I am looking into 2012-ish Buick Lacrosse's and I've noticed that in addition to the 3.6L v6 you can also find some with a 2.4L ecotec I-4 with e assist (mild hybrid). I'm just wondering if this is a reliable system or if it's something to stay away from.
Those EcoTec engines are troublesome. The original EcoTec was designed by the Germans and proved to be a lousy set up with a poor design. GM also doesn't know how to make hybrids. The 3.6 V6 itself is a bad engine as well. I would avoid that vehicle.
It has "start stop" technology that will wear your engine out faster. You are forewarned.
From a promotional page: https://www.palmengm.com/blog/what-does-buick-lacrosse-eassist-do/
Scotty's take on "start stop" technology: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7524u5w4ZE
I suggest you only consider used Buicks with the 3800 V6.
It is a very durable engine with a long history of reliable service. Production ended in 2008.
Since the valves are operated by pushrod it uses a short single timing chain.
https://www.autonews.com/article/20051003/SUB/510030720/3800-v-6-gm-s-workhorse-runs-its-course
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buick_V6_engine
