2013 Buick Regal

Routine

Owners filed 91 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the headlights. It has been recalled 6 times.

One of the better Buick Regal years: fewer complaints than most, without an unusual share of serious ones. Which Buick Regal years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
58,000 milesMedian miles at failure

62 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2013 Buick Regal problems

29 of the 91 complaints (32%) are about the headlights.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System27
000
Exterior Lighting · headlights26
000
Service Brakes · brakes6
102
Unknown or Other5
101
Structure › Body · body and frame4
201
Engine4
010
Power Train · transmission3
100
Exterior Lighting › Headlights · headlights3
010
Suspension2
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system2
000

6 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Suspension › Rear26V113000
Filed Feb 26, 202617,050 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2012–2013 Buick Regal Turbo and GS trim-level vehicles that were sold or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. The rear suspension toe links may have received improper corrosion protection, which can result in rear toe link fracture.

Risk. Rear toe link fracture can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links and adjuster fasteners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 3, 2026. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is N252537580. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall numbers 20V764, 21V633, and 21V00F.

Suspension › Rear21V00F000
Filed Dec 22, 20214,271 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse, 2012-2013 Buick Regal, and 2013 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles sold or ever registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These vehicles may have rear toe links that received an improper amount of electrocoating (e-coat) corrosion protection, which could cause the e-coat to become brittle and break away when contacted by road debris. Over time, the e-coat may chip away, exposing the metal toe link and making it more susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion may eventually cause the toe link to thin and ultimately fracture.

Risk. A rear toe link fracture may reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links and adjuster fasteners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 27, 2022. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212346640. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recalls 20V-764 and 21V-633.

Suspension › Rear21V633000
Filed Aug 12, 202132,894 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2013 Buick Regal, Chevrolet Malibu, and Buick Lacrosse vehicles sold or ever registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These vehicles may have rear toe links that received excessive electrocoating (e-coat) corrosion protection, which could cause the e-coat to become brittle and break away when contacted by road debris. Over time, the e-coat may chip away, exposing the metal toe link and making it more susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion may eventually cause the toe link to thin and ultimately fracture.

Risk. A rear toe link fracture may reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links and adjuster fasteners, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on September 30, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 3, 2022. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212330130.

Suspension › Rear20V764000
Filed Dec 21, 2020220,006 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Buick Regal, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse vehicles sold or ever registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These vehicles may have rear toe links that received excessive electrocoating (e-coat) corrosion protection, which could cause the e-coat to become brittle and break away when contacted by road debris. Over time, the e-coat may chip away, exposing the metal toe link and making it more susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion may eventually cause the toe link to thin and ultimately to fracture.

Risk. A rear toe link fracture may reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links and adjuster fasteners free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners were mailed an interim notification on January 27, 2021, and April 15, 2021. A third notification was mailed on August 19, 201. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202308930.

Electrical System13V173000
Filed May 6, 201342,904 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Buick LaCrosse and Regal, and model year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco vehicles equipped with eAssist. These vehicles may have a condition in which the Generator Control Module (GCM) may not function properly. This could cause a gradual loss of battery charge and the illumination of the malfunction indicator light.

Risk. If the vehicle is continued to be driven, the engine may stall and/or the vehicle may not start. In addition, there may be a burning or melting odor, smoke, and possibly a fire in the trunk.

Remedy. GM will notify owners and dealers will test the GCM and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on June 11, 2013. Owners may contact GM at 1-800-521-7300. GM's recall campaign number is 13136.

Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal12V484000
Filed Oct 4, 2012120,426 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Buick Regal and model year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with two turn signal bulbs in each front turn signal. If one of the two front turn signal bulbs burn out in either front turn signal lamp, there is no indication to the driver. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk. If the driver is not aware that a turn signal is not functioning properly, the driver may continue to drive the vehicle. If half of a front turn signal is not illuminating, other driver's may not be aware that the affected vehicle is turning, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Buick at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 12212.

