TireKick

Model-year record

2016 Buick Regal
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2016 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

41

Reports to NHTSA, 2016

Safety recalls

1

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

24

EPA estimate

Known issues

Steering issues lead owner complaints (24% of 41 reports), followed by electrical system (12%).

Steering24% · 10 reports
Electrical System12% · 5 reports
Exterior Lighting12% · 5 reports
Power Train10% · 4 reports
Vehicle Speed Control10% · 4 reports
Unknown Or Other7% · 3 reports
Visibility/Wiper7% · 3 reports
Structure5% · 2 reports

+ 5 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 41 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11642262, ODI 11589081, ODI 11525979, ODI 11490603, ODI 11488300.

Individual complaint reports(41)

Showing the 41 most recent reports
Vehicle Speed ControlJun 2025 · ODI 11667836Details +

My Buick stops when driving unknown when it’s a surprise lights and dash go off almost got hit took to mechanics it’s the 2016-17 “throw away motor” ad they call it does not last and gets”metal pieces” to ruin motor and turbo as I have noticed speed issues and dying unexpectedly it’s the regal turbo 2.0 v-6 motor a should be recall I’ve seen online since at mechanic and a large issue why no recall and I’m reporting this ty

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11667836 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2025 · ODI 11642262Details +

My steering failed and started pulling left into traffic. It was hard to keep it in my lane. Had to have it towed by AAA. Took to my mechanic and he said it was the electric belt drive rack &pinion steering. He told me there was a recall on it. When I checked I was told that my vin # was not included. I think it should have been because its the same problem.it is not safe to drive.

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11642262 at NHTSA →
TiresSep 2024 · ODI 11616371Details +

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)

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11616371 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2024 · ODI 11589503Details +

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.

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
Dec 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11589503 at NHTSA →
SteeringMay 2024 · ODI 11589081Details +

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.

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
May 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11589081 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingApr 2024 · ODI 11585149Details +

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.

Reported
Apr 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11585149 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingAug 2023 · ODI 11535982Details +

My head lamps have water in them, and is making my lights too dim to

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11535982 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2023 · ODI 11525979Details +

The contact owns a 2016 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed during rainy weather, and making a left or right turn, the steering wheel intermittently made a grinding and clicking sound. No warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V108000 (Steering). The vehicle was then taken to another dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was advised to call the manufacturer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was advised to call the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11525979 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJan 2023 · ODI 11504363Details +

The contact owns a 2016 Buick Regal. The contact stated that condensation and moisture was present inside the front headlight assemblies, which caused the headlight illumination to be diminished and created a visibility hazard while driving at night. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the front headlight assemblies were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 90,000.

Reported
Jan 2023
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11504363 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2022 · ODI 11498318Details +

Condensation on passenger headlight. (80%) Just noticed condensation on driver side (15%)

Reported
Dec 2022
Incident date
Jun 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11498318 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2022 · ODI 11490603Details +

While driving down the highway at 60 mph with myself my husband and my 7 year old son my steering wheel locked up and then jolted very hard to the left. Got the car pulled to side of the road the power assist warning started flashing this all happened Saturday October 22, 2022. It had never happened before turned the car off and checked fluids they were filled to where they needed to be started the car it was just fine. This morning on October 24 2022 my husband headed to work driving 55 and again the steering wheel locked and power steering assist appeared. I have not gotten this checked but very scared to drive with my son in the car as this could cause a very bad accident and no other problems with the car. I called Buick October 25, 2022 they said this model did have a recall but my VIN number was not one included in the power steering assist recall.

Reported
Oct 2022
Incident date
Oct 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11490603 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2022 · ODI 11488300Details +

Driving on the highway and abs, stabltrack and steering lights came on. This is the third time in 2 years that a wheel bearing failed on this vehicle. A magnet ring in the wheel bearing that sensors wheel speed failed and fractured causing a loss of power steering, abs, and traction control.

