Buick Regal problems
The Buick Regal is a line of mid-size cars marketed by Buick since 1973. For nearly its entire production, the Regal has served as the premium mid-size/intermediate offering of the Buick product range. Introduced as a submodel of the Buick Century, the model line is currently in its sixth generation. From the 1970s to the 1990s, the Regal served as the Buick counterpart of the Pontiac Grand Prix and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme.
Originally introduced as a personal luxury coupe, the Regal was later expanded to a full model line. To showcase its success in NASCAR racing, from 1982 to 1987, Buick introduced the Buick Regal Grand National, Regal T-Type, and the limited-production Buick GNX. During the 1990s, while the four-door sedan superseded the two-door coupe entirely, forced-induction engines made their return, with superchargers replacing turbochargers.
For 1999, the Buick Regal inaugurated the sale of GM vehicles in the Chinese market, with the 1997 design lasting through 2008. Following the 2004 model year, Buick retired the nameplate in North America, with the Regal replaced by the Buick LaCrosse.
For 2008, Opel introduced the Opel Insignia as its largest sedan, with Buick rebranding the model line as the Regal for the Chinese market. For 2011, GM reintroduced the Regal to North America, rebranding the Insignia sedan for North America. For 2018, Buick introduced the second-generation Opel Insignia, sourcing all production from Germany; alongside a first-ever liftback sedan, the Regal TourX was the first Buick station wagon in 22 years.
After 2020, as the division shifted away from car model lines, Buick ended sales of the Regal in North America.
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Buick Regal model years
Common Buick Regal problems
Based on the complaints from owners of Buick Regal cars, several common problems have been identified:
- Key Getting Stuck in the Ignition:
- Owners of Buick Regal models from 1994 to 2016 have reported issues with the key getting stuck in the ignition. This problem arises when the automatic transmission fails or the wire relaying gear information is faulty. Restarting the vehicle or adjusting the gears can temporarily resolve this issue.
- Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) and Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) Issues:
- Buick Regal models from 1994 to 2004 commonly experience problems with the MAF and CPS. Owners have reported random stalling and stuttering while driving, even at highway speeds. Replacing these faulty sensors, which cost around $30 to $70 for MAF and $20 to $40 for CPS, can resolve this issue.
- Power Window System Malfunction:
- Owners of Buick Regal models from 1990 to 2011 have faced issues with the power window system suddenly failing. This problem is often caused by a faulty switch. Replacement power window switches, costing $10 to $80, can rectify this issue, which may manifest as intermittent functionality.
- Coolant Leak:
- A common issue reported with the Buick Regal GS is a coolant leak. This problem can lead to overheating and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. While relatively inexpensive to fix, it is crucial to address coolant leaks promptly to prevent engine issues.
- Transmission Problems:
- Transmission issues, particularly in the Buick Regal GS, have been highlighted as a concern. While other problems are relatively affordable to fix, transmission issues can be costly. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any transmission-related symptoms are essential to avoid major repair expenses.
These common problems with Buick Regal cars, as reported by owners, highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any emerging issues to ensure the longevity and reliability of these vehicles.
Is Buick Regal a reliable car?
According to carparts.com, the Buick Regal is generally reliable, like many midsize sedans. Out of 34 rated sedans, the Buick Regal is ranked 13th for reliability. In other words, it's about as reliable on average as many other sedans of its type.
How many miles can a Buick Regal last?
A Buick Regal will live around 150,000-200,000 miles with excellent care. Thus, high mileage for the vehicle is around 150,000 miles. This number is solid, and once you pass it, the maintenance you perform will shine. The Regal is far more likely here to break down and could run into some expensive repair needs.
What are common problems with a 2011 Buick Regal?
Top 2011 Buick Regal Problems
- Ignition Key Stuck Due to Failed Shifter. ...
- Stalling Due to Mass Air Flow or Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure. ...
- Power Window Switches May Fail. ...
- HVAC Display May Become Dim or Go Out Completely. ...
- Serpentine Belt Tensioner Pulley May Wear Out.
Why did Buick discontinue the Regal?
