Buick has built a reputation for comfort and reliability, but not all models stand the test of time financially. Some used Buicks come with high repair costs, expensive parts, and frequent mechanical issues that can quickly drain a buyer’s wallet. From transmission failures to electrical nightmares, these models have left many owners frustrated and paying more than they expected. Here are 11 Buick models that could become money pits if you’re not careful.
2002 Buick Rendezvous
The 2002 Buick Rendezvous had a stylish crossover design but suffered from major reliability issues. Common problems included failing intake manifold gaskets, overheating engines, and faulty all-wheel drive components. Transmission failures were also frequent, leading to expensive repairs. Despite its practicality, the maintenance costs make it a poor choice for budget-conscious buyers.
2005 Buick Terraza
As Buick’s attempt at a luxury minivan, the 2005 Terraza fell short in quality and durability. Owners reported issues with power sliding doors, transmission failures, and malfunctioning electronics. The 3.5L V6 engine was prone to oil leaks, leading to costly repairs. With so many mechanical problems, this van quickly became a financial burden.
2008 Buick Lucerne
The 2008 Buick Lucerne was a comfortable sedan, but it came with serious engine and electrical issues. The Northstar V8 engine suffered from oil leaks and overheating, leading to expensive repairs. Electrical problems, including failing fuel pumps and faulty wiring, added to the ownership costs. Despite its luxurious ride, the Lucerne’s maintenance costs made it a money pit.
2011 Buick Regal
The 2011 Buick Regal was designed to compete with European sedans but came with costly reliability concerns. Turbocharged models had engine issues, including oil consumption and turbo failures. The electronic power steering system was prone to malfunctioning, leading to costly repairs. Owners often found themselves spending more time at the repair shop than on the road.
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2012 Buick Verano
While the Buick Verano was praised for its quiet ride, the 2012 model suffered from expensive mechanical failures. Transmission problems were common, with some owners experiencing complete failures before 100,000 miles. The 2.4L engine had timing chain issues that required expensive fixes. Overall, repair bills on this compact luxury sedan could quickly add up.
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2014 Buick Enclave
The 2014 Buick Enclave was a spacious and luxurious SUV, but it came with reliability concerns. The 3.6L V6 engine had frequent timing chain failures, leading to expensive repairs. Transmission issues, including hard shifting and fluid leaks, were also common. The high cost of fixing these problems made the Enclave a risky used purchase.
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2015 Buick LaCrosse
The 2015 Buick LaCrosse offered a smooth ride, but owners frequently complained about costly repairs. The transmission was known for sudden failures, requiring expensive replacements. Electrical issues, including faulty infotainment systems and malfunctioning power seats, added to repair costs. While stylish and comfortable, the LaCrosse often drained wallets with its mechanical flaws.
2016 Buick Encore
The 2016 Buick Encore was a popular small SUV, but it had significant mechanical issues. Turbocharged models suffered from premature turbo failures, leading to high repair bills. Engine oil leaks and electrical malfunctions were common complaints among owners. The Encore’s small size didn’t mean small repair costs, making it a risky used buy.
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2017 Buick Envision
The 2017 Buick Envision was an attractive compact SUV but came with hidden maintenance costs. The 2.0L turbo engine had reliability issues, including excessive oil consumption and overheating. Transmission failures and defective fuel injectors were common problems that required costly repairs. Despite its modern features, the Envision became a financial headache for many owners.
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2018 Buick Cascada
The 2018 Buick Cascada convertible was stylish but not built for longevity. It had a weak turbocharged engine prone to overheating and gasket leaks. The complex convertible top mechanism was also known to fail, requiring expensive repairs. As a low-production model, parts were costly and difficult to find, making maintenance even more expensive.
2019 Buick Regal Sportback
The 2019 Regal Sportback looked sporty but had hidden mechanical flaws that made ownership costly. The 2.0L turbocharged engine suffered from premature failure due to poor cooling system design. The dual clutch transmission was unreliable and expensive to repair or replace. While it offered practicality, the repair costs quickly overshadowed its benefits.
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While Buick is known for comfort and upscale features, several of its models have proven to be expensive to maintain. From transmission failures to turbocharger problems, these 11 Buicks can quickly turn into financial burdens. High repair costs, unreliable components, and costly parts make them risky choices for used car buyers. If you’re looking for a dependable used vehicle, avoiding these Buicks could save you thousands in repair bills.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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