Buick Rainier problems

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The Buick Rainier is a mid-size luxury SUV that was manufactured by General Motors and marketed by Buick for the 2004 to 2007 model years. It was named after Mount Rainier, and — along with the Saab 9-7X — served as the replacement for the Oldsmobile Bravada.

History

The Rainier was introduced on July 28, 2003, for the 2004 model year, in a 5-door, 5-passenger configuration, yet was one of only five GMT360 SUVs to offer a V8 engine — along with the GMC Envoy Denali, Isuzu Ascender EXT, Saab 9-7X 5.3i and Aero, and Chevrolet TrailBlazer LT (optional) and SS. Both rear and all-wheel drive models were offered. The only trim available was CXL. An available Sun, Sound and Entertainment package for 2005 (previously called CXL Plus,) added a power sunroof, better Bose stereo, and XM Satellite Radio. For the 2004 model year only, there was a CXL Plus trim level, this became the aforementioned Sun, Sound, and Entertainment package for 2005. A touchscreen DVD-based navigation system was also available with the CXL Plus/SSE package. The 5.3 V8 was also available with the "V8 Power Play" package, which added a "V8" designation to the "RAINIER" script on the left side tailgate.

Buick also debuted the QuietTuning sound insulation on the Rainier, where a vehicle's sound dampening featured triple door seals, side acoustic laminate glass, and thicker sound-absorbing pads on the hood and firewall. The Rainier was the first production vehicle to use side acoustic laminate glass.

The Rainier was discontinued after the 2007 model year and was replaced by the Buick Enclave in 2008. GM ended production of the related Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, and Saab 9-7X after the 2009 model year.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2004 Rainier an overall Marginal score for front impacts while the 2005 and newer models are given an Acceptable score. In side impacts the Rainier was given an overall Marginal score with side airbags present.

photo of Buick Rainier car production

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Buick Rainier model years

buick rainier 2007 photo
Rainier 2007
Buick

38

5

26

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick rainier 2006 photo
Rainier 2006
Buick

90

7

14

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick rainier 2005 photo
Rainier 2005
Buick

103

1

24

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick rainier 2004 photo
Rainier 2004
Buick

158

2

25

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick rainier 2003 photo
Rainier 2003
Buick

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Buick Rainier problems

The Buick Rainier, a mid-size SUV produced from 2004 to 2007, is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. This article will discuss these issues in detail, focusing on the brakes, transmission, fuel level sensor, air compressors, gas cap, and starter motor.

  • Transmission Failure: Transmission failure is another common problem in the Buick Rainier, with some owners reporting issues within a few months of purchase.
  • Fuel Level Sensor Failure: Fuel level sensor failures are common in the Buick Rainier, causing issues with the vehicle's fuel gauge. This problem can lead to inaccurate fuel level readings, making it difficult for drivers to determine how much fuel is left in the tank.
  • Air Compressor Failure: The air compressors for the rear air springs are also known to fail in the Buick Rainier, causing problems with the vehicle's suspension system. This issue can lead to a loss of height in the rear of the vehicle, affecting its overall stability and handling.
  • Gas Cap Issues: Gas cap problems are another common issue in the Buick Rainier. This problem can result in difficulty refueling the vehicle or cause the check engine light to illuminate.
  • Starter Motor Location: Some owners have reported difficulty locating the starter motor in the Buick Rainier. Knowing the starter motor's location can be helpful for diagnosing and repairing starting issues.

In conclusion, the Buick Rainier has several common problems that owners should be aware of, including brake issues, transmission failure, fuel level sensor failures, air compressor problems, gas cap issues, and starter motor location. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help address these issues and ensure the vehicle's longevity and safety.

Buick Rainier

Is the 2006 Buick Rainier a good car?

With 300 hp available across a wide-rpm range, you'll rarely find yourself wishing for more. With its tough truck-based underpinnings, the 2006 Buick Rainier has a fair amount of real off-road capability. For the majority of buyers who won't be off-roading in their Buick SUV, it offers a smooth, comfortable ride.