All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed May 8, 2026130,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2013 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while stopped at a stop light and depressing the brake pedal, the hybrid battery would power off as intended; however, when the brake pedal was released, the vehicle would lose automotive power before suddenly independently powering on before jolting. The check engine light illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. In addition, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign: 13V173000 (Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

Unknown or OtherCrash1 injured
Filed May 5, 2026IL

While in motion at about 25-30 miles per hours, slightly stepping on the brake to slow down, the car just… wouldn’t, I was forced to swerve, preventing damage to cars ahead, I went over a curb

Structure › Body1 injured
Filed Apr 30, 2026IL

, while driving, doing a steady 25-30 mph my vehicle completed transformed behavior, literally, I could only guess the problem(s)

Engine
Filed Mar 13, 2025MI

I have a continuous problem where the vehicle goes into limp mode/reduce power mode it studders and stalls out. The check engine and stabilitrak light comes on. It is extreamly dangerous at it happens on the road and in traffic. I have thousands of dollars, a new thortle body sensor, a new crank positioner, new timing chain, new ECM, new gaskets and so much more.

Service Brakes
Filed Feb 23, 2024WI

Second time, the car has basically shut down. Brake assist, ABS and traction control lights on. Stabilitrak Service light. Had to slow down to 25 miles an hour because it was shaking so bad and limped it home. Last time they said it was a bearing in one of the tires. Also states said it has multiple misfires. Having it towed tomorrow to see what it is now.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights
Filed Jan 5, 202442,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2013 Buick Regal. The contact stated that the front driver's side headlight was replaced by the dealer six years ago. The contact stated that the front passenger's side front headlight was inoperable and replaced three years ago; however, the contact stated that the front driver's and passenger's side headlights have since become inoperable due to heavy condensation. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed with failed front driver's and passenger's headlights due to condensation. The contact was informed that the driver's and passenger's side headlights needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 30, 2023OH

Projector lights in headlamp assembly go out and moisture gets into headlamp causing poor visibility after sundown or poor weather. General Motors Case Number: 9-10416199921

Engine
Filed Jul 26, 2023GA

While driving the vehicle, I received an alert message on the instrument panel that stated “Remote Not Detected,” then the vehicle immediately shutdown in the middle of the road. I lost all power to the vehicle, I couldn’t put the vehicle in gear, neutral or anything to get it out of the road. I immediately replaced the key fob battery, no change vehicle didn’t start or power didn’t return. The vehicle had to be towed. After a couple hours power was restored and the vehicle started up again. I have replaced key fobs, had the dealership replace the car battery and the problem persists. This appears to be a defect, could you please advise on how to proceed with dealership?

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jul 21, 2023OH

There is condensation and moisture present inside the high definition front headlight assemblies, which causes the headlight illumination to be diminished and created a visibility hazard while driving at night. The vehicle was taken to the Ganley Chevrolet dealership who diagnosed that the front headlight assemblies were faulty and needed to be replaced. The cost to replace both is about $3,000. Then I went to Damper's Automotive of Cleveland Ohio for a second opinion and after replacing the bulb in the passenger side headlight, the bulb immediately blew. Based on complaints from other customers this is a known issue on low and high mileage vehicles of the same make and model. It's a astronomical cost to replace these assemblies and they could go out at any time while driving due to the trapped moisture and-or electrical wiring exposed behind the headlight.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 20, 2023OH

Condensation is getting in the High Def headlamps, and causing headlights to blow. It's a known issue and the assembly is between $1,200 and $1,500 dollars

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Belts and Associated Pulleys
Filed May 31, 2023100,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2013 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was a squeaking sound coming from the vehicle. While inspecting under the hood of the vehicle, it was discovered that the tensioner pully was very loose. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who indicated that the pulley needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact indicated that the tensioner pulley had been replaced on three previous occasions. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The local dealer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 23, 2023FL

Left Headlamp Assembly and Driver’s Window Regulator were replaced under Warranty and now need replacing again! Trim Strips were replaced under Warranty because they were rusting and now they are all rusty again! Electrical System now blows fuses. 2103 Buick Regal Turbo just reached 60,000 miles. HOW MANY TIMES WILL I HAVE TO SPEND $2,000 TO FIX THE FAULTY LEFT HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY WHICH WAS GOING ON IN 2011 & 2012? There’s Complaints all over online!!!! I haven’t been able to go out at night for 6 months because of no front headlight!!!!! I have been to 3 Buick Dealers and they all have no idea how long this $2K light assembly will last because it should have been recalled!!! The lastest Buick Dealer was trying to steal my vehicle by saying the “Check Engine” light indicated that I am going to have all kinds of problems with my turbo or engine (he wasn’t sure what it was) and that my car was not worth keeping!!! I should get a new car! I asked him how much to take care of the engine problems and he said $3,500. So with the supposed engine problem & headlamp, that’s $5K. I SHOULD BUY A NEW CAR PER DIXIE BUICK IN FORT MYERS, FL!! The other Dealerships said it was likely just a sensor since the car was not running rough and there was no hurry to have the “Check Engine” Light looked at by their mechanics!!! They felt waiting 2 weeks until they could schedule an appointment for me was fine. BUICK NEEDS TO RECALL THEIR LEFT HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY WHICH WAS A KNOWN PROBLEM YEARS BEFORE MAN

