2005 Buick Rainier problems
Owners have filed 158 complaints about the 2005 Buick Rainier with NHTSA. Electrical system accounts for 24.1% of them — the clear leader, ahead of fuel system, gasoline at 12.7%.
Complaints158
Crashes14
Fires9
Injuries6
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Electrical system 24.1% · 38
Fuel system, gasoline 12.7% · 20
Exterior lighting 9.5% · 15
Service brakes, hydraulic 5.1% · 8
Suspension 5.1% · 8
Air bags 4.4% · 7
Vehicle speed control 4.4% · 7
Fuel system, other 3.8% · 6
Severity
Of those complaints, 14 describe a crash, 9 describe a fire and 6 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 3 model years of the Buick Rainier in this data, 2005 ranks 2nd by complaint volume — 2004 draws the most.
Filings have fallen off, 9 in the last three years against 19 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 68,500 miles.
In owners' own words
The contact owns a 2005 Buick rainer. The contact stated that the driver side window panel failed to operate. Also, the contact stated that there was a burning odor inside the vehicle. The failure recurred multiple times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 109,000. Electrical system · reported at 109,000 miles
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. Electrical system · reported at 146,000 miles
Speedometer did not register correct speed, at times would read going over 100mph when going 40mph. When car stopped would register still a speed such as 30mph. Would be out for a few days and then start working again. Continued to keep this pattern for few years. Dealer wanted to replace with rebuilt instrument panel for approximately $500. No longer have car. Electrical system
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…