buick rainier 2004 Complaints

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT

a 2004 buick rainier with full time 4 whell drive and locking rear differential which my wife and i bought the last week of november has a severe safety problem. the car slides out of control on corners under the slightest acceleration when any snow is on the road. the car was brought back to the dealer twice, the secound time i was told by one of the owners of mack pontiac, gmc, buick in hicksville, ny, rodney gomez, that all 2004 rainiers have the same problem because of the locking rear differential. i realy think you should look into this as it is a very dangerous situation. thank you. *la

Reported in: N. MASSAPEQUA NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH

at dusk the instrument panel lights fade, causing poor visibility of the speedometer and gauges. *ak *la

Reported in: KITTY HAWK NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S342

POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)

while driving 65 mph, the vehicle swayed from side to side. the dashboard indicator lights flashed and the consumer found difficultly stopping the vehicle. the dealership serviced the vehicle and determined that the transfer case needed to be replaced. *ak the all wheel drive light had come on and when the brakes were applied, the vehicle was pulling to the left and right. as a result, the encoder sensor was replaced along with the transfer case module. there was an occasion where the consumer's wife was driving the vehicle and almost lost control of the vehicle and had a hard time keeping the vehicle under control. the consumer would also feel a dragging along with a hard time stopping. *sc *jb

Reported in: NOVI MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S242

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

transmission leaking, shifting hard, revving high during shifting, and 'hunting' for gears while traveling. *ak

Reported in: APPLETON WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P742

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST

power memory seat went to exit position in vehicle and will not return to driving position forcing vehicle to be driven with seat all the way back. makes it difficult to reach pedals. returned to dealer who had to order part (seat track). part is not available. called gm and asked them to provide a part from the factory, which they wouldn't do. told me i would need to wait until parts process located part. vehicle is very difficult to drive under these circumstances.

Reported in: MAUMEE OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S442

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH

there are no dashboard lights on the vehicle. when it gets dark consumer cannot see the speed. the dealer states they cannot repair the defect. manufacturer indicates it is normal.*ak

Reported in: WELLINGTON OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S942

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

in october, 2003 i purchased a new 2004 buick rainier. a couple months later my wife and i were driving home one night and the headlights suddenly dimmed and then came back up. it happened at least twice that night. we took it to the dealer and reported the problem. they were fixing several other problems at the same time so we assumed it was fixed. last week, october 28, 2004, i was driving on the freeway over a dark mountain pass when the headlights went completely off. they stayed off for 2 to 3 seconds before coming back on. luckily, i didn't crash because the lights of a nearby semi kept me from crashing into the freeway barrier. i followed the semi after that because i was afraid they would go off again. a few miles down the road, in a narrow on-lane construction area the headlights dimmed several times but never went completely out. hen i reported the problem to the dealer the next day he was absolutely willing to do anything to fix the problem and understood completely how dangerous it was. but, the gm representatives and corporate office refuses to even recognize that there is a problem because it hasn't been replicated in the shop so will not authorize our dealer to find the problem and fix it. the dealer has called gm several time and i have called several times. gm basically told me that they didn't care if i died and/or killed other people as far as they were concerned there was no problem. *ak

Reported in: LA GRANDE OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S242

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

while driving 35 mph consumer applied the brakes and pedal went to the floor, but stopped. vehicle was hit from the rear. the other driver informed consumer that he did not see the brake lights from behind. consumer was able to drive vehicle home. will call the dealership for an appointment. *ak

Reported in: CLIFTON VA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK

while driving 35 mph consumer applied the brakes and pedal went to the floor, but stopped. vehicle was hit from the rear. the other driver informed consumer that he did not see the brake lights from behind. consumer was able to drive vehicle home. will call the dealership for an appointment. *ak

Reported in: CLIFTON VA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

numbers on speedometer disappear in early morning and just before dark. *ak

Reported in: GEORGETOWN TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM

windshield icing even with full defroster at moderate air temperature/air duct too small for width of windshield,dealership will not fix. *ak

Reported in: BERNVILLE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P842

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS

in september 2004 while driving the fuse box blew and caught on fire. on january 14, 2005 the dashboard completely failed.*ak

Reported in: TARZANA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH

in september 2004 while driving the fuse box blew and caught on fire. on january 14, 2005 the dashboard completely failed.*ak

Reported in: TARZANA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

car is 2004 buick rainier with awd. less than 2000 miles at time of incident. temp 0 f, 4" fresh snow. returning home at 5:00 p.m., turned into 100' long driveway and proceeded toward garage. because of snow in driveway, had to accelerate to reach front of garage when normally i just coast because it is a slightly downhill approach. car would not stop by pushing brakes and hit garage door. car seemed to be accelerating as it pushed garage door into snow blower and snow blower into stored vehicle inside garage causing damage to both. speed was less than 5 miles per hour. air bags did not deploy. incident reported to insurance company next morning and insurance company set up an appointment with dealer. dealer provided estimate for repairs but did not investigate for mechanical failure. returned vehicle to investigate after christmas but nothing found to have caused incident. *jb

Reported in: SAULT STE. MARIE MI || Crash: Y || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

the vehicle's engine has been sputtering, missing and surging since it was purchased. *nm the vehicle was taken to the dealer but they were unable to find the cause of the problem. the vehicle battery failed. water leaked through the front driver's side floor. water also leaked into the vehicle by the hood release lever when raining. the passenger's side fender rattled. headlight assembly seemed loose. rack and pinion leaked. *nm

Reported in: WAIPAHU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S542

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

the vehicle's engine has been sputtering, missing and surging since it was purchased. *nm the vehicle was taken to the dealer but they were unable to find the cause of the problem. the vehicle battery failed. water leaked through the front driver's side floor. water also leaked into the vehicle by the hood release lever when raining. the passenger's side fender rattled. headlight assembly seemed loose. rack and pinion leaked. *nm

Reported in: WAIPAHU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S542

STRUCTURE

the vehicle's engine has been sputtering, missing and surging since it was purchased. *nm the vehicle was taken to the dealer but they were unable to find the cause of the problem. the vehicle battery failed. water leaked through the front driver's side floor. water also leaked into the vehicle by the hood release lever when raining. the passenger's side fender rattled. headlight assembly seemed loose. rack and pinion leaked. *nm

Reported in: WAIPAHU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S542

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BATTERY

the vehicle's engine has been sputtering, missing and surging since it was purchased. *nm the vehicle was taken to the dealer but they were unable to find the cause of the problem. the vehicle battery failed. water leaked through the front driver's side floor. water also leaked into the vehicle by the hood release lever when raining. the passenger's side fender rattled. headlight assembly seemed loose. rack and pinion leaked. *nm

Reported in: WAIPAHU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S542

STEERING:RACK AND PINION

the vehicle's engine has been sputtering, missing and surging since it was purchased. *nm the vehicle was taken to the dealer but they were unable to find the cause of the problem. the vehicle battery failed. water leaked through the front driver's side floor. water also leaked into the vehicle by the hood release lever when raining. the passenger's side fender rattled. headlight assembly seemed loose. rack and pinion leaked. *nm

Reported in: WAIPAHU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S542

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

at dawn or early evening the digital display speedometer disappears, and makes it impossible to see how fast consumer is traveling. manufacturer states the vehicle is doing what it is designed to do.*ak...also, does it during day if it gets very cloudy like it is gaong to snow, etc. in michigan, wher econsumer lives, there were several such days. *ak

Reported in: GROSSE POINTE WOODS MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P542

STRUCTURE

at dawn or dusk the speedometer fades out and the driver was unable to determine how fast she was going. the dealer stated there was no solution at this time. *ak gm suggested that this was an engineering design problem. the speedometer and the odometer would fade away when it was dusk or dawn while the vehicle was in motion. the problem was first noticed in june 2004. the consumer marked march 22, 2005 as the incident date. *sc *jb

Reported in: FREDONIA NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

headlights dim while driving at night. the headlights some times flicker bright to dim then back to bright and the voltage gauge fluctates. this has escalated to where for no reason the headlights will go dim for approximately 5 to 10 seconds then return to normal, at this time they go dim enough that you can't see when driving and have to pull over. the service manager has spoke to gm and buick representitives for the past couple of days and was basically told: there is a problem - we're aware of it - we don't know how to fix it.*ak

Reported in: SHARPSVILLE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S342

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

dt: consumer was driving along and vehicle starts sputtering and then died out in the road. after the 1st incident vehicle was taken to dealer for repairs. the driver drove the vehicle for about two months and it happened again. the vehicle was taken back to dealer who indicated they couldn't find anything wrong. the manufacturer was contacted and they suggested that the consumer get a second opinion. the consumer has parked the vehicle because he is afraid to drive it for safety reasons. *nm

Reported in: CHICAGO IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

dt: headlights flicker on/off, and gm doesn't have a solution for this problem. have contacted the manufacturer, and they cannot fix it. this happens intermittently. *ak *nm

Reported in: ALBUQUERQUE NM || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S742

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

awd does not engage. very dangerous on a slick road. had suv to dealer 3-4 times. they never fix the problem. front wheels of suv make grinding noise after a few hours of driving. headlights go dim/and even turn off for a few seconds while driving at night. took to dealer, of course no problem was found. someone's going to be killed because of both these problems with the buick rainier.