Why did Buick stop making the Regal? The end of the Regal line came as a result of a shift in Buick's corporate strategy. The company decided to shift its focus to its line of SUVs, and the Regal's discontinuation was part of a larger reduction in Buick's passenger car lineup.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Buick Regal years
We have researched Buick problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Buick Regal cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Buick Regal model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Buick Regal model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Buick Regal years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Buick Regal car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Buick Regal , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Buick Regal vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Regal model years
A total of 175 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 Regal model years
There were a total of 278 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 Regal model years
There were a total of 176 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Regal model years
There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3578 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Buick Regal . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Buick Regal vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Buick Regal 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: W04GU8SX8K1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Buick Regal. The contact stated after parking the vehicle, the “Shift to Park” message was displayed. The contact shifted the gear shifter back and forth to park until the message disappeared. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed gear shifter unit and console. The contact was informed that the gear shifter unit and console needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 39,500.
Buick Regal 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 2G4GS5GX0G9
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: My tires were Black when I bought them at Wittlins in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin in 2020. They have been continualy turning brown on the outside of tire. Now they are a beige color on the outside of tire. It seems the tires are aging terribly. I complained to Wittlins a few times about tires discoloration and the manager keeps telling me the tires are wearing fine and said discoloration is normal. Maybe a little discoloration but not like this and I do not even live in a warm climate. 235/50R18/SL (Tires)
Buick Regal 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 2G4GN5EX1F9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, upon reaching a stop light, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power and was able to restart. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, who determined that the engine was experiencing a vacuum leak. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 102,000.
Buick Regal 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-17
- VIN: W04GW6SX9K1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: When I was braking at an intersection, the driver's seat broke and slide all the way forward causing me to jam the brake all the way, then the recoil sent the seat flying all the back. After the orignal pop where something broke, the seat freely slides all the way forward and back.
Buick Regal 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-24
- VIN: 2G4GR5EKXC9
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Hard to be able to control the vehicle due to something going on the rear
Buick Regal 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-23
- VIN: 2G4GV5EKXF9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Excessive oil consumption on the 2.4L engine. GM has known about the oil consumption on these engines for a long time and if oil is not consistently checked and topped off it will seize the motor while driving
Buick Regal 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-19
- VIN: 2G4GS5GXXG9
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I purchased the 2016 Buick Regal used in 2021 with 40,000 miles., it now has close to 70,000 miles. It’s still in well cared for mint condition, except for the driver side headlight. Condensation appeared and has been getting worse, dealership says the only option is buying another complete headlight assembly for $1200.00. The LED part of that headlight has stopped working., it’s inevitable that the bulbs themselves with fail also. This is a safety issue. It’s absurdly cost prohibitive for me and most everybody else to spend that kind of money to fix a headlight.., and $1200.00 is the cost of the part alone, we’d be adding labor to that. This is a manufacturer defect that so many people are suffering with. They say we’re getting no relief from this because not enough people have filed complaints to the NHTSA. GM should be compelled to provide this part to us at a much more reasonable price. I’m just a poor widower dad with a daughter in college. Thank you.
Buick Regal 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-16
- VIN: 2G4G35EX7G9
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality and the vehicle became difficult to steer. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 43,000.
