Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2012 Buick Regal Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A stylish sedan with a comfortable ride, but significant engine risks demand careful consideration and proactive maintenance.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2012 Buick Regal

  • Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seats:front assembly:power adjust.
  • Scores 15 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2013 Buick Regal earns a 83.
  • The system most likely to surface first: engine (2.4l ecotec) (major severity).

Should You Buy the 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.

Biggest Strengths

  • Comfortable and quiet ride quality
  • Stylish interior and exterior design
  • Good safety ratings for its class

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2012 Buick Regal. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Engine (2.4L Ecotec)major
2
Engine (2.0L Turbo Ecotec)moderate
3
Electrical Systemsmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST

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.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

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."

What breaks on the 2012 Buick Regal?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Buick Regal by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Buick Regal. Click any year for its full report.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2012 Buick Regal

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair cost projections, buyer checklist, and expert verdict.

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