2017 Buick Regal

The 2017 Buick Regal is a mid-size sedan offering a blend of comfort and sporty handling. Engine options for the 2017 Regal include a 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 engine producing 259 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission for front-wheel drive models and an 8-speed automatic transmission for all-wheel drive models. Also available is a 2.4L Inline-4 engine producing 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Regal is often praised for its responsive handling, comfortable ride, and quiet cabin. However, some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, engine performance, and occasional transmission problems. It is worth noting that Buick has worked hard to improve overall reliability over the years, but problems still exist.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged 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 lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed. The oil light may illuminate on the dashboard.
  • Solution: A common fix involves replacing the piston rings to prevent oil from leaking into the combustion chamber. In some cases, the PCV valve is also replaced. A compression test can help diagnose the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4

• Engine Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially in cold weather. Check Engine light may illuminate, with codes related to camshaft timing or correlation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioner. It’s also advisable to inspect and possibly replace the camshaft actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.0L Turbo FWD and 2.4L Inline-4)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears. The transmission may slip, especially during acceleration.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and fluid change might temporarily alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.0L Turbo AWD)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears. The transmission may slip, especially during acceleration.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and fluid change might temporarily alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen may freeze, become unresponsive, or exhibit glitches. Bluetooth connectivity problems and issues with the navigation system have also been reported.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve some of these issues. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially if left unused for a few days. This can result in difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to find what is drawing power from the battery when the vehicle is off. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories, faulty door lock actuators, and the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks (Sunroof)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, typically near the headliner or seats, after rain or car washes. Clogged sunroof drain tubes are a common cause.
  • Solution: Clean and unclog the sunroof drain tubes. Check for any damage to the sunroof seal and replace if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the severity and if professional cleaning or seal replacement is needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters either not working at all or not getting hot.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Buick Regal presents a mixed bag of potential issues. While it’s generally considered a reliable car, the 2.0L Turbo engine can experience excessive oil consumption, which is a moderately severe issue requiring potentially expensive repairs. The 2.4L engine faces timing chain problems that can be costly. Transmission issues, while not universal, can also lead to significant repair bills. Electrical problems with the infotainment system are common and range in severity. Interior issues such as a seat heater malfunction is common but isn’t very severe. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and thoroughly inspect any used Regal before purchase. Checking maintenance records and obtaining a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic can help mitigate risks.