2007 Buick Rendezvous

2007 Buick Rendezvous

Overview

The 2007 Buick Rendezvous, a mid-size crossover SUV, offered a comfortable ride and practical interior space, making it a family-friendly option. It was available with a choice of powertrains designed to balance performance and fuel efficiency for its class. While generally considered a reliable vehicle for its era, like any automobile, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical concerns that go beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair needs for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

3.5L V6

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, sweet smell from engine bay.
• Solution: Replacement of intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Timing Chain Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; potential for engine damage if ignored.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

3.9L V6

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, sweet smell from engine bay.
• Solution: Replacement of intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, decreased engine performance, rattling noise from the engine.
• Solution: Replacement of VVT actuator and potentially camshaft phaser.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)

Torque Converter Shudder

• Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering felt during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement; torque converter replacement if necessary.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Slipping Gears

• Symptoms: Transmission fails to engage gears properly, engine revs without vehicle speed increase.
• Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noises over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of struts and/or shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Ball Joint Failure

• Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when turning or going over bumps, uneven tire wear, steering instability.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Failures

• Symptoms: Various electrical components (lights, power windows, locks) acting erratically or failing completely.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Premature Failure

• Symptoms: Battery warning light illuminated, dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or direct airflow to specific vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Dashboard/Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Buick Rendezvous generally presents a mixed reliability profile. The powertrain, particularly the 3.5L and 3.9L V6 engines, can experience issues like intake manifold gasket leaks and, in the case of the 3.9L, VVT actuator problems. The 4-speed automatic transmission is prone to torque converter shudder and occasional slipping. Suspension components such as struts and ball joints may require replacement due to wear. Electrical gremlins, often linked to the BCM or alternator, are also noted. While interior and exterior components are less problematic, potential buyers should be aware of these common repair areas and factor them into ownership costs.