2007 Buick Terraza

The 2007 Buick Terraza was a mid-size crossover SUV that offered seating for up to seven passengers. It was generally praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and versatility. Some owners disliked its bland styling and less-than-stellar fuel economy. The 2007 Terraza came with two engine options: a 3.5L V6 producing 200 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.9L V6 producing 240 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, coolant leaks, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, rattling noises from underneath the vehicle, and the check engine light illuminating with codes P0420 or P0430.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.9L V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks near the valve covers, burning oil smell, and potential oil drips onto the exhaust manifold.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Hard Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, slipping out of gear, and overall erratic transmission behavior. Can be exacerbated by infrequent fluid changes.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the issue persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid/filter change; $500 - $1500+ for valve body; $2500 - $4500+ for rebuild/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at lower speeds, poor acceleration, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • 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.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in corners, and reduced handling stability.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly (intermittently or completely), requiring manual locking/unlocking.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate will not stay open and falls down.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor only works on certain speeds (usually high), or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The radio display becomes dim, unreadable, or stops working entirely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the radio unit or repair of the display (depending on the severity).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Buick Terraza, while offering practicality and comfort, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine issues such as intake manifold or valve cover gasket leaks, and transmission problems like hard shifting or torque converter failure, can be relatively expensive to repair. Electrical problems with door locks and windows, along with suspension issues involving the air suspension, are also concerns. Overall, while not all Terrazas will experience these problems, a pre-purchase inspection is recommended to assess the vehicle’s condition and potential repair needs. The severity and cost of these repairs vary widely, emphasizing the importance of thorough due diligence.