2016 Buick Cascada

The 2016 Buick Cascada is a stylish and comfortable convertible that offers a smooth ride and decent fuel economy. It comes equipped with a single engine option, the 1.6L Turbocharged inline-4 producing 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. All models are equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Cascada’s attractive design, comfortable interior, and open-air driving experience. Common complaints include a somewhat cramped rear seat, limited cargo space, and less-than-sporty handling compared to some competitors.

Engine

1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Coolant Leaks from Turbocharger
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks originating from the turbocharger area. This can lead to low coolant levels, overheating, and potential engine damage. There is a coolant line that goes from the engine to the turbo that has been known to leak
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking turbocharger coolant lines and possibly the turbocharger if damage has occurred.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover/PCV Diaphragm Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The PCV valve is integrated with the valve cover and can crack, causing a vacuum leak and rough idling. Oil leaks around the valve cover gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the entire valve cover assembly as the PCV valve is not serviceable separately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Experiencing hard shifts, delayed shifts, or slipping between gears. This is a common problem with the 6T40 transmission used in the Cascada.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush might help in minor cases. More often, the transmission requires valve body replacement or a full rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Front and rear suspension bushings wear out prematurely, leading to clunking noises, reduced handling precision, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the bushing and labor involved
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Convertible Top Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top may intermittently fail to operate, get stuck mid-cycle, or display error messages. This could be due to faulty sensors, hydraulic pump issues, or wiring problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific cause (sensors, pump, wiring) and repair/replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates, and sometimes replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle experiences a parasitic battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially after sitting for a few days. The culprit could be a faulty module or aftermarket accessories.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the battery drain and repairing/replacing the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin through the convertible top seals, especially during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn or damaged weather stripping, adjustment of the top’s alignment, or repair of the top’s fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may fail to operate or become excessively hot, posing a burn risk. This is often due to a break in the heating element within the seat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat heating element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Buick Cascada has a mix of potential issues, ranging from relatively minor electrical glitches to more serious engine and transmission problems. The turbocharger coolant leaks and PCV valve failures can lead to moderate repair costs, while convertible top issues and infotainment problems can be frustrating. Harsh shifting with the transmission can range from a costly repair to needing a full transmission replacement. Overall, while the Cascada offers a stylish and comfortable open-air driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering this vehicle.