Buick has been on a roll in recent years: in 2017 they had their best sales figures in 15 years. Classic Buicks continue to be in demand too, projecting an image of classic luxury on the road.
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However, there are certain common Buick issues that you need to be aware of. Every car manufacturer and model has specific problems that keep coming back to haunt them.
So whether you've inherited a car or are getting ready to buy your first Buick, we've got you covered. We're going to let you know what problems you need to be on the lookout for!
Ready to find out more about common Buick issues? Then read on and get informed.
1. Buick Rendezvous Problems: Pressure Control Solenoid Failure
One of the most common Buick rendezvous problems affects the car's suspension. The problem here is that the solenoid that controls the transmission pressure packs up.
This means that shifting becomes erratic or downright nightmarish, depending on this issue's severity.
Unfortunately, the solution to this problem isn't easy. It'll take a trained mechanic or a skilled hobbyist to fix it the right way. You'll need to partially disassemble and rebuild the transmission. If you feel like the transmission in your Rendezvous is slipping into neutral, this is probably the problem.
We recommend taking it to a mechanic for repair.
2. Inaccurate Fuel Gauge
One of the most common Buick issues is an inaccurate fuel gauge. If you're driving long-distance across difficult terrain, this isn't just annoying, it's dangerous. When the tank is half full, the gauge's needle can tend to jump around or show little or no fuel in the tank.
There are a couple of things that can cause this issue. One of them is instrument cluster failure: are any of the other gauges or dials displaying incorrectly? If they are, your electrics may be the problem.
Another problem could be a defective fuel sensor. These can corrode in the tank, leading to inaccurate readings. If this is the source of the problem, you'll need to get the sensor replaced.
3. Buick Enclave Problems: Transmission Errors
The Buick Enclave is one of the cars that helped save Buick and is one of their best-selling models. However, there are still some common Buick issues that recur on the Enclave.
As with the Rendezvous, the problems often come from the transmission. You'll try to shift and something problematic will happen. Then the car will give you an error code, which you need to decipher.
The most common error codes are P0716, P0776, P0717, P0777, P2714, P2715, and P02723. While these all relate to different issues, there are certain shared issues.
Gear slippage and a loss of reverse gear are common problems particular to the Buick Enclave. If you're having these problems, go straight to GM if you're still within the warranty. If you aren't, head to the shop.
4. Buick Encore Problems: Insufficient Power
While the Enclave may be one of Buick's most popular models, the Encore is number one. This small car is compelling for those in the market for a small, economical car. However, this issue is not to be trifled with: no one wants to be driving along only to suddenly have their car to lose its shove.
The problem often comes down to either the turbo or engine temperature. If it's the turbo, it will need to be repaired or replaced. If it's the engine temperature, you're in luck. It should start to work normally again after a while, but you should still see if there are any fixes available.
5. Buick Century Problems: Gasket Leaks
While solenoid failure isn't completely unheard of on the Buick Century, it's not the most common fault. The most common Buick issues on the Century are found with the intake manifold gasket and seals.
The cause of this issue is pretty infamous. GM's Dexcool coolant reacted with the gasket, causing leaks. A class-action lawsuit was ruled as too complicated, but it's still a huge blot on GM's copybook.
If you find your Century is leaking coolant, either due to noticing the leak or temperature problems, you should get it taken care of before it causes more serious problems.
Replacing a gasket isn't necessarily an intensive job, but it should still be carried out by a trained mechanic. You can also expect it to cost you between $700-$1000. Take it to the shop and have the work done for you.
6. Common Buick Issues: Window Assembly Failure and Stretched Timing Chains
These two common Buick issues occur on a range of different models. While neither is generally catastrophic, they can still be deeply irritating.
Window Assembly Failure
You will often have no clue that the window assembly is about to fail until the window drops down into the doorframe. The plastic parts break and stop supporting the glass.
The worst part about this failure is that GM will typically replace the entire window. This will cost you $450 per window. The assembly will still be the same too, which means it could happen again.
Some people tape the window up as a semi-permanent fix.
Stretched Timing Chains
This issue is particularly common on the Enclave. The timing chain stretches and causes issues with combustion. This can result in several issues.
In the absolute worst case, the pistons can bend the valves, effectively destroying the engine. While the issue can be prevented in some cases with regular oil changes, it is a fairly inherent fault in these GM engines.
Selling a Buick
If you've got a Buick that you want to sell, then take a look at our site. We could take your car, even if it has common Buick issues! We promise to offer you a good price for your car and treat you fairly throughout.
Ready to get an offer for your car? Do you have any questions for us? Then get in touch with us, and we'll do our best to help you out!