2014-2016 Buick LaCrosse Hood: Identifying Aluminum vs. Steel

Symptoms of a Damaged or Failing Hood

Unlike mechanical parts, a hood's failure is typically visible. Damage usually results from a collision, falling objects, or corrosion. Key symptoms include:

• Visible Damage: Dents, dings, deep scratches, and bent or crumpled sections are the most obvious signs of a compromised hood.
• Poor Alignment: Uneven gaps between the hood and the fenders or front fascia indicate a bent hood or misaligned hinges, often from an impact. This can cause wind noise at speed.
• Latch and Hinge Problems: Difficulty opening, closing, or latching the hood can point to damage in the latch mechanism or bent hinges. A hood that doesn't close securely is a major safety hazard, as it could fly open while driving.
🎬 See how to properly open and release the hood on a LaCrosse
• Paint and Corrosion Issues: Bubbling paint, peeling clear coat, or visible rust can occur, especially on steel hoods or improperly repaired aluminum hoods. Some owners have reported paint bubbling and chipping, which can lead to corrosion if not addressed.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

While the hood panel itself has no specific recalls, it's important to be aware of related issues for the 2014-2016 Buick LaCrosse.

• Hood Latch Corrosion (Similar Models): While not a direct recall for the LaCrosse, GM has issued recalls on other vehicles around this time for secondary hood latches that can corrode and fail, potentially allowing the hood to open unexpectedly. It is wise to inspect the latch mechanism on any LaCrosse for excessive rust or binding.
• Underbody Corrosion TSB: General Motors has issued a technical service bulletin (PI0281J) providing information to dealers about addressing underbody component corrosion. While not specific to the hood, it indicates that corrosion is a recognized concern for this vehicle platform.
• Other Recalls: The 2014-2016 LaCrosse has several unrelated safety recalls, including issues with airbag software, wiring splices in the driver's door, brake rotors, and transmission shift cables. You can check if a specific vehicle is affected by entering its 17-digit VIN on the NHTSA website.

Steel vs. Aluminum: A Critical Choice for the 2014-2016 LaCrosse

One of the most important details for this generation of LaCrosse is that the hood was available in both steel and aluminum. The OEM part number 9056534 corresponds to the aluminum version. However, aftermarket steel versions are also sold. These materials are not interchangeable due to differences in weight and how they fit.

• Aluminum Hoods: Lighter than steel, which can slightly improve fuel economy and handling. They are naturally corrosion-resistant but can be more expensive and difficult to repair if dented.
• Steel Hoods: Heavier and more prone to rust if the paint is compromised, but generally more durable against small dents and less expensive.

Buying a Used 2014-2016 LaCrosse Hood: A Buyer's Checklist

A used OEM hood is often a better choice than a new aftermarket one due to superior fit, material quality, and structural integrity. Here’s what to look for when inspecting a recycled hood.

Inspecting for Physical Damage

• Check All Edges and Corners: Look for any signs of bending, kinking, or folding, especially along the front edge and side seams. This type of damage is difficult to repair correctly.
• Sight Down the Surface: Look across the hood's surface from multiple angles in good light. This will help you spot subtle waves, low spots, or hail damage that might not be obvious at first glance.
• Examine the Underside: Inspect the underlying support structure. Look for cracks, bends, or any signs of stress, particularly around the hinge and latch mounting points.

Checking for Previous Repairs

• Use a Magnet: On a steel hood, slide a magnet across the entire surface. If it fails to stick in certain areas, it indicates the presence of body filler (Bondo), signaling a previous repair. This test won't work on an aluminum hood.
• Look for Sanding Scratches: Check for fine, linear scratches under the paint, especially around edges. This is a common sign of a repainted panel.
• Check for Paint Overspray: Look at the underside of the hood, the seals, and any attached components for signs of paint overspray, which confirms it has been repainted.

Hood-Mounted Components

A used hood may or may not come with attached components. Be sure to check for the presence and condition of:

• Sound-deadening insulation pad
• Washer fluid nozzles and hoses
• Hood latch striker

Replacement Overview & Difficulty

Replacing the hood on a 2014-2016 LaCrosse is a straightforward process, but it requires careful alignment to ensure even gaps with the fenders and front bumper.

• Difficulty: 2 out of 5.
• Time: 1-2 hours for removal and installation (not including painting).
• Tools: Basic socket set, wrench.
• Help Required: This is a two-person job. A hood is large and awkward to handle alone, and attempting it solo risks scratching the fenders or dropping the hood.

Basic Steps: Place a protective blanket along the base of the windshield. With a helper supporting the hood, disconnect the washer fluid hose. Mark the position of the hinge bolts with a marker to aid in alignment. While the helper holds the hood, remove the bolts connecting the hood to the hinges. Lift the old hood off. Reverse the process to install the new hood, leaving the bolts slightly loose at first to allow for alignment adjustments before final tightening.

Cost Comparison: 2014-2016 LaCrosse Hood

Prices can vary based on material, condition, and location. A used hood will also require painting, which can cost between $300 and $500 professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)