2016 Buick Regal

The 2016 Buick Regal is a mid-size sedan that offers a blend of comfort, style, and performance. Engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 producing 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 259 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Some owners appreciate the Regal’s quiet ride, comfortable interior, and responsive handling, particularly with the turbocharged engine. Common complaints include the infotainment system can be slow to respond at times.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. This can manifest as a low oil light illuminating or noticing a significant drop in oil level on the dipstick.
  • Solution: In some cases, a revised PCV valve or piston ring replacement has been attempted to address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature turbocharger failure, resulting in a loss of power, unusual noises (whining or whistling), and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Both Engine Options (6-Speed Automatic)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. This may be accompanied by a “clunking” noise or hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update have resolved the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ (fluid flush/software) to $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Strut/Shock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature failure of the struts or shocks, leading to a bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, and clunking noises when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per strut/shock (depending on location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including slow response times, freezing, and occasional reboots. The screen may become unresponsive or display error messages.
  • Solution: Software updates may address some of these issues. In more severe cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+ (software) to $800+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported unexplained battery drain, resulting in a dead battery, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the source of the drain (e.g., faulty module, accessory left on). Repair or replacement of the offending component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture or condensation buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Some owners drill small drain holes. Others will reseal the headlights, and others will replace the entire headlight unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5-$10 (drain holes), $50-$200 (reseal) $400-$800 (headlight unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the sunroof, including failure to open or close properly, leaks, and unusual noises.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Buick Regal can be a reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the reported issues, particularly with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, ranging from minor software updates to major component replacements. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems.