2010 Buick Lucerne Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2010 Buick Lucerne and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2010 Buick Lucerne engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2010 Buick Lucerne engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2010 Buick Lucerne's engine is stalling?

When your 2010 Buick Lucerne experiences engine stalling, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the root cause. Start by examining the fuel system, as inadequate fuel delivery can lead to stalling; check for clogged fuel filters or failing fuel pumps. Next, inspect the air intake system to ensure that there are no blockages affecting airflow, which is crucial for proper engine function. The ignition system is another critical area; look for worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils that could disrupt the spark needed for combustion. Pay attention to any symptoms such as difficulty turning the ignition key, which may suggest a malfunctioning ignition switch. Additionally, consider the crankshaft position sensor, as a defective sensor can cause erratic engine behavior. Lastly, don't overlook the battery connections; a loose or corroded positive battery cable can lead to intermittent stalling, especially when the engine heats up. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the stalling issue in your Buick Lucerne.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2010 Buick Lucerne?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2010 Buick Lucerne, it's essential to understand the various common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty mass airflow sensor, which can disrupt the delicate balance of air and fuel entering the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, dirty or malfunctioning fuel injectors can hinder proper fuel delivery, exacerbating the stalling issue. The ignition system also plays a critical role; faulty spark plugs or a failing ignition coil can prevent the engine from firing correctly, resulting in stalling. Another significant factor is the fuel pump; if it’s not delivering adequate fuel to the engine, stalling is likely to occur. Furthermore, vacuum leaks can create an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, while a malfunctioning throttle position sensor can negatively impact engine performance. By diagnosing these potential issues and performing necessary maintenance, DIYers can effectively address engine stalling problems in their Buick Lucerne.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2010 Buick Lucerne?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2010 Buick Lucerne is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls, drivers may experience a sudden loss of power steering and braking, which can severely impair vehicle control and increase the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this issue can lead to more severe mechanical problems, resulting in costly repairs down the line. Engine stalling often indicates underlying issues such as fuel system malfunctions, ignition problems, or sensor failures, all of which require prompt diagnosis and repair by a qualified mechanic. Therefore, it is crucial for owners to take immediate action to ensure their safety and the longevity of their vehicle.

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