2003 Buick Rendezvous

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2003 Buick Rendezvous, categorized by major components and engine/transmission options. The 2003 Buick Rendezvous was GM’s first foray into the crossover SUV market. It offered a blend of car-like handling and SUV practicality. People generally liked its comfortable ride and versatile interior space. However, some disliked its somewhat bland styling and perceived lack of power from the standard engine. The 2003 Rendezvous was available with two engine options: a 3.4L LA1 V6 producing 185 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque and a 3.6L LY7 V6 producing 255 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque (introduced later in the model year). Both engines were paired with a 4T65E 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.4L LA1 V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks externally, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, rough running engine.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per injector (depending on location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L LY7 V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, check engine light, engine misfires, reduced performance.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chains, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65E 4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears, delayed engagement, harsh or erratic shifting, check engine light. Common with high mileage.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Sometimes a fluid flush and filter change can provide temporary relief, but is not a long-term solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1800 - $3500+ (rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Pressure Control Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh downshifts, failure to shift properly, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the pressure control solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ (depending on location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sags, air compressor runs constantly or doesn’t run at all, poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace air springs, air compressor, and/or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (depending on components replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise that increases with speed, especially during turns, excessive wheel play.
  • Solution: Replace the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per wheel bearing
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window does not go up or down, or moves slowly/erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator and/or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunction (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), intermittent loss of display, dim or flickering lights.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear liftgate does not stay open.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner detaches from the roof and sags.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Seat Heater Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater does not get warm or only heats intermittently.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat heater element or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per seat

Summary

The 2003 Buick Rendezvous, while offering a comfortable ride and versatility, is prone to certain issues due to its age and design. Engine issues such as intake manifold gasket leaks and timing chain problems, particularly in the 3.6L V6, can be relatively costly to repair. Transmission issues, especially with the 4T65E, are also common and can lead to expensive rebuilds or replacements. Suspension and electrical problems can add to the overall ownership costs. While some issues are minor, others can be significant and should be considered when evaluating a used 2003 Buick Rendezvous. It is important to note that because the vehicle is over 20 years old, any repair costs could be higher depending on parts availability and mechanic charges.