Buick Regal 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-04
- VIN: 2G4GK5EX6F9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: After starting my vehicle with foot on the brake and putting the vehicle in gear it will move forward and occasionally roll for 4 or 5 feet before the brake engages. This is extremely dangerous as I'm pulling out of a parking space and merging with ongoing traffic !This has been going on for approximately three weeks. The vehicle literally has no brakes for four or five feet despite the fact that my foot being pressed all the way down on the brake pedal!! Last week I came very close to a major accident when I couldn't stop for an on oncoming car. Thank goodness the operator of the other vehicle stopped in time to avoid a serious accident! I immediately took the car to a local garage to have my brakes checked. They found no issues. I then took it to the Buick dealer,BICAL, and they found a serious issue. The brake vacuum pump had frozen and had actually disintegrated and no longer was functional. Parts from the pump entered the valve shaft area also. The end result was a $3,000 repair bill. The important issue here is the driver safety on the road.Although this was only occasional and at low speeds left unattended would lead to a total brake failure with major consequences and major fatalities!! God only know how many major accidents occurred with major consequences without anyone knowing the true source of the accident details. I have read online that 1996-1997 Cadillacs also have this same issue!! This is a very poor design and a major safety issue. After all there is no such thing as a minor brake issue!!! I'm avail to discuss this issue issue at your convenience. I can be reached on [XXX] [XXX] cell. Repair bill available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Buick Regal 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-25
- VIN: 2G4GS5GX6G9
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving 35-40 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle started sputtering. The contact veered to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle for 5-10 minutes. The contact stated that upon restarting the vehicle, the failure was no longer present. The contact drove to the residence. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the cylinder #1 coil pack and spark plug needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where all the coil packs and sparks plugs were replaced; however, the failure recurred several days later. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, where it was determined that the failure was related to TSB Number: 16-NA-383 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the TSB was VIN specific, and the vehicle was not covered. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 85,900.
Buick Regal 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-22
- VIN: 2G4GL5EX6H9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving 80-85 MPH downhill and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal was rigid, failed to lower as needed, and the vehicle failed to respond. The Brake Assist warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal harder, the brake pedal slightly travelled down and bounced back. Additionally, the steering wheel shuddered, and the vehicle failed to respond. The contact allowed the vehicle to gradually decelerate independently. The contact was able to drive to her destination at slower speeds. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V465000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where a fee was charged for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.
Buick Regal 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-16
- VIN: W04GW5EV4B1
- Components: STRUCTURE,ENGINE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: The cars mileage was altered due to car being wrecked prior and the other car that was used to replace wrecked parts was hidden and vin number was altered. Copart Inc and ICT Sharp Rides are party's involved, I bought car on 12/28/2023 mileage was listed as 132525
Buick Regal 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-14
- VIN: W04GP6SX5K1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Hello, I am the original owner of my 2019 Buick Regal Sportback which shows a "shift to park message when I attempt to shut off the car and the car shifter is in the park position. I am unable to turn off lights, radio, or accessories. This condition runs down the battery and prevents me from starting the car as the shifter stays locked in position unless the car is running. This should be covered under the GM drivetrain warranty. Please help.
Buick Regal 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-11
- VIN: 2G4WB52K321
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Dealership sold car knowing there’s recalls and never fixed
Buick Regal 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-04
- VIN: 2G4GT5GV4C9
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: 2nd bad headlamp assembly that develops moisture and causes lamp to go out. First was passenger side now driver side
Latest 5 recalls Buick Regal
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 172 recalls for different components of the Buick Regal.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Buick Regal 2019
- Report Received Date: 2022-06-30
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Buick Regal vehicles. In the event of a vacuum-power brake assist failure, a software error in the electronic brake control module (EBCM) may result in a loss of power brake assist. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 135, "Light vehicle brake systems."
- Consequence: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the EBCM software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters advising owners of the safety risk were mailed on August 19, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Buick's customer service at 1-800-521-7300.
- Model: Buick Regal 2020
- Report Received Date: 2022-06-30
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Buick Regal vehicles. In the event of a vacuum-power brake assist failure, a software error in the electronic brake control module (EBCM) may result in a loss of power brake assist. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 135, "Light vehicle brake systems."
- Consequence: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the EBCM software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters advising owners of the safety risk were mailed on August 19, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Buick's customer service at 1-800-521-7300.
- Model: Buick Regal 2018
- Report Received Date: 2022-06-30
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Buick Regal vehicles. In the event of a vacuum-power brake assist failure, a software error in the electronic brake control module (EBCM) may result in a loss of power brake assist. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 135, "Light vehicle brake systems."
- Consequence: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the EBCM software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters advising owners of the safety risk were mailed on August 19, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Buick's customer service at 1-800-521-7300.