What happened to the Buick Rainier?

The Rainier was discontinued after the 2007 model year and was replaced by the Buick Enclave in 2008.

Is the 2007 Buick Rainier a good car?

If you need room for five and all their cargo, the Rainier makes an excellent choice. Its interior is sufficiently plush to satisfy most luxury owners, and its 291-horspower in-line six-cylinder engine and optional all-wheel drive make it a good all-around hauling machine.

Why won't my Buick Rainier start?

The most common reasons a Buick Rainier won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Buick Rainier years

We have researched Buick problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Buick Rainier cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Buick Rainier model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Buick Rainier model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Buick Rainier years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Buick Rainier car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Buick Rainier , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Buick Rainier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rainier model years

A total of 16 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Rainier model years

There were a total of 14 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Rainier model years

There were a total of 14 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 390 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Buick Rainier . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Buick Rainier vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Buick Rainier 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-27
  • Date Complaint: 2023-11-28
  • VIN: 5GADS13S772
  • Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Window motors and window controls failing. I replaced two window motors at in 2017, at dealer because they failed, then the rear passenger window motor failed in 2020 and was replaced at mechanic shop with factory replacement, this rear passenger window is seldom used, but rear passenger window motor failed again in 2023 and was replaced again at mechanic shop. Drivers window motor now needs to be replaced. Window controls are intermittant. The components were replaced by dealer and by third-party mechanic. There is no warning prior to failure other than rolling down a window and not being able to get it back up at all, which poses a hazard in torrential rain and damages vehicle; or not being able to roll a window down when needed. The first replacement was under warranty. The rest have been out of pocket and have caused other damage due to rain. I feel the entire window operating system should have been recalled, driver side controls and all of the operting motors. This is a dangerous and expensive continuing problem. Never had this problem with any GM vehicle before the 2007 Rainer. Rear air suspension went out in 2018 and rear end fell down causing severe handling difficulty. Had to replace rear air suspension with conventional shocks because parts were not available in a timely manner and vehicle could not be driven safely without rear suspension. Had similar issue with air suspension on 2004 Buick SUV, where the air suspension went haywire and caused handling issues. (Vehicle was returned to dealer and exchanged for one with a conventional suspension.) Was told by dealer the air suspension problem was fixed on later models after 2004, but apparently not. Would not have purchased a vehicle with air suspension had I known it still had these issues.
Buick Rainier 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-16
  • Date Complaint: 2023-07-22
  • VIN: 5GADT13S652
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: My 16 year old son was making a left hand turn out of a school onto a road with no curve, no hole, no accident but the 4 side air bags deployed for no reason. He was OK and pulled over for safety and got a ride home. We had it towed home and contacted gmac buick and they had it towed to a dealership and had a diagnostic test ran and found no reason for them to deploy but they said the car had been altered because we had put subs and a radio in it through a lisc. Professional but that makes them not liable for anything that would happen. They said putting a radio in can cause the bags to deploy or brakes to fail and it is in their manual and they are not liable for any problem if we alter the car in any way. If this is the case anyone with an aftermarket radio should be warned that their child car anyone can be killed and it will. E no one's fault. I am out a car because insurance said they don't cover it because it wasn't an accident and GMAC says it happens not uncommonly but that they will not help in any way. They told me I was not allowed to talk abijt this to anyone. They read me a statement on the phone which said I can not talk outside of GMAC. They don't want people knowing this is happening. People need to be aware that bags can randomly deploy and if he was in the interstate he could have been killed. I am terrified to get in it and drive. Why do people not know this can happen. Why is gmac not doing anything or putting out psas saying people could die if they out sibs in professionally or otherwise.
