What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (2004–2007) Rainier?

Rainier owners have made 43 complaints about the 2004–2007 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 12th out of 22 Buick generations in overall reliability, with real suspension and interior concerns.

Common 2004-2007 Buick Rainier Problems

Some of the worst issues 1st generation Rainier owners have to deal with.

  1. Sudden Low Beam Headlight Failure

    The 1st generation Lacrosse and Rainier have low beam headlights can suddenly shut off even though the lights themselves are perfectly fine. The issue is a a defective headlamp driver module which is responsible for distributing power to th…

    Continue reading article "Sudden Low Beam Headlight Failure" An open fuse block with the bad module circled in red

  2. What Are We Missing?

    We know there's more problems than this. Let us know which one you'd like to see us cover next.

    Continue An open fuse block with the bad module circled in red

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

1st Generation (2004–2007) Rainier Key Numbers

  1. 4 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 43 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 12th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 22 eligible generations.