Reported in: N. TAZEWELL VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S642

POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)

awd does not engage. very dangerous on a slick road. had suv to dealer 3-4 times. they never fix the problem. front wheels of suv make grinding noise after a few hours of driving. headlights go dim/and even turn off for a few seconds while driving at night. took to dealer, of course no problem was found. someone's going to be killed because of both these problems with the buick rainier.

Reported in: N. TAZEWELL VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S642

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

i was stopped at an intersection waiting for the traffic light to change. one vehicle was in front of me. i was impacted from the rear by a third vehicle traveling at a rate of speed i would estimate at somewhere between 20 and 40 mph. the force of the impact threw my car into the car in front of me. in addition to the significant rearend damage sustained, the impact destroyed the front end of my suv, including bumper, radiator, hood and damage to both front quarter panels. and yet the airbag did not deploy. i'm recovering from back and neck strains and pains from the whiplash effect of the accident. however, i am sure that i would have experienced and endured less trama had the airbag deployed. the 2004 buick ranier suv has been towed from the scene. today or monday, the insurance adjustor will determine if the vehicle is repairable. below, i have referenced all component choices related to the airbag becuase it did not deploy. no determination has been made to determine the specific part responsible for the non-deployment of the airbag.

Reported in: AIKEN SC || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5GADS13S142

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE INFLATOR MODULE

i was stopped at an intersection waiting for the traffic light to change. one vehicle was in front of me. i was impacted from the rear by a third vehicle traveling at a rate of speed i would estimate at somewhere between 20 and 40 mph. the force of the impact threw my car into the car in front of me. in addition to the significant rearend damage sustained, the impact destroyed the front end of my suv, including bumper, radiator, hood and damage to both front quarter panels. and yet the airbag did not deploy. i'm recovering from back and neck strains and pains from the whiplash effect of the accident. however, i am sure that i would have experienced and endured less trama had the airbag deployed. the 2004 buick ranier suv has been towed from the scene. today or monday, the insurance adjustor will determine if the vehicle is repairable. below, i have referenced all component choices related to the airbag becuase it did not deploy. no determination has been made to determine the specific part responsible for the non-deployment of the airbag.

Reported in: AIKEN SC || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5GADS13S142

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE

i was stopped at an intersection waiting for the traffic light to change. one vehicle was in front of me. i was impacted from the rear by a third vehicle traveling at a rate of speed i would estimate at somewhere between 20 and 40 mph. the force of the impact threw my car into the car in front of me. in addition to the significant rearend damage sustained, the impact destroyed the front end of my suv, including bumper, radiator, hood and damage to both front quarter panels. and yet the airbag did not deploy. i'm recovering from back and neck strains and pains from the whiplash effect of the accident. however, i am sure that i would have experienced and endured less trama had the airbag deployed. the 2004 buick ranier suv has been towed from the scene. today or monday, the insurance adjustor will determine if the vehicle is repairable. below, i have referenced all component choices related to the airbag becuase it did not deploy. no determination has been made to determine the specific part responsible for the non-deployment of the airbag.

Reported in: AIKEN SC || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5GADS13S142

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

2004 rainier experiencing intermittent popping noise. the dealer indicated that the noise was normal. the brakes made a grinding noise and the vehicle would not stop. this occurred three times. *mr the driver heard wind noise while driving. the consumer also heard idling noises. *nm

Reported in: EAST DUNDEE IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

STRUCTURE

2004 rainier experiencing intermittent popping noise. the dealer indicated that the noise was normal. the brakes made a grinding noise and the vehicle would not stop. this occurred three times. *mr the driver heard wind noise while driving. the consumer also heard idling noises. *nm

Reported in: EAST DUNDEE IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2004 rainier experiencing intermittent popping noise. the dealer indicated that the noise was normal. the brakes made a grinding noise and the vehicle would not stop. this occurred three times. *mr the driver heard wind noise while driving. the consumer also heard idling noises. *nm

Reported in: EAST DUNDEE IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION

2004 rainier experiencing intermittent popping noise. the dealer indicated that the noise was normal. the brakes made a grinding noise and the vehicle would not stop. this occurred three times. *mr the driver heard wind noise while driving. the consumer also heard idling noises. *nm

Reported in: EAST DUNDEE IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

STRUCTURE

dt*: the contact stated the vehicle's speedometer has inadequate lighting. while driving in the day time the lighting in the dash is not adequate enough to light the speedometer making it difficult for the consumer to see the speed the vehicle is traveling. the vehicle was taken to the dealership. updated 2/27/2006 - *nm

Reported in: OLYMPIA WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

INTERIOR LIGHTING

dt*: the contact stated the vehicle's speedometer has inadequate lighting. while driving in the day time the lighting in the dash is not adequate enough to light the speedometer making it difficult for the consumer to see the speed the vehicle is traveling. the vehicle was taken to the dealership. updated 2/27/2006 - *nm

Reported in: OLYMPIA WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

at night, headlights flicker between dim to bright for no apparent reason. this has been an on going problems since april 2004. buick service manager admits that this is a known problem but they have no idea how to fix it.*jb

Reported in: DOWNINGTOWN PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)

dt*: the contact stated while parking the vehicle, the four-wheel drive engaged and the vehicle lurched forward repetitively until the front wheels were straightened out. the manufacturer was notified, who informed the contact that the issue was a result of the design. the vehicle was taken to a service dealer, who determined the cause of the problem was the computer reading that one wheel was traveling further than the other, and compensating for this by engaging the four-wheel drive.

Reported in: CANTON OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S642

AIR BAGS

while crossing an intersection i was hit in the front right quarter of the vehicle. i was hit by a person running a red light. he was doing 40 to 50 mph in a light truck and knocked my suv sideways about 15 feet. there is more than $8,000 damage to the vehicle but the side air bags did not deploy. i suffered a concussion and soft tissue injuries. gm told me i had to get hit in a certain way for the air bags to deploy. they don't tell you that when selling the car. can you tell me if the bags should have deployed? *nm

Reported in: BELLEVUE WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*- the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier with a failure mileage of 47,000 and a current mileage of 57,000 miles. the contact stated that the speedometer displayed the incorrect speed. when she put the vehicle in park the speedometer showed that the speed was above zero. the registered speed varied. when she started the vehicle it would automatically display a speed which was above zero. when the contact started to drive the speedometer would keep going higher until it reached 120. the contact has not taken the vehicle to the dealer or spoken to the manufacturer. *ak

Reported in: BREMINGHAM MI || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was in the midst of a 10 hour road trip over the holidays when the speedometer originally quit working. i was traveling at a rate of 70 mph. the speedometer started inching up and buried itself at 120 mph. i pulled off the road in an attempt to get the speedometer to go back down but it settled on 60 mph while in park. i continued on w/my trip and took the car to the dealership upon arrival in abilene, ks. they were not able to identify the problem in the cluster and checked bulletins for past problems w/speedometers. over the course of 3 months the speedometer continued to repeat this action. i had it into a dealership in austin, tx on three separate occasions w/the same response from the dealership until the speedometer finally quite working altogether. the dealer told me he had seen this in a few other models by gm. i called and filed a complaint with gm and was told there was nothing they would do. i then had to pay to have the cluster replaced in february 2007. three weeks later the car was back in b/c the entire system shut down and the speedometer quit working. the service department saw the problem upon arrival but was unable to prolong. *jb

Reported in: AUSTIN TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S842

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

i was in the midst of a 10 hour road trip over the holidays when the speedometer originally quit working. i was traveling at a rate of 70 mph. the speedometer started inching up and buried itself at 120 mph. i pulled off the road in an attempt to get the speedometer to go back down but it settled on 60 mph while in park. i continued on w/my trip and took the car to the dealership upon arrival in abilene, ks. they were not able to identify the problem in the cluster and checked bulletins for past problems w/speedometers. over the course of 3 months the speedometer continued to repeat this action. i had it into a dealership in austin, tx on three separate occasions w/the same response from the dealership until the speedometer finally quite working altogether. the dealer told me he had seen this in a few other models by gm. i called and filed a complaint with gm and was told there was nothing they would do. i then had to pay to have the cluster replaced in february 2007. three weeks later the car was back in b/c the entire system shut down and the speedometer quit working. the service department saw the problem upon arrival but was unable to prolong. *jb

Reported in: AUSTIN TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S842

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM

2004 buick rainier speedometer & gas gauge went haywire at 43,000 miles. the needles pointed randomly and the gas gauge showed 180 degrees off the markings, pointing straight down. complained to the dealership, who stated this was a known defect and replaced the entire unit for a $100 deductible even though the car was out of warranty. *ak

Reported in: NAPLES FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2004 buick rainier speedometer & gas gauge went haywire at 43,000 miles. the needles pointed randomly and the gas gauge showed 180 degrees off the markings, pointing straight down. complained to the dealership, who stated this was a known defect and replaced the entire unit for a $100 deductible even though the car was out of warranty. *ak

Reported in: NAPLES FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

at 46,403 miles i noticed that the engine would rev up more than normal when shifting gears. took into the buick dealer and upon inspection the tech found that there was scoring in the valve body of the transmission. extended warranty took care of the issue however i was told that this was rare for raniers.

