Is the Buick Regal Reliable?
1992–2017 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Buick Regal? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Buick Regal Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 0 | 13 | — | — | 95 | Excellent |
| 2016 | 1 | 38 | 1 | — | 72 | Good |
| 2015 | 0 | 25 | — | — | 86 | Excellent |
| 2014 | 2 | 32 | 1 | — | 74 | Good |
| 2013 | 3 | 60 | 7 | — | 70 | Good |
| 2012 | 3 | 71 | — | — | 70 | Good |
| 2011 | 3 | 214 | 8 | — | 70 | Good |
| 2010 | 0 | 2 | — | — | 95 | Excellent |
| 2009 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2008 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Regal Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Regal scores 13 points above the average sedan — a strong result.
Known Buick Regal Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 455 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Buick Regal reliable?+
The Buick Regal scores 85/100 on our reliability index — rated "Excellent." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 12 recall campaigns and 455 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Regal is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2017 Regal achieved the highest reliability score of 95/100 with 0 recalls and 13 complaints.
How many miles does a Regal last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Buick Regal owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Regal will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Buick Regal Research
Check a Specific Buick Regal VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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