Reported
Oct 2022
Incident date
Oct 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11488300 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMay 2022 · ODI 11464402Details +

I was driving down the highway at 75 mph with my kids in the car and the vacuum pump for the brakes went out which caused my brake pedal to seize up and car brakes would not work while in traffic. I was barely able to get off the highway and get the car to stop. This issue with the pump failing also put debris into the motor and caused motor failure. There was no warning lights on the dash and car was running normal and then all the sudden no brakes out of nowhere. Car is now in a mechanic garage to be fixed. This issue put not only my life and my childrens lives in GREAT danger but also the drivers around me. GM currently has a massive recall for this same issue on other models but my Buick regal is not on the list.

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
May 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11464402 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2022 · ODI 11464140Details +

My car continues to run on battery. I’ve had the battery and alternator replaced

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11464140 at NHTSA →
SteeringApr 2022 · ODI 11460383Details +

The contact owns a 2016 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized while turning the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle experienced a loss of motive power. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V108000 (Steering) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Mar 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11460383 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2022 · ODI 11450421Details +

The steering wheel locks up during turning making it difficult to control the vehicle during turn-this presented a major safety risk. The vehicle was taken to a Buick dealer service on two occasions. The dealer was not able to duplicate the issue. On the first occasion an error code of B101E was noted during diagnosis system check. (Service write-up attached) The same issue represented and is currently being serviced, though technical noted he was unable to reproduce the problem. Mileage when problem first noted was 59,418

Reported
Feb 2022
Incident date
Feb 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11450421 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2022 · ODI 11449512Details +

When using adaptive cruise control, this vehicle will allow you to get close to the vehicle in front of you and aggressively apply brakes which throws you forward. The dealer has looked at this vehicle several times for this issue, changed several sensors but the problem still still exists. Because of this issue I cannot use my Adaptive Cruise Control.

Reported
Jan 2022
Incident date
Apr 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11449512 at NHTSA →
StructureJan 2022 · ODI 11449516 · 1 injuriesDetails +

Interior Chrome Driver Door Handle: The chrome film splits which caused a sharp edge on the edge of the chrome film of the door handle. I cut the edge of my finger on this sharp edge. When I took my vehicle in to have this handle replaced, I had to purchase the entire Driver's Side Door Panel just to get the handle. When speaking to my Service Rep, he informed me of another elderly customer that also cut their finger on their door handle.

Reported
Jan 2022
Incident date
Dec 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
1 injuries
Open ODI 11449516 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingDec 2021 · ODI 11442752Details +

Water leaking into both front headlights results in dimming of headlights making it hard to see during nighttime driving and a real concern that the HID ballast wiring will short out causing complete loss of headlight operational function. There are many reports online of customers complaining that their HID headlights blew out due to water leakage and they were unable to see properly during nighttime driving. This is huge safety issue. Dealer Confirmed fault with both front headlight assemblies and verified significant water leakage into headlight assemblies. Customer called GM customer service where issue was escalated to senior advisor. Senior advisor was unable to offer any cost assistance to customer despite significant safety concerns, due to vehicle age of 5 years and 2 months. Total cost approximately $2300.

Reported
Dec 2021
Incident date
Nov 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11442752 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingOct 2021 · ODI 11436396Details +

The contact owns a 2016 Buick Regal. The contact stated that moisture had entered the vehicle's headlight module which caused the headlights to dim while in operation. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer where he was given three options on how to repair the vehicle, all three options included him paying out of pocket for the repair which he declined. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure but the contact had yet to receive a callback. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 25,700.

Reported
Oct 2021
Incident date
Sep 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11436396 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2021 · ODI 11430409Details +

