Market Position:
The 2007 Buick LaCrosse was positioned as a mid-size luxury sedan, competing in a segment that prioritized comfort, quietness, and a smooth ride. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and well-equipped American sedan with a focus on traditional luxury values.
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors for the 2007 LaCrosse included models like the Ford Five Hundred/Taurus, Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon, and Nissan Maxima. The LaCrosse differentiated itself with its emphasis on a plush interior and quiet cabin, often featuring a more subdued and comfort-oriented driving experience compared to some rivals.
Key Features:
Comfort-oriented suspension, spacious interior, available premium audio systems, optional leather upholstery, and a focus on a quiet and refined cabin for its class.
Coverage Areas:
Safety Seats, Seat Belts, Supplemental Air Bags, Instruments and Controls, Pre-driving Checks and Adjustments, Heater, Air Conditioner and Audio Systems, Starting and Driving, In Case of Emergency, Appearance and Care, Maintenance and Do-It-Yourself, Technical and Consumer Information, Index
Estimated Page Count:
400
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Systems Covered:
Powertrain (Engine & Transmission), Chassis (Suspension, Steering, Brakes), Electrical System (Lighting, Instruments, Audio, HVAC), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts, Child Restraints), Body and Interior Features, Maintenance Procedures, Troubleshooting, Consumer Information
Procedures Included:
Pre-driving checks, Seat and mirror adjustments, Climate control operation, Audio system usage, Starting and driving techniques, Fueling procedures, Tire inflation, Wiper blade replacement, Bulb replacement, Fluid level checks, Jump starting, Tire changing, Emergency procedures (breakdowns, accidents), Cleaning and protection, Basic troubleshooting guides
Technical Depth:
Consumer-level, focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Not a full service or repair manual, but provides essential information for the owner.
Engine Options:
3.8L V6 OHV (L36/L32 Supercharged), 3.6L V6 DOHC (LY7)
3.8L V6 Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm
3.8L V6 Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
3.8L Supercharged V6 Horsepower:
240 hp @ 5200 rpm
3.8L Supercharged V6 Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
3.6L V6 Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6200 rpm
3.6L V6 Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (4T65-E)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic with Driver Shift Control (for 3.8L Supercharged and 3.6L V6)
Transmission Features:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), available Traction Control System (TCS), available StabiliTrak (Electronic Stability Control)
NHTSA Front Driver Crash Rating:
★★★★★
NHTSA Front Passenger Crash Rating:
★★★★★
NHTSA Side Driver Crash Rating:
★★★★
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Crash Rating:
★★★★
IIHS Front Offset Score:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Score:
Good
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Available StabiliTrak (Electronic Stability Control)
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front-passenger front airbags, Front-seat side-impact airbags, Full-length side curtain airbags (available), Front and rear three-point seat belts, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Infotainment Systems:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, available premium audio systems (e.g., Bose), available DVD-based navigation system, available rear-seat entertainment system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Available StabiliTrak (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Rear Park Assist (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Available OnStar communications system, auxiliary audio input jack (on some models).
Convenience Features:
Remote keyless entry, power adjustable front seats, power windows and locks, cruise control, dual-zone climate control (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using Dexos-approved synthetic oil for optimal performance (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or as recommended in the manual.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 3.8L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 3.6L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Iridium plugs)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 3.9L/10W-30, SAE 3.6L/5W-30 (Consult owner's manual for exact specifications and API service categories)
Coolant Specification:
Dex-Cool (Orange) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (GM specification 1825M, ASTM D3306)
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Known Issues:
Some owners report issues with intake manifold gaskets leaking, premature wear on front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings), HVAC system issues (blower motor resistor, blend door actuators), and occasional transmission problems, particularly on higher mileage vehicles. The manual will help identify and address basic maintenance to prevent these.
Brand Heritage:
Buick, established in 1899, is one of America's oldest automotive brands. It has historically been associated with premium comfort, a quiet ride, and distinctive styling, often positioned as a more accessible luxury marque within General Motors.
Model Evolution:
The Buick LaCrosse replaced the LeSabre and Park Avenue in Buick's sedan lineup. It was designed to be a more modern and stylish full-size sedan, offering a blend of traditional Buick comfort with updated styling and technology. The 2007 model year represented the second year of its first generation.
Production Location:
Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA
Recognitions:
While specific awards for the 2007 model year might be limited, the LaCrosse generally received recognition for its comfortable ride and quiet interior in reviews of its class. It was part of Buick's effort to rejuvenate its image and appeal to a broader audience.
Ratings:
Consumer Reports and other automotive publications often praised the LaCrosse for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and spacious interior, though criticisms sometimes included less engaging handling and interior design that could feel dated compared to some competitors.