Exterior Lighting
Filed Mar 6, 2023FL

Left Headlamp Assembly and Driver’s Window Regulator were replaced under Warranty and now have reoccurred and both need replacing again. My car just reach 60K miles. This began 6 months ago so I haven’t been able to drive at night or during storms nor crack my window to talk to strangers. I am a Realtor and feel my safety is at risk. This headlight problem was going on in 2011 & 2012 yet Buick continued to use this headlamp assembly, knowing it fills with moisture then blows the bulb & fuse. With all the online Complaints, I am shocked that our government has not forced Buick to do a recall. I could kill someone or hit something with only one headlight!!!! Very concerned when my 4-year-old grandson is in my car too! Both problems are on the driver’s side and both keep reoccurring. The Headlight Assembly is almost $2K to replace. How many times am I going to have to pay for this reoccurring safety issue that Buick knew they should have redesigned years earlier? I may be reached at: [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Suspension
Filed Sep 30, 2022112,000 milesIA

The contact owns a 2013 Buick Regal. The contact stated that while driving around curves, the vehicle felt wobbly and unstable. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The contact stated that she received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V764000 (Suspension). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.

Suspension
Filed Sep 19, 2022OH

I made a right hand turn on a 25 mph street in my vehicle and the butt end of my vehicle kicked out and i temporarily lost control of my vehicle. I then heard a high pitch squealing and a thud. I was able to gain control of my vehicle and safely pull into a parking lot where my i saw my rear pass side tire jammed into the wheel well. I had my vehicle towed to the dealership Classic Painesville as it is under warranty. I found out that the toe link fractured due to corrosion and bent the passenger side trailing arm when it snapped. My warranty company will not cover the 1650 dollar repair due to corrosion, and the dealership will not cover the safety recall since my VIN is not listed under the recall notice. I pointed out that the General motors website motorsafety.org provides details on the "salt belt: area concerning this same issue. 2012 – 2013 Buick Regal 2013 Chevrolet Malibu 2010 – 2013 Buick Lacrosse Recall summary The recall concerns the toe links at the rear underside of the car, which hold the rear wheels straight. The toe links are coated to protect them from road debris and corrosion, but the supplier applied too much coating, paradoxically making the protective layer more likely to chip off. GM has issued the recall in specific states in the “Salt Belt,” where salt is used to de-ice roads in the winter. Without their protective coating, salt can corrode the metal toe links and cause them to break. The recall will include models that were sold or ever registered i

Wheels
Filed May 31, 2022OH

My Buick Regal 2013 ( VIN = 2G4GS5EV6D9229705 ) has needed (3) out of the (4) wheel bearings replaced. It only has 55,000 miles. I am not clear whether a wheel bearing is a safety issue, but I believe it could be.

Exterior Lighting
Filed May 6, 2022NE

Both headlights have condensation and are not working.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Apr 12, 2022OH

Condensation in drivers headlight caused headlight malfunction. I have seen multiple posts regarding this issue that have not been addressed. Serious safety issue. No warning lights or indicators tell you light has malfunctioned either.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 15, 2021NE

The car runs fine right up until it doesn't. You can be driving down the highway and all of a sudden lights start flashing on and off and it dies completely and slams on the breaks all at once! It's dangerous especially in the dark! You have no flashers or breaklights to warn other cars you are even there! Sometimes it won't even start setting in the driveway. You just have to wait a little bit and then the car will start up like nothing ever happened. I've seen recalls on other Buicks for the same thing but mine isn't on the recall list. This car is gonna get someone killed! We are afraid to sell it because we don't want someone else to get hurt! We have taken it to two different mechanics and they couldn't find anything wrong with it except the first mechanic cleared out 23 control module codes.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 29, 2021KY

