2001 Buick Rendezvous problems

General information about Buick-Rendezvous
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

The Buick Rendezvous is a mid-size crossover SUV that was sold by Buick for the 2002–2007 model years. Introduced in the spring of 2001, the Buick Rendezvous and its corporate cousin, the Pontiac Aztek, were GM's first entries into the crossover SUV segment. The Rendezvous featured a four-speed automatic transmission with a V6 engine and optional all-wheel-drive (Versatrak). The SUV used the same platform as GM's short-wheelbase minivans, the Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana. The Rendezvous provided a passenger- and load-carrying capacity not seen in the Buick lineup since the discontinuation of the Buick Roadmaster Estate station wagon in 1996.

Technology and notable features

It was Buick's first truck in its lineup since 1923, and the Rendezvous was billed as a combination of the best attributes of a minivan (large cargo capacity, seating for up to seven), a luxury automobile (ride, handling, smoothness) and a sport utility vehicle (truck styling and available all wheel drive).

The Rendezvous was produced at General Motors' Ramos Arizpe, Mexico assembly plant, where it shared an assembly line with the Pontiac Aztek. Like the Pontiac Aztek, the Buick Rendezvous is based on a shortened version of GM's second generation U platform minivans. In lieu of four-wheel drive, the Rendezvous offered Versatrak, a full-time, fully automatic all-wheel drive system which provided sure-footed traction in inclement weather and could handle moderate off-road surfaces.

Buick benchmarked their Park Avenue sedan as the prototypical target for ride and handling for the Rendezvous. In order to provide a luxurious and responsive car-like ride, all Rendezvous came equipped with a fully independent rear suspension system regardless of optional content or trim level.

The Rendezvous' instrument cluster detailing featured teal illuminated needles and numbers set in a silver face accented by chrome trim rings that was meant to evoke the luxurious look and feel of an expensive watch or designer bracelet. On the uplevel CXL model, a driver information center on the instrument panel provided the outside temperature, compass functions, a trip computer that included readings of fuel economy, range and fuel used. An optional second generation heads-up display was also available. This was also available in the CX model. An optional tire inflation monitoring system provided readings of tire pressure and warned if out of the specified range.

The Rendezvous boasted the ability to carry seven passengers when equipped with a third-row bench, a class-leading feature that Buick brought to market before its competitors, and was able to carry within its interior a standard 4 x 8' sheet of plywood.

In support of the Rendezvous' intended role as a versatile accoutrement for busy people with families, it provided a center console with storage space and power points for a laptop computer as well as a separate spots to hold a purse, a cell phone, pager or other small items that the owner would want to keep organized and readily accessible as well as an optional rear cargo organizer system and rear seat stereo system controls with headsets.

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Common 2001 Buick Rendezvous problems

The Buick Rendezvous, introduced in 2001, has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the transmission and electrical systems.

Transmission issues are a significant concern for Rendezvous owners. Many owners have reported experiencing transmission problems around the 100,000-mile mark.

Another common problem with the Buick Rendezvous is related to the fuel gauge.

The electrical system in the Buick Rendezvous has also been reported to cause problems. Some owners have experienced internal and external lights shutting off even when the car is running, which poses a significant safety issue.

In addition to these issues, the Buick Rendezvous has been reported to have problems with the intake manifold gasket, which can cause coolant leaks and affect engine performance.

These common problems with the Buick Rendezvous have led to dissatisfaction among many owners, with some reporting significant repair costs and a general lack of reliability. However, the frequency and severity of the reported problems suggest that potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a Buick Rendezvous.

What is the most common problem with the Buick Rendezvous?

Why was the Buick Rendezvous discontinued?

The Rendezvous was later discontinued due to a drop in sales and replaced by the slightly larger Buick Enclave CUV which also replaced the Rainier and Terraza.

Are Buick Rendezvous good on gas?

EPA fuel economy estimates are a respectable 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway.

What was the last year Buick made the Rendezvous?

The Buick Rendezvous is a mid-size crossover SUV that was sold by Buick for the 2002–2007 model years.

What is the most common problem with the Buick Rendezvous?

Top Buick Rendezvous issues include erratic shifting, intake manifold leaks, worn gas caps, and fuel pump failure.

Is The Buick Rendezvous A Good Car?

Buick Rendezvous Ratings Overview

The average rating is a 3.8 out of 5 stars.

Why did Buick discontinue the Rendezvous?

