MotorDeets

Buick Rainier problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every Rainier from 2003 to 2007: 391 owner complaints and 15 recalls across 5 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2004 (158), 2005 (103), 2006 (91). Best fuel economy: 17 mpg combined (2007).

Buick Rainier
Photo: Bull-Doser · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Electrical146
Fuel system62
Exterior lights54
Transmission & drivetrain28
Suspension24
Speed control / throttle21
Airbags20
Fuel system (other)18

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
200301–
2004215816
2005110316
200679117
200753817

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Buick Rainier.

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Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Buick Rainier?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2004 (158), 2005 (103), 2006 (91).

How many recalls has the Buick Rainier had?

Across 2003–2007, NHTSA lists 15 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).