Used 2008 Buick Lucerne Sedan Consumer Reviews

Great car, maybe a touch expensive

A little baffled by some of the poor reviews I have seen. I'm 24 and have been driving this car for 2 years now, and I enjoy it. It's spacious, comfortable, quiet, and powerful enough. Never noticed any major handling issues other than the large turn radius, and sometimes it can be difficult to park in large spots. Also there seem to be a few blind spots that can get you in trouble if you're not cautious. The interior isn't as fancy/elegant as I would expect, but it's not bad, and I like how the exterior looks. The trunk is pretty huge, and there is plenty of room for my 6'5'' frame (something I've had problems with in other cars like the Malibu and Impala). MPG's are pretty low, however.

Didn't I really rather have a Buick

Looked at a lot of cars before settling on this one which I bought used. Have driven Lincolns (Mark series), Taurus, Mercedes, and a Caddy. Must say that this is the most comfortable car I have ever driven. With the Northstar V8, it is very quick to accelerate - I had to get used to the electronic gas pedal as it is instantaneous, but the power and smoothness make it fast off the line and it easily and extremely quickly accelerates to highway speed. I took it for a test drive before I bought it and when I "floored" it on the highway, I was truly impressed. It's got more power than I will ever really need. I've gotten 17.5 MPG around town and 25.9 on the highway for a combined total of 20.6. Not great, but not bad for a full size, powerful luxury car. The interior is soft, roomy, and has easy to understand controls. Trunk space is great, and my front bucket seats are extremely comfortable for any length trip. While the turning radius is very large, because I have driven many large cars and trucks/suvs over the years, it's something that didn't take long to get used to. Fit and finish are incredible, and the Harmon Kardon stereo system is top notch. The quietness of the interior is amazing and the engine is very smooth and "purrs" softly - even under heavy acceleration. Heated seats, heated washer fluid and heated steering wheel are great extras, especially in the northeast where I live. I love the lines of the car and it really does look sporty. I had always thought that the Buicks were for the old folks - luxurious but lumbering cruise mobiles for the geriatric set. Boy was I wrong. Not that this car would appeal much to anyone under 35 in my opinion, but it has a sporty style and a lot of power with all the bells and whistles. Could not be happier with the purchase. Next car I'll definitely look at the top end Buicks again. Best features - cooled seats, heated wiper fluid, ride, sound system, styling. Worst features - turning radius, a few blind spots (but the blind spot assist is a very good aid)

If you can find it, buy it!

Very reliable family sedan. My 4th Buick over 30 years. And I sold them too!!

Lucerne

For people complaining about the speedometer being hard to see in day light, turn the lights on. It really helps. My Lucerne has day running lamps so the exterior lighs are already on. Very nice a comfortable car.

nice car

one year ago I bought a used 2008 Lucerne and was so pleased with it, It's ubiquitous 3.8 litre engine provides all the power one could want unless they are a "drag racer" and the car handles beautifully. I have always gotten 30-35 MPG at the 55-65 miles per hour on the high way and 20-24 mpg in local driving which amazes me in so big a car.then the Lucerne is the most satisfactory one I have ever owned.

Great American Car

I have had three Mercs two Audis all mid to upper level. I brought a 2008 Lucerne CSX V8 and I am absolutely delighted with it - and would put it up against any car in its class. With what I have on my car - I would have to have paid a fortune in extras on the foreign models. Ultra quiet, fantastic build quality built to incredible tolerances. The Northstar engine is silky smooth. Very respectable mph for a V8 Exquisite lines no matter what angle you look at it. I would recommend anyone looking at a mid or full size saloon to "a least" take a test drive at your local Buick dealership.

Follow up since buying

This is my follow up review since acquiring the car. Still delighted in all areas. My drive to work is 17 miles each way - I average 20 MPG. Went out last weekend between averaged 60 and 70 mph over a 186 round trip. Computer showed 25.9 MPG. Not bad for a V8. Problems - the tire pressure monitored showed an inaccurate reading. Took it in and they rebooted the computer - Problem fixed. Apparently the fact the car did not move for a couple of months when I was abroad was the problem. Everyone that gets in for the first time is very impressed with the drive comfort and lines of the car. I am one chuffed owner. I cannot praise the car enough. The new La Crosse and Regal WOW!

