TireKick

Model-year record

2011 Buick Regal
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2011 Buick Regal

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

279

Reports to NHTSA, 2011

Safety recalls

4

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Not rated

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

23

EPA estimate

Known issues

Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (23% of 279 reports), followed by engine (21%).

Electrical System23% · 65 reports
Engine21% · 59 reports
Power Train13% · 35 reports
Exterior Lighting10% · 27 reports
Steering6% · 17 reports
Service Brakes6% · 16 reports
Unknown Or Other3% · 8 reports
Vehicle Speed Control3% · 7 reports

+ 14 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 279 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11473397, ODI 11425696, ODI 11081531, ODI 11048088, ODI 10897646.

Individual complaint reports(279)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Power TrainMay 2026 · ODI 11737701Details +

While driving on the highway at 60 mph, warning on dash came on saying “engine power reduced” and drop down speed to around 25 mph and I could not accelerate more than 25 mph on the highway which could have caused an accident because of the traffic flow behind me. I put a code scanner under the dash and it read code P2138, Throttle pedal position sensor switch.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737701 at NHTSA →
EngineOct 2025 · ODI 11692104Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11692104 at NHTSA →
StructureApr 2024 · ODI 11583341Details +

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

Reported
Apr 2024
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11583341 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2024 · ODI 11569550 · crashDetails +

I hit a deer going 60 mph and the airbag didn’t deploy, the service airbag light came on after I hit it. I’d assume that means the airbag tried to deploy but ran into an issue

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11569550 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingDec 2023 · ODI 11562312Details +

Driver side headlamp draws moisture, keeps blowing bulbs at 104.99 a pop. Water gets in the headlight assembly and shorts out the ballast. This happens even when driving down the road at random. It could be pitch black and suddenly you have no headlights and are forced to drive with only fog lamps

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11562312 at NHTSA →
Power TrainOct 2023 · ODI 11552406 · crashDetails +

I was parking in marked space. I had turned into space, my foot was off the gas pedal. The car was 3/4 into the space when it malfunctioned and rapidly accelerated into a hardened snow bank. i instantly braked but there was not enough space to avoid collision.

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Mar 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11552406 at NHTSA →
Power TrainOct 2023 · ODI 11552410Details +

When pulling into parking space the car rapidly accelerated on its' own and crashed into the car in the next parking space. I did not have my foot on the gas, the car was simply idling. The acceleration was so rapid that applying the brake was useless.

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11552410 at NHTSA →
Power TrainOct 2023 · ODI 11552417 · crashDetails +

Preparing to park into a parking space in an off street parking lot the vehicle forcefully and rapidly accelerated on its' own and crashed into a fence. I was not accelerating. I attempted to stop the car using the brakes but they did not engage quickly enough to stop the rapid, forceful, and without warning acceleration. Buick has been contacted about the defect. Buick ran extensive diagnostics on the car and denies there is a defect. Police came to the scene and advised that given the 2 other incidents that I have experienced, the car is unsafe to drive given potential damage to others. A police report was filed.

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Sep 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11552417 at NHTSA →
SuspensionOct 2023 · ODI 11551524Details +

The subframe rotted into rusted into

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11551524 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2023 · ODI 11526448Details +

The two systems that failed are the airbag release on the front passenger side and the stabilitrak system. Both systems show error lights on the dash. The front seat passenger does not have airbag protection. The stabilitrak system error light appears intermittently and when the traction system goes off the car brakes almost stop the car while driving. We go to Royal Buick in Tucson, Arizona. We worked with Germaine Kendrick. I've attached the dealer service invoice dated April 14, 2023. The invoice summarized the problem and stated that 1) a new seatbelt assesmbly is needed and 2) the service technician states that they can not replicate or repair the traction problems. Today is June 11, 2023. We are still waiting for the seatbelt assembly to "arrive". There is no solution for the traction system. We have phoned and texted 4 times. The most recent conversation on June 5th with "Chris" was interesting; Chris stated that the seatbelt part was NEVER ORDERED and furthermore, is not needed to repair the airbag warning light problem.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11526448 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMar 2023 · ODI 11514265Details +

Condensation gets into headlight assembly and shorts out HID headlight. Issue occurred with drivers and passenger headlights. Car will not have headlights because of short. Thus causing a safety issue.

