Is Buick a long lasting car?

Yes. Buicks can be long-lasting, often reaching well into the 100,000-mile range and beyond with regular maintenance. Durability varies by model, maintenance history, and how the vehicle is driven.

How Buick longevity stacks up

Buick, a General Motors brand, has long been associated with comfortable, family-friendly cars and SUVs. Reliability surveys from industry sources typically place Buick in the middle to upper tiers of the mainstream segment. Longevity is achievable across the lineup, but real-world life span depends on maintenance discipline, model choice, and driving conditions. Modern turbocharged engines require attentive upkeep to achieve long lifespans comparable to traditional V6 powerplants.

Key factors influencing durability

Several factors influence how long a Buick lasts. The most impactful are:

• Consistent, timely maintenance (oil changes, coolant, belts, fluids).


• Model-specific design and drivetrain quality (historical large V6s versus newer turbo engines).


• Driving conditions and climate (extreme heat, cold, or frequent stop-and-go driving can affect wear).


• Quality of prior ownership and adherence to recommended service intervals.


• Prompt addressing of recalls and software updates.

In practice, the model and how well it’s cared for largely determine whether a Buick will last many years.

Models and eras associated with durability

Historically, some Buick models earned reputations for durability, while contemporary models show solid reliability when properly maintained. Here’s a quick look by era and type:

• Historical stalwarts: LeSabre and Park Avenue are often cited for their durable powertrains and long service life.


• Early 2000s to 2010s: LaCrosse and Lucerne offered comfortable, durable platforms, with longevity hinging on routine maintenance.


• Current lineup: Enclave and Envision are the core SUVs with generally favorable reliability feedback from owners; the smaller Encore family offers practicality and can last long with proper upkeep.

As with any brand, year-to-year reliability can vary. Checking model-year-specific reliability data and owner reviews for the exact vehicle you’re considering is prudent.

Maintenance practices that maximize life

Maximizing a Buick’s lifespan comes down to disciplined maintenance and proactive care. The following practices are foundational:

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and keep thorough service records.


• Use recommended fluids and quality parts; avoid cheap substitutes that can cause long-term wear.


• Address recalls promptly and ensure software updates are installed.


• Keep the cooling system healthy, monitor for leaks, hoses, belts, and thermostat condition.


• Maintain brakes, tires, and alignment to reduce abnormal wear and improve safety.

Adhering to these maintenance basics can significantly extend the life of a Buick, just as it does for most mainstream vehicles.

Buying used Buick for longevity: what to check

If you’re shopping for a used Buick with longevity in mind, focus on the vehicle’s history and current condition. The checks below help gauge future reliability:

• Obtain a complete maintenance history and verify regular service at reputable shops.


• Check for any outstanding recalls and confirm repairs have been completed.


• Inspect for signs of overheating, oil or coolant leaks, rust, and worn suspension or steering components.


• Assess prior driving conditions (highway miles vs. urban driving) and climate exposure.


• Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection with emphasis on the engine, transmission, electrical system, and undercarriage.

With due diligence, a well-maintained Buick can deliver reliable service for many years and miles.

Summary

Buick cars can be long-lasting with proper care, particularly models built on durable platforms and backed by diligent maintenance. Longevity varies by model, year, and how the car is treated by its owners. By selecting a well-maintained model and staying on top of service, you can maximize the lifespan of a Buick—whether you’re drawn to a classic sedan from Buick’s past or a current Enclave, Envision, or Encore SUV.

Do Buicks last a long time?

Yes, Buicks can last a long time, with many models reliably reaching around 200,000 miles or 13 years with proper maintenance. While some individual experiences vary, Buick generally ranks well for longevity, and recent models have received positive reliability ratings. Key factors for maximizing a Buick's lifespan include adhering to the maintenance schedule, avoiding harsh driving habits, and addressing repairs promptly. 
Factors that contribute to a Buick's longevity

• Regular maintenance: Following the recommended service schedule, including oil changes and other fluid checks, is crucial for keeping the engine and other components in good condition. 
• Driving habits: Smooth acceleration, moderate speeds, and avoiding hard braking can significantly reduce wear on the engine, transmission, and brakes. 
• Quality parts and repairs: Using genuine Buick parts for replacements and having repairs done by qualified technicians can prevent future issues. 
• Addressing problems early: It is important to fix small problems, like strange noises or warning lights, before they turn into major, expensive repairs. 
• Environmental factors: Protecting your vehicle from harsh weather, such as extreme heat or cold, and cleaning off road salt can prevent premature wear and rust. 

Reliability and longevity ratings

• Buick ranked highly in reliability studies, with one report placing it third overall and first among luxury brands in a 2020 study. 
• Recent models like the Encore GX and Envision have received strong ratings for owner satisfaction and dependability. 
• While the overall picture is positive, some older models or specific issues have been noted by owners, which highlights the importance of maintenance and repair history. 

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. 

Which Buick is most reliable?

The most reliable recent Buick models include the Enclave, Envision, and Encore, with specific model years like the 2022-2023 Enclave and 2019-2020 Envision noted for high reliability. For older models, Buicks with the 3800 series V6 engine, such as the Park Avenue and LeSabre, are renowned for their longevity. 
Recent models

• Buick Enclave: Frequently ranks high for reliability, particularly the 2022 and 2023 model years. It is known for its durability, with many owners reporting it can last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. 
• Buick Envision: The refreshed 2019-2020 models are highlighted as being particularly reliable. Newer versions are also considered dependable, with some owners praising the spacious interior and smooth ride. 
• Buick Encore: The 2023 Encore has been recognized by J.D. Power for having few problems reported by owners. Older models, such as those from 2017-2019, are also considered reliable. 

Older models

• Buick Lucerne: Earned the title of "most reliable Buick ever produced" by HotCars. 
• 3800 Series V6 engine: Buicks from the late 1990s and early 2000s that feature this engine, like the Park Avenue and LeSabre, have a reputation for being extremely durable and long-lasting. 

What is considered the longest lasting car?

The Chevrolet Suburban is the longest-running car, with continuous production since 1935. Other long-running models include the Ford F-Series (since 1948), the Volkswagen Transporter (since 1950), and the Toyota Land Cruiser (since 1951). 
Longest-running car models

• Chevrolet Suburban: The longest continuously produced vehicle, first introduced in 1935. 
• Ford F-Series: In production since 1948, it has been the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for over four decades. 
• Volkswagen Transporter: A classic van model that has been in production since 1950. 
• Toyota Land Cruiser: Has been in production since 1951 and is known for its longevity and durability. 

Other contenders

• Honda Civic: Introduced in 1973, it became a staple for economical and reliable transportation, especially during the oil crisis. 
• Porsche 911: Has been in production since 1963. 
• Mini: While its design has evolved significantly, it remains one of the longest-running models still in production after 66 years.