2003 Buick Buick truck problems
The Buick Rendezvous is a mid-size crossover SUV that was sold by Buick for the 2002–2007 model years. Introduced in the spring of 2001, the Buick Rendezvous and its corporate cousin, the Pontiac Aztek, were GM's first entries into the crossover SUV segment. The Rendezvous featured a four-speed automatic transmission with a V6 engine and optional all-wheel-drive (Versatrak). The SUV used the same platform as GM's short-wheelbase minivans, the Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana. The Rendezvous provided a passenger- and load-carrying capacity not seen in the Buick lineup since the discontinuation of the Buick Roadmaster Estate station wagon in 1996.
Technology and notable features
It was Buick's first truck in its lineup since 1923, and the Rendezvous was billed as a combination of the best attributes of a minivan (large cargo capacity, seating for up to seven), a luxury automobile (ride, handling, smoothness) and a sport utility vehicle (truck styling and available all wheel drive).
The Rendezvous was produced at General Motors' Ramos Arizpe, Mexico assembly plant, where it shared an assembly line with the Pontiac Aztek. Like the Pontiac Aztek, the Buick Rendezvous is based on a shortened version of GM's second generation U platform minivans. In lieu of four-wheel drive, the Rendezvous offered Versatrak, a full-time, fully automatic all-wheel drive system which provided sure-footed traction in inclement weather and could handle moderate off-road surfaces.
Buick benchmarked their Park Avenue sedan as the prototypical target for ride and handling for the Rendezvous. In order to provide a luxurious and responsive car-like ride, all Rendezvous came equipped with a fully independent rear suspension system regardless of optional content or trim level.
The Rendezvous' instrument cluster detailing featured teal illuminated needles and numbers set in a silver face accented by chrome trim rings that was meant to evoke the luxurious look and feel of an expensive watch or designer bracelet. On the uplevel CXL model, a driver information center on the instrument panel provided the outside temperature, compass functions, a trip computer that included readings of fuel economy, range and fuel used. An optional second generation heads-up display was also available. This was also available in the CX model. An optional tire inflation monitoring system provided readings of tire pressure and warned if out of the specified range.
The Rendezvous boasted the ability to carry seven passengers when equipped with a third-row bench, a class-leading feature that Buick brought to market before its competitors, and was able to carry within its interior a standard 4 x 8' sheet of plywood.
In support of the Rendezvous' intended role as a versatile accoutrement for busy people with families, it provided a center console with storage space and power points for a laptop computer as well as a separate spots to hold a purse, a cell phone, pager or other small items that the owner would want to keep organized and readily accessible as well as an optional rear cargo organizer system and rear seat stereo system controls with headsets.
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Common 2003 Buick Buick truck problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2003 Buick LeSabre and Buick Rendezvous, here are the common problems associated with these vehicles:
- 2003 Buick LeSabre:
- Airbag Issues: Some complaints mention problems with the airbag system, particularly the airbag warning light staying on.
- Value: Despite being a good value overall, there have been reports of wear and tear issues typical of a twenty-year-old car, such as chipping and cracked interior.
- Gas Mileage: While the gas mileage of 20/29 miles per gallon is decent for a full-size car released two decades ago, it may be considered mediocre by modern standards.
- Reliability: The car is generally reported to be reliable, with drivers achieving high mileage on the original transmission, although some issues may arise due to the age of the vehicle.
- Buick Rendezvous:
- Transmission and AWD Problems: Owners have reported issues with the transmission and all-wheel drive system, including slipping in and out of gear, speedometer not registering speed, and grinding noises during specific driving conditions.
- Starting Issues: Some owners have experienced difficulties starting the car after filling up with gas, especially in hot conditions, which may be related to the anti-theft system or fuel pump.
These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and potential areas where owners of these vehicles may encounter issues. It's advisable for owners to address these concerns promptly to ensure the longevity and performance of their Buick vehicles.
What is the most common problem with the Buick Rendezvous?
Top Buick Rendezvous issues include erratic shifting, intake manifold leaks, worn gas caps, and fuel pump failure.
Is a 2003 Buick Rendezvous a good car?
Roomy, comfortable, reliable family vehicle!
Good gas mileage, roomy family vehicle, loaded with options, comfortable ride, easy maintenance, it will not disappoint.
What year of Buick LeSabre to avoid?
Certain Buick LeSabre models made between 1999 to 2005 are equipped with faulty power window assemblies. The window regulators installed on these models have been known to fail on occasion. This issue is most prevalent in the 2000, 2001, and 2002 LeSabre models, which have received the most complaints on CarComplaints.
Why was the Buick Rendezvous discontinued?
The Rendezvous was later discontinued due to a drop in sales and replaced by the slightly larger Buick Enclave CUV which also replaced the Rainier and Terraza.
Is a 2003 Buick Rendezvous a good car?
Roomy, comfortable, reliable family vehicle!
Good gas mileage, roomy family vehicle, loaded with options, comfortable ride, easy maintenance, it will not disappoint.
What is the most common problem with the Buick Rendezvous?
Top Buick Rendezvous issues include erratic shifting, intake manifold leaks, worn gas caps, and fuel pump failure.
Is a 2003 Buick LeSabre a good car?
Overall A Great, Reliable Car
I highly recommend well preserved examples of the 2000-2005 model years of the Lesabre to anyone who enjoys tremendous value, legendary reliability, exceptional comfort and all the best traits of traditional American luxury automobiles.
What year of Buick LeSabre to avoid?
Certain Buick LeSabre models made between 1999 to 2005 are equipped with faulty power window assemblies. The window regulators installed on these models have been known to fail on occasion. This issue is most prevalent in the 2000, 2001, and 2002 LeSabre models, which have received the most complaints on CarComplaints.
2003 Buick Buick truck car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Buick truck problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Buick Buick truck vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2003 Buick Buick truck complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Buick Buick truck.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-28
- VIN: 3G5DA03E93S
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FACTORY ORDERED AND PURCHASED ON 8/23/02. 11/28/02 - VEHICLE DEAD IN DRIVEWAY/NO ELECTRICITY AT ALL. DEALER CHARGED BATTERY. 2/03/03 - VEHICLE DIED WHILE DRIVING/NO ELECTRICITY AT ALL. DEALER RAN DIAGNOSTICS TESTS ALL PASSED, INSTALLED ELECTRICAL PATCH TO SYSTEM. 12/3/03 - VEHICLE DEAD IN DRIVEWAY/NO ELECTRICITY AT ALL. DEALER REPLACED BATTERY, SAID OLD ONE HAD ONE BAD CELL. 3/28/03 - VEHICLE DEAD IN DRIVEWAY/NO ELECTRICITY AL ALL. CURRENTLY AT DEALERSHIP. VEHICLE'S MANUFACTURER WARRANTY WILL END IN 3 MONTHS. I CAN NOT ETHICALLY SELL THIS VEHICLE TO SOMEONE KNOWING OF ITS ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WHICH CAN CAUSE A DEADLY ACCIDENT. I'M TOTALLY SCREWED WITH NO WAY TO BE MADE RIGHT - NC LEMON LAW NO LONGER APPLIES. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-22
- VIN: 3G5DB03E03S
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE HAD TWO WHEEL BEARINGS REPLACED ON MY '03 RENDEZVOUS WITHIN 4K MILES ONLY TO BE TOLD THIS WILL BE A CONTINUOUS PROBLEM THAT THERE ARE NO PLANS TO RECTIFY I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP TO SELL THE CAR, BUY AN EXTENDED WARRANTY, OR PAY THE REPAIR BILL EVERY TIME THIS HAPPENS ONCE I AM OUT OF WARRANTY I HAVE NOT HAD ANY HARM COME TO ME BUT WITH ALL THE RENDEZVOUS ON THE ROAD IT IS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THIS DEFECT THAT GM IGNORES HURTS OR KILLS SOMEONE. *JB
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Buick Buick truck problems:
Q&A: 2003 Buick LeSabre Transmission - Fluid & Problems
Aug 13, 2010 ... This is a common problem with this vehicle. The failure is in the transmission pressure control solenoid. This will cause a fault code to ...
2003 Nissan Pathfinder or 2006 Buick Rendezvous? | Bob Is The Oil ...
Sep 16, 2015 ... That era of pathfinder is known for serious structural rust problems, and it is a unit body truck, so have a long look at the problem areas ...
Common 2003 Buick Regal Problems: Troubleshooting Acceleration ...
Dec 6, 2008 ... I have a 2003 Buick Regal. I've started having problems accelerating. It's very slow to accelerate and hesitates.
Buick Rendezvous Overheating — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Aug 7, 2007 ... These are the 2 most common problems on 2002/2003 RDVs over heating. The most common reason is intake gasket problems (in the early years of 3.4 ...
Heater works while accelerating, blows cold when release gas ...
Nov 15, 2011 ... My 2003 Buick Century heater works fine ... Some of these vehicles had problems with intake manifold gaskets leaking. ... common issue with the ...
Other years of Buick Buick truck
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