2005 Buick Terraza

Introduction

The 2005 Buick Terraza is a full-size minivan offered with a single engine option mated to either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). With a powerful engine and spacious interior, the Terraza has been praised for its comfort and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has some reported issues.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Rear Main Seal Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the rear of the engine onto the transmission bell housing.
  • Solution: Replace the rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold, causing overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering when shifting gears, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Flush the transmission fluid and replace the filter. In severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT

• Loss of Drive
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle suddenly loses power while driving, causing a complete loss of acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the CVT unit or a specific failed component within it (e.g., torque converter, valve body).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or clunking noises when turning or going over bumps, excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noises over bumps, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is turned off.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical circuit causing the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, engine hesitation, decreased fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Replace the failed ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding doors, doors getting stuck or closing improperly.
  • Solution: Lubricate the door tracks, adjust the alignment, or replace the door motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Taillight Assembly Moisture
  • Description/Symptoms: Water or condensation accumulates inside the taillight assemblies, causing electrical issues or bulb failure.
  • Solution: Replace the taillight assemblies or reseal them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor doesn’t blow air, or only blows weakly.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Glitch
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system freezes, displays incorrect information, or doesn’t respond to commands.
  • Solution: Update the software or replace the navigation module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2005 Buick Terraza is a generally reliable vehicle with a few potential issues. The engine and transmission problems are the most serious and potentially costly to repair. The suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior issues are relatively minor and less expensive to fix. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or mitigate some of these issues.