2017 Buick Verano
2017 Buick Verano
Overview
The 2017 Buick Verano, a compact luxury sedan, aimed to offer a refined and comfortable driving experience. It was generally well-received for its quiet cabin, comfortable ride, and upscale interior appointments. Under the hood, it offered a choice between a naturally aspirated and a turbocharged engine, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the Verano provided a solid ownership experience for many, like any vehicle, it had specific areas where owners reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for the 2017 model year.
Engine
2.4L Ecotec (LAF)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
2.0L Turbo Ecotec (LTG)
Turbocharger Lag/Failure
- Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling noises from the engine bay, illuminated check engine light.
- Solution: Inspection and potential replacement of the turbocharger assembly.
- Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of leaking seals or gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
- Cost: $300 - $800
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (6T40/6T45)
Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping between gears.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
- Cost: $400 - $2,000
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Symptoms: Reddish fluid under the vehicle, burning smell, low transmission fluid level.
- Solution: Inspection and repair of leaking seals, lines, or transmission pan.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Touchscreen Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Unresponsive screen, freezing, random reboots.
- Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $500 - $1,500
Battery Drain
Intermittent Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, electrical components not functioning.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw from modules or accessories, repair or replacement of faulty components.
- Cost: $200 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Upholstery & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Buick Verano generally presents a reliable profile, particularly with its standard 2.4L engine and transmission. The most commonly cited technical issues tend to be concentrated in the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine, specifically concerning the turbocharger and potential oil leaks, as well as some transmission-related concerns like harsh shifting. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the infotainment system and intermittent battery drain, are also noted. However, these issues are not universally reported and often fall within the expected range for a vehicle of this age. For prospective buyers, a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially focusing on the powertrain and electrical systems if considering the turbo model, is recommended.