Reported in: FORT WALTON BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL

with vehicle temperature at normal range, in park and at normal idle when i push on the gas pedal the rpm would drop to under 500 and then go back up, almost like a hesitation of sorts. took vehicle to buick dealer and was told that it was the secondary air pump, basically the egr valve. was told this was part of the emissions of the vehicle but not covered under the emissions warranty nor would my extended warranty cover as well. vehicle has 46,403 miles on it.

Reported in: FORT WALTON BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:POWER STEERING FLUID

purchased vehicle which had 34,000 mile on it. it now has 46,403 and have had to fill the power steering pump up three times. i have detected no leaks. took to the buick dealer and they said they were unable to find leak. put some dye in it and said bring it back in a month or so.

Reported in: FORT WALTON BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

faulty speedometer registers unreliable speed. 2004 buick rainier. now, the oil pressure gauge is also faulty and jumps around. notified gm, who was well aware of this problem but claimed it was not a safety issue worthy of a recall. internet website showed hundreds of other gm suv owners with same problem. *ak

Reported in: BIRMINGHAM MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13SX42

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

my speedometer started to stick at 60 mph when driving slowly after exiting off of the freeway at night. i then proceeded on my way home in a 30mph zone and then the speedometer was pegged out at over 120mph. from then on sometimes the needle on the gauge almost goes to zero until you start to drive the vehicle, and then it peg's out again. consequently my wife and i do not know how fast we are going which is a major safety issue especially at freeway speeds or driving through the neighborhood where children play. i have not payed to replace a 500 hundred dollar item.

Reported in: GALT CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

intermittent speedometer readings. speedometer stuck anywhere between 0-120mph.

Reported in: TIPTON IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P442

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

as i began to work on tuesday of this week, i looked down and my speedometer was registering 120 mph. i was only just beginning so i realized something was wrong. i stopped and switched the car off and thought it would reset the gauges but it only went to 65mph. as i began driving again it started registering 120mph. then on wednesday, it would not leave off the 120mph when i turned the engine off. the next time it went back it beginning at 65 and as i accelerated it went to 120. i have no clue what speed i am traveling while driving. i went to my dealer and he said i would have to pay for it to be fixed. i did not have it fixed.

Reported in: BROXTON GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAES13P742

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. when the brake pedal was depressed, the contact heard a clunking noise and the vehicle shook. there were no warning indicators prior to the failure. the dealer stated that the noise was normal. repairs were made to the brake system; however,the contact could not remember what specifically was repaired. the failure mileage was 26,000 and current mileage was 34,000.

Reported in: COLBERT WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P642

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

there seems to be a known safety issue with speedometer control module. the dealers know about this issue, transmission and speedometer repair shops knpw about this issue. this is a very dangerous problem as you are driving and the speed registers different & sometimes not at all.

Reported in: WEST CHESTER OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

there seems to be a known safety issue with speedometer control module. the dealers know about this issue, transmission and speedometer repair shops knpw about this issue. this is a very dangerous problem as you are driving and the speed registers different & sometimes not at all.

Reported in: WEST CHESTER OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

i was driving one morning and noticed that my speed registered 80miles when i had just pulled off. i cut the car off and then starting back driving and it then said i was going 120. i took my car in and they told me that my car was not under warranty for this repair, and it would cost me $575. to get it fixed. i asked for the main number to buick and called them, they said that my car did not fall in the extended warranty category and they did not have enough complaints to have this as a recall. i also told them that this is a safety hazard and that i should not have to pay out of pocket for a manufacturer defect and that i am not the only one with this problem on this particular vehicle. i could be sitting with the car idle and the speedometer reads 120, even when i made the appt. to have it checked out the service guy said that quite a few people have been in with that problem.

Reported in: PISCATAWAY NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S842

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

speed and oil pressure indicator failures.

Reported in: JACKSONVILLE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S142

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

my wife was stopped by the sc highway officer for speeding. based on her speedometer reading she was not speeding. in addition to speeding ticket she received warning for operating vehicle with broken equipment. it turned out that the speedometer quit working while she was driving and is now acting unpredictable.

Reported in: COLUMBIA SC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S342

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

faulty speedometer, reads between 70 mph to 130 mph at all times.

Reported in: KINROSS MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S442

AIR BAGS

my fiance was in accident with my suv and the air bag didn't deploy can i sue the company who sold me the vehicle?

Reported in: KENOSHA WI || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5GADT13SX42

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

instrument gauge cluster started working only sporadically march 08. speedometer and tack have also failed to work about 25% of time in the past two weeks. on one occasion while driving about 15 mph through a neighborhood, the gas pedal failed to respond and the engine would only idle at 1000 rpm. after pulling over and restarting, the gas pedal returned to normal.

Reported in: EDWARDSVILLE IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S842

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the speedometer reads erratically at rest pegged to 120 when driving. this occurs intermittently. when driving you do not have reliable display of your speed. gm says this is not a safety issue, i disagree. it is a failure in a fundamentally important function of the vehicle and should be fixed. this began with onset of cold weather and continues to the present.

Reported in: LORETTO PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S842

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. while driving 70 mph, the speedometer will display speeds between 20-120 mph. while driving various speeds on the freeway, the speed will decrease on its own. the contact must literally stand on the accelerator pedal to maintain a steady speed. while idling at a stop sign or light, the engine continues to rev. the contact scheduled an appointment with the dealer for june 23, 2008 to diagnose the failures. the current mileage was 41,000 and failure mileage was 35,000.

Reported in: CASTRO VALLEY CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

tl*the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. while driving 70 mph, the speedometer will display speeds between 20-120 mph. while driving various speeds on the freeway, the speed will decrease on its own. the contact must literally stand on the accelerator pedal to maintain a steady speed. while idling at a stop sign or light, the engine continues to rev. the contact scheduled an appointment with the dealer for june 23, 2008 to diagnose the failures. the current mileage was 41,000 and failure mileage was 35,000.

Reported in: CASTRO VALLEY CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

tl*the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. while driving 70 mph, the speedometer will display speeds between 20-120 mph. while driving various speeds on the freeway, the speed will decrease on its own. the contact must literally stand on the accelerator pedal to maintain a steady speed. while idling at a stop sign or light, the engine continues to rev. the contact scheduled an appointment with the dealer for june 23, 2008 to diagnose the failures. the current mileage was 41,000 and failure mileage was 35,000.

Reported in: CASTRO VALLEY CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

instrument control for speedometer and radio just quit working. not always sure of traveling speed because speedometer quits working. very dangerous because of not sure of traveling speeds and afraid of getting ticket because of unkown speed.

Reported in: CINCINNATI OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

speedometer began getting stuck and now does not give speed stays on zero or slowly moves up and gets stuck.

Reported in: SHELBY TWP. MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

we have a 2004 buick rainier. during the colder times, our speedometer tic, so you don't know how fast or slow you are going. this is a safety issue. having no way to tell your speed, we could get a ticket, cause an accident. i have also noticed online, numerous people having the same problem. there needs to be a recall. we have not had it fixed. it would $600 to fix, and should not be charged to us, but to buick for a malfunction.

Reported in: ROYERSFORD PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

i have a 2004 buick rainier that had the transmission rebuilt with 28,000 miles and again at 64,000 miles.

Reported in: NORTH AUGUSTA WY || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

while driving on the freeway i noticed that the speedometer reading was too high as i was changing lanes to exit during evening rush hour. after exiting and stopping for a traffic light, my speedometer was showing 55mph. as i continued on the service drive i observed 75 and 85mph in a 35mph zone! very distracting when driving next to a 70mph freeway. i not going that fast i'm crawling. when i turned on to my street i was still observing the speed at 65mph and nearly ran over my neighbor who was putting his trash out at the curb. almost passed my driveway and drove over a bit of the other neighbors grass. i could not believe a 4-yr old vehicle with 64000 miles had a bad speedometer. so i changed the instrument cluster fuse and the speedometer started to work again and seemed to be accurate. on my way home from work it again shot up to 120+mph and that is where it stayed. changed the fuse again seemed to work for a day and shot up again to 120+ mph. drove it to the dealership to have to repaired and they say it is the instrument cluster that is bad and it will cost $450.00. no longer under warranty and i cannot repair at this time. dealership service says they have not heard of this happening at all. for my money they will only warranty it for 1yr/12000 miles. i have always believed buy american but right now i am truly disappointed.

