The Buick LaCrosse is a mid-size near luxury sedan that GM has been making since 2005. It is one of the most popular premium cars in both North America and China. Over the last three generations, quite a few different Buick LaCrosse transmissions have been used. These include the 4T65E, the 6T45, 6T70, and 6T75E. The latest generation was introduced in 2017, and uses either an 8-speed AF50-8, or a new 9T60 transmission. For the most part, these are fairly reliable gearboxes. However, Buick Lacrosse transmission problems can still occur. So let’s take a closer look at some of the causes and real world cost estimates for some of the most common LaCrosse transmission repairs.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Buick Lacrosse Transmission Models
Buick Lacrosse: 4T65E Transmission
Buick Lacrosse: 6T40 Transmission
Buick Lacrosse: 6T70 Transmission
Buick Lacrosse: 6T75E Transmission
Buick Lacrosse: AF50-8 Transmission
Buick Lacrosse: 9T60 Transmission
Buick Lacrosse Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate
Pricing varies by model. To be 100% sure on pricing, have your VIN# handy and use our Get An Estimate feature to look up your transmission by VIN#.
Replacement Buick Lacrosse Transmission Cost:
| Transmission | Street Smart Transmission |
|---|---|
| 4T65E | 1935 |
| 6T40 / 6T45 | 2432 |
| 6T75E / 6T70 | 2432 |
What are the DTC codes related to Buick Lacrosse transmission problems?
| Trouble Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0711 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0712 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input |
| P0713 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input |
| P0716 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0717 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal |
| P0722 | Output Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal |
| P0723 | Output Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent |
| P0730 | Incorrect Gear Ratio |
| P0741 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit |
| P0742 | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On |
| P0751 | Shift Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0753 | Shift Solenoid 'A' Electrical |
| P0756 | Shift Solenoid 'B' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0758 | Shift Solenoid 'B' Electrical |
| P0776 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Performance or Stuck Off |
| P0796 | Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Performance or Stuck off |
| P0816 | Transmission Fluid Pressure Manual Valve Position Switch Park/Neutral with Drive Ratio |
| P0816 | Downshift Switch Circuit |
| P0826 | Up and Down Shift Switch Circuit |
| P0842 | Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch A Circuit Low |
| P0850 | Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit |
| P0851 | Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit Low |
| P0852 | Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit High |
| P0961 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0962 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit Low |
| P0963 | Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit High |
| P0965 | Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0966 | Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit Low |
| P0967 | Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit High |
| P0969 | Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0970 | Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit Low |
| P0971 | Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit High |
| P0973 | Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit Low |
| P0974 | Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit High |
| P0976 | Shift Solenoid B Control Circuit Low |
| P1860 | TCC PWM Solenoid Circuit Electrical |
| P1887 | Torque Converter Clutch Release Switch |
| P2714 | Pressure Control Solenoid D Performance or Stuck Off |
| P2723 | Pressure Control Solenoid E Stuck Off |
Buick Lacrosse Transmission Recalls
2013 Buick LaCrosse Recall – 13V097000
Summary – On certain models of the 2013 Buick LaCrosse, the transmission may inadvertently shift into ‘Sport Mode’, reducing any engine braking effect.
Consequence – As a result of losing engine braking, the vehicle may not slow as expected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy – To fix this problem, GM released a software update for the transmission control module/TCM, and will install it free of charge. Owners can contact Buick at 1-866-694-6546. Or they can call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236
Buick Lacrosse Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)
TSB 06-07-30-023 – 4T65E transmission 1-2 Shift Shudder
Problem – Shuddering or shaking may be felt during the 1-2 shift, under light acceleration at speeds below 25 mph.
Solution – To correct this common 4T65E transmission problem, the entire second clutch assembly will need to be replaced.
TSB 08-07-30-016 – Slipping, refusal to shift, overheating
Problem – Slipping between the gears, overheating, refusal to shift out of a gear, and/or DTC P0894 or P0218, may be because by friction material debonding from the torque convertor clutch (TCC).
Solution – If the friction material has circulated throughout the transmission, the entire transmission may need to be replaced. It is possible to remove the material from the internal components (like transmission cooler lines and the valve body), but it depends on the extent of the damage.
