The CAR WIZARD shares the top BUICK TO Buy & NOT to Buy!

[@wolfy1987]

Car Wizard: Millennials don't want a grandma car Me, a millennial: I want a grandma car

[@Fayevalentina541]

@Nobody Mellow Literally like they are so comfortable and can be perfect for mods

[@callingoutbullshit3623]

Shit im 23 and loved my 95 caddie deville!!! Love the older cars!!!

[@complimentedb4575]

Me too man!

[@pimperorpimpatine3199]

Just bought a grandma car to replace a Corolla. Love my Park Avenue.

[@daviddoyonjr5774]

Agreed

[@wrenchgroove9387]

Imagine the wizard looking you right in the eye and saying, "we're done!" LOL dead

[@JDMHaze]

Wrench Groove i IMMEDIATELY pictured it when he said it😂😂😂😖😖

[@Fransais]

Lol

[@gadriver]

LT1 = optispark failure

[@nou8257]

That's when you reply that he "didn't even buy you dinner so when did we start"

[@lukelogan8539]

Wrench Groove it would hurt 😔 wizard probably would not want to buy my 2001 mustang GT with stage 2 cams and I just replaced the clutch and gave it an aluminum flywheel

[@dylanbrown3090]

My 2005 LaCrosse has the 3.8 V6, beautiful car, fun to drive, smooth ride, feels luxurious, plenty of room, only problem I've had with it so far was a minor exhaust leak

[@tvt00ns]

My parents 2006 also have a 3.8 v6

[@2aEdu]

My 2005 Lacrosse has a 3.8 as well. Mine is an excellent car

[@ehensal]

My 2007 LaCrosse has a 3.8 v6

[@paulkesner3315]

The only ones with the 3.6 were the CXS all the rest had the 3800

[@billmcclafferty3835]

My Buick LaCrosse also has a 3.8 L V6. I would say the majority of them have the 3.8 L V6 (less CLS models produced). Also, from what I can tell, it has a very good crash rating evaluation. I would like to see the article that states otherwise if anyone has a link to it. My son drives this car to school and I want him to be safe.

[@gtpcruiser02]

I bought a new 2017 Impala Premier with the dreaded 3600 V6 that just turned 71000 miles and never had any problems at all with this vehicle. It has all the electronic gadgets that still work perfect. Did notice on very cold starts you can hear the timing chains chirping for a few minutes than it quiets down. Always changed oil every 5000 miles using full synthetic replaced tires and battery that's all.

[@brodywalker8579]

I just bought an 01 park avenue. NA car. Heated seats, leather, everything but a sunroof. 189k and runs perfect. Best $1500 I've spent in a while. Love it!

[@jacobyo99]

Most of the 2005-2009 Lacrosse’s have the 3.8 series 3!

[@atx-cvpi_99]

But NHTSA rates them one star.

[@Furmaneth]

jacobyo 99 wonder why he didn’t mention they had that engine. I own one with a 3.8 and have had no problems with the engine

[@ChrisN85420]

was there not one that came with the 5.3 ls4 v8 also

[@JHarding97]

Some of the lacrosse's did have the 3800 but they had a much weaker transmission than other buicks (forget the exact model), but have heard of it just disintegrating internally over time

[@JDMHaze]

ChrisN85420 inly impala/monte carlo got the 5.3 in the SS models

[@mattmayo3539]

Grammy had a 93” Park Avenue. That was the most comfortable ride I can ever remember riding in. DynaRide I think was the timing of the suspension. After trading in her Camry and getting the Buick, Grammy said she barely had to touch the throttle and she rarely downshifted going up hills. Grammys Buick would do burn outs.

[@telemachusepiphany9668]

No kidding. Just watched a video where a KZbinr picked up an '89 Buick LeSabre from a donation site.....with 446,810 miles....and he was able to drive it 45 miles to his place !!!!! Awsome !! God blessed this one !

[@saltenbernt8502]

In my driveway is a 1989 Reatta and a 2002 LeSabre. One for fun, one an everyday driver. Best of both worlds as far as I'm concerned. Glad to see your validation agrees with my experience.

[@highbrass7563]

The Reatta must be really cool to drive. Super unique car. I have a 97 Century Limited as my daily driver and a 97 sunfire coupe as my fun car

[@stickit2theman1]

A reatta in good condition is one of my dream cars

[@highbrass7563]

Haha. I have a 1997 Pontiac Sunfire Coupe and a 1997 Buick century Limited. Compact car and a Boat. The sunfire Is just hilarious, ugly and slow but a wicked little mini sports car. Buick makes for thr best road tripping cars.

[@MrJMS814]

To anyone on here considering a Buick 3800 equipped car, specifically an N/A one: MAKE SURE IT HAS AN UPDATED FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR. My father's '01 Bonneville suffered a fiery explosion earlier this year due to a faulty fuel pressure regulator that GM claimed was improved for the 2001 model year. Turns out that was a lie. The car was totaled. Upon researching the issue, there are thousands of cases, and even a recall, which DID NOT cover cars after the 2000 model year, even though it obviously wasn't fixed on the newer cars. Even a famous video of a 3800 impala blowing up in the exact same way at a shop after an oil change. So if you've got a N/A 3800 car from 2000 or earlier, make sure its had the recall done. If you have a 2001 or later, you'll have to do the job yourself or somehow verify its already been done without a recall sticker. Secondly, the 4T65E transmission is notoriously weak. Excessive clutch wear is pretty much guaranteed unless shift kit is installed. Signs of this issue are hard shifts aı eventually slipping/shuddering during acceleration

[@outdoorsluvr]

Thanks to you and Hoovie, I am buying an ‘05 Park Ave Ultra this week. High miles (192k), but the owner took care of it properly. He is 90. I really appreciate your input!

