Do Buick cars last long?

Yes. Buicks can last a long time with proper maintenance, and many reach 200,000 miles or more.

Longevity is influenced by model and powertrain and how diligently you maintain the vehicle. Buick's engineering emphasizes durable components, and older models with the 3800 V6 are especially known for long service life. Modern Buicks benefit from improved materials and diagnostics, but long-term reliability still hinges on routine service, driving conditions, and timely addressing wear and recalls.

What drives Buick longevity?

Quality construction and proven engine families help, but upkeep is the key. The following sections provide a practical look at how long Buicks tend to last and how to maximize that lifespan.

Maintenance habits that extend Buick lifespan

Regular, timely service is the most important factor in extending any car's life. The list below covers the essentials you should follow for Buick models.

• Follow the factory-maintenance schedule, including oil changes at the recommended intervals and using the appropriate oil type.


• Keep the cooling system in good shape: coolant flushes, radiator, hoses, and water pump checks.


• Address transmission service and fluid changes when required by the model.


• Replace belts, hoses, spark plugs, and other wear items on schedule to prevent failures.


• Maintain the brake, steering, and suspension systems and rotate tires to avoid uneven wear.


• Prevent rust and corrosion through regular washing, especially in winter or coastal areas, and treat vulnerable underbody areas.


• Keep the electrical system healthy: battery checks, alternator and starter health, and address wiring issues promptly.


• Stay current on recall repairs and service campaigns that affect longevity and safety.

Sticking to these maintenance practices can help you keep a Buick running smoothly for many miles.

Models and powertrains commonly associated with longevity

These Buick powertrains and model families have a reputation for durability among owners and technicians, based on historical performance and service data.

• Older Buicks with the 3.8L V6 (the 3800 family) powering LeSabre, Park Avenue, Century and early Regal are frequently cited for long service life when well maintained.


• Modern V6 and turbo-4 engines used in mid-2000s to early-2010s Buicks (e.g., LaCrosse, Enclave) generally offer solid reliability with routine maintenance; the exact longevity varies by model and maintenance history.


• Recent Buicks (Envision, Enclave, Regal) rely on smaller turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines; durability depends on maintenance, oil consumption patterns, and recall/repair history, with many examples performing well over 150,000 miles.

Note: Real-world longevity varies by usage, climate, and maintenance; these powertrains have earned reputations for durability when cared for properly.

Buying a used Buick: what to check

When shopping for a used Buick, use a checklist to gauge long-term reliability and potential maintenance costs.

• Service history, especially cooling system, transmission, and engine maintenance records.


• Rust and corrosion, particularly on older vehicles or in regions with heavy road salt.


• Any known issues specific to the model/year, such as excessive oil consumption or coolant leaks, and whether recalls have been addressed.


• Condition of critical wear items: brakes, tires, suspension components, and steering parts.


• Credentialed inspection results from a trusted mechanic and a vehicle history report.

A thorough inspection can help you avoid surprises and select a Buick with the best chance of lasting many years.

Summary

Buick vehicles can last a long time with proper care. The strongest longevity tends to come from durable engine families like the 3800 V6 and from consistent, preventive maintenance. Real-world life spans depend on model, climate, and how well the car is maintained. With diligent service and timely repairs, many Buicks can reach or exceed 200,000 miles, though buyers should factor in potential maintenance costs for aging components.

How long do Buicks usually last?

Buicks can last for 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, with some models even reaching 300,000 miles. A Buick's lifespan depends on consistent and quality maintenance, good driving habits, and timely repairs, though factors like geography can influence longevity (e.g., road salt in colder climates can accelerate rust). For example, the Buick Enclave is expected to last up to 15 years or 200,000 miles, and the Buick Encore is also a reliable choice with many owners reporting trouble-free driving well past 100,000 miles. 
Factors influencing Buick lifespan

• Regular maintenance: Following the recommended service schedule for oil changes, fluid flushes, and other routine maintenance is crucial for a long life. 
• Driving habits: Gentle acceleration and braking reduce wear on the engine, transmission, and brakes, while longer highway trips can also be less stressful on a vehicle than short, stop-and-go city driving. 
• Timely repairs: Addressing small issues promptly can prevent them from becoming larger, more expensive problems down the line. 
• Quality parts: Using manufacturer-approved parts and fluids ensures better performance and longevity. 
• Environmental factors: Rust can be a major issue, especially in areas where roads are salted in the winter. Undercoating can help mitigate this problem. 

Specific model examples

• Buick Enclave: Can realistically last for 15 years or 200,000 miles with proper care. 
• Buick Encore: Many owners report high mileage without major issues, with certain model years like 2017–2019 being particularly reliable. 
• Buick LaCrosse: Some owners have reported high mileage, with some vehicles lasting 198,000 miles or more. 

Is Buick an expensive car to maintain?

No, Buicks are not expensive to maintain; they are generally below the national average for repair and maintenance costs, with an estimated annual cost of about $608. This is supported by their high reliability ratings, relatively few unscheduled service visits, and lower repair costs compared to many competitors.
 
Cost and reliability

• Below-average costs: The average annual maintenance cost for a Buick is about $608, which is below the national average. 
• High reliability: Buick ranks well in reliability surveys, with some models being specifically noted for being easy and inexpensive to own and repair. 
• Low unscheduled repairs: Buick owners report an average of only 0.3 unscheduled repairs per year, indicating that most issues are minor or infrequent. 

Factors influencing cost

• Model variation: Maintenance costs can vary by model. For example, an Encore is cheaper to maintain annually ($466) than an Enclave ($720), according to Greg Hubler Buick GMC. 
• Type of repair: While routine maintenance is relatively inexpensive, specific repairs, such as a strut replacement ($700), will add to the cost. 

Longevity

• Long lifespan: A well-maintained Buick can last well over 200,000 miles. 
• Following the schedule: Sticking to the recommended maintenance schedule can help ensure the vehicle's longevity. 

Do Buicks last as long as Toyotas?

Buick Is The Only American Brand That Beats Toyota
That's right. The highest-ranked American brand in the 2025 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study is Buick! That's not a brand that you might typically associate with reliability. But, it seems like Buick's cars have been built to last over the years.

Are Buicks reliable cars to buy?

According to Consumer Reports, new Buick cars are relatively reliable, and three of the four current models earned CR's badge of recommendation.