We purchased this vehicle in May 2016 and from the beginning had strange issues with the engine. It was in and out of the dealer with them trying to figure out the exact problem. They could not, so they contacted GM for approval for an engine replacement. We were concerned about going this route but were assured it would be taken care of for the life of the car. After the replacement in July 2016, the car seemed to be better but other weird issues arose. The engine always made a squealing noise that we were told was fine. We have done all required maintenance, recalls, and regular service. For the past 2 months, the car has had strange shifting issues. It was taken in to be looked at and nothing was found. The transmission received its' routine maintenance on schedule. It still was a problem and we were told to drive it until a code appeared. The car got progressively worse and had great difficulty shifting, which had us involved in a few close calls. Took it to a different dealer that also didn't find a problem. They said since there was no code, but seemed transmission related, they would drain it and replace the fluid. This also didn't work. We continued to drive the car and almost ended up stranded in the middle of the night while driving the freeway. The car became almost uncontrollable. We made it home. But, the following day while driving it to work, the car was jerking, stalled, and then lost the capability of reverse and neutral. We had to have it towed and a new transmission put in. We were told by the dealer that there was an explosion in the transmission, and we were lucky we were somewhere safe when the car died. It's very frustrating paying for a vehicle that didn't seem right from the beginning. We have put well over $6,500 in trying to repair a car that seems like it was never right in the first place. We have been fortunate that neither of us, or any of our children, have been hurt considering the major issues with our car.

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11430409 at NHTSA →
SteeringJul 2021 · ODI 11424096Details +

I was driving and all of a sudden my power steering light came on telling me to drive with care. The wheel tightened up within seconds my abs lights on, no all wheel drive, stabilize for tracation went off. All safety equipment went hairwired. We looked up the part and found out that there was a recall on the steering power prior however everyone is telling us not for our car. I only had it for less than 3 years. The car was manufactured in Sept of 2015 which was part of the recall but they said it wasn't the style car. I had to have it towed back home. This seems like a serious problem for this vehicle and GM should fix this problem before someone gets hurt or worse.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11424096 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2021 · ODI 11420126Details +

Drive with care service power steering

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Apr 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11420126 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2021 · ODI 11419524Details +

I purchased the buick regal new in Feb 2016. After about two years, it skid on a perfect road surface in a perfect weather, the traction control light and the engine light came on, but disappeared after 30 seconds or so. The problem was scary enough that I brought the car to a neighborhood dealership to see if there was any safety recall for that issue. There was none. The replaced a sensor or something to fix the problem. It has not happened again until two weeks ago. Exactly the same thing happened, skid briefly on a perfect road surface in a perfect weather condition, skid light and the engine light came on, but disappeared after a minute. I brought back the car to the dealership and asked them find the original record for fixing the problem. But, they insisted it was not the same issue, this time it was my old tires that caused the problem. I got all my tires and brakes replaced, but still experienced the same problem. Given severity of the safety hazard, now I am afraid to drive the car. I could easily been in an accident if there were more cars around during either of the skidding incidents. I am surprised there was no report from other car owners. I could not be the only one experienced this problem. Very serious safety hazard for sure.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11419524 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2021 · ODI 11414614Details +

ENGINE HAS A DEFECT THAT CAUSES A PIECE OF THE ENGINE TO BREAK OFF AND END UP IN THE OIL LINES, ENDS UP IN OIL PAN. THIS DEFECT CAUSES THE ENGINE TO FREEZE AND OWNER MUST REPLACE THE ENGINE. MY VEHICLE ONLY HAD 50K MILES AND I AM UNABLE TO DRIVE IT. I NOW NEED A BRAND NEW ENGINE AND BUICK KNOWS ABOUT DEFECT BUT WON'T ISSUE RECALL OR FIX THE DEFECT. I WAS DRIVING ON HIGHWAY WHEN ENGINE SHUT DOWN

Reported
Apr 2021
Incident date
Apr 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11414614 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlMar 2021 · ODI 11405282Details +

WHEN ACCELERATING THE VEHICLE AFTER COMING TO A STOP OR SLOWING DOWN STUMBLING/STUTTERING OCCURRED ALONG WITH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMING ON AND THE STABILITRAK/ TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT. CONTINUED ON INTO THE NEXT DAY WITH THE SAME PROBLEMS EXCEPT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TURNED OFF AND CAME BACK ON WITH AN OIL LIGHT. WAITING ON DEALERSHIP TO INSPECT. DEALERSHIP MENTIONED MULTIPLE CARS THERE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM.

