2017 Buick Cascada problems
The Opel Cascada is a four-passenger fabric-roof convertible, manufactured and marketed by Opel across a single generation for model years 2013-2019, prioritizing year-round touring comfort over sportiness.
Nearly identical badge engineered variants were marketed globally using the Cascada nameplate under four General Motors brands: Opel, Vauxhall, Holden and Buick — and the Opel Cabrio nameplate in Spain.
The 2+2 convertible was engineered at Opel's International Technical Engineering Center in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and was styled under the direction of Mark Adams, head of Opel design, at Opel's Rüsselsheim Design Center — with Andrew Dyson (exterior) and Elizabeth Wetzel (interior).
After debuting at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show, the brand variants were manufactured in Gliwice, Poland, up until assembly ended on 28 June 2019 — with a combined total of 48,500 produced and the final Cascada manufactured for the US market.
The Cascada derives its name from the Spanish word for waterfall.
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Common 2017 Buick Cascada problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2017 Buick Cascada, common problems with this car include:
- Convertible Top Will Not Retract with Key Fob (2016 Cascada):
Owners have reported issues where the convertible top fails to retract when using the key fob. This malfunction can be frustrating for drivers who expect seamless operation of the convertible feature. - Power Seat Stopped Working (2016 Cascada):
Complaints have been made about the power seat in the 2016 Cascada ceasing to function. This problem can impact the comfort and adjustability of the seating position for the driver or passengers. - Windows Open Randomly (2017 Cascada):
Some owners of the 2017 Cascada have experienced instances where the windows open randomly without user input. This unexpected behavior can pose security risks and inconvenience to the vehicle occupants. - Pulls to One Side (2017 Cascada):
Reports indicate that the 2017 Cascada may have a tendency to pull to one side while driving. This issue can affect the vehicle's handling and potentially compromise safety on the road. - Worn Seat Leather (2016 Cascada):
Owners have raised concerns about the leather seats in the 2016 Cascada showing signs of premature wear. This can detract from the overall aesthetics and comfort of the interior cabin. - Interior Issues (Multiple Years):
Complaints related to the interior of the Buick Cascada include problems with the power seat, worn seat leather, and issues with the center stack of buttons being outdated. These interior issues can impact the overall comfort and functionality of the vehicle. - Exterior Concerns (Multiple Years):
Exterior complaints encompass problems with the convertible top not retracting, which is a crucial feature for convertible models like the Cascada. Issues with the exterior can affect the vehicle's aesthetics and functionality. - Cooling System Problems (Multiple Years):
Complaints about the cooling system highlight potential issues with the vehicle's ability to regulate engine temperature effectively. Cooling system problems can lead to overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly. - Steering Issues (Multiple Years):
Reports of steering problems suggest potential issues with the vehicle's steering mechanism, impacting the driver's ability to control the car safely. Steering issues can pose significant safety risks and require immediate attention. - Window Malfunctions (Multiple Years):
Complaints about windows opening randomly or not functioning correctly indicate potential electrical or mechanical issues with the window system. Window malfunctions can affect the vehicle's security and overall usability.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2017 Buick Cascada highlight various issues that can impact the car's performance, comfort, and safety. Addressing these concerns promptly is essential to ensure a satisfactory driving experience and maintain the vehicle's reliability.
Is Buick Cascada a reliable car?
It has excellent reliability scores compared to other Buicks and vehicles. Although there are some issues with the Buick Cascada, it's an excellent choice on the market.
Why was the Buick Cascada discontinued?
The convertible segment already tends to have low demand, so it was no longer feasible to retain the Cascada in the Buick lineup, especially considering the company's shift to SUVs. During its lifespan, though, the Cascada sold well enough to rank among the top luxury convertibles on the market.
What is the most common problem with the 2017 Buick Encore?
One common problem with the 2017 Encore is failing brakes. Several owners mention collisions occurring from this issue. Both of the recalls issued against the SUV cover failing airbags that may not deploy during a crash. Some owners have also mentioned the seatbelts failing to restrain occupants properly in a crash.
What was the last year for the Buick Cascada convertible?
