Buick Regal Common Problems

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners of the 2018 Buick Regal report issues with the service brakes, particularly involving excessive pressure needed to depress the brake pedal, which is often more pronounced when reversing. Some complaints are linked to recall number 22V465000, addressing the electronic brake assist system, with issues persisting even after recall repairs. Reported symptoms include firm brakes and trouble codes related to the brake control module, often occurring around 28,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with two incidents involving crashes, one resulting in an injury. Buyers should be aware of these potential brake system issues when considering this vehicle.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2019 Buick Regal frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the radio screen going black and the air conditioning system blowing on high despite being turned off. Some owners also describe a persistent "shift to park" warning even when the vehicle is in park, which can lead to battery drainage and starting difficulties. These issues often begin at low mileages, with some reports starting around 6,000 miles. Safety implications are noted in one complaint where the vehicle unexpectedly slowed down and stopped, displaying a "reduced engine power" message. These patterns suggest potential concerns for used car buyers regarding electrical reliability and associated inconveniences.

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2019 Buick Regal frequently report issues with the gear shifter, notably receiving a "Shift to Park" message even when the vehicle is in the park position. This issue is sometimes resolved by repeatedly shifting the gear back and forth, and in one case, a failed gear shifter unit and console were diagnosed as the cause, though the vehicle was not repaired. These complaints typically arise around 39,500 miles. Another reported issue involves the PCV system failure leading to oil leaks due to blown seals, with symptoms including a high-pitched squealing noise in cold weather. Safety implications are noted in terms of the vehicle's inability to fully power down, potentially draining the battery, and concerns about steering lock and accessory functionality.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2018 Buick Regal frequently report issues related to the vehicle's electrical system, specifically involving the check engine light and auto-engine-shutoff feature. Complaints describe the check engine light remaining persistently on, preventing emissions testing and causing delays or jolts when the vehicle restarts from a stop. Additionally, some owners experience the car shutting off and going into neutral at red lights, which resumes once the brake is pressed. Another common issue involves the gear shifter displaying a "Shift to Park" message, which prevents the car from turning off and can lead to battery drain, particularly noted around 50,000 miles. These issues present potential safety implications, such as increased stopping distances and risk of rear-end collisions due to unexpected engine behavior.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2019 Buick Regal report issues related to the vehicle's auto stop function and a recall concerning brake assist pressure. One owner describes unexpected activation of the auto stop feature after 600 miles of driving, which was not disclosed at purchase, causing confusion and concern when the engine shut off at a red light. Another owner highlights a recall for potential loss of vacuum-brake assist pressure, noting that a software fix is unavailable and expressing concern over increased stopping distances and lack of interim solutions or transportation support. These reports suggest potential safety implications, particularly in scenarios requiring reliable braking performance.

SUSPENSION

Owners of the 2019 Buick Regal report persistent suspension issues, with problems arising shortly after purchase and persisting despite multiple dealership visits. Common symptoms include negative effects on stability and ride quality, with one complaint noting unresolved issues despite replacement of suspension components. The issues are reported to occur within a mileage range of approximately 19,000 to 33,000 miles. Some owners express concerns about the safety implications of these unresolved suspension problems, though no specific incidents of crashes or loss of control are mentioned. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these recurring suspension complaints, especially when evaluating vehicles with similar mileage.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2018 Buick Regal report issues with vehicle speed control, including unintended acceleration and hesitation to accelerate. One complaint describes a crash occurring when the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated while the brake was applied, resulting in a collision with a pole at a drive-thru. Another complaint highlights hesitation in acceleration when attempting to merge into highway traffic after stopping. The mileage at which these incidents occur is reported at approximately 169 miles for the crash incident. These reports suggest potential safety implications, especially in situations requiring precise speed control.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2018 Buick Regal report issues with the reversing camera and the climate control system. The reversing camera intermittently loses its guide lines, which reappear when shifting from neutral back to reverse. This issue is noted to occur daily and is linked to vehicles with multiple safety features. Additionally, during cold weather, the climate control system reportedly throws moisture into the cabin, leading to significant visibility impairment, even when the defrost is on maximum. This problem has been reported to occur repeatedly since early 2020, with no resolution from service departments. These issues present potential safety concerns, particularly the visibility impairment while driving.