Last updated: 2026-07-25
Buick Regal Reliability by Year
The Buick Regal averages 74/100 across 3 model years, rated good.
Buick Regal Reliability Overview
For the model years 2018 to 2020, the Buick Regal has an average reliability score of 74 out of 100, indicating a generally good performance with some noted issues. Common problems reported by owners include service brakes and electrical system concerns, particularly in the 2018 and 2019 models, with varying severity. With an estimated annual repair cost of $563, slightly above the midsize car average, the Regal may be best suited for those who prioritize style and comfort but are prepared for occasional maintenance needs.
Current generation: 6th gen (2018–2023), facelifted 2020.
Best & Worst Buick Regal Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Buick Regal Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Buick Regal year is 2020 with a reliability score of 75/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2018 (74/100) and 2019 (73/100).
Buick Regal Years to Avoid
No Buick Regal years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Buick Regal maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Buick Regal Reliability Score Trend
Buick Regal reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 74/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 75/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2020 Buick Regal
2 recalls · 2 complaints
The 2020 Buick Regal has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 2 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Buick Regal. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (1), Tires (1).
2019 Buick Regal
3 recalls · 18 complaints
The 2019 Buick Regal has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 18 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Buick Regal. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (4), Electrical System (4), Suspension (2).
2018 Buick Regal
3 recalls · 19 complaints
The 2018 Buick Regal has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 19 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Buick Regal. Severity signals include 5 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Service Brakes (4), Electrical System (3), Unknown Or Other (2).
Found Your Buick Regal? Check Its History
Every Buick Regal has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
Buick Regal Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
4/5
Annual Repair Cost
$563
Repair Frequency
0.2/yr
Major Repair Risk
12%
$37 above the midsize cars average of $526/yr.
Ranked #13 of 24 among midsize cars.
Buick Regal Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Buick Models
Compare all Buick models by reliability
Compare Buick Regal With Similar Sedans
The Buick Regal competes with other midsize sedans such as Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Mazda 3.
Honda Accord reliability
9 years tracked · 3503 complaints
Toyota Camry reliability
9 years tracked · 1604 complaints
Mazda 3 reliability
8 years tracked · 217 complaints
KIA K5 reliability
6 years tracked · 370 complaints
Hyundai Sonata reliability
9 years tracked · 1050 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Buick Regal reliable?
- The Buick Regal has good reliability with an average score of 74/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Buick Regal?
- The best year for the Buick Regal is 2020 with a reliability score of 75/100, rated good. It has 2 recalls and 2 owner complaints on record. See full 2020 Buick Regalanalysis →
- What are the Buick Regal years to avoid?
- No Buick Regal years in our database are statistical outliers — all tracked model years score consistently within the model average. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Buick Regal?
- The Buick Regal has an estimated annual repair cost of $563, which is $37 above the midsize cars average of $526. This includes both scheduled maintenance and unscheduled repairs based on independent repair data.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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