Produced from 2016 to 2019, the Cascada was Buick's first convertible in nearly three decades since the Reatta in 1991. Under the hood, the Cascada packed a punch with a 1.6L turbocharged engine that churned out 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque.
Is Buick Cascada a reliable car?
It has excellent reliability scores compared to other Buicks and vehicles. Although there are some issues with the Buick Cascada, it's an excellent choice on the market.
Why did Buick stop making the Cascada?
The convertible segment already tends to have low demand, so it was no longer feasible to retain the Cascada in the Buick lineup, especially considering the company's shift to SUVs. During its lifespan, though, the Cascada sold well enough to rank among the top luxury convertibles on the market.
What is the most common problem with the 2017 Buick Encore?
One common problem with the 2017 Encore is failing brakes. Several owners mention collisions occurring from this issue. Both of the recalls issued against the SUV cover failing airbags that may not deploy during a crash. Some owners have also mentioned the seatbelts failing to restrain occupants properly in a crash.
Is the Buick Cascada a luxury car?
2019 Buick Cascada Overview
Yes, the 2019 Cascada is a good used luxury small car . It's a convertible that boasts a great predicted reliability rating, a smooth ride, and a good amount of trunk space.
2017 Buick Cascada car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Cascada problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2017 Buick Cascada vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2017 Buick Cascada complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Buick Cascada.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- VIN: W04WJ3N59HG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: A squealing sound was coming from the top of my engine and I had low/rough idle and it progressed to a low voltage output and check engine lights. I was able to use GM's Special Coverage Adjustment N232395320 Camshaft Cover (for the 2019 Cascada) and Special Coverage Adjustment N192291620 Camshaft Cover Replacement (for the 2016 Cascada) to CONFIRM that I had a broken/cracked PCV. The PCV vent constantly pulled vacuum (was stuck open to atmosphere) and the sound was only relieved by removing the dip stick. I took my car to the Buick Dealership for an official Diagnostic repair order and to contact GM. The dealership did a poor job of communicating the issue but eventually reported that my PCV was leaking. This is a $1800-$2000 repair(I'm outside my warranty period as I'm at 72K miles) that GM only offered $110 to the dealership as cost assistance. The offer does not cover the $170 diagnostic fee. The PCV in the Casada is integrated into the Camshaft cover and requires that then entire cover be replaced for the repair. There is NO part number difference in the Camshaft cover between model years 2016 thru 2019 Cascadas. I believe that the 2017 should be included in the same Special coverage as the 2016 and 2019 model years. This issue has been noted in several Casada forums and is also the same as NHTSA complaint IDs: 11593462, 11587414, 11574318, 11515179. Note: I would like to attach a video of the testing required to confirm the PCV issue per the Special Coverage Adjustments noted above, but it is not in your supported file submissions formats. Please provide me with an email, drop box, etc location and I will forward it.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
- VIN: W04WH3N5XHG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Buick Cascada. The contact stated while driving 35-45 MPH, the vehicle made an abnormal sound. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the knock combustion vibration control system had failed. The dealer determined that the valve cover, the PCV valve, the head gasket, and an unknown part needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under an unknown Warranty Program. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 21,318.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-02
- VIN: W04WH3N58HG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Buick Cascada. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal squealing sound coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was discovered that the diaphragm inside the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve had ruptured. The part was replaced by the mechanic. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that the failure was covered under warranty through the manufacturer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but denied the request for a reimbursement since the vehicle was not serviced at the dealer. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was 45,928.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-27
- VIN: W04WH3N55HG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Took 2017 Buick Cascada in for repair following whistling noise and stalling while idle. This vehicle only has 42K miles. The mechanic was concerned this could/should be a recall issue due to the low mileage on the vehicle. On Google searches, I found similar issues were reported and GM extended the warranty on Buick Cascadas for different years. Both the 2016 and 2019 had a Global Warranty for PCV issues and Camshaft covers. "GLOBAL SAFETY FIELD INVESTIGATIONS [XXX] URGENT - DISTRIBUTE IMMEDIATELY Date: February 16, 2023 Subject: [XXX]- Special Coverage Camshaft Cover The mechanic stated, "the built-in PCV system has failed causing a vacuum issue within the engine and requires the entire camshaft cover to need replacement." The mechanic was unable to do the repair and suggested the vehicle be taken to a GM dealership. It is scheduled for repair at McElveeen Buick in Summerville, SC in the next couple of days. The check engine warning light is on and the vehicle has stalled while idling in traffic. There is a whistling noise resembling a worn belt noise in the right front of the engine. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-03
- VIN: W04WH3N5XHG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I HAVE NOTICED IN A BUICK THREAD THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO HAD A PCV VALVE GO BAD ON 2017 BUICK CASCADA. THE PROBLEM IS BUICK BUILT THIS VALVE INTO THE VALVE COVER,IT CAN NOT BE REPLACED WITHOUT REPLACING THE WHOLE ALUMINUM COVER. THE COVER WAS A SMALL 900.00$ FEE , PLUS ANOTHER 5-600 FOR MECHANIC. SEEMS TO ME THEY HAVE AN ISSUE WITH THE PCV VALVES, SINCE I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH THIS PROBLEM. PCV VALVE IS AN IMPORTANT PART TO EMISSIONS AND THE CAR.
STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-14
- VIN: W04WJ3N57HG
- Components: STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Convertible Top Back glass Separation from Top Cover Material. The back glass window separated from the canvas roof, it started in the bottom corner of the glass window.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-11
- VIN: w04wh3n5xhg
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Rear windshield is delaminating from the frame on the convertible top.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-16
- VIN: W04WH3N58HG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE FRONT COLLISION ALERT DOESN'T WORK AT ALL. IT IS SUPPOSED TO LIGHT UP AND MAKE A SOUND TO WARN THAT YOU ARE APPROACHING ANOTHER CAR TO FAST, IT DOESN'T. THE INDICATOR THAT LIGHTS UP GREEN TO SHOW THAT THERE IS A CAR IN FRONT OF YOU SHOULD TURN AMBER IF YOU GET TO CLOSE, IT DOESN'T. THIS IS AN OPTION THAT I BOUGHT AS A SAFETY DEVICE OR SOMETHING TO ASSIST IN MY SAFE DRIVING. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER AND THE TECH SAID THAT PER THE GM TECHNICAL DOCUMENT THAT IT WORKED AS IT SHOULD, EVEN THOUGH THE SERVICE ADVISOR AND THE TECH AGREED THAT IT DIDN'T WORK AT ALL. I HAVE A COPY OF THE SERVICE MANUAL DOCUMENT, NUMBER 3819903, AND MINE DOESN'T PERFORM AT ALL LIKE THE DOCUMENT SAYS IT SHOULD. I BOUGHT THIS CAR IN PART BECAUSE OF THE SAFETY FEATURE, AS IT STATES ON THE NEW CAR STICKER.
Negative 2017 Buick Cascada car reviews
Positive 2017 Buick Cascada car reviews
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This car is perfect for me! I've always had family-oriented cars like sedans, coupes, and wagons to cart my children and grandchildren around. But now that I'm older, I wanted something sporty, easy on the eyes, and just plain fun! It doesn't have a lot of space for a crowd, which I actually like. And I think it handles great!
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We were looking for a convertible that was fun to drive with style. I used to own a Lotus Elise, but as we aged, we needed something a little bigger. We considered the Audi A3, but it was $12K more expensive than this car from the German company Opel, which has all the features we wanted. I didn't buy it to turn heads, but it does get a fair amount of attention. It's a very good looking car. Although it's not fast, it handles well. I particularly love the front end suspension, which handles the vagaries of the road and stops the odd bump from pulling the steering. It's a very nice feature. Overall, this is a great touring car with an amazingly quiet interior, even with the top and windows down. It also has great spousal support, a moderate price, and solid overall performance. I highly recommend taking a look at it. I promise you won't be disappointed, as long as you keep an open mind and realize that a Buick can be pretty cool.