I HAVE ATTACHED A DOCUMENT TO THIS INCIDENT REPORT EXPLAINING THE ISSUES WE ARE FACING WITH OUR BUICK REGAL!! THE 2013 BUICK REGAL ALL MODELS NEED TO BE IMMEDIATELY RECALLED BECORE MORE PEOPLE BECOME SERIOUSLY INJURED BY THE CARELESSNESS OF GENERAL MOTORS

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jun 28, 2021ND

CONDENSATION IN DRIVER SIDE HEADLIGHT NOW HEADLIGHT WILL NOT WORK BOUGHT A NEW 112.00 BULD AND STILL DOESNT WORK. LOOKED ISSUE UP ON INTERNET AND FOUND HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS

Engine
Filed Jun 14, 202180,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2013 Buick Regal. The contact stated that on several occasions the vehicle would not immediately start. Additionally, while driving the check engine warning light remained illuminated. Also, while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would not properly accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with a sensor failure. No further information was available. The battery was replaced however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the Vin was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 13V173000 (Electrical System). The contact indicated that the vehicle had experienced the same failure listed in the recall. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 80,000.

Service Brakes
Filed May 3, 202170,000 milesOH

AFTER USING THE BRAKE PEDAL, IT DOES NOT COME ALL THE WAY IN THE UP POSITION WHEN THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR IS HOT. I HAVE TO LIFT THE BRAKE PEDAL WITH MY OTHER FOOT, OR BRAKE WILL BE PARTIALLY ENGAGED AND BRAKE LIGHTS WILL BE ON. BRAKE PEDAL WORKS FINE WHEN THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR IS A NORMAL TEMPERATURE.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 31, 202190,560 milesNE

MY DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT IS OUT, CONDENSATION INSIDE THE HEADLIGHT AS WELL. BOUGHT $106.00 HALOGEN REPLACEMENT BULB AND LIGHT STILL ISN'T WORKING. AFTER LOOKING FOR OTHERS WITH THE SAME ISSUE I SEE THIS THERE IS COMPLAINTS AND RECALL FOR "SOME" MODELS OF THE 2013 BUICK REGAL (TURBO PREMIUM 3) SPECIFICALLY BY CHECKING MY VIN FOR THE RECALL. OBVIOUSLY HAVING THE EXACT SAME ISSUE OTHER REGAL MODELS OF SAME YEAR WERE RECALLED FOR.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 12, 2021MI

ADDENDUM TO REPORT 11400295 - HERE'S A PICTURE OF THE AMOUNT OF WATER ACCUMULATED IN THE HEADLIGHT LENSE IN LESS THAN A WEEK. I'M REPLACING THE BULB AND BALLAST FOR THE THIRD TIM IN LESS THAN 8 MONTHS - HELP

Exterior Lighting
Filed Mar 11, 202170,000 milesMI

DRIVER SIDE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY AMASSES OUNCES OF WATER / CONDENSATION CAUSING BULB AND BALLAST FAILURES - I'VE REMOVED THE ASSEMBLY TWICE TO REPLACE THE BALLAST AND BULBS COSTING $100.00 PER ATTEMPT ONLY TO HAVE TO REPLACE THEM AGAIN WITHIN A WEEK. PASSENGER SIDE IS DRY AND CRYSTAL CLEAR - ABSOLUTELY A DEFECTIVE PART AND IT COSTS OVER A $1,400.00 A SIDE. DRIVING WITH A SINGLE HEADLIGHT IS ILLEGAL AND DANGEROUS. GM IS WELL AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND REFUSES TO ADDRESS IT.

Power Train
Filed Mar 2, 2021DE

MY 2013 BUICK REGAL VIN:[XXX] IS HAVING ONE OF THE 3 RECALL ISSUES THAT YOU HAVE LISTED. ISSUE #13V173, MY CAR WILL NOT START AND THE BATTERY IS LOSING POWER. I REPLACE THE BATTERY AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE BATTERY IS GOOD AS WELL AS THE ALTERNATOR BUT WHEN I TOOK MY CAR TO BUICK, I WAS TOLD IT WAS THE GENERAL CONTROL MODULE. UNFORTUNATELY, THE NHTSA DOES NOT HAVE MY VIN LISTED AS ONE OF THE AFFECTED 2013 REGAL MODELS BUT IN MY OPINION, IT SHOULD BE LISTED. I AM ATTACHING A SCREENSHOT OF THE PART AND REPAIR LISTED FOR MY VEHICLE. THE PART IS $929 TO REPLACE. PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 18, 2021FL