Reported in: REDFORD MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

speedometer stops working when car warms up. as i am driving with my two small children my speedometer will stop working and go below zero. which becomes a hazard because i am unaware of how fast or slow i am going. my family as well as myself are in serious danger of getting into an accident because of this problem. it will not start working again until the next day. it has been happening quicker and quicker as the problem persists. i am also noticing a hot smell when the speedometer stops working. buick refuses to help with this problem even though i have reported this before my extended warranty expired.

Reported in: DEPOSIT NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

i have had trouble with the headlights dimming while driving since the beginning, the dealership has several times worked on the problem, which i think has cleared up..so far. now my speedometer has started messing up, it says i am going 50 while parked and 120 while driving. i only drive short distances and mostly into and back from town 6 mile one way. i have 50,969 miles on my 2004 vehicle, i keep its checkups and oil changes regularly: dealership has records. i feel this vehicle has had electrical issues from day one, i see turn signal and brakelight issues in recall so i don't believe i am wrong about this. they want to charge me over $400 to change the "cluster" as the economy goes, i too cannot afford this kind of charges on an item that should not have issues. especially when i take good care of it and really has low mileage and wear and tear (perfect condition).

Reported in: SAULT SAINTE MARIE MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S542

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i have had trouble with the headlights dimming while driving since the beginning, the dealership has several times worked on the problem, which i think has cleared up..so far. now my speedometer has started messing up, it says i am going 50 while parked and 120 while driving. i only drive short distances and mostly into and back from town 6 mile one way. i have 50,969 miles on my 2004 vehicle, i keep its checkups and oil changes regularly: dealership has records. i feel this vehicle has had electrical issues from day one, i see turn signal and brakelight issues in recall so i don't believe i am wrong about this. they want to charge me over $400 to change the "cluster" as the economy goes, i too cannot afford this kind of charges on an item that should not have issues. especially when i take good care of it and really has low mileage and wear and tear (perfect condition).

Reported in: SAULT SAINTE MARIE MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S542

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

the dash cluster lighting is too dim in the daylight and non existent at dawn and dusk. there is not a manual override that allows you to select night lighting during these transitional times and on certain days so you can not see the speedometer output nor the driver advisory display. i discussed it with several dealers and they say some work this way and some don't. they have no way to tell which work properly and which ones will not. they all refused to replace it under warranty as buick says that is the way the system is supposed to work. for up to 15 minutes in morning and night the display is totally unreadable while it is slowly transitioning night time visibility. yes, i have the lighting set as bright as the system will allow at any given time but it is still not visible to me or anyone else that drives the car. i have found quite a few others on the net that have the same problem and the same could care less responses from buick on this safety issue. this goes on everyday so it probably is only a matter of time until it results in a serious accident and/or a serious mechanical failure that will be missed because you can't read the instrument cluster under certain but daily conditions such as sunrise and dusk.

Reported in: MESA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S742

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

my husband and i purchased a used 2004 buick rainier with 33,000 miles last may 2008. one evening during the summer we were making a 20 minute trip and the speedometer just stopped working while en route. since then the speedometer gets stuck while making 20+ minute trips and will only go down 5 mph each time you shut off the suv and restart. so you have to shut off and restart several times before it reaches back down to zero and it will then operate okay for a little while until you make that 20+ minute trip again. sometimes while just driving around town running errands it will get stuck. so i would say at least once a week it gets stuck. it's very frustrating when you have to watch your speed especially around the school zones. i often take my eyes off the roads to watch my rpm's and try to calculate how fast i'm going. i'm currently saving to have the problem fixed as i've heard of it being a very pricing item (instrument cluster) to have replaced. i've been doing some research on a possible recall for this item and i've found there have been many complaints and even a class action suit against gm for other suv's similar to the rainier but the buick rainier was not listed in this class action suit and no recalls have been made for this item on buick rainiers. any help you can give would be greatly appreciated. thank you.

Reported in: PARDEEVILLE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P042

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

my husband and i purchased a used 2004 buick rainier with 33,000 miles last may 2008. one evening during the summer we were making a 20 minute trip and the speedometer just stopped working while en route. since then the speedometer gets stuck while making 20+ minute trips and will only go down 5 mph each time you shut off the suv and restart. so you have to shut off and restart several times before it reaches back down to zero and it will then operate okay for a little while until you make that 20+ minute trip again. sometimes while just driving around town running errands it will get stuck. so i would say at least once a week it gets stuck. it's very frustrating when you have to watch your speed especially around the school zones. i often take my eyes off the roads to watch my rpm's and try to calculate how fast i'm going. i'm currently saving to have the problem fixed as i've heard of it being a very pricing item (instrument cluster) to have replaced. i've been doing some research on a possible recall for this item and i've found there have been many complaints and even a class action suit against gm for other suv's similar to the rainier but the buick rainier was not listed in this class action suit and no recalls have been made for this item on buick rainiers. any help you can give would be greatly appreciated. thank you.

Reported in: PARDEEVILLE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P042

AIR BAGS

while traveling at a speed of approx 50-55 on a interstate, i was reared ended by a auto, my auto was struck then shoveled into a cement wall block and then bounced into on coming traffic to the other cement wall block on the opposite site while trying to stop, i was wearing a seat belt, the vehicle's air bags didn't go off at all in the vehicle. a head injury occurred, neck and shoulder injuries occurred. the auto was a total loss!

Reported in: BUFFALO NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5GADT13S842

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

instrument cluster failed to work. dealer checked and found this is not a safety issue, since i should be able to feel hoe fast i am going. this same failure was covered in pontiacs and chevrolet trucks.

Reported in: TYRONE PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

2004 buick rainier speedometer is registering 25-30 mph faster than what the vehicle is actually traveling. when in park is shows the suv traveling 25 mph.

Reported in: WESTMINSTER MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i have a 2004 buick rainier and the speedometer sticks on a regular basis. it ranges anywhere from 20-70 miles an hour while parked and 120 and over while driving. i can generally tell about how fast i am going and must keep an eye on my rpms. well this is frustrating and very distracting while driving. this is definitely a safety concern for my family as well as everyone else on the road (because of the distraction). also my cruise control does not work and the air conditioner will not blow out of the front vents. i have read other complaints of this nature and wonder when someone is going to do something about it. i cannot afford to pay for the extremely costly repair and believe that gm should recall and repair the numerous vehicles that this is affecting.

Reported in: ADAIRVILLE KY || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

malfunctioning speedometer- the speedometer stops working at random times while driving. it is dangerous to all travelers whether in car or those traveling alongside us. there is no way to tell when it goes out. the speedometer will just stick at a certain speed-it will then continue from that speed and at times shows that you are traveling at speeds well above the limit. i have also experienced where it drops 5 miles everytime its turned off but it also has reset itself at times. i do believe that with all the complaints i've seen supporting the same facts that this should be a mandatory recall and fix. i took the car to 2 different shops for help - shop 1 couldn't easily see how to fix & suggested it would be expensive, shop 2 (*buick dealer) stated no idea on problem but would need complete panel replacement minimum price $700. in view of our economy and dealers wanting support i believe this should be addressed as a major problem due to all the complaints being very similar. hard to pin down to a specific date and once started now occurs monthly. i have also experienced the problems with the lights dimming and the hard to read mileage display.

Reported in: WINONA MN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the speed odometer displayed inaccurate readings. when the driver is unable to identify the correct speed of the vehicle, excessive speed may be exhibited. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and a technician concluded that the cause of the failure was due to an electrical shortage. the warranty expired and the contact was billed $500.00 for the repair. the failure and current mileages were 30,000.

Reported in: INDUSTRY PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S442

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

tl*the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. while driving at various speeds the "engine" warning light illuminated on the instrument control panel. there was also a strong odor of fuel present outside of the vehicle. an authorized dealer was notified of the failure. the vehicle has not been repaired at this time. the failure mileage was 29,000 and the current mileage was 32,000.

Reported in: 98257 WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

my speedometer on my 2004 buick rainier is erratic. it says i am going 100 when doing 70 and sometimes says i am going 0 when on the highway.

Reported in: COLLEGE STATION TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S342

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2004 buick rainier speedometer works sporadically. sometimes it works then other times it registers to high or to low. from what i've read this is a common occurrence on the buick rainier.

Reported in: WILLARD OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the welding from the filler neck had become loose and caused a fuel leak. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and repaired at the owners expense. a representative from the manufacturer stated that they would investigate the problem. the current and failure mileages were approximately 144,000.

