FaultScore report

2019 Buick Regal problems

Owners have filed 31 complaints about the 2019 Buick Regal with NHTSA between 2018 and 2026. The largest single group is the electrical system. Across this model's run it ranks 20 of 21 worst.

A

25/100

CleanWorst

Measured against the other years of the Buick Regal, never against another car.

How this is worked out

The numbers

31

Complaints

0

Crashes reported

0

Fires reported

0

Injuries reported

30,000 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

62%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

4

Safety recalls

3 US, 1 Canadian

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 9 vs 50 Severity 0 vs 50 Early failure 100 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 9
Against the median year of the Buick Regal. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 0
0% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 100
62% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2019 compares with every other Buick Regal

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2019 Buick Regal

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Electrical System 7 22.6%

Median failure at 30,000 miles

Transmission & Drivetrain 6 19.4%

Median failure at 39,500 miles

Brakes 3 9.7%

Median failure at 38,601 miles

Engine & Cooling 3 9.7%

Median failure at 22,300 miles

Other & Unspecified 2 6.5%

Median failure at 605 miles

Seats 2 6.5%

Median failure at 3,459 miles

Suspension 2 6.5%
Equipment & Accessories 1 3.2%
Wheels 1 3.2%

Median failure at 20,324 miles

Tires 1 3.2%

Median failure at 38,000 miles

Windows, Mirrors & Wipers 1 3.2%

Median failure at 30,000 miles

Fuel & Propulsion 1 3.2%
Body & Structure 1 3.2%

Median failure at 3,459 miles

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

Under 1,000 miles 1 7.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles 4 30.8%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 1 7.7%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 7 53.8%

NHTSA crash tests

The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own photographs and star ratings.

Configuration Overall Front Side Rollover
2019 Buick Regal 5 HB FWD — — — —

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Sep 2018 peak 6 Sep 2026

Recalls on the 2019 Buick Regal

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

22V465000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Buick Regal vehicles. In the event of a vacuum-power brake assist failure, a software error in the electronic brake control module (EBCM) may result in a loss of power brake assist. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 135, "Light vehicle brake systems."

Risk: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

19V762000

SEATS

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Buick Regal vehicles. The driver or passenger front seat frames may have a lower crossbar that was improperly welded.

Risk: Seats with improper welds may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of an injury.

18V576000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.

Risk: A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2022347 2,130 units in Canada

Brakes

Issue: On certain vehicles, the electronic brake boost may not work properly when there is a partial or full loss of vacuum-brake assist. As a result, the vehicle may not meet the stopping-distance requirements of Canadian regulations. Safety Risk: An increase in stopping distance could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the electronic brake control module (EBCM) software.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

at 30,000 miles Chelmsford, MA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving 20 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The traction and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The failure had occurred while the grandchildren were inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the warning lights illuminated and then turned off. The failure occurred after it had rained, and while going through the car wash. The contact stated that water entered through the windshield into the electrical box. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

NHTSA complaint #11763352 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 30,000 miles Chelmsford, MA

VISIBILITY

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving 20 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The traction and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The failure had occurred while the grandchildren were inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the warning lights illuminated and then turned off. The failure occurred after it had rained, and while going through the car wash. The contact stated that water entered through the windshield into the electrical box. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

NHTSA complaint #11763352 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Guaynabo, PR

POWER TRAIN

Dear NHTSA, I am submitting a formal complaint regarding a 2019 Buick Regal, which I purchased as a used vehicle in 2023 with approximately 19,000 miles. Since owning the car, I have added only 14,000 miles, yet I have experienced multiple significant and ongoing issues that raise serious concerns about the safety, reliability, and warranty service associated with this vehicle. Vehicle Problems: Suspension Issues: Shortly after purchase, the car has had persistent suspension problems, which negatively affect stability and ride quality. The dealership has replaced multiple suspension components, but the issue continues and remains unresolved. General Motors (GM) initially agreed to cover these repairs even if my warranty expired and also stated I would qualify for a vehicle buyback. They have now backtracked and are refusing to honor that commitment, despite the ongoing unresolved safety issue Electrical and Transmission Malfunctions: I have reported intermittent electrical and transmission issues to the dealer. These include erratic shifting, hesitation, and occasional system malfunctions. Each time, I have been told they cannot replicate the problems, so no repairs have been made. These issues are intermittent, but they occur while driving and are potentially dangerous. Delays in Repairs and Warranty Coverage: The dealership delayed parts ordering and repairs for my suspension concerns until after my warranty expired. This delay appears to have been intentional, potentially to avoid honoring warranty coverage. Refusal to Service Due to Location (Puerto Rico): I live in Puerto Rico, and both GM and the dealership have stated that they are limited in what they can do for me because of my location. For example, I was told they cannot order a replacement windshield to Puerto Rico, and that what they can do based on a buyback or warranty coverage is limited. I have been patient and waited for the dealership and GM to make things right for 2 years.

