2019 Buick Regal Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2019 Buick Regal, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Electrical622.2%
- Powertrain (other)622.2%
- Engine311.1%
- Brakes311.1%
- Other / unspecified27.4%
- Interior & seats27.4%
- Suspension27.4%
- Tires & wheels13.7%
- Fuel system13.7%
- Body & structure13.7%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
My car has had suspension issues for 2 years and I have repeatedly taken the car to the dealership.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
My car has had suspension issues for 2 years and I have repeatedly taken the car to the dealership.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
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).
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
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
WHEN A CHILD IS LOCKED INTO THE TRUNK OF THIS VEHICLE HE/SHE WILL BE PERMANENTLY TRAPPED INSIDE. THERE IS NO EMERGENCY PROCEDURE FOR EGRESS. THERE IS NO CABLE NO BUTTON. NOT ACCEPTABLE.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
My car has had suspension issues for 2 years and I have repeatedly taken the car to the dealership.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
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)
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
WHEN A CHILD IS LOCKED INTO THE TRUNK OF THIS VEHICLE HE/SHE WILL BE PERMANENTLY TRAPPED INSIDE. THERE IS NO EMERGENCY PROCEDURE FOR EGRESS. THERE IS NO CABLE NO BUTTON. NOT ACCEPTABLE.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .