2005 Buick Terraza

The 2005 Buick Terraza was a minivan/crossover SUV that aimed to blend car-like handling with minivan versatility. Available engines included a 3.5L LX9 V6 producing 200 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.9L LZ9 V6 that produced 240 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with the Hydra-Matic 4T65-E four-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciated the Terraza’s spacious interior and comfortable ride but often criticized its uninspired styling, fuel economy, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.5L LX9 V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough running engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, no start condition, intermittent starting issues, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

3.9L LZ9 V6

• Valve Lifter Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise emanating from the engine, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Replacing the lifters, and in some cases, the camshaft.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Hydra-Matic 4T65-E (Both Engine Options)

• Hard Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, loss of drive, check engine light. Often related to the 3-5-R wave plate failing.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Replacing the 3-5-R wave plate with an updated part during the rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, poor fuel economy, stalling at idle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, air compressor running constantly, inability to maintain ride height.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly, intermittent locking/unlocking.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems such as power windows not working, security light issues, or other unusual electrical behavior.
  • Solution: Reprogram or replace the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working, or needing to be replaced frequently.
  • Solution: Replace headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-200
  • Recalls: #07V439000

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sliding doors not opening or closing properly, jamming, motor failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sliding door motor or associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats not moving, or only moving in one direction.
  • Solution: Replace the power seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature from vents, inability to control temperature settings.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Buick Terraza has several common issues across various systems. Engine issues like intake manifold gasket failure and valve lifter issues are common, while transmission problems, especially with the 4T65-E, can be expensive. Electrical and suspension issues also contribute to the ownership experience. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, making pre-purchase inspection and careful maintenance crucial. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant mechanical failures that can leave you stranded.