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The car is a 2+2, which means there is no rear knee room. However, acceleration from a dead stop is okay, and it gets quite good from 25mph and up, making it great for freeways and interstates. The steering is quick and has a tight turn radius, while the ride is firm but not harsh. Cornering stability is good, and the noise level is surprisingly low. The fold-down rear seats are great, and the gas mileage on the new engine is 27.5 on prolonged 75-85 mph trips and 22mpg for suburban travel. However, the interior controls need a redesign. The NAV system is complex and redundant, the voice recognition is a joke, and the back up/NAV screen is too small, making it very difficult to identify feature function buttons while underway. During the first visit at 3000 miles, I was unable to get the tires to balance, and they had to be replaced. The top also had two small tears that needed to be replaced after 32 days of ownership. However, the seating is quite comfortable, and my partner and I, who both have lumbar problems, found it to be satisfactory during a 2k mile trip. At 4k miles and 8 months of ownership, I received great dealer service, and they promptly replaced the tires and top. The mph is still very good in all city driving, and I am still very satisfied with my purchase. At 9000 miles and 5k on the highway, the mph is 29 for the highway and 24 for the city. The visibility with the top up is marginal, and it is clearly a 2+2 interior. The top-down wind management is great for the front seat but horrible for rear passengers. All other prior comments are still relevant.
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It's really easy to like this car! The design is great, the ride is comfortable, and the ragtop is a breeze to use. Living in the South, I get plenty of chances to drive with the top down. While checking the rearview and passenger blind spots can be a bit tricky, it's no worse than my old Dodge Challenger. The best parts of this car are definitely the front visibility and how easy it is to take the roof on and off. Plus, it's surprisingly quiet on the road!
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I'm really enjoying driving my car more and more each day! The ride is so smooth on good roads, and even on uneven roads with the sport suspension, it's still pretty comfortable. Here in Pittsburgh, our roads are hilly and windy, but the Cascada handles them exceptionally well. The seat and steering wheel adjustments are very accommodating, which is great. Initially, I was a bit concerned about the rear view visibility and the enclosed feeling with the roof up, but I have no problems at all! The curvature of the two side mirrors is such that I can see half of the lane behind me in each of them. Although the rear window is small and at an angle that reduces visibility even more, between the rearview mirror and the two side mirrors, visibility is pretty good. I've always had cars with sunroofs or panoramic roofs, so I wasn't sure how a solid black roof over my head would feel. But because of the huge windshield and all the surrounding glass, there's absolutely no enclosed feeling at all! The trunk is a bit small with the roof down, but that's to be expected with a convertible. It's a good size with the roof up, except for the trunk opening. I'm not a golfer, but I don't think a golf bag would fit through the opening. Of course, there's always the back seat! In other reviews, there have been a lot of comments about the outdated dash and too many buttons. It's true that there are a lot of buttons, but most of them are duplicates of the touch screen buttons. You just have to get used to when to use which button, touch screen or dash. I particularly like the The Buick Cascada is a cleverly designed car that comes with numerous technological features that are usually only available as expensive add-ons in other cars. Although blind spot monitoring is not included, the car has parking assist, lane departure warning, collision prevention warning, back up camera, road following headlights, cornering lights and several other safety and convenience features. While some reviewers had issues with the collision prevention, parking assist warning and low resolution back up camera, I found that both of the assists worked as intended for me. As for the low resolution back up camera, it alerts the driver of any object behind the car that could possibly be hit, which is the main purpose of a back up camera. The Buick Cascada is also a very attractive car with the top up or down. Despite its weight and engine size, the acceleration is exceptionally good. Overall, I am very pleased with my Buick Cascada. If my review is still up on the website by the time we get snow here in Pittsburgh, I will update the review on how the Cascada handles winter driving on hilly windy roads and on cold temperatures features, heater, defogger, heated steering wheel and the like. Updated February 12, 2020. I enjoy driving the car more and more each day. Now I have had it for almost four years without any problems.The car has been a reliable and enjoyable ride for almost four years now. Despite not being sold in the US after 2019, I plan to keep it running for as long as possible. The Cascada is stylish, fast, comfortable, and well-equipped, all at a reasonable price. I still receive compliments on its unique Flip Chip Silver Metallic color and design. While it may not perform well in the snow with all-season tires, I am excited to try out new tire designs from Nokian. Regular maintenance has kept the car in great condition, with no major mechanical or electrical issues to report. Although the convertible top is starting to show some wear, the car is still running smoothly and remains a joy to drive.One issue I had was that the seat belt extending arm motor on the driver's side failed. It has been ordered, but there seem to be some supply chain issues, so it may take close to a year to arrive. However, the seatbelt is still usable, so we just have to wait it out.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2017 Buick Cascada problems:
2017 Buick Cascada Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2017 Buick Cascada? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Common Problems with the 2017 Buick Cascada — Valero Law ...