TSB PI4075 – 6T75 transmission overheating
2010 – 2012 Buick LaCrosse
Problem – The 6T75 transmission could experience an overtemperature situation, even if it’s not warranted by the driving conditions. This issue will be accompanied by a warning message in the drivers information center (if so equipped) and one or both of the following DTC’s: P0218 and/or P0634.
Solution – If a mechanical issue is not determined to be at fault, then it’s possible that the problem is caused by too much transmission fluid, dirty transmission fluid or restrictions in the transmission cooler circuit. Click the above link to learn more about this TSB.
TSB 13120A – Torque converter clutch sticking – 6T70 Transmission | 6T75 Transmission
Problem – The torque converter clutch solenoid can stick due to debris in the transmission. When the vehicle is at the end of a coast-down, as the vehicle is coming to a stop, a stuck solenoid will fail to release the torque converter clutch. This keeps the engine directly connected to the driven wheels. As the vehicle stops, the engine speed will be pulled down below normal idle speed and the engine may stall. The vehicle can be immediately restarted and driven.
Solution – The valve control solenoid should be replaced, and the transmission control module will have to be reprogrammed in order to correct the problem.
PI0376A – Flare or slipping on the shift from 2nd or 6th gear – Buick LaCrosse 6T40
Problem – When this common LaCrosse transmission problem occurs, the driver may experience slipping and/or a sudden flare/surge when the transmission shifts into or out of 2nd/6th gear.
Solution – This problem is often caused by debris blocking the opening on the channel plate and spacer plate that provides oil to the 2-6 clutch regulator valve. To correct the issue, the channel plate, spacer plate and valve body will have to be cleaned.
Common Problems with the Buick Lacrosse Transmission
Axle seal leak – Buick LaCrosse 6T40E
Problem – A transmission fluid leak on the driver side, is often traced back to the driver side axle seal.
Solution – This issue stems from a failure prone drivers side axle bushing, which often fails to poor material quality and lubrication. An upgraded bearing will have to be installed.
TCC Solenoid Circuit DTC – 2006-2007 Buick LaCrosse 4T65E
Problem – Diagnostic trouble codes (P0742, P2761, P2764) relating to the torque convertor clutch, may be caused by an incorrectly routed internal wiring harness that can short itself out over time.
Solution – To solve this problem, reposition the tan colored TCC solenoid so that it does not come in contact with the metal wiring harness retaining clip.
Lack of Response
Leaking Fluid
Low Fluid
Burning Smell
Grinding or Shaking
Whining, Clunking or Humming
Refuses to Go Into Gear
Torque Converter Issues
Valve Body Issues
Transmission Noisy in Neutral
Gears Slipping
No 3rd or 4th Gear
No 1st or 2nd Gear
No Reverse
Dragging Clutch
Trouble Codes / Check Engine Light
Can I drive with a transmission problem?
Many people assume that because there are still able to drive their car, a transmission repair can wait. But that’s hardly the case. Most Buick LaCrosse transmission problems start out small, but wind up being extremely expensive because other components wound up breaking or wearing out while the car was still being driven.
How often does a Buick Lacrosse transmission need to be replaced?
Proper maintenance can extend the life of almost any transmission. However, inherent design flaws can cut the service life considerably. The average lifespan of a Buick LaCrosse transmission tends to be between 130,000-180,000 miles. A high quality replacement transmission on the other hand, can sometimes last a lot longer.
How are Buick Lacrosse transmission issues diagnosed?
In order to properly determine what is causing your 6T40 transmission problems / 6T70 transmission problems / 6T75 transmission problems, a mechanic will need to connect a code reader to the OBDII port and pull the diagnostic trouble codes. They will then need to perform a visual inspection to determine the cause of the problem.
How is a Buick Lacrosse transmission replaced?
Since the Buick LaCrosse is primarily a front wheel drive vehicle, the engine will have to be unbolted in order to remove the transmission. Installation is simply a reverse of the removal process. However, the PCM/ECU will have to be reprogrammed / reflashed to accept the new transmission using the latest GM subscription.
Recommendations for Buick Lacrosse transmission issues?
To save time and get back on the road faster, have your 17-digit truck VIN# handy and you can get an online quote for a reman Buick Lacrosse transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.
