Consumer Safety Complaints
Search 2,245,377 safety complaints filed by vehicle owners with NHTSA, including 140,173 crashes, 56,794 fires, and 8,580 deaths.
What is a NHTSA consumer complaint?
A consumer complaint is a free-form report filed by a vehicle owner directly to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) describing a safety concern about their vehicle. NHTSA collects these reports through its Vehicle Owner Defect Report (VOQ) system and publishes them publicly. Each complaint includes the affected component, the date and circumstances of the incident, whether the failure caused a crash or fire, and any reported injuries or deaths. The owner's full narrative description is included verbatim, NHTSA does not edit or moderate the descriptions.
The database below contains over 2,245,377 individual complaints. NHTSA's investigators monitor it for clusters of similar reports, when enough owners describe the same failure mode on the same vehicle, NHTSA may open a Preliminary Evaluation that can lead to a recall. Many of the largest recalls in U.S. history, including the Takata airbag recall and the Hyundai/Kia engine fire recalls, started as patterns visible in this complaint database years before they became formal recalls.
How to interpret what you read
A few principles for reading consumer complaints usefully:
- One complaint is anecdote; a hundred similar complaints is data. NHTSA does not investigate the truthfulness of any individual report, that's the job of the Office of Defects Investigation, which looks at the full pattern. When evaluating a vehicle, look for whether multiple owners describe the same chain of events.
- Crash, fire, injury, and death flags are owner-set. They are not verified by NHTSA. They are still useful as a filter, because owners who tick those boxes are typically reporting more serious incidents than those who don't.
- Component categories are NHTSA-assigned, not owner-assigned. NHTSA standardizes the component field so that complaints can be aggregated. The owner narrative often goes into more detail than the component category captures.
- Complaint volume scales with sales volume. A best-selling model will accumulate more raw complaints than a niche model even at the same defect rate. To compare across vehicles, look at complaints per 100,000 units sold, not raw counts.
If you've experienced a defect
File a complaint. NHTSA's investigators rely on this database to detect emerging defects, and useful complaints, specific, concrete, with dates and mileage and clear descriptions of what happened, feed directly into the agency's pattern detection. The form takes about 10 minutes and is at nhtsa.gov/recalls under "Report a Safety Problem." Your complaint becomes part of the same public record that this page is built from. Owners filing detailed VOQs are how recalls get triggered.
Read more from our blog
Showing 28,307 complaints for BUICK
BUICK
RENDEZVOUS
(2003) - FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Sep 30, 2021
Incident date: May 12, 2015
I purchased this vehicle in 2013, and a few years later, I began smelling gas. After doing my due diligence, I found out that there is a recall for this issue, because the check inlet valve at the top of the tank where the filler neck connects to the tank is cracked. Great, NO, only CERTAIN Rendezvous were covered, and even though mine has the exact same issue, they refuse to cover it and replace ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 29, 2021
I have a 2006 buick lucerne that loses power randomly as I'm driving whether its pulling outbjnto traffic, which could cause injuries possibly even death, or maintain a certain speed for any amount of time , it just randomly loses power and wont go for however long until it starts to accelerate again . Also if I'm at a red light or stopped waiting to pull out somewhere , although I have my foot on... Read more
Incident date: Sep 29, 2021
I have a 2006 buick lucerne that loses power randomly as I'm driving whether its pulling outbjnto traffic, which could cause injuries possibly even death, or maintain a certain speed for any amount of time , it just randomly loses power and wont go for however long until it starts to accelerate again . Also if I'm at a red light or stopped waiting to pull out somewhere , although I have my foot on... Read more
BUICK
ENCORE
(2018) - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS
Sep 29, 2021
Incident date: Jul 29, 2021
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light would illuminate as the average miles per gallon decreased. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the clamps for the turbo hoses were loose. The clamps and hoses were realigned and tightened. The contact stated that the failure recurred 2 months later. The vehicle ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 28, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Buick LaCrosse. The contact received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension) however, the dealer informed the contact that the part for 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 manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact ha... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Buick Lacrosse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact then received a second recall notice which stated that parts were now available. The dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the parts remained unavailable. The contact stated that the... Read more
Incident date: Jun 1, 2021
Child became entrapped in 3rd row seatbelt, seatbelt was unable to be released from locked position and it wrapped so tight around the child his airway was cut off, it wouldn’t come from around him, and had to be cut off.
