The Most Common Buick Problems
Electrical issues and engine issues are the most common Buick problems—avoid the ‘02 LeSabre at all costs.
Written by Abbey Orzech
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Inaccurate fuel gauges, transmission issues, electrical issues, and engine issues are some of the most common Buick problems.
- Buick vehicles are generally reliable, but some models (like the ‘02 LeSabre) have issues.
- The most reliable Buick is the 2018 Buick Encore.
- Areas of concern include the transmission, fuel gauge, electrical system, and airbags.
- Buick vehicles are generally reliable, but some models (like the ‘02 LeSabre) have issues.
- The most reliable Buick is the 2018 Buick Encore.
- Areas of concern include the transmission, fuel gauge, electrical system, and airbags.
What are the most common Buick problems?
Owners of older Buick models like the Regal and the Lucerne tend to face problems with their vehicles down the road. But new models aren’t immune either.
Here are some of the most common car problems that Buick owners report experiencing:
- Transmission problems
- Inaccurate fuel gauge
- Defective electrical systems
Worst offender: The 2002 Buick LeSabre is reported to have the most complaints.
Here are some other models that Buick owners have issues with:
Model | J.D. Power reliability rating | Most common problems | Years to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
LeSabre | N/A | Defective power windows, false fuel gauge readings, jerky shifting | 2000 to 2004 |
Encore | 86/100 | Defective airbags and seatbelts, engine problems, brake problems, faulty battery | Anything before 2018 |
Rendezvous | 81/100 | Erratic shifting, fuel pump failure, coolant leaks, faulty fuel gauge and door latch | 2003, 2006 |
Enclave | 78/100 | Transmission problems, engine misfires, power steering problems, camshaft replacement | 2008 |
LaCrosse | N/A | Door lock failure, headlight failure, power steering hose leak | 2005, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2011 |
Most common Buick LeSabre problem: power window assembly
Model’s average annual repair cost: N/A
CarComplaints.com complaints: 668
The
Buick LeSabre
has the most consumer complaints regarding the car’s defective power window assembly. This issue is most common in the model years 2000 through 2002, and it can happen from cold temperatures, a frayed regulator cable, and even overuse. Other issues the LeSabre faces are false
fuel gauge
readings, shifting problems resulting from a malfunctioning transmission, and faulty heating and cooling temperatures. A heating and AC inspection costs about $115.Most common Buick Encore problems: defective airbags and seatbelts
Model’s average annual repair cost: $511
CarComplaints.com complaints: 183
Some
Buick Encores
have an alarming problem with defective airbags and seatbelts. This is most common with models from 2015 to 2017—and GM did a massive recall of over 3.6 million vehicles. If you are riding with a Buick Encore SUV from those years, contact Buick
or General Motors for more information on the recall. The Buick Encore also saw brake problems, ranging from abnormal noises when pressing on the brake to having to brake for a longer time before coming to a complete stop. A mechanic can help you figure out if your
brake pads are worn out
or if something more serious is wrong with your Buick.Most common Buick Rendezvous problem: engine overheating
Model’s average annual repair cost: $429
CarComplaints.com complaints: 370
The
Buick Rendezvous
is prone to erratic shifting, engine overheating, a misfiring engine, and even a loss of power. If a loud squealing or rattling is coming from your engine—or if your Check Engine light is on—bring your car to a mechanic.Rendezvous owners have also reported a failure with the fuel pump that has led to the vehicle suddenly stalling or not turning on at all. This could be due to clogged strainers and filters in the fuel system or electrical issues.
Fuel pump replacements
can be quite expensive, so this problem with the Buick Rendezvous is certainly less than ideal. Most common Buick Enclave problem: transmission problems
Model’s average annual repair cost: $648
CarComplaints.com complaints: 610
Engine and transmission problems comprise the bulk of
Buick Enclave
complaints. The transmission can be prone to excessive vibrations and slipping between gears while driving. If your car is shaking or vibrating, ask your mechanic to inspect your transmission.Some complaints detail the Enclave’s engine misfiring and even finding metal shavings in the engine’s oil. If your engine oil is black and gritty, that's a key sign that something is wrong.
Most common Buick LaCrosse problems: door lock actuator, power steering hose
Model’s average annual repair cost: $598
CarComplaints.com complaints: 341
The door lock actuator on the
Buick LaCrosse
can give owners some grief due to its tendency to stick and need replacement. Door lock actuators
cost $250 per door, and over 300 LaCrosse owners have reported the issue! Another common problem with the LaCrosse is
power steering pressure hose leaks
that can lead to a loss of power steering. This issue is something you can usually sniff out since hydraulic fluid typically has a strong smell. Are Buick cars reliable?
Overall, Buicks are widely considered decently reliable and safe vehicles.
However, there is some variation in reliability ratings between specific models. It is a good idea to do some research about the specific vehicle you’re eyeing before buying.
The least reliable Buick model: 2002 Buick LeSabre
Most common problem: Fuel level sensor failure
NHTSA complaints: 321
While not every LeSabre will experience all of these problems, common issues for the 2002 LeSabre include fuel level sensor failure, transmission pressure control failure, door actuator failure, and a stalling engine. You may need to budget for a new intake manifold gasket or timing chain with this model.
The most reliable Buick model: 2018 Buick Encore
Most common problem: Transmission problems
NHTSA complaints: 25
The 2018 Buick Encore holds the prestigious title of the most reliable Buick model. Although it has some trouble with the transmission that can lead to jerky shifting and accelerating, overall the Encore performs well. Other crossovers like the Enclave and Buick Envision tend to perform well, too.
Remember to check your warranty before you pay out-of-pocket for repairs! If it’s an official recall, the GMC dealership should fix the problem for free.
“Because I have a luxury car, I was more interested in finding better coverage than the exact price.Jerryhelped me upgrade my policy, and when my record is cleared next year, I will be using Jerry again to choose an even cheaper plan!” —Paige W.
Jerry sends free alerts to keep your car up-to-date so you can avoid costly repairs
* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score
Get ahead of my car maintenance
* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score
FAQs
How long do Buicks last?
With proper maintenance and care, Buicks can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles.
Why is Buick unreliable?
The most commonly reported problems with Buicks tend to be transmission-related, but out of 32 brands included in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, Buick ranked 11th.
Estimate your repair costs for free with GarageGuard™
Simplify your car maintenance with Jerry.
4.7
We value your privacy
