Last updated: 2026-07-25

RELIABILITY SCORE: 73/100 (GOOD)

2019 Buick Regal Reliability Report

Name: 2019 Buick Regal
Brand: Buick

The 2019 Buick Regal scores 73/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 18 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

17.4per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$563

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,750–$3,100

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity64/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact75/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity79/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

POWER TRAIN (4)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
SUSPENSION (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2019 is 5 years after the minor facelift refresh.

Year 9 in the Fifth generation (2008) (2011–2020).
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
5th generation Regal (US).

What this means for buyers

Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.

2011: Fifth generation (2008) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2014: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2019: This Model Year

2019 is 5 years after the minor facelift refresh.

Should You Buy the 2019 Buick Regal?

At 73/100, the 2019 Buick Regal lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is 5 years after the minor facelift refresh.

Owners log 18 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (4). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2020 Buick Regal, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2018 Buick Regal for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low major repair risk (12%)
+Below-average complaint rate for Sedan

Cons

−Moderate recall count
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Radio screen going black and the air conditioning system blowing on high... (4 complaints)
−POWER TRAIN issues reported (4 complaints)

Compare 2019 Buick Regal With

2019 Honda Accord

Reliability: 70/100

Good

2019 Toyota Camry

Reliability: 70/100

Good

2019 Mazda 3

Reliability: 78/100

Good

2019 Hyundai Sonata

Reliability: 71/100

Good

2019 Nissan Altima

Reliability: 72/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

3 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

POWER TRAIN (4)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2019 Buick Regal. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

17.4

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 19

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2019 Buick Regal Recall Details

3 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Buick Regal. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

18V5760002018-08-30

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.

Consequence

A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the vehicle's brake system, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18279.

19V7620002019-10-24

SEATS

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Buick Regal vehicles. The driver or passenger front seat frames may have a lower crossbar that was improperly welded.

Consequence

Seats with improper welds may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of an injury.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the crossbar welds on the front seats. If the crossbar is improperly welded, the seat back frame will be replaced, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed November 26, 2019. Owners received a second notice and the recall began February 20, 2020. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is N192278300.

22V4650002022-06-30

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Buick Regal vehicles. In the event of a vacuum-power brake assist failure, a software error in the electronic brake control module (EBCM) may result in a loss of power brake assist. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 135, "Light vehicle brake systems."

Consequence

A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the EBCM software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters advising owners of the safety risk were mailed on August 19, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Buick's customer service at 1-800-521-7300.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2019 Buick Regal? Check its history first

Every 2019 Buick Regal has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2019 Buick Regal NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 0.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Rear Seat)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso (Rear Seat)Pelvis/Torso (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Buick RegalRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$563

vs $526 avg for midsize cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.2

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

12%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Regal

$563

Category Avg

$526

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

22–26 MPG

Running cost: $3,300–$3,650/yr

Fuel + repair

19–22 city / 27–32 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Regal AWD 3.6L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S9)	19	27	22	$2,750
Regal 2.0L 4-cyl	Front-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S9)	22	32	26	$2,850
Regal AWD 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	21	29	24	$3,100
Regal TourX AWD 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	21	29	24	$3,100

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Buick Regal.

Test infotainment system for screen blackouts and AC blowing on high
Check for 'Shift to Park' message when vehicle is in park
Inspect tires for vibration or balance issues
Verify suspension stability and ride quality
Check for oil leaks and listen for high-pitched squealing in cold weather
Ensure recall repairs for brake assist pressure are completed

2019 Buick Regal Common Problems by Component

18 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

POWER TRAIN (4)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)SUSPENSION (2)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)TIRES (1)SEATS (1)SERVICE BRAKES (1)EQUIPMENT (1)Other (2)

POWER TRAIN

4 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Buick Regal frequently report issues with the gear shifter, notably receiving a "Shift to Park" message even when the vehicle is in the park position. This issue is sometimes resolved by repeatedly shifting the gear back and forth, and in one case, a failed gear shifter unit and console were diagnosed as the cause, though the vehicle was not repaired. These complaints typically arise around 39,500 miles. Another reported issue involves the PCV system failure leading to oil leaks due to blown seals, with symptoms including a high-pitched squealing noise in cold weather. Safety implications are noted in terms of the vehicle's inability to fully power down, potentially draining the battery, and concerns about steering lock and accessory functionality.

4 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Buick Regal frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the radio screen going black and the air conditioning system blowing on high despite being turned off. Some owners also describe a persistent "shift to park" warning even when the vehicle is in park, which can lead to battery drainage and starting difficulties. These issues often begin at low mileages, with some reports starting around 6,000 miles. Safety implications are noted in one complaint where the vehicle unexpectedly slowed down and stopped, displaying a "reduced engine power" message. These patterns suggest potential concerns for used car buyers regarding electrical reliability and associated inconveniences.

4 complaints total

SUSPENSION

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Buick Regal report persistent suspension issues, with problems arising shortly after purchase and persisting despite multiple dealership visits. Common symptoms include negative effects on stability and ride quality, with one complaint noting unresolved issues despite replacement of suspension components. The issues are reported to occur within a mileage range of approximately 19,000 to 33,000 miles. Some owners express concerns about the safety implications of these unresolved suspension problems, though no specific incidents of crashes or loss of control are mentioned. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these recurring suspension complaints, especially when evaluating vehicles with similar mileage.

2 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Buick Regal report issues related to the vehicle's auto stop function and a recall concerning brake assist pressure. One owner describes unexpected activation of the auto stop feature after 600 miles of driving, which was not disclosed at purchase, causing confusion and concern when the engine shut off at a red light. Another owner highlights a recall for potential loss of vacuum-brake assist pressure, noting that a software fix is unavailable and expressing concern over increased stopping distances and lack of interim solutions or transportation support. These reports suggest potential safety implications, particularly in scenarios requiring reliable braking performance.

2 complaints total

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint

2024-12-22

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)

SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaint

2024-07-13

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.

SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

2022-08-29

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.

EQUIPMENT (1 complaints)

EQUIPMENT

1 complaint

2021-12-20

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).

WHEELS (1 complaints)

WHEELS

1 complaint

2020-11-03

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

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint

2018-09-09

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.

When Do 2019 Buick Regal Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

6,000–39,500 milesElectrical system failures

19,000–33,000 milesSuspension issues

39,500 milesShift to Park message

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 score

The 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).

Top Pick

Good

2020

2Recalls

2Complaints

Good

2018

3Recalls

19Complaints

Good

2019

(Current Model)

3Recalls

18Complaints

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.

See full Buick Regal years-to-avoid analysis

Buick Regal Reliability Score Trend

Buick Regal reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 74/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Buick Regal reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	74/100	Good
2019	73/100	Good
2020	75/100	Good

Buick Regal Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2020	75/100	+2	Good	2	2
2019(selected)	73/100	-1	Good	3	18
2018	74/100	—	Good	3	19

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Buick Regal reliable?

The 2019 Buick Regal has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 73/100. It is reasonably reliable with 3 recalls and 18 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2019 Buick Regal?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 Buick Regal include: POWER TRAIN (4 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), SUSPENSION (2 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints), TIRES (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2019 Buick Regal have?

The 2019 Buick Regal has 3 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2019 Buick Regal expensive to maintain?

The 2019 Buick Regal has estimated annual repair costs of $563/year, which is $37 more than the midsize cars average of $526. With a reliability score of 73/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2019 Buick Regal without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

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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