Buick Rainier 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-09
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-12
  • VIN: 5GADT13S862
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Buick Rainier. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in his driveway, the contact attempted to use the remote starter key fob to unlock the doors, but the doors failed to unlock. The contact stated that he manually unlocked the doors. The contact stated that he manually attempted to start the vehicle, but the vehicle failed to start. The anti-theft warning light remained illuminated. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being lifted onto the tow truck, he was informed by the tow truck driver that the driver’s side wiring harness had melted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the wiring harness had melted and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer nor manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.
Buick Rainier 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-15
  • Date Complaint: 2022-12-15
  • VIN: 5GADT13S752
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Buick Rainier. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the front windshield wipers and wiper fluid spray activated independently and failed to turn off. The contact also stated that occasionally the headlights would inadvertently turn off; requiring the vehicle to be restarted before the vehicle regained headlight functionality. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to an independent mechanic or local dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact referenced the headlight failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V519000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 107,000.
Buick Rainier 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-05
  • Date Complaint: 2022-07-26
  • VIN: 5GADS13S862
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: During periods of time with ignition switch on, the wipers will loose the ability to both regulate speed and shut off. The wiper cover AC Delco/GM part number 19120931 will fail and loose control of the wipers (fail to shut off while driving). Because you cannot shut off the wipers, the driver's vision is obscured, and the noise from the wipers on the dry glass is very distracting. This will cause drivers attention to shift from focus on driving to manipulating the wiper switch. GM has not ordered a stock or replacement wiper covers from AC Delco, so trying to locate a fix for this problem is very hard. This is a GM design problem and is very expensive to fix. As a minimum GM needs to stock this part. All of these wiper covers will fail eventually, and accidents from this problem will occur.
Buick Rainier 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-05-11
  • Date Complaint: 2022-03-20
  • VIN: 5GADS13S862
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Low beam lights go off intermittently while driving and eventually come back on. This does not affect high beams or any other lights on the vehicle. But causes a serious danger to my needing to drive at night due to my job.
Buick Rainier 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-26
  • Date Complaint: 2022-01-26
  • VIN: 5GADT13S562
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: In driving cross country, filled up the fuel tank and resumed travel when the fuel gauge immediately went to empty (I didn’t even have time to drive up the highway ramp back onto the highway). The alerts started ringing and blinking and dash board told me there was no fuel. I went to a gravel area and inspected the engine compartment, under the car and the interior to be sure I was not missing anything, then restarted the SUV. Could not find any issues anywhere, including leaking fuel. I took off the fuel cap and reattached it to be sure there was no problem there. I had no choice but to get on the highway and continue my journey. The problem continued for the following 1000 ish miles. When I got home I contacted my dealer and set up an appointment to look at vehicle. They found the vehicle needing a sensor kit which was a recall back a few years ago. I had the issue repaired which took 3 days. They may have the removed items. Attached please find the invoice from the repair that shows the message numbers, etc from the inspection prior to and during repair. Since this issue was a recall, but I understand not for my vehicle but for many similar SUV’s and Pickups of the same area of manufacture; I feel the same components were used in my vehicle and should be paid for and included in this recall. Attached please find the invoice if I can figure out how to get it attached to this type of format.
