2017-2019 Buick LaCrosse Rear Spoiler: Installation, Paint & Part Numbers
A complete guide to adding or replacing the factory rear spoiler on your 2017-2019 LaCrosse, covering drilling, paint-matching, and costs.
- Installation on a base model requires drilling permanent holes in the trunk lid; an OEM template is highly recommended for accuracy.
- The primary OEM replacement part (26250580) comes in primer and must be professionally painted to match your vehicle's color, adding significant cost.
- When installing, it is critical to treat the newly drilled holes with a corrosion inhibitor to prevent future rust.
- Properly tightening the mounting nuts to 6.6 lb ft (9 N.m) and ensuring the seals are good is essential to prevent rattling and water leaks.
Symptoms of a Damaged Rear Spoiler
As a stationary body component, a rear spoiler does not 'fail' mechanically. Instead, problems are related to physical damage or deterioration. Here’s what to look for:
- Cracks or Fractures: Impacts from road debris or minor parking accidents can cause the plastic material to crack. Pay close attention to the areas around the mounting points, as stress fractures can develop here.
- Loose Fit or Rattling: If the mounting hardware loosens over time, the spoiler may vibrate or rattle, especially when closing the trunk or driving at speed. This indicates the nuts holding it to the trunk lid need to be checked and tightened.
- Paint and Clear Coat Failure: Constant exposure to sun and weather can cause the paint to fade and the protective clear coat to peel or bubble. This is a cosmetic issue but is very common on older parts.
- Water Leaks into Trunk: If the seals around the mounting bolts fail, or if the holes drilled into the trunk lid were not properly treated, water can seep into the trunk, leading to moisture, mold, and potential damage to the trunk liner or contents.
Buying a Used 2017-2019 LaCrosse Rear Spoiler
A used OEM spoiler is an excellent way to save money, as the fit and quality are identical to a new part. However, careful inspection is key before you buy.
Inspection Checklist:
- Check All Mounting Points: The most critical inspection point. Ensure all mounting studs are present, straight, and not stripped. A spoiler with a broken mounting stud is very difficult to repair securely.
- Look for Hidden Cracks: Flex the spoiler gently to reveal any hairline cracks, especially around the base and corners. What looks like a small scratch could be a deeper fracture.
- Inspect for Previous Repairs: Look for signs of body filler (Bondo), uneven surfaces, or sanding marks that suggest a previous, poor-quality repair. The underside is often the best place to spot these issues.
- Ignore the Paint Color: Do not try to find a used spoiler in your car's exact color. Even if you do, color fade from UV exposure means it likely won't be a perfect match. Plan on having any used spoiler professionally repainted. The cost of painting is a necessary part of buying used.
Pro Tip: An OEM used spoiler, even one that needs repainting, is often a better choice than a new, cheap aftermarket spoiler. Aftermarket parts can suffer from poor fitment, requiring extra bodywork to align properly, and may be made from lower-grade materials that warp over time.
Cost of Replacement for a 2017-2019 LaCrosse Spoiler
The total cost involves the part itself, painting, and installation labor. Many body shops will bundle painting and installation.
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Primer) | $210 - $270 | Part number 26250580. Requires painting. |
| New OEM (Pre-Painted) | $260 - $320 | Available in factory colors like Silver (26250564) and White (26250578), but may be special order. |
| New Aftermarket | $150 - $250 | Factory-style replicas made from ABS plastic. Quality and fit can vary. |
| Used OEM | $75 - $175 | Price for a part in good structural condition, before shipping or painting. |
| Shop Labor: Painting | $150 - $350 | Cost to professionally sand, prime, and paint the spoiler to match your vehicle's color code. |
| Shop Labor: Installation | $100 - $200 | Assumes 1-2 hours of labor for drilling, mounting, and sealing. |
Installation Overview
Installing a spoiler on a LaCrosse that did not come with one from the factory requires drilling permanent holes in the trunk lid. This is a moderately difficult task that a confident DIYer can perform.