From 2002 to 2006, it offered the option of front-wheel-drive or all-wheel drive. This was dropped for the final model year. The Rendezvous was later discontinued due to a drop in sales and replaced by the slightly larger Buick Enclave CUV which also replaced the Rainier and Terraza.

Is a 2003 Buick Rendezvous a good car?

Roomy, comfortable, reliable family vehicle!

Good gas mileage, roomy family vehicle, loaded with options, comfortable ride, easy maintenance, it will not disappoint.

2001 Buick Rendezvous car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Rendezvous problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Electrical system problems
Steering problems
Tires problems
Exterior lighting problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Buick Rendezvous vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2001 Buick Rendezvous complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Buick Rendezvous.

2015-07-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-07-13
VIN: 3G5DA03E72S
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: I WAS DRIVING WHEN THE LIGHTS ON PANEL WENT CRAZY, DOORS LOCKING BY THEMSELVES, AC LOCKED, RADIO LOCKED, AND THE SECURITY LIGHT WAS DISPLAYED. THE ENGINE STOPPED AND I DIN'T HAVE ANY CONTROL OVERTHE CAR, IT WAS A SCARY EXPERIENCE. I PULLED THE CAR OVER AND TRIED TO START IT UP AGAIN, BUT THE SECURITY LIGHT WAS FLASHING. I TRIED FOR ALMOST TEN MINUTES, BUT IT SEEMED LIKE IT WAS NO USE. I CALLED MY HUSBAND AND CAME BACK HOME, WE CAME BACK THE NEXT DAY AND TURNED IT ON AND THE CAR SEEMED OKAY AGAIN. I TRIED TO DRIVE IT TODAY, BUT WHEN I TRIED TO LEAVE THE DRIVE WAY IT STARTED ALL OVER AGAIN. I RESEARCHED THE PROBLEM, AND IT LOOKS LIKE I WASN'T THE ONLY OWNER OF THIS CAR TO HAVE THESE KIND OF PROBLEMS. I HAVE READ LOTS OF COMPLAINTS OF OWNERS OF THIS SAME CAR AND HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS. I BELIEVE THIS CAR NEEDS TO BE RECALLED, ITS NOT A NEW CAR BUT THESE PROBLEMS ARE A SAFETY HAZARD AND I BELIEVE THIS ELECTRICAL PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE RECALLED AND FIXED WITHOUT EXPENSES TO THE OWNER. WE CAN NOT WAIT FOR THIS PROBLEM TO KILL SOMEBODY IN AN ACCIDENT. THIS IS A FAMILY CAR AND I DON'T WANT MY FAMILY TO DIE OR GET SEVERELY INJURED WHILE USING IT.

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2004-11-30

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2004-08-10
Number Of Injuries: 1
Crash: 1
VIN: 3G5DB03E62S
Components: STEERING
Summary: THE POWER STEERING ASSIST CUT OFF INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING 0-55 MPH. *AK *SC

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2004-03-15

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: TIRES
Summary: WHILE DRIVING A NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHERE THE MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT FRONT RIGHT TIRE WAS THE CAUSE OF THE NOISE. NOISE CONTINUED. CONSUMER BOUGHT A NEW TIRE, WHICH DID NOT REMEDY THE PROBLEM. *AK

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2003-06-12

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: WHILE TRAVELING 60-70 MPH AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION HEADLIGHTS SHORTED OUT, CAUSING POOR VISIBILITY. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2001 Buick Rendezvous problems:

Common Buick Rendezvous Transmission Problems - Q&A

https://www.justanswer.com/buick/4899s-2004-buick-rendezvous-shifting-hard-jerks.html

Nov 16, 2010 ... There is a common issue in these transmission that results in a whine and the lurch, which is a harsh shifting. It is a sticking pressure ...

Buick Rendezvous Transmission and AWD Problems — Car Forums ...

https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/8584/buick/rendezvous/buick-rendezvous-transmission-and-awd-problems

Sep 17, 2007 ... This is perhaps one of the most common problems with this transmission. It has been a problem since the release in 1997 and can happen for no ...

Buick Rendezvous Problems and Complaints - 23 Issues

https://repairpal.com/problems/buick/rendezvous

Top Buick Rendezvous Problems · Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid Failure May Cause Erratic Shifting · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil.

2002 Buick Rendezvous Class Action? — Car Forums at Edmunds ...

https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/4943/buick/rendezvous/2002-buick-rendezvous-class-action

Mar 27, 2006 ... It turns out that GM has known about the problem for years. CTV obtained copies of four GM internal service bulletins -- from 2001 to 2004 -- ...