- Model: Buick Regal 2012
- Report Received Date: 2021-12-22
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse, 2012-2013 Buick Regal, and 2013 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles sold or ever registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These vehicles may have rear toe links that received an improper amount of electrocoating (e-coat) corrosion protection, which could cause the e-coat to become brittle and break away when contacted by road debris. Over time, the e-coat may chip away, exposing the metal toe link and making it more susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion may eventually cause the toe link to thin and ultimately fracture.
- Consequence: A rear toe link fracture may reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links and adjuster fasteners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 27, 2022. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212346640. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recalls 20V-764 and 21V-633.
- Model: Buick Regal 2013
- Report Received Date: 2021-12-22
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse, 2012-2013 Buick Regal, and 2013 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles sold or ever registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These vehicles may have rear toe links that received an improper amount of electrocoating (e-coat) corrosion protection, which could cause the e-coat to become brittle and break away when contacted by road debris. Over time, the e-coat may chip away, exposing the metal toe link and making it more susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion may eventually cause the toe link to thin and ultimately fracture.
- Consequence: A rear toe link fracture may reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links and adjuster fasteners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 27, 2022. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212346640. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recalls 20V-764 and 21V-633.
Latest negative Buick Regal car reviews
Latest positive Buick Regal car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1995
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with this amazing car that I bought last year. It had 120,000 miles on it, but it still runs and looks great! I get a lot of compliments on it and I'm very happy with my purchase. Even in the winter when it gets below zero, it starts up without any issues, which is amazing! It's actually better than some of the new cars I've owned in the past. I only wish I had gotten it when it was brand new!
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Vehicle year: 2001
I am 76 and have had many cars. One of my favorites was a 1998 Lumina LTZ, which I put 158000 miles on. However, this 2001 Regal LS upgraded edition beats it by a long shot. I bought the Buick from a friend (it was his wife's car), she decided that she needed an SUV. This car has the Joseph Aboud package and looks a lot like the interior of a friend's new BMW as far as color and trim, but I think that the interior in my Buick beats that of her BMW. I love the size and weight of the car, it is just right for me at 6'1. I am really pleased with the selection of the power seat, which is much better than the seat and selection that was on the LTZ. I never liked the seat in that car, it had leather but the seat was too low even on the highest setting. I think the Regal has more headroom which is an advantage for someone of my height. Another great thing about the Buick is that where I live in Central MS, Buick's are pretty popular so parts are reasonable and plentiful. I had a 2000 Cougar SE which I really enjoyed but you can't find new headlights for them and even buying salvaged ones cost a lot. Ford should have never let the Cougar die along with the T Bird which I have also owned and enjoyed. The driver's seat of the Cougar I had sat and felt like the cockpit, shall we say, of that of the 1958 T Bird that my mother owned. I would buy another Buick Regal in a heartbeat. I love the new Regal Sportback, the liftgate, as I call it, like I had on the Cougar and the Sportback on the new Regal spoiled me, especially with the back seats that lay down! Yet I understand that this is the last year that Buick offers the Regal, which I think is another mistake. They want to focus on SUVs. I say to Buick, the new Regal Sportback is like an SUV and is a lot better looking, so keep it! Rob Gray
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Vehicle year: 2004
I don't understand why Buick doesn't sell more of Regal GSs. The car has luxury, power, and dignity. Other drivers and consumers may dismiss the car as something a 'blue hairs' would have, but the GS goes and feels good while moving.
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Vehicle year: 2013
In March of 2013, I purchased a 2013 Regal GS. The driving dynamics of this car are truly awesome. It handles all kinds of curves and road conditions excellently. I honestly believe that GM should use the Hy-per-Strut in more vehicles as it gives you confidence, traction, and very minimal torque steer. The car was wonderful and took care of my pregnant wife. We even drove across the country for 3600 miles in the summer, averaging 27 mpg for the trip (great while cruising 75-80 mph). The car still had plenty of power for passing when needed.