Reported
Mar 2021
Incident date
Mar 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11405282 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlJan 2021 · ODI 11389053Details +

OUT OF KNOW WHERE MY BREAKING SYSTEM JUST DECIDED TO STOP MY AUTOMOBILE. I HAD BROUGHT MY CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP PROXIMALLY 10 TIMES AND IT STARTED ABOUT A MONTH AFTER I PURCHASED IT FOR THE SAME PROBLEMS. MY NEW ABS SYSTEM MAKES A LOUD NOISE ONCE IT DECIDES TO GO ON. I KNOW THAT SOMETIMES FOR EXAMPLE GOING UNDER A BRIDGES OR GOING AROUND CURVES COULD ACTIVATE MY SYSTEM. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO WARNING WHEN THIS CAR DECIDES TO STOP ON ITS OWN, IT HAPPEN EVEN WHEN THERE ISN'T CARS, OR CURVES IT'S JUST DECIDES TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES TO STOP. IT WHEN THERE NOTHING IN FRONT OF MY CAR. I DON'T LINE IS THIS ONE OF THE APPLES IT SCARES THE [XXX] OUT OF ME. YOU CAN GO FROM 50 MILES AN HOUR TO ZERO WITHOUT ANY WARNING. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
May 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11389053 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherOct 2020 · ODI 11362241Details +

CAR WINDOW ANTI PINCH NOT STOPPING WINDOW FROM CRUSHING FINGERS. CAR IMMOBILE.

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11362241 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJan 2020 · ODI 11302298Details +

SHIFT TO PARK IS DISPLAYED ON THE DASHBOARD EVEN WHEN THE CAR IS IN PARK. DASH LIGHTS AND ACCESSORIES REMAIN ON UNTIL YOU "JIGGLE" THE SHIFTER IN AND OUT OF PARK SEVERAL TIMES.

Reported
Jan 2020
Incident date
Jan 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11302298 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2019 · ODI 11266895Details +

POWER STEERING RANDOMLY FAILS WHILE DRIVING. THIS HAPPENED WHILE TURNING INTO A PARKING SPACE, ON RESIDENTIAL STREET AND THE EXPRESSWAY. THE CAR HAS BEEN AT THE DEALERSHIP 4 TIMES SINCE JUNE 3 FOR THE SAME ISSUE. THE FIRST TIME THE FOLLOWING REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED: REPLACED COMPLETE RACK & PINION GEAR WITH POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE REINSTALLED, DOWNLOAD FOR POWER STEERING MODULE. DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. SECOND TIME THE FOLLOWING REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED: DOWNLOADED POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE BEFORE REPLACING MODULE. REPLACED RACK & PINION, RE-DOWNLOAD POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE. THIS DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. IN ADDITION TO THE POWER STEERING FAILING, THE CAR ALSO SHUT OFF TWICE, ONCE WHILE IN PARK AND THE SECOND TIME WHILE IN DRIVE AT AN INTERSECTION. THIRD TIME THE CAR WAS AT THE DEALERSHIP A CONFIGURATION ERROR FAULT CODE IN PSCM WAS FOUND. FOLLOWING REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED: RESET STEERING ANGLE SENSOR VALUES, SEVERAL TIMES. POWER STEERING WENT OUT, TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE FOURTH TIME THE SCAN TEST ONLY SHOWED A RADIO CODE, U150K 00 (THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE RADIO). THE DEALERSHIP TEST DROVE THE CAR FOR 66 MILES AND COULD NOT GET THE CAR TO MIMIC THE STEERING PROBLEM. BECAUSE A LACK OF STEERING LIGHT AND COULDN'T MIMIC THE PROBLEM, NO REPAIRS WERE MADE.