EXCESSIVE ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION

Exterior Lighting
Filed Nov 17, 202064,000 milesFL

MY DRIVERS SIDE HID HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY DEVELOPED CONDENSATION INSIDE THE ASSEMBLY CAUSING A HEADLIGHT FAILURE. THOUGH THE CAR IS A 2013, IT HAD ONLY 64000 MILES ON IT WHEN THE CONDITION OCCURRED. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A MANUFACTURING DEFECT SINCE THERE HAS BEEN NO IMPACT TO THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY AND NO VISIBLE BREAK IN THE SEAL.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 23, 202071,111 milesIN

VEHICLE COLLECTED CONDENSATION INSIDE THE DRIVER HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY CAUSING A SHORTAGE/BURN OUT OF THE PROJECTOR FOR THE HID SYSTEM. $1244 WAS THE COST OF REPLACEMENT LIGHT ASSEMBLY, WHICH DIDN'T LAST LONG BEFORE THE PROJECTOR BURNT OUT AGAIN. THIS MANUFACTURER DEFECT NEEDS TO BE RECALLED, ESPECIALLY WITH THE REPLACEMENT COST BETWEEN $1000-$1600! THIS VEHICLE WILL NOT ILLUMINATE A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FOR SAFETY WARNINGS, NOR WILL IT STORE CODES THAT HAVE ALREADY BEEN PRESENTLY PRINTED OUT AT OCCURRING TIMES.

EngineFire
Filed Sep 14, 202081,290 milesIN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS ACCELERATION, STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. IN ANOTHER WHEN TURN OFF THE ENGINE, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. A WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ROLL DRIVER SIDE WINDOW UP, THE TRUNK OPEN AND THE WINDSHIELD WIPER INDEPENDENTLY START TO FUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO ED MARTIN BUICK GMC, 9896 N MICHIGAN RD, CARMEL, IN 46032, AND WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN DETACHED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIR DUE TO THE REPAIR FEES. FIVE CODE ALSO CAME UP, P0131, P0016, P0017, P0014 AND P0171. AND LEAVING THE DEALER, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START AND WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE TIMING CHAIN, BALANCE CHAFF, CHAIN KIT, TIMING COVER GASKET SET, CAM COVER GASKET SET AND TWO CAMSHAFT SENSORS, WERE REPLACED. THE WHILE LEAVING THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, THE VEHICLE LOSS ACCELERATION, HEAT BLOWING AT THE FLOW BOARD AN UNKNOWN ODOR ENTERED THE VEHICLE CABIN COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO A BUICK DEALER. WHILE ON THE WAY TO THE DEALER, THE PARK TO DRIVE GEAR WAS CLUNKING AND JERKING FROM 3RD TO 2ND AND 4TH TO 3RD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN SEVEN TIMES TO THE SAME DEALER. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT SHE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO A TRANSMISSION SHOP BUT WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE A FAILURE. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, THE VEHICLE LOSS ACCELERATION AND JERKING IN GEARS, HEAT ENTERING THE VEHICLE CABIN AND

Electrical System
Filed Jul 24, 2020FL

I'M HAVING A PROBLEM WHERE MY CAR WON'T START AT TIME I HAVE PURCHASED A NEW BATTERY AND HAD THE ALTERNATOR CHECK ALL GOOD SOMETIMES I SMELL SOMETHING BURNING AND I NOTICE THERE'S A RECALL ON 2013 BUICK REGAL GS

Exterior Lighting › Headlights
Filed Jul 13, 202030,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS HEADLAMP HOUSINGS CONSTANTLY FILLED UP WITH CONDENSATION CAUSING THE BULBS TO FAIL PREMATURELY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE BALLASTS AND BULBS WERE REPLACED AND THE HEADLAMP HOUSINGS RESEALED. MCGUIRE BUICK GMC (1625 US-46, LITTLE FALLS, NJ 07424 (973)200-6699) WAS CONTACTED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE WARRANTY WAS EXPIRED. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED AN ESTIMATE OF $3,000 TO REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.