1 injured
Incident date: Aug 13, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Buick Lacrosse. The contact received a notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension) and the notification stated that parts were available. The dealer was then contacted about the recall; however, the contact was informed that the parts were not yet available. The manufacturer had been notified of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exce... Read more
Incident date: Jan 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Buick Lacrosse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact then received a second notice that stated that parts were now available. The dealer had been notified about the recall; however, the contact was informed that the parts were still not yet available. T... Read more
Incident date: Aug 23, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Buick Lacrosse. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed, and she heard an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The check engine warning light illuminated. The contact continued to drive to her destination. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the generator control module had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact st... Read more
Incident date: Aug 23, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Buick Lacrosse. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed, and she heard an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The check engine warning light illuminated. The contact continued to drive to her destination. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the generator control module had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact st... Read more
Incident date: Jun 2, 2021
Loss of power steering when brakes applied. This is dangerous to make turns and park the vehicle. Buick has already issued at least one NHTSA service bulletin regarding this issue, in which the power steering pump failure causes intermittent drops of hydraulic pressure that will cause reduced or loss of steering assist
Incident date: Aug 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2006 Buick Lacrosse. The contact stated that while driving the headlights became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V519000 (Exterior Lighting). The... Read more
Incident date: Sep 22, 2021
2013 BUICK LACROSSE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO UNPREDICTABLE POWER OUTAGE. THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN THE POWER WENT OUT THE KEYS WOULD GET STUCK IN THE IGNITION. WHEN THIS WOULD OCCUR THE CONSUMER WOULD REMOVE THE BATTERY CABLES FROM THE NEGATICE AND POSITIVE. THE CONSUMER THEN PUT THE NEGATIVE BACK IN THE BATTERY AND TAP THE POSTIVE CAUSING A SPARK TO RESET THE POWER.
Incident date: Sep 21, 2021
2007 BUICK LACROSSE. CONSUMER IS SEEKING A REIMBURSEMENT FOR DEFECTIVE GOODYEAR TIRES PURCHASED FOR VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER STATED GOOD YEAR TIRES WERE PURCHASED UNDER THE IMPRESSION THAT THEY WERE NEW. UNITED TIRE OF DOWNINGTOWN INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE TIRED WOULD NOT PASS STATE INSPECTION AS THEY WERE DRY-ROTTED AND CRACKED. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE TIRES TO BE 2-3 YEARS OLD UPON PURCHASE. THE... Read more
Incident date: Sep 12, 2021
1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The windshield wipers stop and or turn on intermittently. They have stopped in the middle of a rainstorm on more than one occasion and they have turned on while just driving normally without any of the controls being touched. 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put a... Read more
Incident date: Sep 16, 2021
Turbo failure on car caused lack of power to the vehicle when accelerating
Incident date: Sep 20, 2021
In spite of multiple wheel alignments, where all of the wheels are in alignment with each other, this car still pulls sharply to the right. It is noted amongst internet discussion groups that General Motors/Buick has a common problem with a steering sensor/computer interface that causes this steering problem. I have contacted dealerships, along with Buick's California "response team" with no solu... Read more
Incident date: Sep 15, 2021
The contact owns a 2011 Buick Lacrosse. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 20V764000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was no... Read more
Incident date: Sep 11, 2021
air recirculation button stays open 20% all times with the air recirculation button always no Engineering has the car vents always open 20% form factory specifications. Hello good evening from Miami my name is [XXX] I enjoy my 2017 Buick Regal GS love my car but I've been back and forth with the service department at both the main Buick dealer about outside smells coming inside the car at all tim... Read more
Incident date: Jul 13, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Buick Regal. The contact stated that the vehicle would not immediately start up, and while at a stop light the entire vehicle would shake and vibrate. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure. The VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 13, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Buick Regal. The contact stated that the vehicle would not immediately start up, and while at a stop light the entire vehicle would shake and vibrate. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure. The VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 13, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Buick Regal. The contact stated that the vehicle would not immediately start up, and while at a stop light the entire vehicle would shake and vibrate. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure. The VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was ... Read more
Incident date: Jul 23, 2021
Drivers side lightbulb has been changed multiple times. Noticeable condensation in light itself. Driving at night and lights went out completely. Had to drive with only fog lights on. Issue happens sporadically and without warning so it is hard to address.