Reported in: BOSSIER CITY LA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S342

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

2004 buick rainier with 97,000 miles and no history of accident, damage or service issues passed state of arizona emissions test in december 2009, including evaporation testing. within a couple of weeks a check engine light came on and was diagnosed by code as an evaporation issue. on the way to the dealer service center the vehicle would not accept gas, instead the gas puddled under the vehicle and caused the pump to automatically shut off. the dealer diagnosed that there was a crack in the gas tank in the area of the gas filler neck. the dealer also confirmed there was no damage to the area. dealer indicates that the gas tank and filler neck need to be replaced. no action has been taken yet. *cn

Reported in: SURPRISE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAES13P542

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

we have a 2004 buick rainier. during the colder times, our speedometer tick, and it stops working completely, so you don't know how fast or slow you are going. as of this day its not working at all, this is a safety issue. having no way to tell your speed, we could get a ticket, cause an accident. i have also noticed online, numerous people having the same problem. there needs to be a recall. we have not had it fixed. it would $600 to fix, and should not be charged to us, but to buick for a malfunction.

Reported in: CLARKSTON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

fuel tank is leaking at the filler inlet. this same problem was covered under a recall on chevy trailblazer ext's which share many of the same components. there is a smell of fuel in my garage and it is clearly visible on my garage floor. why wouldn't gm cover all vehicles of the same build and not just the trailblazer? i am afraid my car will catch fire overnight or while my wife and toddler are inside it.

Reported in: GARDENDALE AL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

speedometer sticks. do not know how fast the vehicle is going.

Reported in: KENOSHA WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P742

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

speedometer failure. at a standstill the speedometer reads anywhere from 10mph to 40mph. on a few occasions it seems to read correctly.

Reported in: SUN CITY WEST AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P042

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i have filed a complaint before about our speedometer being messed up. now the entire instrument panel is malfunctioning. all the gauges are "pegged". there is no reason what so ever buick can not place a recall on this problem. no fire as of yet, but what if the car overheats? we can't tell as the gauge is not functioning. no damage to other property, but this is my vehicle and there is damage to it, since something is broke. no crash as of yet, but it will happen. what happens when i run out of gas cause the gas gauge is showing beyond full?

Reported in: ROYERSFORD PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

i own a 2004 buick rainier v-8 and the speedometer has stopped working. it will be functioning properly and then suddenly it will show 120 mph. sometimes it will work properly but then it goes to 120 mph again. i wouldn't normally file a report for this but after research on the internet i see where there are dozens of owners reporting the same problem with the same vehicle. i am in the process of getting it fixed.

Reported in: APTOS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P142

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6) i own a 2004 buick rainier and the instrument cluster, specifically the speedometer, oil and gas gauges have failed. called buick about the issue and received service request # [xxx] . called a local dealer, wagner buick/gmc in belleville, il to get service and the service manager stated that i would be responsible to fix this issue. the service request will get me nothing since i didn't purchase the vehicle initially. looking on the internet to find a fix for the issue i have noticed numerous complaints about failed/failing instrument clusters in these vehicles. i'm sure there are other gm vehicles with the same problems outside of the rainier. request the nhtsa look over this issue.

Reported in: SWANSEA IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. he stated that while the vehicle was parked, he noticed a fuel leak. the dealer was contacted and they stated that they were aware of the issue and did not have an explanation for the cause of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 117,000 and the current mileage was 118,000. updated 9/1/10 *cn received pictured. updated 09/21/10. *jb

Reported in: RALEIGH NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13PX42

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

odometer freezes.

Reported in: GARDENA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S842

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2004 buick rainier instrument cluster failure was a problem the chevy trail blazer and it is the same one that is in the buick rainier however they will not fix or at least help with the problem.if the same components were used in the 2 different vehicles and there was a recall on the chevy's why was the buick rainier not on the recall list.

Reported in: ORANGE BEACH AL || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl*the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. while driving approximately 35 mph all of the interior and exterior lights came on. the lighting on the instrument panel also became inoperable. the vehicle stalled and upon restart, the lights began functioning normally. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to diagnose the failure. approximately 5 months later, the failure recurred with the headlights and running lights. the manufacturer advised the contact that he had to pay a fee in order to perform a diagnostic test. the vehicle was not examined or repaired. the failure mileage was 63,000 and the current mileage was 68,000. updated evoq 10/04/10

Reported in: SEDONA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S342

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

my 2004 buick rainier has a gas leak. i'm told that the plastic tank is the same one used with the gmc envoy, the gmc trailblazer, old bravadier and perhaps others. the filler pipe welding breaks near the plastic tank and gas escapes. this is known problem and has been reported by many other gmc owners. this could be a the cause of fatal fires but gmc would rather ignore this safety problem.

Reported in: ST. JOHN'S, NL 00 || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated the instrument panel light would fail intermittently. the contact stated the vehicle was previously repaired by an independently mechanic for electrical failure within the instrument panel. the failure recurred. the manufacturer advised that there was not a recall for the failure and would not provide any assistance. the failure mileage was 38,000 and the current mileage was 55,300.

Reported in: SLOANSVILLE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

i have a 2004 buick rainier and the speedometer and the other gauges don't work i don't know how fast i am going or how my car is running its been like that a little after i got it and it works some times but sometimes it don't i have talked to other people who have a car like mine and they have the same problem to.

Reported in: ORANGE GROVE TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

speedometer failing and/or working intermittently.

Reported in: SPRINGFIELD MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13PX42

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

no particular event just driving and speedometer stopped working a few weeks later gas gauge stopped once in awhile the speedometer starts but is inaccurate all of the instrument cluster is going . many other complaints online for same problem . tried to have the dealer co operate and fix the defect but got nowhere need help as this is a extremely expensive fix on a faulty part that should have a recall as it is a unsafe situation.

Reported in: ORANGE BEACH AL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

the speedometer on my 2004 buick rainier stops working intermittently. there is no pattern as to when this occurs, it has happened in all types of weather and all temperatures. sometimes it says i'm going faster than i am, sometimes it says i'm going slower. sometimes it stops working all together. i have researched and this is a common problem with rainiers. i'm wondering why this hasn't been recalled? the vehicle has about 100,000 miles on it now, but the speedometer stopping has been an issue for a few years.

Reported in: HOLLY MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE

when driving on slick/snowy conditions the front wheels do not got into 4wheel drive. because of this our suv did a 180 on a curve while traveling 20 mph. took suv in for service and had transfer case and rear diff fluids changed out but tech heard grinding noise in front diffs and had to take to dealer to find out camshaft and sleeve need replaced. suv only has 64,000 miles and we've owned for 2-1/2 yrs.

Reported in: PARDEEVILLE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P042

VISIBILITY

erratic windshield wiper operation. when you turn the wipers on for use they immediately go to "normal" mode of operation and can be switched to "high speed" and back to normal but will not go to "delay" or turn off. then they may stay on for days before they will stop on their own. they do not trun off with the switch. this has been a problem for about 6 months but is getting worse.

Reported in: HENDERSON KY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P042

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

erratic windshield wiper operation. when you turn the wipers on for use they immediately go to "normal" mode of operation and can be switched to "high speed" and back to normal but will not go to "delay" or turn off. then they may stay on for days before they will stop on their own. they do not trun off with the switch. this has been a problem for about 6 months but is getting worse.

Reported in: HENDERSON KY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P042

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i have been experiencing a problem with the instrument cluster in my buick rainier. it started with the speedometer which was either to fast or showing below zero at highway speeds. it started about 2 years ago but at that time it happened occasionally. the problem has continued to migrate to other gauges in the instrument panel-- the oil pressure reads anywhere from 50 to the 80 or peg, the tack will read below zero at highway operating speeds and the volt meter reads 14+. these problems happen individually or several at once. i have contacted the dealer where i purchased it and they do not acknowledge it as a problem and offer no financial assistance with a replacement or repair. the dealer will replace the instrument cluster for $370 for parts and labor at $92/hour - approximately $600. i contacted gm about the problem and they acknowledge there is a problem with instrument clusters in certain vehicles during that period of time but my vehicle is no involved. if you research this on the internet you will find several sites with discussions and complaints about the instrument clusters on this particular vehicle, including this site. i think this is a wide spread problem and should be corrected with a mandated government recall. i had an identical problem with a 2003 cadillac escalade xt and there was a recall and free replace for the instrument cluster.

Reported in: HENDERSON KY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P042

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i bought this car monday and the dealer stated it had all scheduled service, including the 130k mile service on february 26, 2011. we drove around the neighborhood and the car seemed to drive beautifully, and appeared to be immaculately maintained. until i drove to work this morning, and the speedometer started going higher and higher, reaching 80 mph, even though i had slowed down and pulled over. i shut the car off and restarted it. it appeared normal for the first 30 mph, then stuck at 40, even though i was following traffic in a 70 mph zone. it stayed at 40 mph, even after the car was turned off. i did some research on this problem and found that the instrument panel cluster has been a known problem in gm cars, and was supposed to have been corrected as the result of a class action lawsuit. there are several tsbs related to the speedometer, gas gauges, or other instruments in this cluster. i find it unforgivable that the national highway traffic safety administration has allowed an unsafe condition exist in virtually an entire brand of cars for over 7 years and has not issued a recall on these vehicles. this allowed the dealer to sell the car, knowing about the problem, but not required by law, to disclose it. and should i be on the highway, driving along at 90 mph, when my speedometer says 60, nobody is safe. not me, not the other cars on the road, certainly not pedestrians, since the braking distance is obviously far longer than my speedometer leads me to believe it is. how many millions of defective vehicles have been placed on the road in the last 7 years? how would you feel if your 5 year-old rode a bicycle into the street as i drove by? thinking i was going 30, but really going 60? this isn't just an inconvenience, it is a fatality waiting to happen. you have the authority, and the moral responsibility, to fix it. recall these cars before somebody dies.