Reported
Mar 2023
Incident date
Nov 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11514265 at NHTSA →
SuspensionFeb 2023 · ODI 11507125Details +

Front subframe rotted out where my control arm connects. Cannot safetly drive. There should be a recall on this part. There isnt one so now im stuck paying to fix it. Rear coil spring cracked, cannot fix due to recall of all gm coil spring. Cannot buy new part to fix it.

Reported
Feb 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11507125 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingDec 2022 · ODI 11496846Details +

Moisture has been collecting in both headlight assemblies for the past 3 years, whenever the car is outside or driven in the rain. Recently, this caused both high/low beam headlights to burn out. Replacing the bulbs is not enough, as the bulbs immediately burn out/smoke and blow out because of the water accumulation. On the driver side headlight, there was actually standing water in the headlight assembly that came pouring out when the cover was removed to replace the bulb. Dealership says both headlight assemblies must be replaced entirely to resolve the issue, due to corrosion. The vehicle has never been in an accident (there are NO cracks from collision, etc.). This appears to be a manufacturing defect or an issue with seal. This is a crazy expensive repair, to have to have the entire headlights replaced on the vehicle, on both sides, because they are not properly sealed/allow condensation and accumulation of water to take place. Can GM please cover the cost of this? Otherwise, this might be the last GM car I ever buy... This is also a major safety issue, as one must have working headlamps. Without an entirely new headlight assembly on each side, the lightbulbs, when replaced, burn out unexpectedly almost immediately, within weeks of replacement.

Reported
Dec 2022
Incident date
Sep 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11496846 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2022 · ODI 11486277Details +

After heavy rain in mid-September 2022, both headlights just stopped working. The dashboard will usually display a warning or pop up symbol that something is not working, but I had no warning and got pulled over driving at dusk with no headlights. There has been been other issues with this vehicle too! The other issues include: Bluetooth connection not working at all, the transmission has “jerking” issues while changing gears and the engine revving too high while only going 30mph while driving in suburban Massachusetts. The car has less than 70k miles, these issues should not be happening. The main issue is the headlights, considering they cost around $200/ea and just stopped working with no notice.

Reported
Sep 2022
Incident date
Sep 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11486277 at NHTSA →
SuspensionAug 2022 · ODI 11479283Details +

Driving 50km per hr, went over railway crossing, then the car became unstable, rear felt loose as if it was drifting. Stopped the car had a look under the cars driver side rear end, and noticed the bar connecting tire the rest of vehicle was fractured, don't know the exact name of it. The car only has a out 145000 km on it. I live in Canada. The consumer has stated that the rear tow link was the part that was broken.

Reported
Aug 2022
Incident date
Aug 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11479283 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2022 · ODI 11473397 · fire · 1 injuriesDetails +

I was driving on a back road when my car started smoking and blazed up on passenger side headlights an I see were people have been saying this was seriously fire issue now I'm out of work no car and I was only owner fa 5 months

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire 1 injuries
Open ODI 11473397 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJul 2022 · ODI 11472013Details +

Headlight assembly case on both passenger and driver side fills with condensation and then causes headlight bulb and/or ballast to burnout ,this also could cause a fire

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11472013 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlJul 2022 · ODI 11472020Details +

MIL Lamp is illuminated and cannot be turned off or reset. The code displayed on the scanner is for P2138 "Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D/E Voltage Correlation." There is also a "Reduced Engine Power" message on the dashboard. Available for inspection upon request. My safety was put at risk before the vehicle was serviced because the car shut down in the middle of the street with cars behind me. I called a certified mechanic to successfully service the vehicle and he cleared the code. My safety was put at risk again after the car was serviced because the code came back on as I was driving on the highway. Car lost power and speed and as I tried to get the car pulled over with emergency lights on, I was almost hit from behind by 2 other drivers. Problem can be reproduced within 10 minutes. Per the mechanic's request, I am taking my car to a Buick Century GMC dealership on 7/16 @ 12 PM to be serviced. Warning symptoms before code came on happened especially during times of rainfall. Car hesitated to pick up speed. Overconsumption of gas resulting in decreased mileage.