Structure › BodyCrash
Filed Jun 19, 2020120,000 milesCA

I'VE HAD FOR THE LAST FEW YEARS HAD ISSUES WITH MY 2013 BUICK REGAL TURNING OFF WHILE DRIVING CAUSING A FEW ACCIDENTS THAT HAS NEARLY CAUSE ME MY LIFE. THE CAR HAS HAD MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL ISSUES I'VE TRIED GETTING FIXED AND I'VE DEALT WITH DAMAGE TO MY VEHICLE DUE TO THIS. CAR HAS TURNED OFF ON ME WHILE IN MOTION. I'VE REPLACED THE BATTERY AND I'VE SPENT SEVERAL 1,000S OF DOLLARS TRYING TO GET IT REPLACED. *TR

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jun 12, 2020NC

THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT HAS AN ISSUE WITH THE SEAL (NO VISIBLE CRACKS OR DAMAGE TO THE LIGHT) WHICH ALLOWS WATER/CONDENSATION TO ACCUMULATE IN THE HEADLIGHT. THIS ENDS UP BLOWING THE BULBS AND FUSE. EVEN AFTER REPLACING THE BULB AND THE FUSE, THE LIGHT STILL WILL NOT WORK. AFTER REPLACING THE FUSE, THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS NO LONGER WORK AND THERE IS APPARENTLY AN ELECTRICAL ISSUE WITH THE WIRING HARNESS THAT CAUSES A SHORT IN THE LIGHTING (SEE ATTACHED VIDEO). I WAS DRIVING AT NIGHT WHEN MY DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING. THERE IS NO INDICATION TO ALERT THE DRIVER WHEN THIS HAPPENS. I ONLY KNEW BECAUSE IT HAPPENED AT NIGHT AND DRASTICALLY DECREASED MY VISIBILITY (RURAL AREA WITH NO STREET LIGHTS). THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE. I'VE CONTACTED BUICK AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE IS NO RECALL AND THAT IT'S NOT COVERED DUE TO MY VEHICLE BEING OUTSIDE OF THE WARRANTY. THE ENTIRE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AND IS APPROXIMATELY $1,500 TO REPLACE (NOT TO MENTION THE $100 BULB THAT I HAD JUST REPLACED THAT BLEW OUT). AFTER RESEARCHING THIS MATTER, IT APPEARS THAT THERE ARE MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS FOR THE 2013 YEAR MODEL WITH HID LIGHTS. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL FOR THIS. THIS VEHICLE FAILS TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE ABOUT THIS!!! THE MANUFACTURER WILL NOT CORRECT THIS ISSUE

Electrical System
Filed Jun 1, 202011,700 milesTX

ON MY 2013 BUICK REGAL GS THE MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR HAS CONTINUED TO SHUT DOWN 3 TIMES AND HAS BEEN REPLACED 3 TIMES, THE CAR CONTINUES TO SHUT DOWN WITH NO GM CODES. PLEASE CONTACT ME ASAP OR I'LL HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO CONTACT MY COUNSEL TO FILE A LEGAL COMPLAINT AGAINST GM FOR DANGEROUS CAR. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Jun 1, 2020117,000 milesTX

ELECTRICAL ISSUES, MASS AIRFLOW SENSOR REPLACED 3 TIMES HAS CONTINUED TO GO OUT, VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN WITH NO CODES AVAILABLE, VERY HAZARDOUS, VEHICLE WILL NOT START UNLESS YOU DISCONNECT THE NEGATIVE BATTERY TERMINAL AND RESET THE COMPUTER, AFTER THAT THE VEHICLE WILL RUN FOR A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME ADD WILL SHUT DOWN AGAIN. *TR

Exterior Lighting
Filed Mar 11, 202070,000 milesMI

THE HID LIGHTING BURNED THROUGH THE PLASTIC CASE ALLOWING THE STRATEGICALLY PLACED BALLAST ON THE BOTTOM TO FILL WITH WATER AND THE LIGHT BULB FAILED TO IGNITE. A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE WHILE DRIVING

Exterior Lighting
Filed Mar 9, 202030,000 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE HEAD LIGHT FAILED TO OPERATE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT NOTICE THAT MOISTURE HAD ACCUMULATED INSIDE OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE HEADLAMP CIRCUIT BOARD WAS CORRODED DUE TO THE CONDENSATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND A CLAIM NUMBER WAS PROVIDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PENSKE BUICK GMC OF CERRITOS LOCATED AT (18400 STUDEBAKER RD, CERRITOS, CA 90703). THE CONTACT WAS THEN NOTIFIED BY THE DEALER THAT THE REPAIR WAS NOT FREE AND WOULD HAVE TO BE PAID FOR OUT OF POCKET. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 30,000.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Feb 11, 202046,000 milesOH

