Where is the LaCrosse radiator cap located?
3 Answers
The LaCrosse radiator cap is located in front of the engine and behind the bumper. The automotive radiator is primarily composed of a radiator core, water pipes, cooling fins, upper tank, and lower tank. As a key component of the vehicle's cooling system and part of the engine assembly, its function is to dissipate heat. Coolant absorbs heat in the water jacket, flows to the radiator to release heat, then returns to the water jacket to complete the temperature regulation cycle. In terms of exterior design, this vehicle adopts Buick's new family design language, featuring smooth and elegant body lines with highly dynamic proportions. For suspension systems, it utilizes MacPherson strut independent suspension at the front and multi-link independent suspension at the rear.
I've been driving for over 20 years and can locate the Buick LaCrosse's radiator cap with my eyes closed. After opening the hood, that large silver round cap right at the front is the main radiator cap, usually positioned on the radiator support in the middle-rear section of the front end. However, note that the cooling system has changed in newer LaCrosse models - the old 2.4L version's twist-off main radiator cap was gradually replaced by an expansion tank design after 2020. Always remember to operate only when the engine is cold - I once saw someone open it when hot and got steam burns on their arm. During hot weather when adding coolant, pay special attention not to exceed the MAX line, or excessive pressure could burst the hoses - our repair shop recently handled such a case.
Last week I just topped up the coolant in my 2018 LaCrosse, and locating the overflow tank was super easy. Before starting the car, pop the hood - it's right behind the left headlight, a translucent white plastic reservoir clearly marked with the coolant symbol. The tank cap is that black twist-off knob on top. Pro tip: Only check the MIN/MAX markings on the tank wall when the engine is cold for accurate reading, as the level rises when hot and can be misleading. Stay alert if you frequently find coolant low - mine needed topping up every two months until we discovered a water pump leak. I recommend getting it checked at the dealership with an endoscope promptly.