strip, allowing the head gaskets to lose clamping force and fail. This typically shows up between roughly 100,000-160,000 miles as overheating, coolant loss with no visible external leak, and combustion g… Repairs typically run $2,500-$5,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne Lucerne Northstar V8 Head Bolt Pull / Coolant Loss?

The 4.6L Northstar V8 in 2006-2011 Lucerne CXS/Super (and STS, DTS, Cadillac SLS) is known for head-bolt thread pull from the aluminum block. Bolts back out of the block (rather than head gasket failing outright), allowing combustion gases into the coolant. Symptoms: coolant loss… Repairs typically run $3,500-$7,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne Throttle Body / Throttle Position Sensor Causing Reduced Engine Power?

A failing electronic throttle body or throttle position sensor triggers a 'Reduced Engine Power' message and limp mode, with rough or surging idle and hesitant acceleration. The condition is common enough that GM issued a special coverage adjustment extending the throttle body wa… Repairs typically run $250-$600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne Rear Air Self-Leveling Suspension Failure (Sagging Rear)?

Lucernes with the rear automatic load-leveling air suspension (common on CXL/CXS) develop a sagging or uneven rear ride height as the system ages. Causes include leaking air shocks, a failed air compressor, a stuck relief solenoid (built into the compressor and not separately ser… Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: low.