Reported
Oct 2019
Incident date
Jun 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11266895 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2018 · ODI 11162135Details +

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY IN TEXAS, AND WAS IN THE PROCESS OF CHANGING LANES TO THE LEFT AND ACCELERATING WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN MY VEHICLE COMPLETELY LOST POWER AND WOULD NOT GO INTO GEAR. MY TRANSMISSION LIGHT IMMEDIATELY CAME ON. THE PSL WAS 70 AND THANKFULLY I WAS ABLE TO MOVE BACK INTO THE RIGHT LANE AND NAVIGATE TO THE SHOULDER WITHOUT GETTING HIT. I EVENTUALLY COASTED OFF THE HWY AND HAD AAA TOW MY CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED MY TRANSMISSION NEEDING REBUILDING. THIS OCCURRED AROUND 30K MILES. PERIODICALLY AFTER THAT MY CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE LIKE I HAD A MISFIRE AND I'D FEEL A SHUDDER OR SOMETIMES IT FELT MY TIRES WERE SPINNING FASTER THAN MY TRANSMISSION WAS GOING. I TOOK MY CAR IN FOR AN OIL CHANGE (NO LIGHTS WERE ON). I EXPLAINED THIS TO THE DEALERSHIP AND MY CAR WAS THROWING A CODE TURNS OUT THE TORQUE CONVERTER NEEDING REPLACING. THIS WAS UNDER 50K MILES. I AM CURRENTLY AT 52K MILES AND WHEN I GO UP A HIGH I FEEL THE SAME THING AND HAVE TOLD THE DEALERSHIP THIS. THEY WON'T GIVE ME A LOANER CAR AND I CAN'T BE WITHOUT MY CAR SO I HAVE NOT CURRENTLY BROUGHT IT BACK IN. THERE ARE NO LIGHTS ON BUT IT FEELS LIKE THE SAME ISSUE IS STARTING BACK WHEN THE TORQUE CONVERTER WENT OUT. I HAVE ALWAYS HAD MY CAR SERVICED AT THE DEALERSHIP SO I HAVE ALL THE RECORDS.

Reported
Dec 2018
Incident date
Sep 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11162135 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherOct 2018 · ODI 11139435Details +

MOLD IN AIR CONDITIONER. WHEN TURNING ON ENGINE, MOLD SMELL COMES OUT OF AIR VENTS.

Reported
Oct 2018
Incident date
Oct 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11139435 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2018 · ODI 11122934Details +

I WAS ENTERING A CITY STREET FROM A SHOPPING MALL. AS I FOUND A SMALL BREAK IN THE TRAFFIC I PULLED OUT AND ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE. MY CAR DID NOT CHANGE GEARS. I WAS FORCED TO PULL OFF THE ROAD QUICKLY TO PREVENT MY CAR FROM GETTING HIT FROM THE REAR. I HAD BEEN DRIVING AROUND ALL DAY ON THE INTERSTATE AND VARIOUS SHOPPING CENTERS WITHOUT ANY INDICATION SOMETHING WAS WRONG WITH MY CAR. I HAD IT TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. THIS IS THE 2ND TRANSMISSION PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR IN 4 MONTHS WITH NOW WITH ONLY 27K MILES. IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR 25 DAYS NOW AND NOT SURE WHEN IT WILL BE READY THIS TIME.

Reported
Aug 2018
Incident date
Aug 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11122934 at NHTSA →
StructureNov 2017 · ODI 11042448Details +

LETTER FROM CONGRESSMAN VISCLOSKY ON BEHALF OF CONSTITUENT RE THE MATERIALS USED TO MANUFACTURER AUTOMOBILES SHOULD BE LOOKED INTO FOR THE SAFETY OF THE CONSUMERS. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS IN A MINOR ACCIDENT THAT CAUSED SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO THE BUMPER. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THE BUMPER MAY HAVE BEEN MADE OUT OF A TIRE COMPOUND. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THAT THE BUMPER SHOULD BE ONLY OUT OF STEEL. UPDATED 11/3/2017*JS

Reported
Nov 2017
Incident date
Jan 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11042448 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperOct 2017 · ODI 11036011Details +

WHILE TRAVELING ON A HIGHWAY AT 60 MPH THE SUNROOF EXPLODED. THE GLASS FLEW IN AND OUT OF THE CAR STICKING ME IN THE FACE AND BODY. THERE WAS NO CONTACT WITH ANY OUTSIDE OBJECT, THE ROAD WAS SMOOTH AND THERE WERE NO OVERHEAD TREES, SIGNS OR BRIDGES.