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jun 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11472020 at NHTSA →
SuspensionMay 2022 · ODI 11466219Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 25 MPH, there was a squeaking noise coming from the wheels and the vehicle was driving very loosely. The contact noticed that the lower control arm in the rear of the vehicle was fractured. The contact was a certified mechanic and diagnosed that the rear suspension needed to be replaced. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 180,000.

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
May 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11466219 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMar 2022 · ODI 11459007Details +

2011 Buick Regal 2.0 CXL. The brake pedal is sticking, causing the rotors to heat up and wear out. There are numerous complaints from others online detailing the dangerous situations this has caused. And numerous complaints about getting the brake system replaced and the same problem still existing. There should have been a recall. Unknown to me, until I received the new title in my name, this particular car was branded a "Lemon" in 2014.

Reported
Mar 2022
Incident date
Jan 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11459007 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJan 2022 · ODI 11449087Details +

In July of 2018, the brake pedal started to stick in the "on" position. The car was not driveable once the brakes stuck. It seemed to be associated with very hot weather. I replaced the entire brake pedal assembly with a factory brake pedal assembly. Now, in January of 2022, the replacement assembly is starting to bind. This appears to be a defective part. There are many postings on the internet about this problem. It is a safety defect because it involves the vehicle's brakes and the car is not driveable when the pedal sticks.

Reported
Jan 2022
Incident date
Jan 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11449087 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingNov 2021 · ODI 11442162Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions the headlights became inoperable. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed the contact that the wiring in the bumper was hot at the base. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where the engine was diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported
Nov 2021
Incident date
Jan 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11442162 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingSep 2021 · ODI 11432732Details +

Drivers side lightbulb has been changed multiple times. Noticeable condensation in light itself. Driving at night and lights went out completely. Had to drive with only fog lights on. Issue happens sporadically and without warning so it is hard to address.

Reported
Sep 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11432732 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2021 · ODI 11431948Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH and accelerating to enter the highway, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the traction, stability, and engine power reduced warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated she was able to park on the side of the road for 30 minutes before continuing to drive to her destination. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer however, the mechanic was unable to diagnose the cause of the failure. The contact also stated that she was unable to open the doors due to the battery not charging. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Reported
Sep 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11431948 at NHTSA →
Power TrainSep 2021 · ODI 11431639Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH, the vehicle shut off without warning. The vehicle was able to be restarted but continued to experience the same symptoms. The contact stated no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the transmission replaced. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 69,000.

Reported
Sep 2021
Incident date
Aug 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11431639 at NHTSA →
SuspensionAug 2021 · ODI 11430995Details +

Broken left side rear lateral toe link causing severe vehicle stability issue. Subsequent inspection of right side shows initial crack in same area.

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
Aug 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11430995 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2021 · ODI 11429080Details +

When I shift the car from park to drive it does a VERY HARD jerk. And vehicle has no codes on dash or anything

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
Aug 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11429080 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJul 2021 · ODI 11425694Details +

The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated that after a rainstorm, moisture entered the driver’s side headlight housing causing the bulb to blow. The contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V484000 (Exterior Lighting) which he linked to the failure however, the Vin was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11425694 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2021 · ODI 11425696 · fireDetails +

While the vehicle was driving, there was a loss of power, at that moment sparks was seen emanating from under the hood, then the vehicle completely stopped running. Once pulled over smoke was bellowing out from the hood and subsequently ignited into flames. Fire department was dispatched and fire was extinguished. The vehicle was towed away and is still at the tow yard. The tow operator, based on visual inspection stated the fire did start in the engine compartment and spread to the fire wall, totaling the vehicle.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 11425696 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2021 · ODI 11423963Details +

The engine shuts off when I slow down to make a left turn,this has happened twice. It does start again. I am afraid to drive it know.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11423963 at NHTSA →
SteeringJul 2021 · ODI 11423038Details +