NHTSA complaint #11665701 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Guaynabo, PR

SUSPENSION

Dear NHTSA, I am submitting a formal complaint regarding a 2019 Buick Regal, which I purchased as a used vehicle in 2023 with approximately 19,000 miles. Since owning the car, I have added only 14,000 miles, yet I have experienced multiple significant and ongoing issues that raise serious concerns about the safety, reliability, and warranty service associated with this vehicle. Vehicle Problems: Suspension Issues: Shortly after purchase, the car has had persistent suspension problems, which negatively affect stability and ride quality. The dealership has replaced multiple suspension components, but the issue continues and remains unresolved. General Motors (GM) initially agreed to cover these repairs even if my warranty expired and also stated I would qualify for a vehicle buyback. They have now backtracked and are refusing to honor that commitment, despite the ongoing unresolved safety issue Electrical and Transmission Malfunctions: I have reported intermittent electrical and transmission issues to the dealer. These include erratic shifting, hesitation, and occasional system malfunctions. Each time, I have been told they cannot replicate the problems, so no repairs have been made. These issues are intermittent, but they occur while driving and are potentially dangerous. Delays in Repairs and Warranty Coverage: The dealership delayed parts ordering and repairs for my suspension concerns until after my warranty expired. This delay appears to have been intentional, potentially to avoid honoring warranty coverage. Refusal to Service Due to Location (Puerto Rico): I live in Puerto Rico, and both GM and the dealership have stated that they are limited in what they can do for me because of my location. For example, I was told they cannot order a replacement windshield to Puerto Rico, and that what they can do based on a buyback or warranty coverage is limited. I have been patient and waited for the dealership and GM to make things right for 2 years.

NHTSA complaint #11665701 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Guaynabo, PR

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Dear NHTSA, I am submitting a formal complaint regarding a 2019 Buick Regal, which I purchased as a used vehicle in 2023 with approximately 19,000 miles. Since owning the car, I have added only 14,000 miles, yet I have experienced multiple significant and ongoing issues that raise serious concerns about the safety, reliability, and warranty service associated with this vehicle. Vehicle Problems: Suspension Issues: Shortly after purchase, the car has had persistent suspension problems, which negatively affect stability and ride quality. The dealership has replaced multiple suspension components, but the issue continues and remains unresolved. General Motors (GM) initially agreed to cover these repairs even if my warranty expired and also stated I would qualify for a vehicle buyback. They have now backtracked and are refusing to honor that commitment, despite the ongoing unresolved safety issue Electrical and Transmission Malfunctions: I have reported intermittent electrical and transmission issues to the dealer. These include erratic shifting, hesitation, and occasional system malfunctions. Each time, I have been told they cannot replicate the problems, so no repairs have been made. These issues are intermittent, but they occur while driving and are potentially dangerous. Delays in Repairs and Warranty Coverage: The dealership delayed parts ordering and repairs for my suspension concerns until after my warranty expired. This delay appears to have been intentional, potentially to avoid honoring warranty coverage. Refusal to Service Due to Location (Puerto Rico): I live in Puerto Rico, and both GM and the dealership have stated that they are limited in what they can do for me because of my location. For example, I was told they cannot order a replacement windshield to Puerto Rico, and that what they can do based on a buyback or warranty coverage is limited. I have been patient and waited for the dealership and GM to make things right for 2 years.

NHTSA complaint #11665701 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Guaynabo, PR

POWER TRAIN

My car has had suspension issues for 2 years and I have repeatedly taken the car to the dealership.

NHTSA complaint #11665342 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Guaynabo, PR

SUSPENSION

My car has had suspension issues for 2 years and I have repeatedly taken the car to the dealership.

NHTSA complaint #11665342 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Guaynabo, PR

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

My car has had suspension issues for 2 years and I have repeatedly taken the car to the dealership.

NHTSA complaint #11665342 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Euclid, OH

POWER TRAIN

Intermittent Shift to Park Message Displayed While Vehicle in Park. See #19-NA-206 (through DTC B000A may not be set!). Caused by poor design of shift position switches! This is a KNOWN issue for many GM vehicles including my 2019 Buick Sportback, for nearly 20 years. GM should be made to fix this. In addition to not being able to start car and running down battery because of car power still being on and endangering the personal safety of every person using GM vehicles, it is possible Steering Lock may or may not occur and many vehicle accessories may not operate correctly. GM needs to supply a fix.