Incident date: Aug 15, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Buick Lacrosse. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the oxygen sensor warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the mechanic reset the oxygen sensor warning light. However, after driving for 400 miles, the oxygen sensor warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent... Read more
Incident date: Sep 9, 2021
2020 BUICK ENVISION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ISSUE WITH TRANSMISSION. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE CAN BE POWERED OFF AND KEY REMOVED WITHOUT BEING SHIFTED INTO PARK. THE TRANSMISSION SEEMED TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL INDEPENDENTLY, ALLOWING THE VEHICLE TO ROLL AWAY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING AS DESIGNED.
Incident date: Aug 29, 2021
The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while their son was driving at approximately 30 mph when they suddenly heard a booming sound from underneath the body of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle then suddenly gear towards the right and the driver had lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle then crashed into another nearby vehicle which caused the vehicle to fl... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Aug 29, 2021
The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while their son was driving at approximately 30 mph when they suddenly heard a booming sound from underneath the body of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle then suddenly gear towards the right and the driver had lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle then crashed into another nearby vehicle which caused the vehicle to fl... Read more
Crash
1 injured
Incident date: Aug 28, 2021
2013 Buick Verano engine ceased after excessive oil consumption (which was NOT indicated by the oil light). Multiple lawsuits have been filed for cars with the SAME engine, but my specific car has not been included - and GM shut down my car-specific lawsuits due to "design" flaws that they don't take credit for. NO warning signs, and my car stopped in the middle of the road, putting my safety at... Read more
Incident date: Aug 28, 2021
2013 Buick Verano engine ceased after excessive oil consumption (which was NOT indicated by the oil light). Multiple lawsuits have been filed for cars with the SAME engine, but my specific car has not been included - and GM shut down my car-specific lawsuits due to "design" flaws that they don't take credit for. NO warning signs, and my car stopped in the middle of the road, putting my safety at... Read more
Incident date: Dec 1, 2020
The contact owns a 2013 Buick Lacrosse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact called the local dealer who stated that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notifi... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH and accelerating to enter the highway, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the traction, stability, and engine power reduced warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated she was able to park on the side of the road for 30 minutes before continuing to drive to her destination. The contact took the vehicle t... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH and accelerating to enter the highway, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the traction, stability, and engine power reduced warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated she was able to park on the side of the road for 30 minutes before continuing to drive to her destination. The contact took the vehicle t... Read more
Incident date: Sep 3, 2021
Waited for train to pass and gate to raise at railroad crossing, then started to cross tracks. The car went halfway across the tracks, then the forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking activated, stopping us on the tracks. Tried again to move forward, but the collision alert and auto braking immediately activated for a second time, bringing us to a stop again. Finally was able to ... Read more
Incident date: Sep 3, 2021
Waited for train to pass and gate to raise at railroad crossing, then started to cross tracks. The car went halfway across the tracks, then the forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking activated, stopping us on the tracks. Tried again to move forward, but the collision alert and auto braking immediately activated for a second time, bringing us to a stop again. Finally was able to ... Read more
Incident date: Aug 13, 2021
The contact owns a 2011 Buick Regal. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH, the vehicle shut off without warning. The vehicle was able to be restarted but continued to experience the same symptoms. The contact stated no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the transmission replaced. The manufacturer was not inf... Read more
Incident date: May 1, 2021
The steering wheel develops play because the components of the tie rod loosen and it is difficult to maintain control of the vehicle at high and low speeds. Besides that, steering is very stiff. Cracks and screeches are heard coming from the steering rack when you turn the wheel, can even be felt from the steering wheel. My vehicle has only 26k miles on it, but I've heard some others start at 5k
Incident date: Jun 4, 2021
The contact owns a 2010 Buick LaCrosse. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH, the vehicle shut off without warning. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact stated that no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.
