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Buick has carved out a solid reputation for offering near-luxury comfort without the Mercedes price tag. Models like the Envista start around $25,000, and the Enclave base trim stays under $50,000. Even better, J.D. Power named Buick the most reliable American brand in its 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study—a huge turnaround from a decade ago. That said, if you’re shopping the used market, you need to know that not every Buick engine aged gracefully. Some powertrains from the late 2000s and early 2010s are notorious for recurring issues that can turn a budget-friendly buy into a money pit. Based on owner reports from CarComplaints.com, NHTSA records, and mechanic forums, here are three Buick engines you should skip—and smarter alternatives to consider.
1. 2008–2011 3.6L V6 – Timing Chain Trouble
When Buick launched the first-generation Enclave in 2008, it promised a quiet, refined ride. Under the hood sat a 3.6L V6 shared with the LaCrosse sedan. On paper, the engine delivered smooth power, but in practice, it became a headache for thousands of owners. The most common complaint? Premature timing chain failure. On CarComplaints, the 2008 Enclave alone racks up dozens of engine-related reports, with many owners describing a sudden loss of power, loud rattling from the front of the engine, and eventually a stalled vehicle that won’t restart. In the LaCrosse, the same engine caused stalling at highway speeds, a dangerous situation for any driver.
GM eventually revised the timing chain tensioner design in later years, but the 2008–2011 models remain risky. A 2018 NHTSA investigation into GM 3.6L engines (including Buick’s) found that debris from failing timing chains could clog the oil pickup screen, leading to catastrophic engine failure. Repairs often cost $3,000–$5,000. If you’re set on a Buick from that era, look for a 2012+ Enclave or LaCrosse that uses the updated LFX version of the 3.6L, which has far fewer timing chain complaints.
2. 2011–2012 2.4L Four-Cylinder – Oil Consumption Epidemic
Buick’s move toward smaller engines in the early 2010s brought the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder into the Regal, LaCrosse, and Verano. On the surface, it looked like a fuel-sipping choice for a premium sedan. But the 2.4L quickly earned a reputation for excessive oil consumption—sometimes burning a quart every 1,000 miles. Owners on the NHTSA database report needing to top off oil between changes, and even after dealer piston ring replacements, the problem often returned. The 2012 Verano, which only offered the 2.4L, is especially problematic: one owner wrote, “I’ve replaced the timing chain twice, and the engine still guzzles oil.”
Timing chain issues also plague this engine, similar to the 3.6L V6. The chain stretches prematurely, triggering a check-engine light and rough idling. A 2015 GM technical service bulletin acknowledged the problem but didn’t offer a permanent fix. If you’re considering a used Buick sedan from 2011–2012, avoid the 2.4L entirely. The 2013+ Verano switched to a 1.6L turbo four-cylinder (or 2.0L turbo in the GS), which is much more reliable. The 2013 Regal also got a revised 2.4L with better piston ring design, but earlier models are still risky.
3. 2011–2013 2.0L Ecotec Inline-Four – Turbo, But Troublesome
For drivers who wanted more punch, Buick offered a turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec in the Regal, producing 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It’s a fun engine when it works, but the 2011–2013 versions are plagued by the same timing chain gremlins as the 2.4L. Owner reports on CarComplaints describe shuddering during acceleration, hesitation at low speeds, and the engine stalling when coming to a stop. One 2011 Regal owner wrote: “The car would die at red lights. Dealers replaced the timing chain three times under warranty.” On top of timing chain failures, the 2.0L Ecotec is also known for high-pressure fuel pump failures and carbon buildup on intake valves—common issues with direct-injected turbos of that era.
After 2013, GM updated the 2.0L Ecotec with a stronger timing chain and better oil control, so 2014+ Regals are far more dependable. If you’re set on a turbo Regal, aim for a 2014 or newer model. Alternatively, consider the Regal with the 3.6L V6 from 2014+ (the LFX or LGX), which has proven more durable than the earlier 3.6L.
What to Buy Instead
If you’re shopping for a used Buick on a budget, focus on models from 2014 onward. The second-generation Enclave (2014–2017) uses the improved 3.6L V6, and the 2017+ Regal (including the TourX) offers a 2.0L turbo that’s much more reliable than the early version. The 2016–2020 Buick LaCrosse with the 3.6L V6 (LGX) is also a solid choice, with minimal timing chain or oil consumption issues. For a small SUV, the 2018+ Buick Encore (with the 1.4L turbo) or the 2020+ Envision have good reliability scores. Always check service records for timing chain replacements and oil consumption, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic familiar with GM engines.
Bottom Line
Buick has come a long way since the dark days of the late 2000s. But if you’re looking at a used model from 2008–2013, steer clear of the 3.6L V6, 2.4L four-cylinder, and 2.0L Ecotec. Stick with later-year builds or opt for a different powertrain, and you’ll enjoy the Buick premium experience without the engine headaches.
