Buick Regal Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Buick Regal we've analyzed (40 years), these are the 3 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low reliability score, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other Regal years.
Proceed with caution
1980 Buick Regal
The 1980 Buick Regal is a classic example of American comfort, but as an aged vehicle, it inherently presents a high risk for the unprepared owner. While its mechanical simplicity offers repairability, be prepared for consistent maintenance and the inevitable effects of four decades of wear. This is a car for enthusiasts ready for hands-on ownership, not for daily, trouble-free commuting.
Why this year scores low
The Regal's body panels, frame, floorboards, and trunk are highly susceptible to rust, particularly in areas exposed to road salt or high humidity. This is a widespread structural and cosmetic issue for these vehicles.
The Rochester Quadrajet carburetor is prone to wear, vacuum leaks, and needing frequent adjustment, leading to poor idling, stalling, and reduced fuel efficiency. Aging rubber vacuum lines also become brittle and crack.
Brittle wiring insulation, corroded grounds, and failing switches are common due to age, leading to issues with lights, gauges, power windows, and accessories. Alternators and starters also have a finite lifespan.
Proceed with caution
1982 Buick Regal
The 1982 Buick Regal, a classic G-body, represents a bygone era of simple, comfortable motoring, but it demands diligent attention due to age and specific design quirks. While mechanically straightforward in many ways, widespread rust and the temperamental early computerized carburetor system make it a vehicle best suited for enthusiasts or those prepared for consistent maintenance. Don't buy one expecting modern-day reliability without significant investment.
Why this year scores low
The G-body platform is highly susceptible to rust, particularly in rocker panels, wheel wells, floor pans, trunk floors, and frame rails. This is a structural integrity concern and can be very expensive to repair properly.
GM's early computerized carburetor system can be notoriously complex and unreliable. Issues with sensors, actuators, wiring, and the Electronic Control Module (ECM) lead to poor idle, stalling, reduced fuel economy, and failed emissions tests. Diagnosis can be challenging.
While the THM350C is robust, many Regals received the THM200-4R. This 4-speed overdrive unit can suffer from soft shifts, delayed engagement, and eventual failure of internal components, particularly the direct clutch and planetary gears, especially if fluid changes were neglected.
Proceed with caution
2012 Buick Regal
The 2012 Buick Regal offers European styling and a comfortable ride, but it's crucial to understand its notable engine weaknesses, especially in the 2.4L variant. This vehicle can be a decent value, but diligent pre-purchase inspection and a robust maintenance fund are non-negotiable to avoid significant repair bills.
Why this year scores low
The 2.4L Ecotec engine is prone to timing chain stretch due to premature wear, often exacerbated by excessive oil consumption. This can lead to engine noise, misfires, and ultimately catastrophic engine failure if ignored.
The 2.0L Turbo Direct Injection engine is susceptible to carbon buildup on intake valves, leading to reduced performance and misfires. Additionally, the PCV system can fail, causing oil leaks, excessive oil consumption, and even turbocharger damage.
Owners report issues with HVAC blend door actuators failing (leading to improper temperature control or noisy operation), infotainment system glitches, and various sensor failures (e.g., ABS, wheel speed). These can be frustrating and costly to diagnose.