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Vehicle year: 2016
Keep in mind that this is a brand new car with only 700 miles, so it may be difficult to make a full assessment. Before purchasing the Buick Regal GS, I wasn't even considering Buicks or any car with an MSRP over $30K. However, I was looking for a car with more horsepower and torque, better handling, and more tech features than my 2012 Hyundai Elantra Limited. After looking at several options, including the new Elantra, Mazda 3s, Cruze, and Mustang, I decided to check out Buick at my wife's suggestion. I was pleasantly surprised by the Regal T premium, but the interior wasn't quite what I was looking for. Luckily, the sales rep found a GS in the back and convinced me to take it for a spin. Although I wasn't planning on test driving a $40,000 car, I ended up buying it the following week. Overall, I would give the Regal GS 4 stars because 3 wasn't enough and there's no 3-1/2. It's a really nice car, but there are a few things missing. In terms of performance, I don't have a great basis for comparison, but the Regal does move quickly once you get past the turbo lag. The acceleration and power curve are quite nice after that. The steering and road holding are also very good, with solid feedback. While BMW drivers might find it dull and lumbering, I think it's more than adequate and I wouldn't hesitate to drive this car at 120 mph, especially with the confidence-inspiring Brembo brakes. The only downside is the transmission when shifting on your own.I'm still learning where this car needs to be on the rpms, but it's so quiet and quick that I didn't even realize I was up to almost 4000 rpms and still in second gear. However, the car didn't seem to like that very much. During more normal driving, I found that while the shifts are smooth, there's no audible feedback from the engine. It's important to keep your eye on the rpm gauge, but you also need to keep your eyes on the road. Other than that, the car shifts fine and you can toss it around pretty well, although it is quite heavy. This is, of course, coming from someone who is used to a featherweight Elantra. When driving as an automatic, the shifts are smooth and about where you would expect them to be, even under heavy acceleration. Comfort-Interior -- For the money, the car is quite comfortable. The seats are firmer in the GS model, which has an upgraded seat and leather package, but they fit me well. The car fits me well in fact, despite the front being a bit narrow. I still have plenty of elbow and hip room, and the seats provide thigh support right where I need it. Headroom, even with the sunroof, is fine with plenty of clearance. However, someone who is 250 pounds might not fit as well. The controls are all relatively well-laid out, similar in some ways to the Elantra, so I'm not having any issues finding where things are, and everything is within easy reach. Nitpick alert! One negative about the interior design is where the window controls and outside mirror control are. In the Elantra, resting my elbow on the door grip in a comfortable spot at my side, my fingers fell right onto those, with only a slight reach forward to the mirror control. In the Regal, I have to bring my hand back almost a full hand-length and LOOK as to which button do I have, front window or back window? I also find the door grip quite annoying. The interior features a nice swooshy grab bar in fake metal, which is okay to use when closing the door.When opening the door, you may notice that the grip is a bit far forward, which can make the already heavy door feel even heavier. Unfortunately, there is no grip in the elbow rest part of the door, which can be inconvenient. However, the car is impressively quiet, rivaling even an 80s vintage Rolls Royce. The downside to this is that it can be difficult to hear the engine or exhaust. Visibility is mostly good, but the B pillar is quite wide, so you'll need to rely on the blind spot warning in the mirrors. The rear is smallish and narrow, but not a major obstacle. The instrumentation can take some getting used to, but it's all there if you want it, including oil temp and pressure, friction bubble, and a whole host of other features. While it's not the easiest to use, I find it complete and easy to read.
Are you having problems with your Buick Regal?
Jonas Gislason 2025-11-01
Vehicle year: 2001
Hey there! I've been driving a Buick Regal Ls for almost a year now. Unfortunately, we've had to replace both the driver and passenger side window regulators during that time. Recently, we've been having some trouble with the throttle and it's been preventing us from driving over 35mph. I'm really hoping to get it fixed soon, so if anyone has any ideas on what the issue might be, I'd love to hear them!