Reported in: YORK PA || Crash: N || VIN #: KGADT13S942

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

failure of speedometer. quit working at about 32,000 miles.

Reported in: 61350 IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P242

SUSPENSION:FRONT

failure of front wheel bearings.

Reported in: OTTAWA IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated that the speedometer would become stuck at 40 mph and sporadically, would not return to zero when the vehicle was at a complete stop. the dealer inspected the vehicle and advised that the stepper motor in the speedometer had failed. the failure mileage was 71,000 and current mileage 71,488.

Reported in: WEST ST. PAUL MN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S442

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

the first incident we ran out of fuel with the fuel gauge showing we still had fuel in the tank. next incident, the oil pressure gauge indicated a very high oil pressure reading, leading me to believe something was wrong with the engine. took the car home and drove another vehicle until i could do some testing on the vehicle. oil gauge returned to normal operation. in april of 2010 i was driving exiting an interstate highway onto a four lane road and the speedometer reading became inaccurate. i was traveling faster than the indicated speed. after stopping at an intersection the speedometer never moved from zero when i was moving down the road. this occurs after a brief period of driving. mechanics i have spoken to inform me this is a common occurrence with this model vehicle. gauges such as fuel gauge, oil pressure, tachometer and speedometer are not trustworthy and give inaccurate readings. this is a very expensive item to replace and should be considered a safety hazard because you cannot determine your speed at any given moment.

Reported in: LAMAR MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S442

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

the first incident we ran out of fuel with the fuel gauge showing we still had fuel in the tank. next incident, the oil pressure gauge indicated a very high oil pressure reading, leading me to believe something was wrong with the engine. took the car home and drove another vehicle until i could do some testing on the vehicle. oil gauge returned to normal operation. in april of 2010 i was driving exiting an interstate highway onto a four lane road and the speedometer reading became inaccurate. i was traveling faster than the indicated speed. after stopping at an intersection the speedometer never moved from zero when i was moving down the road. this occurs after a brief period of driving. mechanics i have spoken to inform me this is a common occurrence with this model vehicle. gauges such as fuel gauge, oil pressure, tachometer and speedometer are not trustworthy and give inaccurate readings. this is a very expensive item to replace and should be considered a safety hazard because you cannot determine your speed at any given moment.

Reported in: LAMAR MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S442

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the first incident we ran out of fuel with the fuel gauge showing we still had fuel in the tank. next incident, the oil pressure gauge indicated a very high oil pressure reading, leading me to believe something was wrong with the engine. took the car home and drove another vehicle until i could do some testing on the vehicle. oil gauge returned to normal operation. in april of 2010 i was driving exiting an interstate highway onto a four lane road and the speedometer reading became inaccurate. i was traveling faster than the indicated speed. after stopping at an intersection the speedometer never moved from zero when i was moving down the road. this occurs after a brief period of driving. mechanics i have spoken to inform me this is a common occurrence with this model vehicle. gauges such as fuel gauge, oil pressure, tachometer and speedometer are not trustworthy and give inaccurate readings. this is a very expensive item to replace and should be considered a safety hazard because you cannot determine your speed at any given moment.

Reported in: LAMAR MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S442

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact was driving 65 mph when the fuel gauge malfunctioned and displayed that the fuel tank was half full but an indicator flashed on the dashboard stating that the fuel was low and the vehicle only had five miles to empty. the contact did not call the manufacturer regarding the fuel gauge failure. the contact stated that the fuel gauge malfunction could have caused the vehicle to run out of fuel on the highway. the failure mileage was 80,000.

Reported in: IOTA LA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S242

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

noises coming from under the hood; rattle, jingle, clunk; constant. sounds like metal in a washing machine, but fine driveability and comfortable sounding highway driving. driving in parking garage is noisy when accelerating, and quiet when coasting. noise is quieter when ac is off. noise is louder when accelerating, or at idle. after 30 minute drive, check engine light came on. auto store gave codes that showed replacement of engine cooling fan clutch or ev fan motor. less than 70k miles.

Reported in: MARIETTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S342

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

the fuel gauge is not showing the correct amount of fuel. it will go far beyond full and way below empty. over the course of a mile it can go from full to empty or all between.

Reported in: SANTA CRUZ CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. while driving 65 mph, the contact noticed a loud noise coming from under the vehicle. the contact later inspected the vehicle and discovered a broken axle actuator. the manufacturer was contacted and advised that the part needed for repair was on a national back order and was discontinued. the manufacturer offered the contact a discount toward the purchase of a new vehicle. the vehicle was rendered as non-drivable. the failure mileage was 99,749.

Reported in: COMMERCE CITY CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S242

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated that while driving 5 mph and above, the low beam headlights would fail on an intermittent basis. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where they advised her that they were unable to diagnose the failure. the vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was approximately 75,000. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: MIDLOTHIAN VA || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i have a 2004 buick rainier. speedometer is saying 120mph when only going 25. it would adjust itself for a day but then it was all over the place and now staying at 120 more often. this started at the end of may. for a few years now the hatch window lock is a problem. can't open it because i have an issue with getting it locked again without slamming it. have also had condensation in my head and rear lights since i've gotten it. why they have yet to recall about the speedometer is crazy. this is a safety issue especially when children or the elderly are involved! the cost to fix the cluster alone is 455.80$ (cheapest). this should not be my responsibility when most, if not all, of the rainiers are all malfunctioning in the same way.

Reported in: OAK HILL WV || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S442

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i have a 2004 buick rainier. speedometer is saying 120mph when only going 25. it would adjust itself for a day but then it was all over the place and now staying at 120 more often. this started at the end of may. for a few years now the hatch window lock is a problem. can't open it because i have an issue with getting it locked again without slamming it. have also had condensation in my head and rear lights since i've gotten it. why they have yet to recall about the speedometer is crazy. this is a safety issue especially when children or the elderly are involved! the cost to fix the cluster alone is 455.80$ (cheapest). this should not be my responsibility when most, if not all, of the rainiers are all malfunctioning in the same way.

Reported in: OAK HILL WV || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S442

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated the vehicle headlights turned on and off intermittently. the air bag, the seat belt, and the brake warning lights also illuminated. the speedometer displayed the incorrect reading. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure and current mileage was 83,868.

Reported in: GEORGETOWN SC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S142

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2004 buick rainier- instrument panel - speedometer, temperature, fuel and oil pressure gauges all started working intermittently and providing false readings (120mph at dead stop with engine off, temp in red zone at start up). this appears to be all to common of an issue with gm trucks/suvs of this era and needs to be addressed via recall. the problem is now getting progressively worse.

Reported in: LAKEWOOD CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

dashborad gauges do not keep an accurate account of rpm's as well as speed. the battery gauge just started being inaccurate january 2012.

Reported in: BURLINGTON NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S242

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

gauges don't function right. speedo reads too fast, too slow or not at all, fuel gauge reads twice as full. needle pegged to stop as is the oil gauge needle. buying this was the biggest mistake ever made.

Reported in: SIOUX CITY IA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated that the instrument cluster malfunctioned and the speedometer failed. in addition, the abs warning light was illuminated whenever the vehicle was started. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where they advised the contact that the abs sensor and instrument panel would need replacing. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was unknown.

Reported in: CONNELY GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAES13P842

SEAT BELTS

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated that the vehicle was parked when a passenger became stuck in the rear passenger seat. the seat belt seized and would not release the passenger. the contact had to cut the seat belt to release the passenger. an independent mechanic examined the vehicle, but was unable to diagnose the failure. an authorized dealer was notified and a new seat belt was ordered. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 130,000. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: HARRISBURG PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

going down the road speedometer stuck at 120.

Reported in: DELTA OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S742

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1) fuel gauge - the fuel gauge has done a 180, the needle is now upside down. and doesn't work really. i searched the internet and found out the there is a recall on 2005- 2007 buick rainiers but not on my 2004. maybe with my complaint, maybe it will include 2004 models. 2) drives door lock - the car key will no longer open the car door. i can only open the door with the remote button.

Reported in: OAK HILL VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S342

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1) fuel gauge - the fuel gauge has done a 180, the needle is now upside down. and doesn't work really. i searched the internet and found out the there is a recall on 2005- 2007 buick rainiers but not on my 2004. maybe with my complaint, maybe it will include 2004 models. 2) drives door lock - the car key will no longer open the car door. i can only open the door with the remote button.