NHTSA complaint #11656034 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Chisholm, MN

POWER TRAIN

PCV system failed causing excess pressure to blow out the rear main seal and crankcase seal resulting in an oil leak. No lights and no codes were on the dashboard. The only symptom was a high pitched squealing sound during very cold weather. The problem has been reproduced by the dealer. The problem first appeared the first winter owning the vehicle.

NHTSA complaint #11642534 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Chisholm, MN

ENGINE

PCV system failed causing excess pressure to blow out the rear main seal and crankcase seal resulting in an oil leak. No lights and no codes were on the dashboard. The only symptom was a high pitched squealing sound during very cold weather. The problem has been reproduced by the dealer. The problem first appeared the first winter owning the vehicle.

NHTSA complaint #11642534 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 38,000 miles Blue Hill, MA

TIRES

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Regal TourX equipped with Continental Pro Contact tires, Tire Size: 235/50/R18, and DOT [XXX] . The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, he observed what he believed to be the tires vibrating. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the belt separated on the inside of the passenger and drivers rear tires. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11635114 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 39,500 miles Coraopolis, PA

POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Regal. The contact stated after parking the vehicle, the “Shift to Park” message was displayed. The contact shifted the gear shifter back and forth to park until the message disappeared. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed gear shifter unit and console. The contact was informed that the gear shifter unit and console needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 39,500.

NHTSA complaint #11616657 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Chicago, IL

SEATS

When I was braking at an intersection, the driver's seat broke and slide all the way forward causing me to jam the brake all the way, then the recoil sent the seat flying all the back. After the orignal pop where something broke, the seat freely slides all the way forward and back.

NHTSA complaint #11602867 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Rocky River, OH

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Hello, I am the original owner of my 2019 Buick Regal Sportback which shows a "shift to park message when I attempt to shut off the car and the car shifter is in the park position. I am unable to turn off lights, radio, or accessories. This condition runs down the battery and prevents me from starting the car as the shifter stays locked in position unless the car is running. This should be covered under the GM drivetrain warranty. Please help.

NHTSA complaint #11582852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Rocky River, OH

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Hello, I am the original owner of my 2019 Buick Regal Sportback which shows a "shift to park message when I attempt to shut off the car and the car shifter is in the park position. I am unable to turn off lights, radio, or accessories. This condition runs down the battery and prevents me from starting the car as the shifter stays locked in position unless the car is running. This should be covered under the GM drivetrain warranty. Please help.

NHTSA complaint #11582852 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Saint Johns, MI

POWER TRAIN

We are concerned about how safe our vehicle is when in "park". We will, on occasion, get a "Place in Park" message when the shifter is clearly in the park position. The dealership is not aware of any service bulletins or recalls, and since the problem is intermittent cannot offer a clear assessment.

NHTSA complaint #11538901 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 6,000 miles New Carrollton, MD

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Regal. The contact stated that when he attempted to start his vehicle there was no battery power, and no clicking sounds from the ignition. The contact stated that the instrument panel was blank. The contact stated that he had the vehicle jump started and the vehicle operated normally. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated and then turned off after the vehicle was turned on. The contact also heard an abnormal whistling noise coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the dead battery failure was an ongoing failure. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the battery and electrical system were working as designed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 6,000.

NHTSA complaint #11509002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 6,000 miles New Carrollton, MD

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Regal. The contact stated that when he attempted to start his vehicle there was no battery power, and no clicking sounds from the ignition. The contact stated that the instrument panel was blank. The contact stated that he had the vehicle jump started and the vehicle operated normally. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated and then turned off after the vehicle was turned on. The contact also heard an abnormal whistling noise coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the dead battery failure was an ongoing failure. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the battery and electrical system were working as designed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 6,000.