DRIVER'S HEADLIGHT QUIT WORKING. TOOK IT TO DEALER, THEY SAID IT WAS THE HEADLIGHT. WASN 'T THE HEADLIGHT. SAID IT WAS THE BALLAST. WORKED FOR 2 MINUTES. THEY SAID THAT TICKET WAS CLOSED AND CHARGED ME $650. THEY SAID NEXT STEP WAS A HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY. HAVE BEEN TRYING TO ORDER ONE AND IT IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. $1600 FROM DEALER. LIGHT HAD ACCUMULATED CONSIDERABLE MOISTURE PRIOR TO THE HID ASSEMBLY FAILING. WHEN THE BALLAST WAS REPLACED THE LIGHT FAILED AGAIN BEFORE I ARRIVED HOME 3 MILES AWAY.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 21, 202054,200 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE TRIED TO START THE VEHICLE AFTER LEAVING WORK AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AFTER THE LOCKING SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONED. IT TOOK THE CONTACT OVER 10 MINUTES TO FINALLY BE ABLE TO START THE VEHICLE. THE EALER SHEEHAN BUICK (2800 N FEDERAL HWY LIGHTHOUSE POINT FL 33064-6849 (866) 586-9080) TRIED TO SET AN APPOINTMENT AND WANTED TO CHARGE A DIAGNOSTIC FEE OF $180. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 54,200.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jan 3, 2020PA

CONDENSATION, WATER ACCUMULATION IN DRIVER-SIDE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY. NO DAMAGE OR CRACKS IN HEADLIGHT. DIAGNOSTIC AT GM DEALERSHIP STATED THAT WATER ACCUMULATION IS DUE TO BAD SEAL; ENTIRE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY MUST BE REPLACED. CONSUMER CONTACTED GENERAL MOTORS TO REQUEST ASSISTANCE THROUGH A CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM. GM STATED AND THAT SEAL/CONDENSATION IS NOT THEIR CONCERN UNTIL THERE IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND NOTED THAT THE BUMPER TO BUMPER WARRANTY EXPIRED.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Oct 30, 201963,000 milesAL

PRIOR TO THIS EVENT THE RADIO AND INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHT WOULD FLICKER AND THE RADIO WOULD TURN OFF COMPLETELY. THE BATTERY WAS THE ORIGINAL BATTERY SO WE REPLACED IT. BUT IT WASN'T COMPLETELY SHOT AT THAT POINT. DURING THE SAME TIME OF THIS HAPPENING THE BATTERY IN THE KEY FOB WENT BAD ALSO. SO I THOUGHT THAT MAY HAVE HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH IT. HAD TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY COMPLETELY TO RESET THE COMPUTER BECAUSE THERE WAS ANY POWER TO THE CAR AT ALL. WAITED A FEW MINUTES HOOKED IT BACK UP AND IT ALLOWED US TO JUMP THE CAR OFF.. THE RADIO AND LIGHTS HAVE ON A FEW OCCASIONS DID THE SAME AS BEFORE BUT NEVER THE ISSUE OF STARTING. SO NOW IT DID THE SAME THING AS BEFORE SO ONCE IT WAS JUMPED AGAIN I TOOK IT TO MY LOCAL AUTOZONE AND HAD THE BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR CHECKED AND GOT AN ALL GOOD REPORT. IN ADDITION THIS TIME THE ABS AND THE STAILITRAK AND TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT CANE ON AND WOULD GO OUT UNTIL THE COMPUTER WAS RESET BY DISCONNECTING THE BATTERY. I'VE READ A COUPLE OF FORUMS AND THE SEEMS TO BE MORE OF THE SAME ISSUE WITH OTHER OWNERS. SOME EVEN STATED THEIR VEHICLE EVEN SHUTOFF IN MOTION. AS I SIT FILLING THIS FORM OUT THE RADIO AND THE LIGHT IN THE GLOVE BOX CONTINUE TO COME ON AND OFF.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 27, 2019100,300 milesMN