ISSUE: BRAKE PEDAL WILL STIFFEN AND SLOW THE CAR DOWN. THE STEERING WHEEL COLUMN WILL VIOLENTLY SHAKE, AS IF THE CALIPERS ARE STUCK. ONCE PARKED, WHEELS ARE HOT AND OMITS A BURNING SMELL. NARRATIVE: After the car is sitting in the sun, while driving in slow traffic the car is running rough, steering wheel starts shaking back and forth, the brakes start making noise when you stop. When accelerated there is grinding noise and dash light comes on. I pulled to the side of the road and turned off the car for five minutes, I start the car and it runs as normal. This was happening for a few weeks. I had the brakes replaced on 05/19/21 (I paid $737.66 for the brake job). I drove the car for a couple of weeks and brakes seized. I had to have the car towed back to shop (costing me $135.63) and the shop quoted brake pedal replacement. At that point I took the car to the Everett, WA, Clyde Revord Buick Dealership and they replaced the modular for the brake (part # 22997391) and it was expenive because it required removing the dash board and a lot of labor time (costing me another $1347.31). I feel this is a safety hazaard as my brakes could have seized or a fire could have broke out while I was driving on the freeway. Fortunately, the brakes seized in a parking lot. I did some research on this topic and see that it is a common flaw for this make and model and should be covered by the manufacturer as a recall before someone gets killed.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11423038 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2021 · ODI 11423039Details +

Front headlamp burned out due to moisture in the assembly. There is an issue with the ballast in the headlamp assembly for the turbo model. The seal may be faulty due to the headlamp shorting out except for the daytime running lights. I realized that it had malfunctioned and there was moisture in the assembly itself. My repair shop quoted $1500.00 for the repair/replacement as the whole assebly needs to be replaced. This is definitely a safety hazard and a common one for this make and model. This should be a recall due to the faulty headlamp assembly.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11423039 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJul 2021 · ODI 11423111Details +

The vehicle exhibited what appeared to be sticking brakes after driving in extreme heat and humidity in Southwest Florida. I have taken the vehicle to Family Auto Service Cenber, 4570 Samuel St., Sarasota, FL 34233, Phone: (941) 925-4889. I was advised by Ray, the owner, that the brake pedal assembly was in danger of becoming unttached thereby making braking impossible and an obvious safety hazard. He stated that it was covered in TSB 5692D. Total loss of the abilibty to stop the car is possible with this defect.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11423111 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2021 · ODI 11422078Details +

The car doesn’t stay on park still will move forward or backwards The gear shift locks and does not move When I turn it makes a huge clack sound

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11422078 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMay 2021 · ODI 11416738Details +

DURING PERIODS OF HIGH HEAT (AND ONLY HIGH HEAT) AFTER BEING PARKED IN THE SUN, WHEN THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, THE BRAKE PEDAL WILL STIFFEN AND SLOW THE CAR DOWN. THE STEERING WHEEL COLUMN WILL VIOLENTLY SHAKE, AS IF THE CALIPERS ARE STUCK. ONCE PARKED, ALL FOUR WHEELS ARE HOT AND OMITS A BURNING SMELL. I HAVE REPLACED TWO TIRES, 2 FRONT CALIPERS, FRONT BRAKE PADS, ALL HOSES AND FRONT ROTORS TO NO AVAIL. BRAKE BOOSTER AND MASTER CYLINDER HAVE BEEN CHECKED AND ARE NOT THE ISSUE. ALL POSSIBLE ISSUES HAVE BEEN ADDRESSED WITHIN THE LAST 8 WEEKS. FRIDAY (05/14/21) THE SAME ISSUE HAPPENED AGAIN. I AM AT MY WITS END TRYING TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE.

Reported
May 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11416738 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2021 · ODI 11415583Details +

THE OIL CONSUMPTION IN THE CAR IS HORRIBLE, I HAVE TO ATLEAT ADD OIL IN MY CAR ABOUT 5 TIME IN BETWEEN OIL CHANGES, AND MY OIL CHANGES ARE DONE REGULARLY, IVE ALSO HAVE THE ISSUE OF MY OIL AND GAS MIXING, I DID TAKE IT TO THE SHOP ONCE AND THEY FIXED A RECALL THAT WAS INVOLVED WITH HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP, BUT IM GUESSING THEY DIDNT FIX THE ISSUE ONCE THAT REPAIR WAS DONE LIKE THEY SAID IT WOULD.

Reported
May 2021
Incident date
Jan 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11415583 at NHTSA →
SteeringMay 2021 · ODI 11415354Details +

I AM HAVING A BRAKING PROBLEM WITH MY 2011 REGAL CLX TURBO. MY BRAKES DO NOT SEEM TO BE RELEASING WHEN THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING OUTSIDE AND THE TEMPERATURE IS HIGH. STEERING WHEEL SHAKES WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES AND EVEN WHEN THE BRAKES ARE RELEASED. THE BRAKE PEDAL AND OR PARKING BRAKE DOES NOT DISENGAGING ON THE BUICK REGAL 2011.