Incident date: Jun 30, 2021
Vehicles Timing Chain keeps going out had it replaced 3 times and the problem the vehicle is having still consists the vehicle constantly hesitates to start.
Incident date: Jun 30, 2021
Vehicles Timing Chain keeps going out had it replaced 3 times and the problem the vehicle is having still consists the vehicle constantly hesitates to start.
Incident date: Jun 30, 2021
Vehicles Timing Chain keeps going out had it replaced 3 times and the problem the vehicle is having still consists the vehicle constantly hesitates to start.
Incident date: Aug 31, 2021
Driving at 5:10pm on aug 31, 2021 first my power steering warning comes on my dash. Then my brake light comes on in red. I was just starting to move w traffic and I turned down a side street. No brakes or steering I did slow down enough to put in park. Only 4000 miles on vehicle. Called on star They called tow truck took to dealership where I got the encore
Incident date: Aug 31, 2021
Driving at 5:10pm on aug 31, 2021 first my power steering warning comes on my dash. Then my brake light comes on in red. I was just starting to move w traffic and I turned down a side street. No brakes or steering I did slow down enough to put in park. Only 4000 miles on vehicle. Called on star They called tow truck took to dealership where I got the encore
Incident date: Jul 27, 2021
1. Fuse box was replaced, yes. 4th repair shop replaced. I say only time will tell for sure. i don't drive every day 2. driving I-95 from VA to MD at speeds of 30+ to 75+ cars driving close behind could have ran into rear causing my car, their car, and multiple other cars to be in major accident with possible multiple deaths. 3. reproduced, no. independent service center, no 4. No.... Read more
Incident date: Jul 27, 2021
1. Fuse box was replaced, yes. 4th repair shop replaced. I say only time will tell for sure. i don't drive every day 2. driving I-95 from VA to MD at speeds of 30+ to 75+ cars driving close behind could have ran into rear causing my car, their car, and multiple other cars to be in major accident with possible multiple deaths. 3. reproduced, no. independent service center, no 4. No.... Read more
Incident date: Jul 27, 2021
1. Fuse box was replaced, yes. 4th repair shop replaced. I say only time will tell for sure. i don't drive every day 2. driving I-95 from VA to MD at speeds of 30+ to 75+ cars driving close behind could have ran into rear causing my car, their car, and multiple other cars to be in major accident with possible multiple deaths. 3. reproduced, no. independent service center, no 4. No.... Read more
Incident date: Aug 20, 2021
Broken left side rear lateral toe link causing severe vehicle stability issue. Subsequent inspection of right side shows initial crack in same area.
Incident date: Jun 30, 2021
The airbag sensors need to be replaced apparently but we were in no accident prior to the light coming on
Incident date: Jul 17, 2021
This car crosses the line before the lane keep assist does anything. The car nearly hit an oncoming car. I asked the Koons Tysons Buick Service rep about it and he said he has heard this from a number of people but noting has been done. It seems like a software patch is necessary to make this safe.
Incident date: Jul 17, 2021
This car crosses the line before the lane keep assist does anything. The car nearly hit an oncoming car. I asked the Koons Tysons Buick Service rep about it and he said he has heard this from a number of people but noting has been done. It seems like a software patch is necessary to make this safe.