2004 Buick Rendezvous

Here’s a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints for the 2004 Buick Rendezvous, categorized as requested.

The 2004 Buick Rendezvous is a mid-size crossover SUV that offered a blend of car-like handling and SUV versatility. Engine options included a 3.4L LA1 V6 engine producing 185 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. The Rendezvous was generally liked for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, especially for passengers. Some owners disliked its relatively low fuel economy and perceived unreliability compared to some competitors. All engine options were paired with the 4T65-E 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.4L LA1 V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, coolant loss (sometimes external, sometimes internal leading to milky oil), and overheating. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to misfires or lean conditions.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting. The check engine light will likely illuminate.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (per injector, depending on labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, low coolant level, visible coolant leaks under the vehicle, and a sweet coolant smell.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak, such as the water pump, radiator hoses, or thermostat housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the source of the leak. $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E 4-Speed Automatic

• Hard Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, particularly 2nd to 3rd. Transmission slipping, where the engine revs up but the vehicle doesn’t accelerate properly.
  • Solution: Could indicate low fluid level, worn clutches, or valve body issues. A transmission flush and filter change may help initially, but a rebuild or replacement might be necessary if the problem persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush/filter) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, stalling when coming to a stop, or a complete loss of forward motion.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll in corners, nose diving during braking, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per axle)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise that changes with vehicle speed, especially during turns.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per wheel)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery dies overnight or within a short period, making it difficult or impossible to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic draw, which could be caused by a faulty module, relay, or aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent issues with power windows, door locks, interior lighting, or remote keyless entry.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate will not stay open on its own.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Outside door handles, especially on the front doors, are prone to breaking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken door handle(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (per handle)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats will not move or only move in one direction
  • Solution: Replacement of the power seat motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor stops working, resulting in no airflow from the vents, or it may only work on certain speed settings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Buick Rendezvous, while offering a comfortable ride and spacious interior, is prone to several common issues that can range from relatively inexpensive repairs (such as liftgate struts or intake gaskets) to more costly problems (like transmission issues or electrical faults). Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision and budget. While some issues are easily addressed with preventative maintenance (like fluid changes), others might require more significant repairs. The age of the vehicle also contributes to the likelihood of these issues occurring.