Reported
Oct 2017
Incident date
Oct 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11036011 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlAug 2017 · ODI 11015791Details +

CAR APPLIED BRAKES SUDDENLY AND FULLY 4-5 TIMES DURING 200 MILE TRIP ON I-5 FOR NO APPARENT REASON WHILE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL WAS ON AT FREEWAY SPEEDS (65-70MPH). IT OCCURRED RANDOMLY, WHILE FOLLOWING OTHER VEHICLES, INCLUDING SEMI-TRUCKS, WHICH ARE NOT IN SAME LANE AND/OR ARE SIGNIFICANT DISTANCE AWAY. DID SO WITHOUT ANY DRIVER INPUT OR APPLICATION OF BRAKES. DECREASED SPEED WAS SO SUDDEN, IT CAUSED DRIVER'S SEAT BELT TO TENSE UP. FORTUNATELY, THERE WERE NO VEHICLES DIRECTLY BEHIND MINE OR MY CAR WOULD HAVE BEEN REAR-ENDED AT FREEWAY SPEEDS, RESULTING IN POTENTIAL SERIOUS INJURY. I TOOK CAR TO DEALER WHERE IT WAS PURCHASED (ROYAL MOORE AUTO CENTER, HILLSBORO, OREGON (503-648-1153) ON 8/9/17 AND LEFT IT FOR DAY. THEIR TECHNICIANS RAN CODES AND DROVE CAR, BUT COULD NOT DUPLICATE PROBLEM. (INVOICE # BUCS780125). I WAS REFERRED TO BUICK (800-521-7300) AND IT REFERRED ME TO GM SENIOR ADVISOR TEAM. WAS ASSIGNED SERVICE REQUEST #8-3144154519. I SPOKE TO SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE "CHRISTI", WHO TOLD ME THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO UNLESS THE SERVICE TECHNICIANS COULD DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. HER ONLY SUGGESTION WAS THAT I RETURN TO THE DEALER TO SEE IF THEY COULD DO THAT. I TOLD HER SINCE THE PROBLEM DID NOT OCCUR ALL THE TIME, BUT ONLY SOME OF THE TIME, THAT MADE NO SENSE. I ASKED TO SPEAK WITH SOMEONE AT GM WHO MIGHT HAVE TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THIS DANGEROUS PROBLEM. SHE SAID SHE COULD NOT REFER ME TO ANYONE AT GM FOR THAT PURPOSE. I TOLD HER (AND LATER A SECOND SENIOR ADVISORY TEAM MEMBER- WHO ARE INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS AND NOT GM EMPLOYEES), THAT I HAD FOUND WEBSITES THAT DISCUSSED OTHER OWNERS OF GM VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE FORWARD COLLISION ALERT AND BRAKING SYSTEM AND ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, IE, AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEMS, EXPERIENCING SIMILAR PROBLEMS- THEIR VEHICLES BRAKED AT THE WRONG TIME FOR NO APPARENT REASON. NHTSA NEEDS TO LOOK INTO THIS ASAP.

Reported
Aug 2017
Incident date
Jul 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11015791 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2017 · ODI 11010894Details +

