2006 Buick Terraza

The 2006 Buick Terraza was a minivan/crossover SUV that aimed to blend car-like handling with family-friendly utility. It was available with two engine options: a 3.5L V6 (rated at 200 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque) and a 3.9L V6 (rated at 240 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque). Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. People liked the Terraza for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, but disliked its bland styling, subpar fuel economy, and some reliability issues.

Engine

3.5L V6 (LZE)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, coolant loss (may be slow), and potential overheating. The intake manifold gasket can degrade and leak coolant into the engine cylinders or externally.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket with an updated design.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency (P0420), reduced engine performance, and potential failure to pass emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.9L V6 (LZ9)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption that requires frequent top-offs. This issue might appear gradually or suddenly. The engine may also exhibit blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, possible solutions range from using a thicker oil and monitoring levels closely, to more extensive engine repairs such as piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ (depending on severity and solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency (P0420), reduced engine performance, and potential failure to pass emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65-E (Both 3.5L & 3.9L V6)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip between gears, shift harshly, or fail to shift at all. This can be caused by worn clutches, valve body issues, or internal mechanical failures.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the faulty components within the transmission, or a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+ (depending on repair vs. replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, especially when accelerating or going uphill. May also cause the engine to stall or have difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags, the air compressor runs constantly or not at all, and a “Service Ride Control” message may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor and any leaking air springs or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll in corners, and longer stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more power door locks fail to function, requiring manual locking/unlocking.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Panel Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges may stop working, flicker, or display incorrect readings. The entire cluster may intermittently shut off.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument panel cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Random electrical issues such as interior lights staying on, power windows not working, or the security system malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Sliding Door Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power sliding door stops working, making it difficult to open or close the door.
  • Solution: Replace the power sliding door motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airflow only comes out of certain vents, temperature is not consistent, or a clicking noise is heard behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty HVAC actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on location and complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Buick Terraza exhibits a range of common problems affecting various vehicle systems. Engine issues, such as intake manifold gasket leaks and oil consumption (particularly in the 3.9L), can lead to significant repair costs. Transmission problems like slipping and harsh shifting are also frequent. Electrical issues with door locks, instrument clusters, and the BCM add to the ownership burden. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, major issues with the engine, transmission, or suspension can result in substantial bills. It is important to inspect these areas thoroughly before purchasing a used 2006 Buick Terraza.