Comfortable and Quiet

This car is very quiet and comfortable. I previously owned an Olds 88 LSS and this is by far a better car. The heated seats are great in the winter. The sound system is good. The build quality is excellent. I have not found one flaw in the car yet after putting 6000 miles on it. No squeaks or squawks. This is a well designed car, built to last. The 3.8L V6 engine in the CXL has a cast iron oil pan. That's how rugged the engine is built. All previous 3.8L GM engines that I am familiar with have a formed sheet metal oil pan. This one is cast iron with cross members bolted to it. Built reliable like an aircraft engine.

A beautiful car

A couple of years ago I bought a used 2006 Lucerne and was so pleased with it, I bought a new 2008, I am a big, long legged man, so the first thing I look for in a car is driver leg room and comfort. The Lucerne abounds in them. It's ubiquitous 3.8 litre engine provides all the power one could want unless they are a "drag racer" and the car handles beautifully. I have always gotten 27.5 MPG on the road which amazes me in that big a car. I am 72 years old and have owned many cars, foreign and domestic, and the Lucerne is the most satisfactory one I have ever owned.

18 months on

My 2008 Buick lucerne v8 csx continues to give me the same driving pleasure as it did on day one. Whisper quiet, silky smooth - like sitting in a lazy boy. A couple of weeks back I did a 190 mile round trip and got 25.9 mpg - using "Cruise" between 65/70 mph. Problems - during an oil change I was told that both front bearing were shot. Immediately replaced under warranty with no quibbles ($400 each). I bought the car with 28k on the clock I now have just under 41k. Same suggestions for improvement. Six speed auto and a smaller turning circle. What a superb product line up Buick now has with the enclave, regal and as for the La Crosse . Drop dead gorgeous. Go Buick!

Best ever owned

I have owned many cars from many makes but my 2008 Lucerne is the best car that I have ever owned. It rides better than any car in its price range. The handling is great for such a large car. No it does not handle like a German car but does not ride like crap over potholes either. No problems at all. The 3800 engine and automatic are among the high quality from any make. I hope to drive this car for the next 20 years.

Nice Ride

Really liked this car. It was conformable, quite, very low maintenance, good gas millage and handled very well

Quietest car I've ever owned

This is our sceond Buick. I am very pleased with the quality of construction. The sound-proofing is so good that I can't tell whether the engine is running when stopped at a traffic signal. Bought car in New Orleans and drove almost 200 miles home on a 1/4 of a tank. The gas needle didn't move until we had driven 107 miles. I'll keep buying Buicks as long as they keep making them like this. A very nice car for the money.

Nice car

I just bought a used 2008 Lucerne with 70,000 miles . Clean, runs great. I love it. I was a Lesabre owner for 20 years, but this is luxury at non-luxury price. Wouldn't you really rather have a Buick?

Loved this car, the best ride I have had!

We owned this vehicle from mile 12 til I was rear-ended by a gravel truck. It had 120,000 miles on it and going strong after 11 years of ownership. It broke my heart to learn it was a total loss from the insurance side. That engine will go another 75,000 easy. I hope they do sell it to someone who needs it, I kept great care of it. This car was a tank and I always felt safe in it. I am 60+ years old and I don't drive like a fiend, that helps.

I expected more

Trading in my 2000 Lesabre with 142000 miles I expected a big improvement> Not so! Rattle in front end, trunk doesn't open but half way, wind noise is terrible, engine has no power> Quiet tune? they must have forgotten to do this one, 67 MPH very annoying drive train noise. sun visors not even close to what was on the 2000. Mileage is not as good either. can't reach door handles to close doors. Plastic push pins used in many places all loose.

Great Performance, Comfort, and Value

I bought the Lucerne CXS after shopping higher end cars (Mercedes, Jag) and feel that I got a better car for about half the price. The NorthStar V8 engine is smooth and has more power than you could ever need. I get 19mpg town/26mpg hwy. The magnetic ride control suspension and 18" wheels make for tight, sporty handling around town and a smooth, sure footed ride on the Interstate. The interior is incredibly quiet, well laid out, and the materials are soft. The leather bucket seats are the most comfortable seats I've ever been in and between the seat adjustments and tilt/telescoping steering wheel the car is able to be adjusted to comfortably accommodate both me, I'm 6'1", and my wife, 5'3".

Many flaws in design

Electrical flaws. Constant headache. Pull the onstar fuse and trim the mtal parts on bottom of the backseat above fusebox. Make sure to condition the drive belt with water repellent and always carry a spare one...and 15mm wrench as you WILL be putting them on in heavy rain. Drill a hole the trunk to drain water. Here we see that engineers are overpaid ignoramouses and GM business executives are no less than amoral crooks.

