2005 Buick Rainier problems
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.
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Common 2005 Buick Rainier problems
The 2005 Buick Rainier has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most frequently mentioned issues is fuel level sensor failures. The fuel level sensor is responsible for measuring the amount of fuel in the tank and relaying that information to the vehicle's computer. When it fails, the vehicle may display incorrect fuel levels or even stop running because it thinks the tank is empty.
Another problem that has been reported is the failure of air compressors for the rear air springs. The rear air springs help to maintain the vehicle's ride height and provide a smooth ride. When the air compressors fail, the rear of the vehicle may sag, making it difficult to drive and potentially causing damage to other components.
Gas cap issues have also been reported as a common problem with the 2005 Buick Rainier. The gas cap is responsible for sealing the fuel tank and preventing fuel from evaporating. When it fails, the vehicle may not run properly, and the check engine light may come on.
In addition to these issues, the 2005 Buick Rainier has been reported to have suspension problems, with the worst model year being 2005. This can make it difficult to enter or exit the vehicle and may require expensive repairs.
Finally, the 2005 Buick Rainier has been subject to recalls due to safety issues. One recall involves the windshield not being retained in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant. Dealers will replace the windshield to address this issue.
In summary, the 2005 Buick Rainier has been reported to have several common problems, including fuel level sensor failures, air compressor failures, gas cap issues, suspension problems, and exterior door handle failures. Additionally, the vehicle has been subject to recalls due to safety issues. Owners of this vehicle should be aware of these potential problems and take appropriate action to address them.
When did they stop making Buick Rainier?
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.
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.
Where is the speed sensor on a 2005 Buick Rainier?
A speed sensor is usually located on the steering knuckle behind the wheel's brake rotor. Sometimes it may also be installed directly on the wheel axle.
Is Buick still luxury?
Buick is positioned as a premium automobile brand, selling luxury vehicles positioned above Chevrolet, while priced below the flagship luxury Cadillac division.
2005 Buick Rainier car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Rainier problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Buick Rainier vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2005 Buick Rainier
The NHTSA has received 103 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Buick Rainier. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2005 Buick Rainier vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-16
- 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.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-15
- 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.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-20
- 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.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-20
- 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
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-01
- VIN: 5GAET13M852
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BUICK RAINIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S DOOR COULD NOT BE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE DRIVER'S DOOR MODULE HIMSELF AND WAS ABLE TO LOCK AND UNLOCK THE DRIVER'S DOOR WITH THE KEY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V406000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VISIBILITY). THE MANUFACTURER PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 8-4645434013. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ELECTRONIC BRAKE AND TRACTION CONTROL MODULE COMMUNICATION. LOUD BANGING, AWD LIGHT CAME ON, CODE SHOWED THE ABOUT REASON. (ELECTRONIC BRAKE AND TRACTION CONTROL MODULE COMMUNICATION)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-14
- VIN: 5GADT13S452
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I"VE HAD PROBLEM AFTER PROBLEM IN THIS BUICK SINCE 2103. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO LYNCH DEALER SHIP AND COMPLAINING ABOUT SAME NOISE NO RESOLUTION AS OF YET. I'VE FIXED FUEL GAUGE, BOTH TIE RODS, SWAG BAR, WHEEL BEARING, BRAKES, ROTOR BLOWER, ON AND ON SPENT ALREADY $ 7,000 TO FIX IT. . NOW THE MECHANIC SAYS "OH", MAYBE ITS THE DIFFERENTIAL WHICH WILL COST $3200. BUT MAYBE! FOR THOSE WANTING TO GET A BUICK RAINIER PLEASE DONT AS YOU WILL NOT STOP FIXING IT!!! PIECE OF JUNK! THIS DIFFERENTIAL COULD HAVE CAUSED MY LIFE AND SOMEONE ELSE'S. I WAS DRIVING IT ON 12/14/17 HEARD A LOUD POUNDING NOISE TROUBLE TURNING TO RIGHT SIDE AND BRAKING. WHEN I WANTED TO BREAK TRUCK WOULD NOT STOP.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-17
- VIN: 5GADS13S852
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE LAST NIGHT AT ABOUT 70 MPH MY LOW-BEAM HEADLIGHTS SUDDENLY WENT OFF PLUNGING THE ROAD AHEAD OF ME INTO PITCH BLACK DARKNESS. FULL BEAM AND DIRECTIONAL LIGHTS WERE STILL FUNCTIONING, MANAGED TO SAFELY PULL OF TO THE SIDE OF THE INTERSTATE, AND LUCKILY WAS ABLE TO USE MY CELL PHONE TO DETERMINE THAT THE SOLID STATE HEADLIGHT RELAY HAD FAILED. LUCKILY THERE IS A SIMILAR RELAY LOCATED IN THE FUSE BOX THAT CONTROLS THE ENGINE FAN THAT I WAS ABLE TO UTILIZE AND CONTINUE ON MY JOURNEY. NEEDLESS TO SAY THIS WAS A VERY UNNERVING/SCARY EXPERIENCE AND CAN'T IMAGINE WHAT IT WOULD BE LIKE FOR A LESS EXPERIENCED DRIVER. I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE THAT GM THOUGHT THAT A SYSTEM THAT COULD AFFECT BOTH HEADLIGHT SIMULTANEOUSLY IN THIS WAY WAS REMOTELY EVEN A GOOD IDEA?!
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-01
- VIN: 5GADT13S752
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BUICK RAINIER. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE, THE POWER STEERING SUDDENLY MALFUNCTIONED AND MADE THE STEERING WHEEL VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN IN EITHER DIRECTION. ALSO, A WHINING TYPE NOISE WAS PRESENT WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 162,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-28
- VIN: 5GAET13M652
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BUICK RAINIER. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE OCCURRED TWO MORE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER (MODERN CHEVROLET LOCATED AT 5955 UNIVERSITY PKWY WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA 27105) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOW BEAM MODULE FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V519000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT NHTSA DETERMINED WHICH VEHICLES TO INCLUDE IN RECALLS AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 53,800. UPDATED 09/01/17*LJ *CN
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-01
- VIN: 5GADS13S052
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE LIGHTS GO OUT COMPLETELY WHILE DRIVING.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-01
- VIN: 5GADT13S252
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THE DRIVERS DOOR MASTER POWER SWITCH SHORTS OUT - CANNOT ROLL DOWN WINDOWS (OF ANY KIND), LIGHTS FLICKER AND GO OUT COMPLETELY MY HEADLIGHTS TURN OFF COMPLETELY WHILE IM DRIVING!!!!! AND HAS CAUSED ME TO IMMEDIATELY PULL OVER WITH NO LIGHTS, NO VISION TO TURN THEM ON MANUALLY!!! UNACCEPTABLE!!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-29
- VIN: 5GAET13M452
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL GAUGE IS ERRADIC. IT BOUNCES FROM FULL TO EMPTY.
SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-27
- VIN: 5GADT13S952
- Components: SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: MY 2005 BUICK RAINER SPEED METER STOP WORKING ALSO MY FUEL GAGE, OIL GAGE, RPM GAGE AND TEMP GAGES ALL HAVE STOP WORKING CORRECTLY.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-05
- VIN: 5GADS13S852
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: OUR LOW BEAM LIGHTS QUIT WORKING WITHOUT WARNING. SOMETIMES THEY COME BACK ON AT OTHER TIMES THEY DO NOT AND YOU HAVE TO HIT THE HIGH BEAMS OR EVEN THE FOG LIGHTS. NOT A GOOD THING TO HAPPEN. CAR IS ALWAYS IN MOTION AT NIGHT WHEN FAILURE HAPPENS. THIS HAS HAPPENED MANY TIMES OVER LAST COUPLE OF YEARS. NOT SURE HOW MANY TIMES. NOT ALWAYS NOTICEABLE DEPENDING ON IF YOU ARE IN CITY LIGHTING OR IN COUNTRY. DAYLIGHT RUNNING LIGHTS, HIGH BEAMS AND FOG LIGHTS SEEM TO WORK BUT NOT LOW BEAMS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: OUR 2005 BUICK RAINIER STARTED ACTING UP THIS PAST SUMMER WHEN THE BLOWER STAYED ON WHEN CAR SHUT OFF..NOW WHEN WE TURN ON THE HEATER ON THE CAR HESITATES AND STALLS OUT WHILE DRIVING! THE VOLT GAUGE IS MAXED OUT...THE PASSENGER WINDOW DOESN'T WORK NOW? NOW THE BLOWER DOESN'T WORK UNLESS I FOOL WITH WIRES IN THE GLOVEBOX GOING TO SOME BLACK BOX? I ALSO NOTICED FRONT HEADLIGHT ALWAYS FLICKERS WHEN DRIVING ..EVEN REPLACED BULB! ALWAYS DIMMER?? NOW WE SMELL WIRES BURNING FROM SOMEWHERE..SO MANY PROBLEMS !! OVER 100;000 MILES ON IT....
