Buick models typically have high reliability and low maintenance costs. However, like any vehicle, they have issues that owners complain about. Below are three common Buick problems owners have reported. We also list the severity of the repairs and the cost to fix them.

1. The most common Buick problems involve the transmission

One of the most severe issues a vehicle can have is with the transmission. Some Buick owners have reported to RepairPal that they have faced this problem. Consumers say the car suddenly won’t shift from one gear to another while driving. The problem is first noticeable when the vehicle begins to shake or clunk when accelerating or switching gears.

According to RepairPal, the transmission problem stems from broken wave plates. Buick models affected by the transmission problem include the 1991 to 2005 LeSabre, 2008 and 2009 Enclave, and the 2007 Lucerne.

Most users say they experience the problem between about 10,000 and 244,000 miles, depending on the model. When the transmission pressure control fails, the driver will experience erratic shifting. Owners must partially disassemble the transmission and replace the failed pressure control solenoid to solve the issue. CarComplaints.com notes that the average transmission problem costs owners about $3,500.

2. High-mileage Buick vehicles can experience HVAC problems

The second-most frequent issue reported by Buick owners is HVAC failure, impairing air delivery and causing overheating. According to RepairPal, some models’ air-conditioning systems break around 12,500 to 285,000 miles. Owners report A/C problems in several Buick models, including the 2013 and 2015 Enclave and 2000 to 2002 Buick LeSabre.

RepairPal notes that an A/C clutch or relay failure often causes air-conditioning problems. When the system is damaged, the driver will experience incorrect air or temperature delivery. Fortunately, the A/C issues are easy to repair. However, they cost a pretty penny — between $888 and $1,405. Owners can diagnose the fault with codes in the HVAC control module. 

3. Power steering failure makes the vehicle difficult to steer

Intermittent power steering failure is another common problem with Buick models. Owners complain of suddenly having to wrestle to turn the steering wheel. Some Buick models experience the problem under 100,000 miles, which usually calls for replacing the steering pump.

Stiff steering while driving typically stems from steering linkage failure. The steering linkage comprises control arms, ball joints, and tie rod end. While the components can break due to damage from frequently driving on rough surfaces, Buick owners report them most often between 115,500 and 240,000 miles, RepairPal says. Affected models include the 1990 to 2003 Century, 2005 to 2014 LaCrosse, 1990 to 2000 LeSabre, and 2000 to 2004 Regal.

RepairPal says replacing the steering rack and pinion costs about $750 to $1,050.

Despite Buick’s reputation for low maintenance and repair costs, some owners have reported problems with the transmission, A/C, and power steering. Shoppers must be aware of these common issues before purchasing a used Buick.