Reported in: OAK HILL VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S342

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1) fuel gauge - the fuel gauge has done a 180, the needle is now upside down. and doesn't work really. i searched the internet and found out the there is a recall on 2005- 2007 buick rainiers but not on my 2004. maybe with my complaint, maybe it will include 2004 models. 2) drives door lock - the car key will no longer open the car door. i can only open the door with the remote button.

Reported in: OAK HILL VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S342

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated that while driving 40 mph, she smelled an odor of burning wires. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the dealer was notified and an appointment was scheduled to have the vehicle examined. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 83,000. updated 10/10/12 *cn

Reported in: DETROIT MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S342

VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:BLOWER

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainer. the contact stated that after turning the vehicle off and removing the key from the ignition, the engine blower continued running. the vehicle was taken to a mechanic where it was determined that the wires for the heater blower were burned out. the mechanic advised the contact that the failure could have caused the vehicle to catch on fire. the contact then spoke to the dealer and was told that there were no recalls for the issue. the vin was not available. the failure and the current mileages were 105,000.

Reported in: BLUE GRASS IA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

after driving for a approximately one hour at 65-70 mph on the interstate the speedometer reading drops off from 70 eventually down to 0 mph. upon stopping and restarting the engine at a rest stop the speedometer returns to an accurate reading for a short while. i relied on my garmin gps to give me a speed approximation when the speedometer went out completely. relying on a accurate speedometer is a critical safety issue especially at night. without the gps giving me a speed reading it would be next to impossible to judge a safe speed in the darkness on a road illuminated only by my headlights. this defect must be similar to other models in the gm family, trailblazer and envoy. if one person were to rely on this faulty speedometer they might think they were driving 40 when in actuality they could be driving in excess of 70.

Reported in: GAINESVILLE VA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

it is a known fact by buick/gm that there is a major issue with the instrument cluster/electrical make up of this vehicle. hundreds of people are complaining of electrical issues with their vehicle, first and foremost is the failure of the instrument cluster. from what we have deducted so far, this is an electrical issue stemming from a ground short near the radio. we just can't pinpoint it yet. some days the instrument cluster works, some not. usually starts working on a wet day - indicating the ground short. there is no excuse for not recalling this, other than they realize how many would be involved. i spent thousands on this vehicle and now gm will not back their product. the problem didn't start until after the warranty was past, surprise surprise. i have to use a gps system with a speedometer to avoid speeding/getting fined. all the dealerships agree - the hours of labor to resolve this are beyond my pocketbook. step up and acknowledge your fault in this, gm. now.

Reported in: DENTON MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

driving on a city street- speed limit of 35 mph my meter read 75 mph. i put my gps system on to monitor my mph. at traffic light while idling the meter read 45 mph. 2004 buick rainier had been sitting outside for 3 days with the temperature in the 20's and this was the 1st time i had driven it. tried accelerating and stopping a little suddenly hoping to jolt the meter back to normal. no results. parked for about 30 minutes, started the car and it began to register at 65 mph when driving 35 mph per gps. idling read 25 mph. after more stops and restarts the idle speed would read just below 20 mph. called onstar for a diagnostic and they connected me with gmc tech. they were going to try and reset the speedometer but found out it could not be done and wanted me to go to a local dealership. i was 400 miles from home and instead contacted my dealership at home. i was informed that this is an ongoing complaint about 2004 rainiers and that i should have no trouble traveling home in 2 days and that my speed control should work fine. i am very displeased that the gmc tech did not convey this information to me knowing that i was traveling and was concerned about safety. the next day i drove about 30 minutes parked the car for 1 1/2 hours and when i started driving then the speedometer was back to normal. googled this problem and found many complaints and stories just as mine and found out the there has been no recall because there were not enough complaints about the problem. shame shame shame on buick!!! i have since visited my local dealership and will be having a cluster replaced next week. s. so consider this a complaint about 2004 buick rainier and a complaint about gmc tech handling of what i consider a safety issue. i intend to trade in a year or two - but at that time i will certainly reconsider purchasing a gmc and/or buick.

Reported in: NEW MARTINSVILLE WV || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13SX42

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

driving on a city street- speed limit of 35 mph my meter read 75 mph. i put my gps system on to monitor my mph. at traffic light while idling the meter read 45 mph. 2004 buick rainier had been sitting outside for 3 days with the temperature in the 20's and this was the 1st time i had driven it. tried accelerating and stopping a little suddenly hoping to jolt the meter back to normal. no results. parked for about 30 minutes, started the car and it began to register at 65 mph when driving 35 mph per gps. idling read 25 mph. after more stops and restarts the idle speed would read just below 20 mph. called onstar for a diagnostic and they connected me with gmc tech. they were going to try and reset the speedometer but found out it could not be done and wanted me to go to a local dealership. i was 400 miles from home and instead contacted my dealership at home. i was informed that this is an ongoing complaint about 2004 rainiers and that i should have no trouble traveling home in 2 days and that my speed control should work fine. i am very displeased that the gmc tech did not convey this information to me knowing that i was traveling and was concerned about safety. the next day i drove about 30 minutes parked the car for 1 1/2 hours and when i started driving then the speedometer was back to normal. googled this problem and found many complaints and stories just as mine and found out the there has been no recall because there were not enough complaints about the problem. shame shame shame on buick!!! i have since visited my local dealership and will be having a cluster replaced next week. s. so consider this a complaint about 2004 buick rainier and a complaint about gmc tech handling of what i consider a safety issue. i intend to trade in a year or two - but at that time i will certainly reconsider purchasing a gmc and/or buick.

Reported in: NEW MARTINSVILLE WV || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13SX42

POWER TRAIN

this is a problem that i've researched extensively on line and through parts replacement . i bought the suv at the end of 2012 and it started doing this a couple of weeks after purchased.when slowing to turn while breaking it has a real bad clunk and it won't turn it caused me to almost run into the ditch .i have replaced the chain in the transfer case and also both wheel bearings and speed sensors and replaced the fluid several times . from what i read online this is a very common problem , which i think is very dangerous and could very easily cause an accident or death if something isn't done about this problem. it doesn't seem to be only high mileage vehicles that are having this problem and it should be taken care of by the manufacturer gm. i can't afford to keep pumping money into this yard ornament.! come on gm step up and take care of your customers before someone gets hurt or killed.

Reported in: BALD KNOB AR || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

while i was driving down a rural road doing about 35 to 40 mph the speed suddenly froze at 40 and it no longer moves. i'm currently a driver for the city and this is a complete hazard when driving and can't determine your speed. i was very afraid due to the fact i couldn't understand why this happen to me which occurred in the process of acceleration . when i finally looked down my speed said 90 which i knew for a fact i wasn't going that fast at all once the vehicle got stuck on 40 it never came back down. someone really needs to revise this situation with this vehicle since this problem is very common where's the recall on this.

Reported in: SOUTH HOLLAND IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S042

POWER TRAIN

while i was driving down a rural road doing about 35 to 40 mph the speed suddenly froze at 40 and it no longer moves. i'm currently a driver for the city and this is a complete hazard when driving and can't determine your speed. i was very afraid due to the fact i couldn't understand why this happen to me which occurred in the process of acceleration . when i finally looked down my speed said 90 which i knew for a fact i wasn't going that fast at all once the vehicle got stuck on 40 it never came back down. someone really needs to revise this situation with this vehicle since this problem is very common where's the recall on this.

Reported in: SOUTH HOLLAND IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S042

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i own two 2004 buick rainier's and have had this issue with both, also have talked to many friends that had the same issue. the issue is that the headlamp bulb connectors are melting where they plug into the bulb, causing intermittent or no function at all of the headlamp. when trying to find a new connector for the bulb i was told i would have to buy the entire headlamp housing assembly, which is quite expensive. i know there are more cases out there with this as an issue, as gm uses these type of connectors on the chevrolet trailblazer, gmc envoy, oldsmobile bravada, and the buick rainier. i think this issue should be addressed because it is a very common problem caused by defective materials.

Reported in: DECATUR IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S442

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

this is my second complaint rising from the same issue, i own two 2004 buick rainier's and they both have had an issue with the low beam headlamp bulb and connector being melted due to poor connection. this is a costly repair since the gm parts catalog does not list a replacement connector, they would rather sell the entire headlamp assembly. the first complaint occurred on my other rainier now this one. no headlamp is a safety concern, and due to the wiring overheating and melting could be a potential fire hazard.

Reported in: DECATUR IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

this is my second complaint rising from the same issue, i own two 2004 buick rainier's and they both have had an issue with the low beam headlamp bulb and connector being melted due to poor connection. this is a costly repair since the gm parts catalog does not list a replacement connector, they would rather sell the entire headlamp assembly. the first complaint occurred on my other rainier now this one. no headlamp is a safety concern, and due to the wiring overheating and melting could be a potential fire hazard.

Reported in: DECATUR IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the gauge cluster works sometime. the only gauge that works properly is the speed. there seems to be a short. took it to the dealership and they seem to think the cluster is bad but aren't 100% sure sense it works sometime. there has been a couple of times that i have been driving and have lost all elec components (no radio, no power windows locks, or any of the gauges) after reading im not the only one having the same kind of problems.