Best car I have ever owned

this Sep 4 2010 this car has been back to dealer for oil changes only. It's a little big for my taste for then the others were too small

Comfort and Class

Use this car as my sales office. Had a 2005 Lacross CXS, wanted a bit more room. Ride is very quiet and comfortable. Handling is what you would expect from a luxury cruiser of this size and price. The V6 is suprisingly quick and have never felt underpowered merging on the Freeway, once at cruising speed you have to watch your speed because 90 sounds and feels like 70. Memory seats, heated steering wheel and seats and very comfortable and supportive seats makes long distance drives easy. Get it with the premium sound system, worth the money.

Excellent Vehicle

The 2008 Buick Lucerne CXL is an excellent vehicle. Build quality is high, performance is adequate to high, reliability is high, and value for money is high. Would recommend and purchase, again, this model.

High Maintenance GM product.

2008 Buick, currently has 53,000 miles. From 30,000 miles to current, the following items have been replaced, 1/2 shaft in steering, power steering rack, power steering pump, front struts, rear air shocks, brakes on all 4 corners, rear brake calipers (leaking), new battery. Currently has an engine oil leak. 2/3/2018. Buick currently has 60,000 miles on it. Vehicle is doing fine. Nothing to complain about.

Roughrider

I think the car rides hard, as if it had too much air in the tires. I guess it needs to break in. I also would like better acceleration. This is my 4th car with the 3800V6 and it's the slowest off the line. Yeah, I know it ain't no hotrod but it's not your Grandpa's Buick either! Overall, Im happy with the car.

2008 Buick Lucerne

I purchased a 2008 Buick Lucerne in 2016. I replaced two fuel pumps. This car has a major recall. The circuit box is under the passenger seat. The metal hinge is too long causing the fuel pump relay to arc this causing a crank no start. The dealership will try to get you to purchase a new fuel pump. But you will still have a crank no start until the whole fuse box is replaced and the metal seat cushion clip is shaved off from causing the fuel relay to arc. The fuel relay also needs to be replaced with a low profile type. Buick will fix the recall free if the car is under 120k miles. If you don't let the dealership know that you know about this issue, they will SHAFT you. Buick did me dirty.

final Buick

I have owned many Buicks but this will be the last. I`ve had nothing but trouble. Poor mileage 15-23, acclerator problems,power seat, steering noise, ext temp., worst of all it has left me setting 3 times with a no start, and had to be hauled in on a flatbed. This all has happened in only 4500 miles. I have lost all confidence in GM. I wish I had never traded. Had an 05 LaSabre that was a very good car. Got 23-30 for mileage with no problems, I wish I could say the same for the LuCerne.

Outstanding fit and finish

The standard engine power is okay, but a little more would be better. The handling characteristics are better than expected, although the suspension could be a bit tighter.

always a buick

Not your daddy's Buick

I have been an SUV guy for a while and really shopped hard for a larger car before deciding on the Lucerne. I drove several comparably priced imports and found nothing that offered the luxury of the Lucerne as well as the roominess. I also drove a Caddy STS. A nicer car, but much more money. I found the CXS Lucerne holds its own pretty well against the Caddy. The styling is elegant inside and out without being boring or too "mature" looking. The car handles well and has plenty of power. The Northstar engine has all the pickup I could ever want. By far, a must have on this car. The ride is quiet and comfortable. I have not given anyone a ride in this car who hasn't commented positively.

Love my CXS

Traded my 2003 Deville DHS for it. I like the styling, car looks nice with the 18 inchers. Ride is better than my old Deville and the seats are more comfortable also. The handling and steering are tight with the magnetic ride control and steering. The acceleration seems much better than the Deville too.

Buick is impressing us

This has been a great vehicle so far. After looking for several months for a replacement to our Chrysler 300 we settled on the Lucerne. We have not been disappointed. A great smooth ride and quieter than any other car in its class. I am 6'4" and room was important. This car gives it. The power of the Northstar is impressive without giving up too much gas mileage. It is not as responsive thru the transmission or the steering wheel as the Chrysler 300 but the ride far out weighs that loss.