Warning: The most critical part of the installation is accurately measuring and drilling the holes. Use the OEM template if available. An incorrectly drilled hole is very difficult to fix.
- Preparation: Clean the trunk lid thoroughly. Remove the interior trunk lid liner by carefully prying out the plastic retainer clips.
- Position Template: Secure the drilling template to the trunk lid with masking tape. Double-check its alignment and measurements before proceeding.
- Drilling: Use a center punch to mark the hole locations. Start with a small pilot drill bit, then enlarge the holes to the size specified in the instructions.
- Corrosion Protection: De-burr the edges of the drilled holes and apply a corrosion inhibitor (like touch-up paint) to the bare metal. This step is crucial to prevent future rust.
- Mounting: The OEM spoiler uses a combination of bolts and double-sided adhesive tape. Remove the backing from the tape, carefully align the spoiler's studs with the holes, and press it firmly onto the trunk lid.
- Securing: From inside the trunk, install and tighten the nuts onto the spoiler's studs. The specified torque is 9 N.m (6.6 lb ft). Do not overtighten, as this can crack the spoiler.
- Finishing Up: Reinstall the trunk lid liner and its retaining clips.
Vehicle-Specific Recalls (Not Spoiler-Related)
While there are no recalls for the rear spoiler, owners of the 2017 Buick LaCrosse should be aware of a significant safety recall concerning the rear suspension.
- NHTSA Recall #17V267000 (GM Recall #17168): This recall affects approximately 11,246 LaCrosse vehicles from the 2017 model year. The rear suspension toe-links may have been installed incorrectly, which could cause them to loosen and detach. A disconnected toe-link can lead to a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect and correct the installation free of charge. Owners can check their VIN on the NHTSA website or contact a Buick dealer for information.
Technical Specifications & Part Numbers
The OEM spoiler fits all trim levels of the 2017, 2018, and 2019 Buick LaCrosse, including Base, Preferred, Essence, Premium, Avenir, and Sport Touring.
- Primary OEM Part Number (Primer): 26250580 (This part number supersedes/replaces 26212643).
- Pre-Painted OEM Part Numbers: GM also offered pre-painted versions, including 26250564 (Silver) and 26250578 (Alabone White). Other colors were also available.
- Material: Plastic
- Attachment Method: Bolt-on with adhesive tape assist.
- Integrated Brake Light: No
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to drill holes in my trunk to install this spoiler?
Yes, if your car did not come with a spoiler from the factory, you must drill holes in the trunk lid to properly install the OEM spoiler. The installation relies on bolts for security. While some aftermarket spoilers use only adhesive tape, this is not recommended for the heavier OEM part.
Will this spoiler fit my 2019 LaCrosse Avenir?
Yes, the factory accessory spoiler is designed to fit all 2017-2019 Buick LaCrosse trims, including the Avenir.
Can I install a used spoiler myself?
Yes, if you are comfortable with measuring, drilling into your car's bodywork, and basic hand tools, this is a manageable DIY project. The key is to be precise and to properly seal the drilled holes to prevent rust and leaks. If you are not confident, a body shop can perform the installation for a reasonable cost.
Why is my spoiler rattling when I close the trunk?
A rattling noise usually means the nuts on the underside of the trunk lid that hold the spoiler in place have become loose. You can access them by removing the trunk liner and tightening them with a socket wrench to the specified 6.6 lb ft of torque.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 26250580 (Primer, replaces 26212643) 26250564 (Silver) 26250578 (Alabone White)
Material: Plastic. Attachment: Bolt-on with adhesive tape. Torque Specification: 9 N.m (6.6 lb ft).
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick LaCrosse:
- Symptoms of a Damaged Rear Spoiler
- Buying a Used 2017-2019 LaCrosse Rear Spoiler
- Inspection Checklist:
- Cost of Replacement for a 2017-2019 LaCrosse Spoiler
- Installation Overview
- Vehicle-Specific Recalls (Not Spoiler-Related)
- Technical Specifications & Part Numbers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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