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-11
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BUICK RAINIER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE SPEEDOMETER FAILED AND DISPLAYED 120 MPH WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 146,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-12
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BUICK RAINIER. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ABLE TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNKNOWN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-01
- VIN: 5GADS13S452
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: MY SPEEDOMETER DOES NOT WORK CORRECTLY. SOME TIMES IT SEEMS TO READ RIGHT, BUT LOTS OF TIMES IT WILL SAY I AM DOING 120 WHEN I AM DOING 30 MPH OR IT WILL SHOW I AM DOING 0 WHEN I AM ACTUALLY DOING 70 MPH ON THE INTERSTATE. I CANNOT RELY ON MY SPEEDOMETER TO BE ACCURATE. I CAN BE DRIVING, IT APPEARS TO BE WORKING BUT THEN IT STARTS TO SLOWLY GO DOWN UNTIL IT IS BACK AT ZERO AND ALL THE WHILE I AM IN DRIVE AND MOVING. ALSO, MY OIL GAGE HAS STOPPED WORKING. IT MOVES WHEN I START MY CAR AND SHUT IT OFF, BUT IT IS NEVER CORRECT EITHER. IT IS EITHER AT ZERO OR ON THE COMPLETE OPPOSITE SIDE. SOMETIMES MY CAR STALLS WHEN I AM SITTING AT A LIGHT OR DRIVING SLOWLY. MY DASH WILL SAY, OIL PRESSURE LOW, STOP ENGINE AND DIE ON ME. I KEEP MY OIL CHANGED REGULARLY AND KEEP THE LEVELS CHECKED. IT DOES NOT LEAK, IT ALWAYS MEASURES FINE WHEN I CHECK IT. SO SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THE OIL GAGE AND IT IS CONTINUOUSLY TELLING MY COMPUTER THE OIL PRESSURE IS LOW CAUSING MY CAR TO DIE ON ME WHILE DRIVING OR IN TRAFFIC. THESE ARE BOTH VERY SERIOUS DRIVING HAZARDS. I COULD GO TO PULL OUT LEFT AND TURN, MY CAR COULD DIE ON ME, AND I COULD GET HIT FROM ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THIS HAS NOT HAPPENED, BUT IT IS A POSSIBLE SCENARIO DUE TO MY CAR STALLING OUT OF THE BLUE BECAUSE OF THE OIL GAGE/SENSOR NOT WORKING RIGHT. I HAVE ALSO NOTICED SOME OF MY LIGHTS IN MY DASH AREA HALF WORK AND ON MY DOORS. OTHER THAN THIS, I HAVE HAD GREAT LUCK WITH MY VEHICLE. I BOUGHT IT NEW AND REALLY HAVE NOT HAD ANY PROBLEMS BUT WITH THIS. I ALSO HAD THE FUEL GAGE GO OUT, BUT THERE WAS A RECALL ON IT, AND I HAD IT REPLACED. I CANNOT GIVE YOU A SPECIFIC DATE, BECAUSE THIS HAPPENS ALMOST ON A DAILY BASIS, SO I WILL GIVE YOU AN APPROXIMATE DATE AS TO WHEN I THINK IT STARTED AROUND.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-05
- VIN: 5GAES13M752
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THIS CAR NEEDS TO BE RECALLED COMPLETELY SHUTTING DOWN WITH NO ENGINE LIGHT ON. THIS CAR DRIVING ON HWY SHUTS OFF NO WARNING
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-18
- VIN: 5GAES13M752
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: CAR SHUTS DOWN WITH NO WARNING , HAD 1500 DOLLAR POWER TRAIN WORK . THE CAR ALMOST CAUSED ME TO BE KILLED DUE TO CAR RUNNING NO ENGINE LIGHT AND COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN AS IF YOU TURNED THE OFF. HWY 287 GOING 65
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-05
- VIN: 5GADS13S752