THE HEADLIGHT WIRING SYSTEM DOES NOT CONTINUE TO FUNCTION, FOR SOME REASON IT DOES NOT GIVE POWER TO THE HID HEADLIGHTS.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Oct 18, 201961,200 milesGA

CONDENSATION, WATER ACCUMULATION IN HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY. NO DAMAGE OR CRACKS IN HEADLIGHT. BULB WENT OUT. PURCHASED NEW BULB TO REPLACE AND REPLACEMENT DID NOT WORK.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Oct 14, 201939,567 milesTN

MOISTURE IN DRIVERS SIDE HID HEADLIGHT CAUSED DAMAGE TO BALLAST BLOWING HEADLIGHT . REPLACED BALLAST AND BULB,BUT DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHT DOES NOT ILLUMINATE. HEADLIGHT SHORTED OUT WHEN CAR WAS STARTED IN MORNING.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Aug 29, 201972,000 milesMI

DRIVER SIDE HEADLIGHT BEGAN DEVELOPING MOISTURE INSIDE AND THE HEADLAMP ULTIMATELY FAILED.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Aug 27, 201982,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BUICK REGAL. UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT BEGAN BLINKING AND WENT COMPLETELY OUT. UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT FOUND MOISTURE BUILD UP IN THE HEADLIGHT, WHICH HE BELIEVED CAUSED THE FAILURE. AFTER SOME TIME, THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT ALSO FAILED TO OPERATE. THE CONTACT DROVE TO AUTOCENTERS NISSAN (1825 E EDWARDSVILLE RD, WOOD RIVER, IL 62095, 618-251-3000) WHERE HE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM AND WAS INFORMED THAT DESPITE HAVING AN EXTENDED WARRANTY, HEADLIGHTS WERE NOT COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY. THE CONTACT THEN DROVE THE VEHICLE TO AN UNKNOWN BUICK DEALER (THAT HAS SINCE CLOSED) AND WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS WERE NOT UNDER WARRANTY AND WAS GIVEN A COST ESTIMATE FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 82,000.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 16, 2019CA

AT LESS THAN 90K MILES MY POWER STEERING ABRUPTLY WITHOUT WARNING STOPPED WORKING WHILE I WAS DRIVING THE CAR. MY AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WILL ABRUPTLY WITHOUT WARNING STAY STUCK IN A LOW GEAR WHILE I AM DRIVING. I TURN OFF THE CAR AND START IT AGAIN AND IT'S FINE. MY COMPUTER SCREEN WILL GO BLACK AND STAY THAT WAY, WHICH CONTROLS THE RADIO, NAVIGATION, ETC., THEN IT WILL BEGIN WORKING AGAIN AFTER A FEW MINUTES, HOURS, DAYS, JUST WHENEVER IT DECIDES TO START WORKING. THE SCREEN HAS ALSO HAD RAPID MOVING LINES OF BLACK AND WHITE. MY LEFT TURN SIGNAL WORKS, BUT YET IT CONSTANTLY HAS A RAPID TURN SIGNAL SOUND LIKE IT IS GOING OUT OR IS OUT, YET EVEN WHEN I CHANGE THE BULB IT STILL MAKES THE SOUND. THE POWER STEERING I JUST FIXED A MONTH AGO, ALL OTHER ISSUES ARE ON GOING.

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 12, 201952,690 milesTX

BRAKE PEDAL DOES NOT RAISE AFTER APPLY, BRAKES REMAIN APPLIED OR BRAKE LIGHTS ON. DISCOVERED WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE FELT SLUGGISH. I AM ABLE TO PULL THE BRAKE PEDAL UP BY HAND WHEN VEHICLE IS PARKED.

Complaints 1-50 of 91, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 1998
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20202100Routine
201920200Routine
201819300Routine
201720010Routine
201641100Routine
201533010Routine
201438200Routine
2013 — this page91620Routine
201292720Routine
2011280470Above average
20101000Routine
20091000Routine
20081000Routine
20054000Routine
200466420Routine
20031015140Routine
20021175230High concern
20011878480High concern
200018410300High concern
19992468441Fatalities reported
19983027410High concern
19971368190Routine
19962044160Above average
1995173840Routine
1994110320Routine
199385232Fatalities reported
1992144251Fatalities reported
1991200740Above average
199077911Fatalities reported

Compare every Regal year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Feb 26, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.