New Lucerne Owner

I am a big man (60" waist 32" inseam) so finding a vehicle that I fit in is the first step. I am quite comfortable with plenty of leg room, its a little squeeze in and out but I took it for a 300 mile drive and thoroughly enjoyed it. I love the heated steering wheel and seats, and that was something that I really didn't want but to get the features I wanted they came on the car. The turning radius is not as tight as I would prefer. The blind side alert and lane alert work quite well. Those are two feature I wanted. The night driving is excellent, my old vehicle had too much reflection and glare. I hope to drive this for a long time, my first two tanks of gas are in the 20 mpg range.

Luxo-cruiser that can gallop

Currently own 7 vehicles and decided it was time to update my people hauler a '97 Park Avenue. Picked the car up in Texas and followed my brother (a current Lexus and Volvo and prior Mercedes owner) and his quote "I love it, the most awesome car I have ever driven". A good friend who is a SCCA licensed instructor drove and quote Man this is a Vette with a back seat. My impression: The V8 fumbles just enough without being intrusive,interior is spacious and eye appealing and I have yet to find the body roll or the brake fade the "reviewer" mentions. Comparing to another friends Bimmer 5 series it is quicker, quiter, and handles as well. CXS a luxo-cruiser that can gallop.

2008 Lucerne

My lease ran out on a Jeep Cherokee and I was in the market for a BMW, Lincoln, Audi or Toyota. I stopped by my local GM dealer just to see what the Buick Lucerne was all about. It had all the amenities I wanted and I loved the ride and handling. I wanted a comfortable car and a safe car. I got a great deal because it is a 2008 and GM was in the midst of financial problems. I did not go to any other dealer. I knew what I wanted and got the price I wanted. I plan on keeping my Lucerne for a long time. As a road warrior, I want something safe and comfortable. I bought it.

Great car

Was looking to trade in our 2007 Yukon for something with better MPG and picked the Buick. Was worried about sitting low in a car, but the car is great. Has more power then the Yukon and a better ride. The car is getting allot of looks and people have stopping me in the grocery store parking lot and asking, "is that a Buick?" The car handles great, and the MPG in town on the first tank is 16.9 MPG. My wife loves it more ever time she drives it and she loved her Yukon. The nav system and radio took a little time to understand the options.

Unstable Buick

We had a Buick Lasabre before this Lucerne . Our Lasabre was a super great car with excellent performance and fuel mileage and reliability . The Lucerne is a 2008 and we have had this car for three years now . While we have had this car the water pump has been replaced and we have had numerous issues with the engine light coming on . The first few times were due to squirrels chewing the spark plug wires on the backside of the engine . After the third time of replacing them I covered them with wire loom and wrapped them with black tape . Then the squirrels chewed a couple other wires on the intake air temperature sensor . I soldered these wires and used heat shrink tubing over them . While I cannot blame the car or manufacture for these issues this was just the beginning of the issues . The engine light keeps coming on for numerous times for electrical issues . It came on due to emissions , traction control , abs and more emissions issues . All of these issues seem to be problems with poor connections at the wire plugs . After the connectors are taken apart and very slightly crimped back together , the issues with those particular sensors go away and a new one comes up . I have been chasing these issues all summer long . The only replacement parts I have put on this car is the water pump , which is a part of normal maintenance . I love this car even mainly for the bucket seats in the front . It doesn't ride or handle as good as the Lesabre did . And it certainly isn't as reliable as the Lesabre . We put on well over 100,000 miles on the Lasabre and had NO issues with it whatsoever . I'm sure this Lucerne is one of Buicks few that is full of electrical issues but I still love this car . The fuel economy is not as good as the Lasabre even though both cars had the famous 3.8 engine . One day I will get all the electrical connections taken care of . It is a little inconvenient to take care of these electrical connections , but it is something I can take care of and it doesn't cost anything but the time to do it . This puts a sour note out there for Buick , but I have had other Buicks with no issues at all .

Best Buick Ever

great performence with the 4.6L NorthStar. The fully loaded CXS is a true luxury car for a cheap price.

Disenchanted owner

I wrote a review on this car (2008 Lucerne CX)in May of 2009 and here is an update. With the help of an Attorney, a Lemon Law Lawsuit was filed (June 2009) against Buick division regarding possible mechanical failure.(Steering rack/transmission/power steering unit) GM responded "You claim does not cover apperance issues, therefore your claim is denied. Appearance issues? Where did that come from? In addition, shortly after filing the lawsuit, GM filed bankruptcy and guess where that left me. NEVER AGAIN will I by GM junk. They lost a faithful customer who bought many of their cars/trucks over 35 years.