Reported
May 2021
Incident date
Apr 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11415354 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2021 · ODI 11407731Details +

BURNING OIL ON A 2.4L EQUINOX ENGINE

Reported
Apr 2021
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11407731 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlJan 2021 · ODI 11386220Details +

ENGINES STARTED TO PUTTER. THEN ENGINE POWER REDUCED CAME ON. CAR DIED THEN THE SERVICE STABILITRAK CAME ON

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Jan 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11386220 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2020 · ODI 11385294Details +

HEADLIGHT KEEPS BURNING OUT. IT HAS BEEN REPLACED 5 TIMES ALSO DRIVER SEAT HEATING WORKS FOR 1 MIN AND TURNS OFF

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Dec 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11385294 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingDec 2020 · ODI 11377514Details +

FAULTY HEADLAMP ALLOWING WATER TO ACCUMULATE AND SHORT OUT BALLAST. THIS IS A $1300 PART THAT SHOULD NOT BE GOING OUT LIKE THIS.

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11377514 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2020 · ODI 11377135Details +

WHEN DRIVING TO THE GROCERY STORE ONE DAY THE CAR WASN'T ACCELERATING PROPERLY. WHEN O LEAVE THE STORE THE CAR WON'T MOVE WHEN IN REVERSE, THE ENGINE WILL REV BUT NO MOVEMENT. GOT THE DIAGNOSTIC DONE AND WITH LESS THEN 59000 MILES MY TRANSMISSION FAILED.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11377135 at NHTSA →
EngineOct 2020 · ODI 11366343Details +

ENGINE TIMING FAILURE DUE TO FAULTY CHAIN TENSIONER AT 81000 MILES (2/15/2020) ENGINE CONSUMES EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF OIL BETWEEN CHANGES

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11366343 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2020 · ODI 11355327 · 1 injuriesDetails +

VEHICLE HAS SERIOUS OIL CONSUMPTION ISSUES. WILL BURN AS MUCH AS 3 OR MORE QUARTS IN 1000 MILES OR LESS. WAS NOTIFIED BY CHEVROLET MECHANIC THAT SOME OIL CONSUMPTION WAS NORMAL, BUT THAT IF THE CONSUMPTION WAS EXCESSIVE THAT I WOULD HAVE TO PAY UP TO $3500 OR MORE TO FIX THE CAR. THERE ISN'T A RECALL OUT ON THIS MAKE AND MODEL, BUT ALL CARS EQUIPPED WITH THIS 2.4L ECOTECH ENGINE HAD THE SAME ISSUES FROM THE RESEARCH I CONDUCTED. THE MECHANIC I TALKED TO SAID THAT THIS WAS A KNOWN ISSUE DUE TO A DEFECT IN THE PISTON RINGS ALLOWING OIL TO REACH THE COMBUSTION CHAMBER. SOMETIMES EVEN THE FUMES COME INTO THE CAR AND THEY ARE PRETTY HARSH TO BREATHE IN.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
1 injuries
Open ODI 11355327 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2020 · ODI 11352566Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMALLY STRONG ODOR IN THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CALLED JOHN HIESTER CHEVROLET LOCATED AT 3100 N MAIN ST, FUQUAY-VARINA, NC 27526, (919) 552-4944, TO NOTIFY THE DEALER OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF TSB 99-01-39-004G WHICH WAS RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.*DT *AS

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Sep 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11352566 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2020 · ODI 11350116Details +

VEHICLE DIES IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING AT ALL SPEEDS AND CAN'T STEER OR BRAKE ONLY PRAY. ALSO, I TURNED VEHICLE OFF AND WON'T RESTART TOWER TO SERVICE CENTER THEY SAID I NEED NEW ENGINE!!!! I WAS JUST DRIVING IT NO SMOKE NO SMELL JUST WON'T START HE SAID NO OIL IN ENGINE EVEN THOUGH NOT SCHEDULED FOR A OIL CHANGE YET. RADIO WON'T KEEP DATE OR TIME OR RADIO STATIONS!