DRIVER INFOTAINMENT CENTER HAS MANY ISSUES, REMAINS BLANK WHILE RADIO IS PLAYING AND CAN BE CONTROLLED BY STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS AND HVAC VIA EXTERNAL BUTTONS. ALSO BACKUP CAMERA INTERMITTENTLY JUMPS THE VIDEO FROM CAMERA BUT NOT THE CGI LINES. THIS MAKES YOU STOP DUE TO REFLEXES THINKING SOMETHING RAN OUT IN THE WAY OF BACKING UP. ON OCCASION THE DISPLAY HAS SHOWN SYSTEM ERROR AND ALSO HVAC CONTROL NOT OPERABLE. ALSO HAVE SEEN THE CGI DIRECTIONAL LINES NOT SHOW UP UNTIL PLACED IN FORWARD GEAR JUST BEFORE THE DISPLAY TURNS OFF THE CAMERA. DEALER AND BUICK HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED AND MECHANIC COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE INTERMITTENT PROBLEM SO THEY WILL NOT REPLACE ANY COMPONENTS YET THIS PROBLEM OCCURS DAILY BETWEEN TRIPS BUT CANNOT BE REPLICATED TO SHOW DEALER. WE HAVE VIDEOS OF THE PROBLEM AND PHOTOS OF THE ERROR MESSAGES. DEALER HAS REPROGRAMMED THE SYSTEM MULTIPLE TIMES NO FIX YET. BUICK WAS OF ZERO HELP ON THIS LEMON OF A PROBLEM AND REMINDED US THE LEMON LAW DOES NOT APPLY TO ACCESSORIES SUCH AS THIS BACKUP CAMERA. LANE CHANGE AND COLLISION DETECTION ALSO HAVE ISSUES OF FALSE REPORTING BUT NO SOLUTION EITHER. STAY AWAY FROM THIS SYSTEM AS IT IS FLAWED AND NO HELP FROM BUICK OR DEALER. DEALER ACTUALLY SUGGEST TAKING THE ISSUE TO ANOTHER DEALER - WOW VERY NICE AFTER SALE SUPPORT.

Reported
Jul 2017
Incident date
Jan 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11010894 at NHTSA →
SuspensionJun 2017 · ODI 10993854Details +

CAR COMPUTER IS SUCEPTIBLE TO HACKING AND REPROGRAMMING WHILE DRIVING SUSPENSION IS LOWERED OR RAISED ENGINE LOOSES POWER WHOLE CAR COMPONENTS RATTLE OR RADIO BASS LOUD WHILE DRIVING TRANSMISSION DOESNT SHIFT TO CORRECT GEAR STUCK ON SECOND OR THIRD AND GEAR SHIFT KNOB POPS UP WHILE DRIVING DEALER SAYS IS NORMAL BRAKES LOOSE PRESSURE TAKING LONG TO COMPLETE STOP ENGINE SHAKES WHILE IN MOTION OR IDLE RADIO AND OTHER COMPONENTS APPS TRACTION ABS DISABLED HACKED OR CONTROLLED WIRELESS/BT

Reported
Jun 2017
Incident date
Mar 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10993854 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperJan 2017 · ODI 10945631Details +

2016 BUICK REGAL WITH 11K MIKES. THE WINDSHIELD RECENTLY DEVELOPED A CRACK IN THE LEFT LOWER CORNER. THE CRACK STARTED AT THE BOTTOM EDGE (BELOW THE DASH) ABOUT 8 INCHES FROM THE LOWER LEFT CORNER. OVER SEVERAL DAYS, THE CRACK SLOWLY SPREAD UP AND TO THE LEFT, ENDING AT THE LEFT EDGE OF THE WINDSHIELD ABOUT 6 INCHES FROM THE LOWER LEFT CORNER. THE CRACK IS IN THE INNER LAMINATED GLASS ONLY. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A BUICK DEALER TO SEE IF THE WINDSHIELD CAN BE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. THE SERVICE ADVISOR CLAIMED IT WAS A STRESS CRACK, BUT WANTED TO CHECK WITH THE GM ZONE REP. BEFORE PROCEEDING. GM ZONE REP. DENIED THE WARRANTY CLAIM BECAUSE HE FELT SOMETHING HIT THE WINDSHIELD CAUSING THE CRACK. THE WINDSHIELD HAS NO SIGNS OF ANY IMPACT ON IT. THE GM ZONE REP. NEVER ACTUALLY INSPECTED THE CAR. VEHICLE WAS ALSO TAKEN A GLASS SHOP FOR THEIR OPINION. THE GLASS SHOP CLAIMED THE CRACK WAS CAUSED BY EITHER A DEFECT IN THE WINDSHIELD OR IMPROPER INSTALLATION. APPARENTLY IS MAY BE A KNOWN ISSUE ON 2013-2014 BUICK REGALS.