Common Problems with the 2017 Buick Cascada · Windows Problems — rear window separating from top, windows open randomly, rear windshield is delaminating from ...
2017 Buick Cascada Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get 2017 Buick Cascada repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Buick mechanics near you.
Q&A: 2017 Buick Cascada - Water Damage & Common Problems
Oct 7, 2021 ... If you had that kind of water in the vehicle what needs to be done is you will have to remove the seats and carpet and dry in out. Ive had to do ...
What's Wrong with the Buick Cascada?
Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 1st in overall reliability out of 14 Buick models , with real interior and exterior concerns. What Cascada Owners ...
Other years of Buick Cascada
Are you having problems with your 2017 Buick Cascada?
Jerrod Strosin 2025-04-20
The 2016 Cascada has unfortunately experienced some issues with its convertible top, resulting in multiple visits to the dealership for repairs. Despite initial resistance from the first dealership, the issue was eventually diagnosed and resolved by a more attentive technician at a different dealership. However, the problem has persisted and required further adjustments and replacements. The service team has unfortunately caused some damage during the repairs. Rest assured, we are committed to resolving these issues and ensuring that our customers have a positive experience with our vehicles.Although the service team was polite and helpful, I did not purchase the vehicle to have it in service more than I am able to drive it. I am confident in my decision to regret the whole purchase at this point. UPDATE: 12/14/2016 GM and I reached an agreement that included a buy-back of the Cascada.
Shad Jenkins 2024-11-16
1. The ride may feel a bit stiff and bumpy, but that's to be expected from a convertible. 2. Unfortunately, the top got stuck in the open position on a cloudy day when rain was coming, but a simple spring oiling should fix the issue. 3. Please note that GM authorized wipers are required for optimal performance, as after-market wipers may not work properly. Also, the left wipers may get stuck in the up position, which is not clearly stated in the owner's manual. 4. While the navigation system may have some issues, the dealer is working hard to fix it by downloading new software. Sometimes it may direct you to turn on roads that do not exist, or ask you to prepare to turn left on double and triple lane highways before suddenly asking you to turn right in 100 feet. Additionally, the route to a location may vary after the last software download, but the system is still able to accept addresses as before.
Ferne Corwin 2024-11-01
Nice car! The price is great too. Although, the engine might be a bit noisy and not as powerful as some others.
Gilbert Schmidt 2024-09-14
The top of my Buick Cascada has come loose and has been in the shop for three weeks without any clear explanation for the issue. Despite being marketed as an evolutionary top, it has failed to meet my expectations. Additionally, there are spots in the paint that resemble water spots and cannot be removed. As a customer, I am extremely disappointed with my purchase and regret trading in my Cadillac for this vehicle. It has only been a year since I bought it and it has only 5,000 miles on it. I expect a prompt and satisfactory resolution to these issues.
Elmore Langworth 2024-09-09
This car is great for someone like me, a baby boomer who wants a comfortable and safe convertible cruiser. However, after driving it, I think it could benefit from a few additions. Even if they are stand-alone options, blind spot/cross traffic monitoring and automatic emergency braking should be added to its forward collision warning. I would gladly pay 2 to 3 thousand more for these options. The Verano already has part of this. I will be replacing my Mustang convertible with another one, loaded with all the latest tech (including adaptive cruise control). If more is added to the Mustang or even the Cascada (I don't need a fast sports car) in the next two or three years, I will trade. Smart folks my age want driver assist tech because, as Clint Eastwood put it so well, 'A man's got to know his limitations.' A tech-assisted comfortable cruiser is in order. Maybe they could even bring back the Toyota Camry Solara Convertible? That puppy had a REAL back seat.