NHTSA complaint #11509002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Phoenix, AZ

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Regal. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V465000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA complaint #11481755 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Berkley, MI

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Per your site, GM concluded a safety recall was necessary on the 2018-2020 Buick Regal on JUNE 30, 2022 due to partial or full loss of vacuum-brake assist pressure and warns that this "increase[s] the risk of a crash." On AUGUST 23, 2022, I received notice of the safety recall in a letter obliquely dated "August 2022". The letter states that a software fix "is not currently available", but also states, "If you have already paid for repairs for this condition, you may submit those charges using the reimbursement request form that will be provided with the next letter." Notably, the latter statement ostensibly reflects that some entity apart from GM actually does have a software fix for the problem. This is my only vehicle--I do not have the luxury to park it until GM is able to remedy the problem at some unknown date. I contacted GM's Buick division this morning, inquiring whether a loaner would be provided until the company's programmers identify a solution, or, alternatively, the names of other entities that have the capability to perform the repairs for which GM offers reimbursement. The company is doing nothing and has no other information, including as to other repair facilities. Despite being aware of the problem and the increased risk of crash for which they have no current solution, "no courtesy transportation is being offered", and they are merely generically "working to expedite the release of a remedy." This is ridiculous and exposes, not only myself, but the motoring public to significant danger. What is the point of this two-month belated recall notice for which no solution is readily (or willingly) available and there is no reasonable estimate on the horizon? GM customers have obligations and need use of their vehicles to meet their daily needs. A driver can only do so much to control his/her vehicle. In our current tense environment, where drivers are routinely cut-off or worse, an "increased stopping distance" also is a luxury.

NHTSA complaint #11480960 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Berkley, MI

SERVICE BRAKES

Per your site, GM concluded a safety recall was necessary on the 2018-2020 Buick Regal on JUNE 30, 2022 due to partial or full loss of vacuum-brake assist pressure and warns that this "increase[s] the risk of a crash." On AUGUST 23, 2022, I received notice of the safety recall in a letter obliquely dated "August 2022". The letter states that a software fix "is not currently available", but also states, "If you have already paid for repairs for this condition, you may submit those charges using the reimbursement request form that will be provided with the next letter." Notably, the latter statement ostensibly reflects that some entity apart from GM actually does have a software fix for the problem. This is my only vehicle--I do not have the luxury to park it until GM is able to remedy the problem at some unknown date. I contacted GM's Buick division this morning, inquiring whether a loaner would be provided until the company's programmers identify a solution, or, alternatively, the names of other entities that have the capability to perform the repairs for which GM offers reimbursement. The company is doing nothing and has no other information, including as to other repair facilities. Despite being aware of the problem and the increased risk of crash for which they have no current solution, "no courtesy transportation is being offered", and they are merely generically "working to expedite the release of a remedy." This is ridiculous and exposes, not only myself, but the motoring public to significant danger. What is the point of this two-month belated recall notice for which no solution is readily (or willingly) available and there is no reasonable estimate on the horizon? GM customers have obligations and need use of their vehicles to meet their daily needs. A driver can only do so much to control his/her vehicle. In our current tense environment, where drivers are routinely cut-off or worse, an "increased stopping distance" also is a luxury.

NHTSA complaint #11480960 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Cherry Hill, NJ

EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STAND

In attempt to change a flat tire (front passenger side), I loosened the 5 lug nuts (1/4-turn), raised the vehicle (Buick Regal Sportback) and the jack collapsed to one side at the hinge points at both ends of the threaded shaft as I was about to remove the 5th lug nut. Note the slotted connections at the hinge/pivot points (see attached photo).

NHTSA complaint #11444659 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Willmar, MN

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

After shifting the vehicle into park and shutting off the engine I get a warning light on the dash that says shift to park. Even though the vehicle is already in park.

NHTSA complaint #11430256 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 20,324 miles Grand Blanc, MI

WHEELS

REAR PASSENGER TIRE WENT OUT OF BALANCE TO SUCH A DEGREE THAT THE ENTIRE CAR WAS RATTLING, MIRRORS SHAKING, AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. VIBRATION VISIBLE TO OBSERVERS OUTSIDE AND FOLLOWING THE VEHICLE. AFTER MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS TO BALANCE THE MECHANIC REMOVED THE TIRE FROM THE WHEEL AND FOUND THAT THE "QUITE RUNNING FOAM" HAD SEPARATED FROM THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE. REMOVING FOAM SOLVED THE ISSUE. ABOUT A MONTH LATER FRONT PASSENGER TIRE WENT OUT OF BALANCE, AGAIN, NOTICEABLE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. NOT WILLING TO RISK BEING STRANDED AWAY FROM HOME, I HAVE NOW PERSONALLY PAID, WITH SOME RELIEF FROM GM, TO HAVE ALL FOUR TIRES REPLACED WITH NON-QUIET RUNNING TIRES. I DID A QUICK SEARCH, AND IF YOU LOOK AT THE FIRST COMMENT IN THIS "HOW TO REPAIR" ARTICLE YOU WILL SEE OTHERS HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM TOO. HTTPS://GM-TECHLINK.COM/?P=8677

NHTSA complaint #11395682 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.