Buick Rainier 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-08-16
  • Date Complaint: 2021-08-17
  • VIN: 5GAET13M262
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: When I fill my gas up my gas gauge goes to empty, the low fuel light comes on, and my check engine light comes on. I can run out of gas and another can hit me. This is very unsafe, not just for me but others. Buick needs to fix this before someone gets seriously hurt or killed. This is a law suit waiting to happen.
Buick Rainier 2007
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-11-07
  • Date Complaint: 2020-12-23
  • VIN: 5GADT13S472
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: BOTH TRAILING ARMS IN THE REAR SUSPENSION HAVE FAILED TO DUE TO RUST. THE FAILURE OF AT LEAST ONE OF THE TWO TRAILING ARMS OCCURRED WHEN TRAVELING ACROSS A BUMP IN THE ROAD AT LOW SPEED WHILE ON A LONG DISTANCE TRIP. THE 2007 BUICK RAINIER HAD A HISTORY OF BEING IN PENNSYLVANIA. THE USE OF SALT DURING THE WINTER MONTHS WAS THE LIKELY CAUSE OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILING OF THE TRAILING ARMS RESULTED IN CONSIDERABLE VIBRATIONS AT LOW SPEEDS UP TO ~40 MPH. THE FAILING OF THE TRAILING ARMS COULD HAVE RESULTED IN THE LOST OF REPLACEMENT SPRINGS IF A SIGNIFICANT BUMP HAD BEEN HIT WHILE DRIVING. NOTE: REPLACEMENT SPRINGS ARE OFTEN NECESSARY AFTER THE FAILURE OF THE AIR BAG SPRINGS, AS WAS THE CASE FOR THIS VEHICLE. FORTUNITLY, THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BEFORE ANY ACCIDENT OCCURRED.
Buick Rainier 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-05-01
  • Date Complaint: 2020-10-15
  • VIN: 5GAET13M062
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: BUICK RAINIER 2006: WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND FLUID COME ON BY THEMSELVES. WHEN THIS OCCURS, THE ON / OFF FUNCTION DOES NOT WORK. THEY CANNOT BE SHUT OFF BY CONTROLS. THEY MERELY START AND STOP AT RANDOM. IT HAPPENS BOTH ON VEHICLE START UP WHEN VEHICLE IS IN PARK AND WHILE DRIVING. IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO SEE TO DRIVE.
Buick Rainier 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-05-10
  • Date Complaint: 2020-05-10
  • VIN: 5GADT13S962
  • Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: WE BOUGHT A BUICK RAINIER 2006 AND IT HAS HAD NOTHING BUT ELECTRICAL, DOOR PROBLEMS AND DOOR HANDLE PROBLEMS. IT HAS A FAULTY BACK WINDOW WIPER. SUSPENSION ISSUES AND A VOTING UNDER BODY CARRIAGE. I BOUGHT IT FROM A DEALER AND NONE OF THESE RECALL ISSUES WHERE TAKEN CARE OF, AND THESE RECALLS DATE BACK TO 2015 I BOUGHT THE RAINER IN MARCH 2018. *TR
Buick Rainier 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-11-20
  • Date Complaint: 2020-01-01
  • VIN: 5GADT13S752
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: POWER STEERING LEAKS, THE GAS GAUGE AND OTHER GAUGES DON'T WORK, MOST THE ELECTRICAL DON'T WORK INSIDE THE CAR, MAKES A WEIRD NOISE WHEN IT BACKS UP AND THE ENGINE REVS WHEN IT'S STARTS AND SOMETIMES WHEN IT DRIVES AND GOES FASTER EVEN WHEN YOU ARE NOT HITTING THE GAS
Buick Rainier 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-09-20
  • Date Complaint: 2020-01-01
  • VIN: 5GADT13S752
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: POWER STEERING LEAKS, THE GAS GAUGE AND OTHER GAUGES DON'T WORK, MOST THE ELECTRICAL DON'T WORK INSIDE THE CAR, MAKES A WEIRD NOISE WHEN IT BACKS UP AND THE ENGINE REVS WHEN IT'S STARTS AND SOMETIMES WHEN IT DRIVES AND GOES FASTER EVEN WHEN YOU ARE NOT HITTING THE GAS, THE GAS TANK BLOWS OUT GAS WHEN WE ARE PUMPING GAS LIKE IT'S FULL BUT IT'S NOT, THE WINDOW CRACKED FROM A LITTLE PEDDLE AND THE WHEELS AND HUBS GO BAD REALLY FAST.
Buick Rainier 2006
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-30
  • Date Complaint: 2019-10-31
  • VIN: 5GADT13S462
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: DOOR LOCKS SUDDENLY STOPPED WORKING. LATCHES WOULD NOT OPEN, COULD NOT CLOSE DOORS.
Buick Rainier 2004
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-09-18
  • Date Complaint: 2019-04-15
  • VIN: 5GADT13S142
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 BUICK RAINIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS TURNED OFF INTERMITTENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS REMAINED OFF FOR APPROXIMATELY SIX MINUTES. WHEN THE LIGHTS TURNED BACK ON, THE LIGHTING WAS DIM. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO J.D. BYRIDER (5101 NEW BERN AVE, RALEIGH, NC 27610) WHERE THEY REPLACED THE REPLACED THE HEADLIGHT DRIVER MODULE ON TWO DIFFERENT OCCASIONS, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,471.