Major Disappointment - Goodbye GM

20+ years of faithful GM ownership. Purchased the 2008 Lucerne brand new, thought I couldn't go wrong. Let's see..... thermostat problems, took 2 attempts to fix that. The trunk that leaked in the rain and to top that the dealer's service center couldn't get to it for a week (smell that, would ya?). Then there's the gas cap that just fell off. Wish I paid closer attention to the poor turning ability and less to the cushy seats. Great economy but such poor acceleration, I am hesitant to make any sort of assertive move for fear the car will be left behind! I will never pay $35K for such a vehicle again!

good car

wish for better gas milage

Great for a Tall Family

I am 6'4", my wife is 6'2", my 12 year old son is 5'10" and my 8 year old daughter is 5' 4". Clearly, front and rear head and leg room were the most important features in our buying decision. I had never owned a Buick before but I must say that I am very pleased with this one. No other car in it's class has the same mix of size, comfort and convenience. And it is so incredibly quiet! I absolutely love it. he V6 engine has plenty of power for the kind of driving I do - short commutes and the occasional interstate road trip. I got the bench front seat which really lets me stretch out on long trips.

Best Buick ever

The Buick Lucerne CXL is the best Buick or car that we have ever had. The quality of the fit finish is outstanding. A super quite ride with none of the road noise gives you a refreshing finish after driving it daily or on a long trip. We have 9 vehicles one other 2007 and 5 restored colector cars that have all one best of show or people's choice.

All around good car

The car has no major problem that I know of. Good transportation and comfortable as I'm a big guy.

Love my Lucerne!

In '06 we traded in a high mileage Park Avenue for a Chev Malibu which I regretted from day one. This year that car was traded in for a Lucerne and all is well again! The fit and finish, quietness and comfort are even better than the old Park Ave. It is solid and so very inviting to drive.

My 1st Buick

This car was a demo with 6000 miles on it when I got it. I have been very happy with the overall performance and ride. I just took a road trip to the Jersey shore and I got 25mpg doing 70 mph. I Have the 3800 V-6, good motor history. I did have problems with noise front brakes when I first got it but the dealer changed out the pads and its been fine.

2008 Buick CXL 3.8 V-6

Not much of an Automobile. Door Handle pulled out of door at 9000Miles, BBrake rotors warped at 5500 Miles, Dealer wanted to turn rotors and put old Brake Pads back on, Customer was of no assistance, paid for new pads and rotors out of my pocket, I have driven Buicks since 1965 and this is my last GM Car. Will definately buy Lexus Or Toyota Avalon.

Buick....this car makes me sad

This car is unbelievable in so many ways. Unfortunately none of them are good. The exterior styling is hideous, The car drives like you are in a sensory deprivation tank, and the interior is cheap and uninspired..unless by inspired you expect ugly and cobbled together by a committee of old car company fat cats. I have had the misfortune of being stuck with this car for 2 weeks now (loaner). I can't wait to give it back. The steering column controls are backwards and overly complicated, and everything in the interior feels like leftover parts from a 1990's car. There is good reason for this, its because they are. Most parts you find on the Lucerne have not been updated since 1994 or before.

less then a 1 star

it is the worst car ever.

Great car with extraordinary comfort

I love this car. It is just a few weeks old, but has everything I wanted in a new car. The ride is unmatched. I tested a Ford Fusion because they said it drove as nice as a Buick. They were wrong. The Lucerne glides across rough road. It has plenty of pickup. The controls are well positioned for easy access. Plenty of leg room for stretching out. The 2008 version does not have bluetooth phone, and that I miss. I understand that 2009 does have that. The fan has plenty of power to cool or heat. I do wish that it had more power connections for things like iPods. The dash is a little hard to see in the daylight. Auto headlights is great. On Star is just amazing. Just a great car.

Excellent Vehicle

The 2008 CXL is an excellent sedan, with high mechanical reliability. It has adequate power, very comfortable, the design is most attractive and is a pleasure to drive. If you want a special long distance traveling vehicle, consider the Lucerne, it is comfortable and reliable.

2008 Buick CXL

I have owned many Buicks over the years. They have all been great cars, but this one may be the best. I love the looks, the smooth, quiet ride, and the quality finish. I have had the car for more than three months now and have driven almost 6,000 miles. I am still enjoying it.