Earnest Braun 2025-10-29
Vehicle year: 2003
I was never a fan of GM, but I decided to try out the 3.8 motor after hearing so much praise from others. However, my experience with this car has convinced me to never have another GM vehicle in my household. While driving down the highway at 75 mph, the engine stalled out and I had to manually steer the vehicle to the shoulder during heavy traffic. This was an extremely frightening experience. After conducting some research, I discovered that this is a common issue with the 3.8 motor. It is concerning that people are willing to drive a vehicle that can stall out at any given time and put their loved ones in danger. I am grateful that I was the one driving the car when it stalled out and not my pregnant wife. Although I had it 'fixed', the problem reoccurred a few days later.
Mario Wiegand 2025-10-28
Vehicle year: 1993
Do you know any 20 year old males who would love to own a Buick Regal Gran Sport? That was me, asking my neighbor lady every day if she would sell me her car. One day, she came home with a new car and told me where I could find her '92 Regal. I drove home in my very first car for 5K. I've had that Buick for almost 4 years now, and it has been a great ride. The only issue I have had is with the brakes. I have replaced all 4 calipers, rotors, lines, and the booster. The brake pads wear out every year like clockwork, but other than that, I have had no major problems with the car. It has 126K miles on it and still runs like a top!
Unique McDermott 2025-10-27
Vehicle year: 1999
I love this car! I bought it used with 41k miles and it only needed oil changes and gas. While the economy on the streets is a bit disappointing, it performs better on the highway. The ride is smooth, although I did have some concerns about the tires at first due to a whining noise. Additionally, the low tire light has been malfunctioning, staying on even though the tires are properly inflated. The climate control display can be a bit temperamental as well. However, if you can overlook these minor issues, this is a fantastic car. It's stylish and can be souped up just like those other cars. For the brake system, I recommend using ceramic. It doesn't actually need new brakes, it just sounds like it does. Oh, and the stereo system is amazing! I almost replaced it, but decided to keep it because the sound quality is so great. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone!
Alvah Hayes 2025-10-27
Vehicle year: 2012
I bought this car over a year ago to replace my 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid that had just passed 100,000 miles. I was looking for a car that was fun to drive and had a manual transmission. This car met most of my needs, but after a year with it, I won't be buying another GM for a while. The positives: The turbocharged engine and manual transmission combination is excellent! The clutch and shifts are smooth and easy to engage. The torque band is wide and pulls the Regal up to (and over) legal highway speeds quickly and quietly. The interior is quiet and comfortable around town and on long trips. The negatives: The buttons on the steering wheel/center console/touch screen are confusing and difficult to use. Voice recognition only works for certain functions, which is worse than the SYNC in my previous car. A rear-view camera should be standard on a vehicle at this price point trying to compete with entry-level luxury cars. The graphics for the navigation are acceptable at best. QUALITY (or lack thereof) - my car has been in the shop 6 times in the past year for small repairs, such as the blower motor on the climate control randomly cutting out, 4 rear light bulbs (no access panels in trunk, have to remove carpet surrounding the trunk to replace), sun visor mirror cover shattered apart, and grommets holding the floor mats to the floor sprung apart. The plastics on the interior feel cheap and look cheaper. The lack of storage space for front seat occupants is disappointing. Buick has done a fantastic job with the styling and performance aspect of this car. It looks and drives fantastic. If more focus was placed on quality and interior components, I would be fully satisfied. I'm glad I purchased the Regal, but I'm ready to get into something else. Update: 7/23/2016; 67,000 miles. The car continues to disappoint. I've now been through 6 sets of brake pads/rotors (it's a stick shift, I rarely brake hard).Despite the numerous issues I have experienced with this car, I have sought out and purchased another 2010 Milan. Although I owe too much on it to get rid of it, I am confident that the problems I have faced will not be repeated in my new car. It is unfortunate that I have had to deal with several tail light bulbs burning out, the check engine light being on, and the car trying to stall out upon every shift. However, I am pleased to report that these issues have been fixed, thanks to GM extending the warranty and covering the necessary repairs, including the exhaust gas sensor, cam sensor, and a couple of other miscellaneous issues. I have recently been approved for a personal loan to finance the negative equity and I am looking forward to selling this car. Despite my experience, I remain a loyal GM customer and look forward to future purchases.