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: ON THE EVENING OF 9/5/2015 I WAS DRIVING MY 2005 BUICK RAINIER WHEN THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE TO A SAFE LOCATION USING MY HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHTS. WHEN INSPECTED BY MY LOCAL BUICK DEALER (FERMAN BUICK) IT WAS FOUND THAT RELAY 46 (HEADLAMP DRIVER MODULE) HAD BURNED UP AND DAMAGED ADDITIONAL FUSES AND RELAYS. THE ENTIRE FUSE BOX HAD TO BE REPLACED DUE TO THE DAMAGE. THIS CASE HAS BEEN REPORTED TO GM (#8-1567980379). GM CURRENTLY HAS MULTIPLE YEARS OF BUICK RAINIER UNDER RECALL FOR THIS EXACT PROBLEM, SO I'M HOPING THEY EXPAND THE RECALL TO COVER 2005.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-04
- VIN: 5GADT13S552
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY SPEEDOMETER WILL READ 120MPH WHEN IN FACT I'M ONLY DOING 65MPH. IT'LL STAY STUCK AT 60 AND 120MPH WHEN THE TRUCK IS TURNED OFF. I HAVE TO TURN THE ENGINE OFF AND ON TO RESET IT BACK TO 0. ONE DAY IT WORKS FINE, NEXT DAY IT'S READING INCORRECTLY. MY OIL GAUGE JUST STOPPED WORKING ALL TOGETHER. MY HEADLIGHTS ALSO FLICKER WHILE I'M DRIVING.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-10
- VIN: 5GADT13S552
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: MY SPEEDOMETER IS NOT SHOWING THE ACCURATE SPEED. THE NEEDLE SHOOTS TO 100-120MPH, WHEN I AM ONLY DOING 65 MPH. WHEN I TURN THE TRUCK OFF IT WILL SIT AT 60MPH OR STAY ON 120MPH. I HAVE TO TURN THE TRUCK OFF AND ON TO RESET THE SPEEDOMETER. THE OIL GAUGE JUST STOPPED WORKING. ALSO MY HEADLIGHTS FLICKER WHILE I AM DRIVING. THE PROBLEM WITH THE SPEEDOMETER HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ISSUE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-15
- VIN: 5GAES13M152
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BUICK RAINIER. WHILE AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE DOOR LOCKS STARTED TO LOCK AND UNLOCK RAPIDLY WITHOUT WARNING. AFTER THE LIGHT CHANGED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE AND THEN STALLED. THE VEHICLE RESTARTED AND RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.MA 09/25 UPDATED 11/27/2017*CN
2005 Buick Rainier recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2005 Buick Rainier.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 212, 'WINDSHIELD MOUNTING.' THE WINDSHIELD URETHANE BEAD MAY NOT HAVE ADHERED TO THE BODY IN CERTAIN AREAS DURING THE CURE PROCESS.
- Consequence: IF A CRASH OCCURS, THE WINDSHIELD MAY NOT BE RETAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 10, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
Negative 2005 Buick Rainier car reviews
Positive 2005 Buick Rainier car reviews
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We recently purchased this vehicle to replace our aging minivan and sedan. It has been a great addition to our family, especially for tailgating and trips. We are able to fit all of our gear, including a flag pole, folding table, chairs, grill, cooler, and more, as well as 2-3 people depending on how we pack. The sound system is fantastic, and the climate controls are individualized with rear controls for climate and audio. Additionally, the vehicle is extremely quiet and smooth. We have been getting great fuel economy, with 22-23 mpg on the highway and 15-18 mpg around town.