How to Solve Buick Lacrosse Transmission Problems
Solution A: Buy a Used Buick Lacrosse Transmission
The quickest way to fix your transmission problems is to simply buy a used transmission or used transmission. These can be found at most junk yards, and they often come with a 30-90 day warranty. However, there’s no way to determine the actual condition of the internal components, so you could be spending a bunch of money to have the exact same problems. Plus, that warranty only covers the transmission if it’s defective, not the labor costs that you’ll have to pay.
Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Buick Lacrosse Transmission
Another option would be a rebuilt transmission or rebuilt transmission. A local repair shop will remove your transmission, then install a bunch of new parts during the rebuild. The problem here is, the skills and experience of each transmission rebuilder will vary widely from shop to shop, so you could have problems from something that wasn’t adjusted properly. And the 1-2 year warranty might only cover you at certain transmission repair shops, in a specific geographical area.
Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Buick Lacrosse Transmission
Many owners depend on their vehicle to commute and get things done. Their gasoline engines are designed to go 100’s of thousands of miles, so it makes sense to invest in a remanufactured transmission.
What Transmission Do I Have?
What Problem Does Your Buick Lacrosse Have?
Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!
06/ LaCross 4T65E trans.The transmission shifts great but when u get to normal driving speed and it gets hot sometimes it will shake/shimmy not always just once in a while so tried driving it in 3rd for awhile around town it didn’t do it but now it’s starting to do it in 3rd also have know idea where to start (please help)
2010 Buick LaCrosse 3.6L engine occasionally will not change from 2nd to 3rd gear. After pulling over shifting to park and driving again the vehicle changes from 2nd to 3rd gear as it should. Can anyone tell me what is causing this problem.
I have the same problem from my 2010 lacrosse it’s like it gos into sport mode but still won’t shift if I try sport mode I have to pull over and shift to park and take off again but once it warms up it’s fine
06 Buick LaCrosse. Transmission works fine until it warms up then stops pulling. Turn ignition off for a couple minutes then works fine again until warms up then same thing again. I replaced the strainer and transmission worked perfect for about 4 days and then started doing the same thing all over again. Any help would be greatly appreciated
The Drive and 3rd gear will not work. First and 2nd does work. When it gets time to shift to 3rd I can shift it and it will engage. What is wrong?
Stopped at a red light when it goes green engine revs and lurches after a delay. Transmission was rebuilt but the problem that I suspect caused the trans to blow still exists.
Likewint go into another gear
The reverse will not back up a hilly area
It’s sometimes has trouble pushing out of first gear it’s not shuttering it’s not shaking gets a little stuck once it pushes through it’s fine and it doesn’t do it all the time has 98,000 miles on it I’m wondering if I need to rebuilt transmission or if I can just change the transmission fluid
2011 Buick Lacrosse receving codes P0877 & P0989. Any chances the transmission i don’t have to replace the whole transmission?
Just had a transmission installed on a 2015 lacrosse
Car will not start at All.
EVERY thing has POWER to it a new battery.
Still no start !!!!!
My 2006 Buick Lacrosse CXS 3.6 reverse works perfectly but in drive nothing I don’t feel anything it doesn’t feel like it’s engaging into gear
I have a 2012 Buick LaCrosse 3.6L VVT, FWD, and while driving at 40-45mph @ 1500rpms, I get a “shudder” in the gas pedal. If I depress the gas pedal, then repress the gas pedal, the rpm’s go above 1500rpms and it goes away. At higher speeds on the highway, I don’t feel it. Only on local roads going 40-50mph @ 1500rpms.
I believe it is the Clutch Plate sticking, but I’m no transmission mechanic. Help please, as it is driving me insane!
PS: I don’t have any codes.
I had my transmission checked out and the mechanic told me I had 4, 5, 6 transmission lock-up chatter. He might as well have spoken to me in Japanese because I understood ‘nothing’ about what he said. He didn’t elaborate, just said my transmission had to come out and be rebuilt at a cost of $3,800.00 + tax.
I ran away from him as fast as I could! The engine runs ‘solid’, and I have zero codes. I still drive it, and can probably sell the car as is, or part by part.
No more GM vehicles for me! Maybe I will go the route of a rebuilt transmission from Street Smart Transmissions. $1,800.00 + $700.00 labor + $100.00 ECU reflash + tax(s) is alot better than $3,800.00 + tax(s).