Latest 5 recalls Buick Rainier

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 15 recalls for different components of the Buick Rainier.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Buick Rainier 2007
  • Report Received Date: 2015-09-24
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer and GMC Envoy vehicles, and 2006 GMC Envoy XL and Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT vehicles. Fluid may enter into the driver's door master power window switch module, causing corrosion that could result in a short in the circuit board, causing window switches to become inoperative. Previously, the affected vehicles may have had their master power window switch module treated with a protective coating, instead of having it replaced.
  • Consequence: The protective coating may not eliminate the risk that the circuit board could short and result in a fire, even while the vehicle is unattended.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a new driver's door switch module, free of charge. The recall began on November 2, 2015. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 15700.
  • Model: Buick Rainier 2006
  • Report Received Date: 2015-09-24
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer and GMC Envoy vehicles, and 2006 GMC Envoy XL and Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT vehicles. Fluid may enter into the driver's door master power window switch module, causing corrosion that could result in a short in the circuit board, causing window switches to become inoperative. Previously, the affected vehicles may have had their master power window switch module treated with a protective coating, instead of having it replaced.
  • Consequence: The protective coating may not eliminate the risk that the circuit board could short and result in a fire, even while the vehicle is unattended.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a new driver's door switch module, free of charge. The recall began on November 2, 2015. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 15700.
  • Model: Buick Rainier 2007
  • Report Received Date: 2015-08-14
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2006-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT, GMC Envoy XL, 2006-2008 Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7x vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the headlamp driver module (HDM) may overheat and fail, causing the headlamps and daytime running lights to not illuminate.
  • Consequence: Headlamps that do not illuminate reduce the driver's ability to see the roadway and reduce the vehicle's visibility to oncoming vehicles, both of which increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HDM, free of charge. The recall began on May 17, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14291.
  • Model: Buick Rainier 2006
  • Report Received Date: 2015-08-14
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2006-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT, GMC Envoy XL, 2006-2008 Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7x vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the headlamp driver module (HDM) may overheat and fail, causing the headlamps and daytime running lights to not illuminate.
  • Consequence: Headlamps that do not illuminate reduce the driver's ability to see the roadway and reduce the vehicle's visibility to oncoming vehicles, both of which increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HDM, free of charge. The recall began on May 17, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14291.
  • Model: Buick Rainier 2007
  • Report Received Date: 2014-07-02
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
  • Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x; 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL; and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier and Isuzu Ascender vehicles. Fluid may enter the driver's door master power window switch module, causing corrosion that could result in a short in the circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. The short may also cause overheating, which could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke, or a fire.
  • Consequence: A short in the circuit board could lead to a fire, increasing the risk of personal injury. A fire could occur even while the vehicle is not in use. As a precaution, owners are advised to park outside until the remedy has been made.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the part number on the door module, and install a new door module if necessary, free of charge. Parts for the remedy are not currently available. An interim letter was mailed to owners in August 2014. A second owner letter will be mailed when parts are available. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-462-8782 (GMC), 1-800-955-9007 (SAAB), and 1-800-255-6727 (Isuzu). GM's number for this recall is 14309. NOTE: This recall provides a new remedy for all vehicles covered by recall 13V-248. Vehicles whose modules were modified but not replaced as part of the previous recall remedy must have their vehicles remedied again under this campaign.

Latest negative Buick Rainier car reviews

  1. Geovanni Kuhic 2024-10-14

    Vehicle year: 2007

    The vehicle has experienced some issues, such as a shorted window control panel that smoked when exposed to rain, causing all windows to roll down and become unresponsive. Additionally, the load stabilizer pump stopped working for a month before resuming operation at a slow pace. The traction control system has also exhibited some problems, particularly during sharp right turns, where it engages and disengages repeatedly, and displays an error message for the remainder of the drive. However, these issues do not detract from the overall quality of the vehicle.