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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!
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Easy to drive and maneuver in parking lots. The 6 cylinder engine provides plenty of power. Although it doesn't cruise on open roads as well as the LaSabre I owned previously, it performs much better on mountain roads. I really appreciate the inside comfort and controls, and there's plenty of storage space in the rear. The ride is very smooth and quiet.
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This is the most enjoyable driving vehicle I have ever owned. It catches the eye of others and I love the interior appointments. The only downside is that I have to use a flashlight to see inside the glove compartment. It handles well and is very maneuverable in tight spaces.
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This vehicle is quiet and smooth. The Bose premium sound, multiple CD player, and satellite reception are tremendous. My previous vehicle was a Yukon, which was great and trouble-free, but this Rainier is outstanding. The 6-cylinder engine is lively and will jump when you need it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Buick Rainier problems:
2005 Buick Rainier Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
Problem with your 2005 Buick Rainier? Our list of 14 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2005 Buick Rainier.
Buick Rainier 2005: AWD Stuck? Q&A on Common Problems
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Buick Rainier Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
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2005 Buick Rainier Problems | Kelley Blue Book
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Buick Rainier Q&A: Fixing Gauges, Longevity & Common Problems
Mar 4, 2012 ... Here is some information on this issue. Condition. On some 2005 model year GMC Envoy XUV; 2005-2006 model year Chevrolet SSR, TrailBlazer EXT, ...
Chandler Reynolds 2025-01-04
As the second owner of my Rainier, I had to replace the engine at 65000 miles due to a cracked head that caused coolant to mix with the oil and damage the bearings. Although I am experiencing some turning problems at low speeds and my security light comes on, I am confident that these issues can be resolved. While the repair cost me over $4000 to do myself, I am certain that GM will stand behind their vehicles and provide the necessary support. As a lifelong owner of GM vehicles, I am confident that this experience is an exception and I remain satisfied with the brand.
Sylvan Weber 2024-07-09
This vehicle has a fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 18.5 mpg highway, which may not be the best in its class. Additionally, it has some body roll and the engine may seem to be working too hard at interstate speeds. However, it still has some great features of a LeSabre and is a good value for the money. While it may not be as quiet as advertised, it is still a solid choice for those in the market for a Buick.
Willy Gleichner 2024-05-27
I recently replaced my Lexus RX300 with an American car and I must say, I love the drive and the size of the cargo space. However, I was disappointed with the navigation system. I have had three other cars with navigation systems before this one, but this car requires me to replace my CD with the Nav disk, which can be quite a hassle. The sticker said it had a 6 CD changer, but when I checked it out, the navigation system had replaced the 6 CD changer. How disappointing! Moreover, the Nav system requires you to change areas, and NJ and PA are not in the same districts. I would advise against buying the navigation system. It is not worth it. If you must have it, get an external one. Despite this, I still love the car and I only drive it around town, luckily.
Maximus Johns 2024-01-23
I have had several issues with my Buick, which I purchased in 2005. However, I am confident in my ability to address these problems and ensure that my vehicle is running smoothly. The issues I have encountered include a loose heat shield on the manifold, a faulty fuel sensor that has since been replaced, a bad steering rack assembly that has also been replaced, a worn-out idler pulley that has been replaced, and a leaking rear window fluid sprayer. Despite these challenges, I am confident that I can continue to maintain and improve the performance of my vehicle.
Deangelo Streich 2024-01-10
I have been dealing with my suspension for the past 2 years. I purchased the car at CarMax and they fixed the compressor. However, it was later discovered that I needed an airbag. Unfortunately, the holes in the airbag were causing it to sag. As a result, I am now out of warranty and have to pay out of pocket. Currently, my transmission is slipping and the car is not shifting into 3rd gear, limiting my speed to 35mph. Despite these issues, I remain confident that I can resolve them. While I regret not having known about these issues earlier, I am determined to find a solution. I believe that with the right expertise and support, I can get my car back on track.