My codes are PO171,PO449
Please help me I thought it was the O2 sensor
My 2005 Buick lacrosse the transmission supposed to be rebuilt but it slips when shifting and it runs up high rpms
My 2013 lacrosse Does not shift into 2 ND.. I push the gas n it slips.. I put it in manual an it will stay into first . Bit as soon as I shift into second it slips.. the fluid does not smell burnt. N no codes on the dash
Checker the fluid only to find it was low topped it off 2 wks later its low again and I don’t see no indication of a leak????
I just purchased a preowned 2015 Buick Lacrosse about 6 months ago and the torque in the transmission has gone bad. Does this mean I could have continuous problems if a repair it and keep it or Is it s good idea to trade it in for another car?
I’m HAVING that same problem now
My 06 lacrosse is able to shift into reverse and forward and even move. Once I pull off, either direction, it stops pulling. I cut it off and maybe one minute and then it repeats itself. Can I just change the stainer or do I have a bigger issue?
Same problem
Transmission will pull when u shift shifter to reverse but when you put shifter I drive it want pull
I have an 06 lacrosse. Whenever I first start the engine the transmission will do fine until it warms up then it will stop pulling until I turn the ignition off for a couple minutes then same thing again. Please help
I have a 2005 Buick Lacrosse CXL that runs poorly at certain times. I can pull off the road where safe, turn the car off, wait about 5-10 seconds, turn it back on and it will run fine for variable rates of time within one week to a month generally. It throws no code to find out what the problem could be. I have been to 2 Buick dealerships and they can not solve the problem. I have spent $300-$500 with no success. The vehicle currently has 103,000 miles on it, but the issue started when it had 80,000 miles on it. Is there anybody else that has had this issue and solved it, please advise.
I have a 2006 Cx and the engine started running hot all of a sudden I turned the heat on just so I could make it home and that did not work , There was bubbling in the coolant Reservoir soon no heat came on I took it a local dealer to have it properly looked at and was told it was the Engine front cover gasket is leaking antifreeze , but I don’t understand why there is no heat and the bubbling going on how will an engine front cover gasket or timing gasket fix this problem just looking for some answers
Hello,
I was just driving home from work when a “Reduced Engine Power” light came on, and the traction light came on almost immediately after. I’ve maintained the vehicle pretty well. It is a 2007 Buick LaCrosse CXL, close to 198,000 miles.
The most recent maintenance done to the vehicle is mounting a new passenger rear tire and the intstallation of a new stem for the driver side front tire. Could this be affecting my limp mode status on the vehicle? I only drove it about one mile from my work, and it is now in my driveway. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Conor
Rochester, NY
Hi, I have 06 lacrosse, ABS & TC Lights, loss of power steering , brake pedal just does its own thing under my foot sometimes… it’s a lil scary when this happens… anyways…have put bout what I paid for the car into costs…& lights still first thing I see when I start my car… let me know if you found any info, fix, etc… for yours… thanks
I have a 2005 Buick LaCrosse CX 3.8. The ABS and TC light popped up when my car overheated one day. I repaired the cause of it overheating, but the dealer estimated $1150 to replace the ABS Control Module. Another place est. $1300 and another $890. I could drive it fine without a brake issue usually, but a few times the brake pedal would hit all the way to the floor without stopping instantly. I called an auto recycling/salvage yard & repair shop who did the repair with a used part and labor for $200. The brake light came on a little while after the ABS/TC lights, but after ruling out any problems, they recalibrated the instrument cluster panel resolving the brake light also. Hope this helped. As for the power steering, when my power steering was going out all of a sudden, the auto shop had to repair the rack on the rack and pinion which had developed a leak, leaking all of the power steering fluid. Fortunately, the steering assembly, pump and line were not needing replacing because the rack itself was an expensive repair, about $600.
When the power steering suddenly started to go out on my 2005 Buick LaCrosse CX 3.8, I had to have the rack in the rack & pinion replaced. The rack was leaking all of my power steering fluid. The auto shop only replaced the rack instead of including the power steering pump and line. After they repaired the rack, they tested the power steering and found there was nothing wrong with it, so no need to replace anything else. This saved me money. The $600 I paid included a wheel alignment they said I needed because of the rack replacement. I was able to drive my car a few days waiting for the soonest available repair appointment without damaging it further (not knowing what was wrong with it) but I DON’T recommend driving it until it’s repaired. I was lucky I suppose.