2012 Buick Regal

The 2012 Buick Regal offered a blend of near-luxury features and sporty handling, appealing to those seeking a step up from mainstream sedans. Engine choices included a 2.4L inline-4 producing 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 generating 220 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4L inline-4 with eAssist mild hybrid technology producing 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Regal’s stylish exterior, comfortable interior, and composed ride. Criticisms commonly centered around the somewhat cramped rear seat and the occasionally sluggish response of the non-turbo 2.4L engine.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 (LAF/LE5/LUK)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: The fix can range from replacing the PCV valve to more extensive repairs such as piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on start-up, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (LTG)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining noise from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Extended cranking, difficulty starting, stalling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4 with eAssist (LUK)

• Mild Hybrid Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, error messages related to the eAssist system, and potential loss of the auto-stop function.
  • Solution: Replacing the eAssist battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6T40 6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or rough shifts between gears, especially when cold. Slipping during acceleration.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, valve body replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jumps.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing parasitic drain from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster display.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, fail to open/close properly, or leak.
  • Solution: Sunroof track repair, motor replacement, or complete sunroof assembly replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Buick Regal has some common issues, with engine problems, particularly oil consumption and turbocharger issues, being potentially costly. Transmission problems can also be significant. Other issues are less severe, like suspension components failing over time. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have a mechanic inspect the car before purchasing.