The Buick Terraza, a minivan produced from 2005 to 2007, has had its share of ups and downs. For potential buyers in the used car market, it's crucial to know which model years to approach with caution. This comprehensive guide will delve into the Buick Terraza's history, highlighting the years to avoid and why, while also providing valuable insights for those considering this vehicle.
Overview of Buick Terraza Production Years
Before we dive into the specifics, let's take a look at the Buick Terraza's production timeline:
| Model Year | Major Changes | Overall Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Initial release, 3.5L V6 engine | Poor |
| 2006 | Introduction of 3.9L V6 engine option | Moderate |
| 2007 | 3.9L V6 becomes standard, AWD discontinued | Improved |
The Most Problematic Year: 2005 Buick Terraza
The 2005 Buick Terraza stands out as the model year to avoid. As the inaugural year for this minivan, it suffered from numerous issues that plagued early adopters. Let's break down the major problems:
1. Underpowered Engine
The 2005 Terraza came equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine that many owners found inadequate for the vehicle's size and weight. This led to:
- Poor acceleration, especially when fully loaded
- Difficulty merging onto highways
- Increased fuel consumption due to the engine working harder
"I have dufficulty passing cars with it. In fact, I bought a low mileage 2006 year 3900 and its PCM and harness. I plan to do a swap soon as I get the PCM programmed with my Vin #, etc."
2. Transmission Issues
Many 2005 Terraza owners reported transmission problems, including:
- Sudden shifts into lower gears at highway speeds
- Transmission slipping
- Complete transmission failure, often before 100,000 miles
3. Electrical System Failures
The electrical system in the 2005 Terraza was prone to various issues:
- Malfunctioning power sliding doors
- Faulty instrument panel displays
- Issues with the DVD entertainment system
"The sliding doors sensor is very sensitive and keeps beeping. We have had to replace 3 wheel bearing costing$ 300 -$400 a pop. The rear wiper motor has burnt out twice and the transmission slips constantly."[1]
4. Suspension and Steering Problems
Owners frequently reported issues with the suspension and steering systems:
- Premature wear of wheel bearings
- Steering rack failures
- Noisy and harsh ride quality
2006 Buick Terraza: Improvements and Lingering Issues
The 2006 model year saw some improvements, but it wasn't without its problems:
1. Introduction of the 3.9L V6 Engine
The optional 3.9L V6 engine addressed some of the power issues:
- Improved acceleration and overall performance
- Better towing capability
However, some reliability issues persisted:
- Fuel pump failures
- Engine mounts wearing out prematurely
2. Continued Electrical Problems
While some electrical issues were addressed, others remained:
- Persistent problems with power sliding doors
- Intermittent issues with the DVD system
- Faulty sensors causing false warning lights
"Now, the van is living at the Service Dept, because of ongoing problems with the Automatic Side Sliding doors. Once the doors malfunction, the chime goes off continuously, even while driving. Very Annoying."[3]
3. Brake System Concerns
The 2006 model continued to have issues with its braking system:
- Premature wear of brake rotors
- ABS system malfunctions
- Longer than average stopping distances
2007 Buick Terraza: The Best of a Short Run
The 2007 model year is generally considered the most reliable of the Terraza lineup:
1. Standard 3.9L V6 Engine
With the 3.9L V6 becoming standard, the 2007 Terraza offered:
- Improved overall performance
- Better fuel efficiency compared to the 3.5L engine
2. Refined Electrical Systems
Many of the electrical issues were addressed in this final production year:
- More reliable power sliding door operation
- Improved stability control system
3. Enhanced Safety Features
The 2007 model included:
- Standard stability control
- Improved side-impact protection
However, it's worth noting that:
"NHTSA side-impact testing (on a Terraza without side airbags) resulted in a four-star score for front-passenger protection and five stars for rear passengers. In stricter IIHS side-impact testing, however, a Terraza with side airbags rated "Marginal" (second lowest on a scale of four)."[2]
Common Issues Across All Model Years
While the 2007 model showed improvements, some problems persisted across all Terraza model years:
1. Interior Quality Concerns
Many owners reported issues with the interior:
- Cheap plastic components prone to breaking
- Uncomfortable third-row seating
- Limited cargo space compared to competitors
2. Reliability Concerns
Even in later models, some reliability issues remained:
- Higher than average maintenance costs
- Frequent minor repairs needed
"like it when it works. unreliable though. side doors cant close automatically when its cold and the weather seals are stiff, the safety feature engages (prevents crushing any people and things in the automatic door) and reopens it."[3]
3. Resale Value
Due to its short production run and mixed reputation, the Buick Terraza generally has:
- Lower resale value compared to competitors
- Limited availability of parts for repairs
Alternatives to Consider
If you're in the market for a minivan from this era, consider these more reliable alternatives:
| Model | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Honda Odyssey | Better reliability, more powerful engine options |
| Toyota Sienna | Available AWD, excellent build quality |
| Chrysler Town & Country | Innovative Stow 'n Go seating, competitive pricing |
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
When considering a Buick Terraza, it's clear that the 2005 model year should be avoided due to its numerous issues. The 2006 model showed some improvements but still had lingering problems. The 2007 model year is generally the most reliable, benefiting from the refinements made over its short production run.
However, even when considering a 2007 Terraza, it's crucial to:
- Have a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic
- Check for a complete service history
- Be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs compared to more popular minivan models
Ultimately, while the Buick Terraza may offer some unique features and styling, its overall reliability and value proposition lag behind many of its contemporaries. Prospective buyers should weigh these factors carefully against their specific needs and budget constraints.
FAQs
- Which Buick Terraza model year is the most reliable?
The 2007 model year is generally considered the most reliable Terraza. - What are the most common problems with the Buick Terraza?
Common issues include transmission problems, electrical system failures, and underpowered engines in early models. - Is the Buick Terraza a good family vehicle?
While spacious, the Terraza lacks the reliability and features of contemporary minivans from other manufacturers. - How does the Buick Terraza compare to other minivans of its era?
The Terraza generally lags behind competitors like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna in reliability and performance. - Are parts still available for the Buick Terraza?
Parts availability may be limited due to its short production run, potentially leading to higher repair costs.