Reported in: INDIANAPOLIS IN || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i just bought a buick rainier 2004. i was driving it and stopped at a red light and the speedometer never went back to 0.took it to a shop and they tried to reset it . no luck . the shop told me that they have gotten a lot of them with the same problem. must have it taken out and sent to be fixed. i think this is a safety problem it its happening to a lot of cars and suvs.is their any recall on this .will their be any recalls on this .i went on line and read a lot of complaints about the same problem i am having . can you advise me what to do .thank you for your time.

Reported in: CLEVELAND OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

my 2004 buick rainier has an issue with the electrical system where the battery keeps being drained by a dead short in the system and rendering the car useless sporadically. unfortunately, the professionals i have talked to don't seem to know the answer to the problem and i don't want to keep throwing good money after bad in my attempt to resolve it. *jb

Reported in: BLUEFIELD WV || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the speedometer failed. the contact also stated that the oil pressure light illuminated as the vehicle stalled. the vehicle was taken to a mechanic where they stated that the instrument cluster needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 170,000.

Reported in: WARRENSVILLE OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

when i park my 2004 buick rainier in my garage there is a strong smell of gasoline which is getting worse over time. i went on the internet to research and ultimately found that the 2004 gm envoy (sister vehicle) had a recall due to a similar issue and that gm confirmed in 2008 that the 2004 buick rainier fuel line can rust and cause this condition. although i understand gm extended the warranty to 10 years and 120,000 miles there was no notice to consumers that i am aware of. my truck is 9 years old but has 128,000 miles. i will go to the dealer this week to see if they can help. historically the dealer has been less than helpful with problems as i did not purchase the vehicle from them. being unemployed i would rather fix my truck at this time as a new car is not a reasonable solution. any suggestions you can offer to help me would be appreciated. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: CHASKA MN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S142

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

i have had this vehicle for 4 years and the speedometer has not worked for 2.5 years now. it will work if i reset the battery or turn the key over until the needle goes back to 0. i am told the instrument cluster is bad and i see that there are other complaints also. please help. i need to know if this is covered at a gm dealership for free. the vehicle also sputters and i have already replaced the fuel pump and had the injectors looked at. if you can please email me or contact me i would greatly appreciate it.

Reported in: WAGNER SD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S642

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

i have had this vehicle for 4 years and the speedometer has not worked for 2.5 years now. it will work if i reset the battery or turn the key over until the needle goes back to 0. i am told the instrument cluster is bad and i see that there are other complaints also. please help. i need to know if this is covered at a gm dealership for free. the vehicle also sputters and i have already replaced the fuel pump and had the injectors looked at. if you can please email me or contact me i would greatly appreciate it.

Reported in: WAGNER SD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S642

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the current investigation into faulty ignition switches is much broader than currently being investigated.. in 2004 i purchase the buick rainier above. on initial test drive with salesman the vehicle shut off at 35 mph. after review by the mechanic it was attributed to a computer issue. i purchased the vehicle after retesting. during the next 4 years this happened at least 3 more times. each time it was attributed to a computer upgrade. i have not had a problem since then in 2008. the symptoms and the results are consistent with all reported failures. i also have a friend with a buick full size car 2006 i believe who had the same issue. the reports that this has not occurred on buicks or suv is not correct. this is a larger problem.

Reported in: BARTLETT IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S342

SERVICE BRAKES

air bag suspension will not stay air up. constantly have to work on the abs.

Reported in: SAVANNAH TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S142

SUSPENSION

air bag suspension will not stay air up. constantly have to work on the abs.

Reported in: SAVANNAH TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S142

AIR BAGS

air bag suspension will not stay air up. constantly have to work on the abs.

Reported in: SAVANNAH TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S142

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

speedometer and tachometer step motors malfunction and do not go back down upon deceleration. my speedo will show i'm doing 40 mph while stopped and sometimes peg out while driving in the neighborhood. this creates an unsafe situation with speed management in all types of driving conditions.

Reported in: NAPERVILLE IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

speedometer and tachometer step motors malfunction and do not go back down upon deceleration. my speedo will show i'm doing 40 mph while stopped and sometimes peg out while driving in the neighborhood. this creates an unsafe situation with speed management in all types of driving conditions.

Reported in: NAPERVILLE IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

speedometer and tachometer step motors malfunction and do not go back down upon deceleration. my speedo will show i'm doing 40 mph while stopped and sometimes peg out while driving in the neighborhood. this creates an unsafe situation with speed management in all types of driving conditions.

Reported in: NAPERVILLE IL || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION

both rear air bags are starting to leak causing back of car to sit low. when the car is started it will air back up but will go back down as soon as the car is parked. the car has not been in any accidents to cause the defect. i have searched the internet to find that this is a common problem found in this make and model. i am wanting to know if this has been classified as a safety recall or a defect through the manufacture.

Reported in: TUSCUMBIA MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S842

SUSPENSION

frame rot – i brought my 2004 buick rainier in for service and had the mechanic check the status of the braking system. he discovered that the frame near the rear driver side wheel was rotted through. the steel design of the frame is “cupped” near the rear wheels and there was no drain hole in the area to allow the road water and debris to escape. he advised that if i were to go over a pothole or hit a bump that the rear wheel would cave inward and cause a potentially serious accident. he welded on a steel plate to stabilize the area and drilled a hole in the passenger side rear frame on the opposite side and undercoated the areas to prevent additional damages. the cost of the steel plate repair, undercoating and labor was $180.

Reported in: DUDLEY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S642

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

electrical – my 2004 buick rainier has had a problem for a few years now with the intermittent dimming of the headlights. as best as i can figure out, it happens noticeably at night when i am coasting at 30-32 mph. the battery voltage meter will drop down to around 11, causing the lights to dim and then go back up. it mostly happens when there is moisture in the air, it is not generally an issue during the months of jan-mar where it is crisp and drier. i start my vehicle and let it run for about a minute or more before driving the vehicle and during my night time travel, it may happen 3 times or more than a dozen times. there does not seem to be a drain on the power or handling of the vehicle. i find this disconcerting whereas my lights are noticeably dimming to other vehicles on the road. it may appear to other drivers that i am indicating with the “flashing” of the headlights that they can cut out in front of me or make the turn from a side street. i have had a few close calls in this regard but i drive knowing that it could be an issue. it only appears to be a problem when i am coasting and not applying pressure to the gas pedal.

Reported in: DUDLEY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S642

SUSPENSION

air suspension – it seems as if the air suspension is running continually and could cause a drain on the electrical system. after i stop the car it hums for a short period of time near the drivers doors and will eventually stop.

Reported in: DUDLEY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S642

POWER TRAIN

came to a complete stop to pick up passenger's. put shifter into "park" but indicator showed "drive". tried to exit car but car would move, do to car was in drive. shifter was now locked in park and would not move to another gear. returned home, turned off ignition. rainier wouldn't re start because shifter was stuck in "park" but the indicator was in "drive". vehicle was towed to dealership for repair. dealer replaced transmission shifter cable assembly. costing me more then $500. consumer reports magazine (september 2014, page 12) has under recalls, has some general motors vehicles for this same problem. but my vehicle us not indicated.

Reported in: OAK HILL VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADS13S342

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated that after opening the driver side power window, the window could not be closed. the contact indicated that the failure would only occur in extremely cold temperatures. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. also, the contact indicated that the driver side heated seat would become very hot too the touch before the seat warmer completely failed altogether. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 16,000.

Reported in: MADDOCK ND || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S042

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated that after opening the driver side power window, the window could not be closed. the contact indicated that the failure would only occur in extremely cold temperatures. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. also, the contact indicated that the driver side heated seat would become very hot too the touch before the seat warmer completely failed altogether. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 16,000.

Reported in: MADDOCK ND || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S042

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2004 buick rainier. the contact stated while driving approximately 55 mph, the air bag inadvertently deployed as the rear of the vehicle dropped to the ground. the failure recurred twice. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. the technician stated that the air compressor and the air bags needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 141,000.

Reported in: KINGS MOUNTAIN NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GAET13P842

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

power door locks and window locks are inoperative. have lost all power in the door locks and windows as well as the radio and the heater. i was trapped in my car this morning for about 5 minutes with the windows up and the heater was blowing out hot air. i was unable to stop that as i couldn't turn off the car or open the doors, i pried the door lock open and was able to get out of the car.

Reported in: RENO NV || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

when backing out of my driveway and turning it seemed like my tires locked up and my car would not move unless i straightened my steering wheel a little. it does the same thing when pulling forward and pulling into a parking space or doing a u-turn. when i touch the gas to make it go the car jumps a little and makes popping noises and my tires squeal a little also. since this started i've noticed my gas mileage going down. i've heard a few other people having the same issue.

Reported in: STEVENSVILEE MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5GADT13S342