  2. Morris Anderson 2024-08-03

    Vehicle year: 2007

    It's unfortunate that we didn't take a longer test drive and do more research beforehand. I've found the seats to be quite uncomfortable, and when I tried to trade it in after a month, I was disappointed to find that there was no trade-in value. It seems that the dealer wasn't interested in taking it back.

  3. Evans Kris 2024-07-22

    Vehicle year: 2007

    Since week one, the Rainier has been attempting to shift into AWD when in reverse, causing shuddering that makes it difficult to back out of a parking space. Unfortunately, changing the rear differential fluid ($125) did not help and now the bearings in the front differential have burned up. However, I was fortunate enough that the Buick dealer covered the cost even though I am 4,000 miles out of warranty. As someone who drives 30,000 miles per year, I cannot afford to be towed to the dealer on a regular basis, so I am considering the possibility of getting rid of this vehicle.

  4. Rowland O'Keefe 2024-07-20

    Vehicle year: 2006

    1197 total miles and the car would not start. Complete electrical shut down. It's been out of service for 3 days now attempting to be fixed. Can GM do a little better job?

  5. Rod Gerlach 2024-07-10

    Vehicle year: 2004

    I used to have a van, so I'm still adjusting to this new vehicle. However, I must say that the ride is excellent and the handling is great. I had running boards installed, but unfortunately, they don't provide much of a platform to enter or exit the vehicle. The rear door is also quite restrictive for getting in or out. I was surprised to find that there is more wind noise than I expected at highway speeds. In town, the fuel economy is only about 13.8, but I haven't been on the road yet. Connecting the rear seat belts is difficult due to a very short anchor strap. The rear seat heater is okay at low speeds, but it makes too much noise if turned up. I've noticed that the brakes feel somewhat spongy right now, so I'll have to have the dealer check them.

Latest positive Buick Rainier car reviews

  1. Gillian Medhurst 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2006

    I really love this mid-size SUV! I test drove over 20 other SUVs before deciding on purchasing the Ranier, and I'm so glad I did. It has plenty of pep, even with a 6-cylinder engine. The interior is by far the most comfortable of all the SUVs I test drove. As someone who is very tall and needs a long seat, I found that the Japanese SUVs were too short-seated to give me proper leg or hip support. The ride is incredibly quiet, which I really appreciate. I also love the XM/CD/radio/nav system - it's so convenient! Additionally, there's lots of room - I can easily haul 5 golfers and their golf bags. I chose leather interior and it's both comfortable and classy. The only thing I would change is to have more storage space in the middle console.

  2. Rashad Murphy 2024-11-09

    Vehicle year: 2004

    Congratulations on your new purchase of a 2004 Buick Rainier! You made a smart choice by going with the 2004 model and taking advantage of the $3000 savings. With an additional $7000 incentive from GM, you got an amazing deal! The ride is incredibly smooth, even smoother than the MDX, 4-Runner or Sequoia. The interior is also impressively quiet, making it the best-built American SUV. Enjoy your new ride!

  3. Haleigh Beier 2024-11-09

    Vehicle year: 2005

    The best truck no one ever heard of! It has a powerful V8, a smooth ride, and is pure luxury. Everyone that gets into this vehicle for the first time tells me what a nice truck this is. When I mention it's a Buick, they are astounded!

  4. D'angelo Davis 2024-11-07

    Vehicle year: 2007

    My family, consisting of two boys, and I decided to purchase this car due to its reasonable price and luxurious features. The seats are incredibly comfortable and the ride is both quiet and smooth. Although the power could be improved, I absolutely adore the car's appearance. I would highly recommend it to anyone. However, the cup holders in the front could use some improvement.

  5. Jefferey Sipes 2024-11-07

    Vehicle year: 2007

    I love my Rainier! I have the PGA Tour edition. The only drawback is the odd cup holder and storage situation, but otherwise, I am very pleased. My MPG average is 17-18 (I drive on country roads to work each day.) It gets 22-24 on the highway. I had a loaded Honda Odyssey, and I'm so glad to be out of the van!

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