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11350116 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2020 · ODI 11341223Details +

I NOTICED THAT THE CAR WAS RESISTING ACCELERATION A LITTLE BIT, HAVE 48,545 MILES ON IT AND TOOK IT FOR OIL CHANGE WITH FUEL INJECTION CLEANER AND FULL TANK OF GOOD GAS. GOT ON HIGHWAY AND THE ACCELERATION DIED COMPLETELY AND NO GAS WAS GETTING THROUGH, LIKE FLOORING IT IN NEUTRAL. PULLED OFF THE SIDE AND IT RESTARTED BUT CONTINUED DYING ALONG THE WAY IF I TRY TO ACCELERATE.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11341223 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2020 · ODI 11339641Details +

TIMING CHAIN DAMAGED ENGINE

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11339641 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2020 · ODI 11339793Details +

DRIVING MY CAR AT AROUND 30MPH, THE CAR COMPLETELY SHUTS OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THERE IS NO SHUTTER OR SOUND. IT IS JUST SUDDENLY COMPLETELY TURNED OFF. NO BRAKES. NO POWER STEERING. NO GAS. YOU MUST PULL THE CAR OVER. COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. PUT THE CAR IN PARK. TURN THE KEY COMPLETELY OFF, AND THEN THE CAR WILL RESTART ALMOST EVERY TIME. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME 5 TIMES IN THE 9 YEARS THAT I HAVE OWNED IT. BUT IT HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN THE LAST 3 DAYS. NO MECHANIC NOR THE DEALER CAN IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM. I HAVE REPLACED THE SERPENTINE BELT TWICE, AND THE THROTTLE BODY/THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11339793 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2020 · ODI 11338369Details +

UPON BRINGING MY CAR IN FOR A P10011 CODE (THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON), THE DEALERSHIP STATED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN ON MY CAR WAS STRETCHED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. IT COST OVER $1900 TO FIX.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Mar 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11338369 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(4)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Electrical SystemJul 2016 · 16V517000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011 Buick Regal vehicles manufactured November 3, 2009, to March 25, 2011, equipped with 8-way power adjustable front seats. The power seat wiring harness may contact the seat frame, causing the wires to chafe.

Risk: Chafed harness wires may cause a short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and secure the wiring harness, and repair any chafed wires as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 13, 2017. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is 30710.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Electrical SystemMay 2016 · 16V502000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."

Risk: If the key is removed without the transmission in PARK, the vehicle may rollaway as occupants are exiting, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing, free of charge. The recall began on October 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 50490 and 50491.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Exterior LightingApr 2012 · 12V484000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Buick Regal and model year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with two turn signal bulbs in each front turn signal. If one of the two front turn signal bulbs burn out in either front turn signal lamp, there is no indication to the driver. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: If the driver is not aware that a turn signal is not functioning properly, the driver may continue to drive the vehicle. If half of a front turn signal is not illuminating, other driver's may not be aware that the affected vehicle is turning, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Buick at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 12212.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Seats · 14V447000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Buick LaCrosse, Regal and Chevrolet Camaro, as well as certain 2010-2012 Cadillac SRX, Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles, equipped with power height adjustable driver and passenger seats. In the affected vehicles, the bolt that secures the driver's and passenger's power front seat height adjuster may fall out causing the seat to drop suddenly to the lowest vertical position.

Risk: If the driver's seat unexpectedly drops, the distraction and altered seat position may affect the drivers' control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the height adjuster shoulder bolts, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed interim letters to owners on September 11, 2014. The recall began on December 26, 2014. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), or 1-800-462-8782 (GMC). GM's number for this recall is 14271.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2011 Buick Regal 4 DR FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover
Not rated

2011 Buick Regal 4 DR AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover
Not rated

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Regal2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive203124
Regal2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive193023
Regal2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive182821

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2011 Buick Regal: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2011 Buick Regal?

Owners filed 279 NHTSA complaints about the 2011 Buick Regal. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2011 Buick Regal?

The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (23% of complaints) and engine (21%).

How many recalls does the 2011 Buick Regal have?

4 recalls have been issued that affect the 2011 Buick Regal, covering components such as electrical system. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2011 Buick Regal get?

The EPA rates the 2011 Buick Regal between 21 and 24 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.