Reported
Jan 2017
Incident date
Jan 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10945631 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2016 · ODI 10860271Details +

SUDDENLY AFTER LEAVING COSTCO GAS STATION AND DRIVING "NO" DISPLAY OF MILLAGE. SPEED GAUGES AND ALL CRITICAL INFORMATION WENT BLANK/BLACK ON DRIVERS DASH BOARD WITH CRITICAL LIGHTS DISPLAY SHOWING TROUBLE WITH VEHICLE BY DISPLAYING YELLOW; AND RED EXCLAMATIONS; SKID TIRE AND NO GAUGE READINGS FOR ENGINE TEMKP; OR NOTHING!. ON STAR GAVE NEGATIVE RESULTS FOR EMERGENCY HELP. DEALER STATED CAR WAS REPROGRAMED LAST WEEK. PREVIOUS RADIO AND BLUE TOOTH TROUBLE REPORTED TO GM. THEY SEEM TO IGNORE ME. TROUBLED RADIO AND NAVIGATION PURPOSIVELY FIXED LAST WEEK

Reported
Apr 2016
Incident date
Apr 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10860271 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperApr 2016 · ODI 10854935Details +

WHEN BACKING OUT OF A DARK AREA (SUCH AS A GARAGE) INTO BRIGHT LIGHT, OR WHEN LEAVING A DARK TUNNEL INTO BRIGHT LIGHT, THE BACKUP DISPLAY OR FORWARD NAVIGATION DISPLAY BECOME UNUSABLE DUE TO CONTRAST ("WASHOUT") ISSUES. THE SYSTEM IN THE BUICK IS A SINGLE SENSOR SYSTEM (IT ALSO CONTROLS THE AUTOMATIC HEAD LIGHTS) THAT REQUIRES 20-30 SECONDS TO ADJUST CONTRAST AFTER A TRANSITION FROM DARK TO LIGHT. THIS 20-30 SECOND DELAY IS CRITICAL WHEN BACKING UP BECAUSE YOU LOSE THE VIEW OFFERED BY THE REVIEW CAMERA UNLESS YOU STOP WHILE THE SYSTEM ADJUSTS. THERE ARE MANY SITUATIONS WHERE YOU CAN'T STOP BACKING (ESPECIALLY FOR 30 SECONDS) ONCE YOU HAVE STARTED. THE "WASHOUT" OF THE DISPLAY WHEN USING THE NAVIGATION MAP IS ALSO A POTENTIAL SAFETY ISSUE. IF TRYING TO FOLLOW THE MAP/DIRECTIONS WHEN EXITING A TUNNEL (THE TUNNEL IS DARK ENOUGH TO REQUIRE THE AUTO HEADLIGHTS TO TURN ON) YOU LOSE THE ABILITY TO SEE THE MAP FOR 20-30 SECONDS WHILE THE SYSTEM ADJUSTS TO THE CHANGE IN LIGHTING. AT THE VERY LEAST THIS CAUSES A DISTRACTION FOR THE DRIVER TRYING TO FOLLOW THE MAP. BUICK TOUTS THE BACKUP CAMERA AND THE BIG NAVIGATION DISPLAY AS VEHICLE SAFETY AIDS, BUT THE IMPLEMENTATION IS FLAWED AND A DANGER TO THE DRIVER OR OTHERS.

Reported
Apr 2016
Incident date
Apr 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10854935 at NHTSA →

Recalls(1)

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.

Steering · 16V108000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Buick Regal Vehicles manufactured August 30, 2015, to February 12, 2016. The affected vehicles have a power-steering assist system that may fail.

Risk: A loss of power steering assist may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric belt drive rack and pinion steering gear assembly, free of charge. The recall began on March 21, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is 21510.

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

2016 Buick Regal 4 DR FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2016 Buick Regal 4 DR AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Regal2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive203024
Regal2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive212924
Regal2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive193023

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.

2016 Buick Regal: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2016 Buick Regal?

Owners filed 41 NHTSA complaints about the 2016 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 2016 Buick Regal?

The most-reported problem areas are Steering (24% of complaints) and electrical system (12%).

How many recalls does the 2016 Buick Regal have?

1 recall has been issued that affect the 2016 Buick Regal, covering components such as steering. 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 2016 Buick Regal get?

The EPA rates the 2016 Buick Regal between 23 and 24 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.