[@midwayfn6901]

How has it served you this far?

[@Jason_556]

How much did it set you back?

[@Omegadoomship]

My first car was a 2000 Buick Century given by my grandparents. That car was so comfortable to drive. The seats were so comfy and rode so smooth. It was so quiet inside the cabin even when cruising down the highway. It was also very reliable. I did have some minor issues such as the windows kept sliding down on every door and I had to fix them one by one and I did blow a brake line, but it was cheap and easy to fix. It was a fantastic cruiser, decent power and reasonably good fuel economy. The one thing I didn’t like handled like a boat even when making the smallest of turns. If the shocks were just a tiny bit stiffer it would have been perfect. Overall I liked that car.

[@josephpuchel6497]

Hey I believe you could have gotten one with a 3.8 also.

[@chriswright8464]

Pops had a 89 Buick Le saber with the 3.8 v6. He had it 15 years. Great car.

[@irishuwould5185]

Had a 2003 Regal GS and loved that car. Very fast and reliable. Only traded it in because I wanted a truck.

[@jook13]

Got a 99 lesabre. Freaking love it! Thanks to wizard and hoovie for helping make my decision. More enjoyable to drive than my 2017 and 2019 vehicles

[@andrevvv733]

How many miles?

[@MyLifeThai371]

My co-worker has a 1998 Lesabre with 360,000 miles. He said he has had to replace the intake manifold twice already. I think every 100,000 miles or so that fails.

[@BEERLIGHTBROKER]

@@MyLifeThai371 it melts. He needs to buy the upgraded one with the metal tube. It cost 80 bucks.

[@deansmits006]

I had a 98. I miss it still

[@darthdarthbinkss]

​@@MyLifeThai371original transmission?

[@digitalrailroader]

14:09 I’m a 32 year old Millennial Wizard, and yet I just picked up a fully loaded 2006 Buick Lucerne CXL which SCREAMS Grandma car! and what sealed the deal for me is what lurks underneath its Platinum Silver Metallic hood: the Absolutely bombproof L26 3800 Series III V6.

[@richmac918]

I agree, the 3.8L is a sweetheart. I had three company cars (Regals) with the 3.8L and all were great. I then got a Saturn Aura with the 3.6L and put 275K miles on it and never did anything to that engine except change the oil, spark plugs (twice) and coil packs (once). I have a hard time believing that engine has such a bad reputation considering my experience with it. Mine was bulletproof. I finally had to dump the car because of a transmission issue but the engine was still running like it did when it was new. What did I do right that others did wrong? I'd swear by that motor

[@ramonpage2300]

Got a 98 Park Ave ULTRA I love my Land Yacht!

[@snoopy5736]

Gotta love the 3800 supercharged. I own a 98 Riviera supercharged

[@fiber9m]

Gotta 98 grand prix gtp love the 3800 supercharged

[@AmandaHugenkiss2915]

Ah yes I'd love to pick up a Park Avenue for a commuter car.

[@michaelscott8267]

I would love to own a Park Ave Ultra 3800SC

[@antwalker916]

I also have a 98 Ultra! Best I ever owned 230k runs like a champ. I'll never sell it!

[@mattd603]

You forgot the best Buicks of all 94-96 roadmaster with lt1.

[@mrdylanjoseph]

I had a1994. LT1, bought it with 220k, drove it to 260k. It never used oil, I did however have to swap out the 4L60E. I loved that car. The seats were amazing. No G80 though terrible in snow. Lol

[@Hotlog69]

As I said in the previous video where he talks about that Centurion, the list for what to buy from Buick would be long.

[@nashstephenson1877]

I have a 96 LT1 and I love it. Not using any oil, currently at 178,000 miles. One of the nicest cars I've had. It also has the G80 Limited Slip option, a lot of fun.

[@harysuper]

The 91-93 Models are good if they have the L05. The 93 I had wasn't bad at all, I currently drive a 96.

[@mrdylanjoseph]

I had a '92 with the TBI 350. It wasn't bad, a bit slow, but torquey and reliability.

[@robthefixitguy7185]

A correction for the wizard, the Buick Rendezvous came with a 3.4L from 2002 to 2005, a 3.5L from 2006 to 2007. Yes, there were a few made with 3.6L engines, which was the high output option with variable valve timing. The 3.6L was not a good engine. The 3.4L had head gasket problems, not bad overall, but the head gasket made it unreliable. The 3.5L was awesome, they fixed all the issues on the 3.4L and upgraded it to 3.5L. I have a 3.5L and the engine is totally bulletproof. I also own a 2006 Buick Rainier with the 4.2L inline 6, great vehicle, but try and buy a 2006 or 2007. They had major revisions in 2006, over 185 tweaks to improve the vehicle. Overall great vehicle.

[@robertcornelisse8664]

Thank you for this knowledge. I am looking for a older SUV to buy that's great on gas and reliable. I already had the envoy/Ranier on my list but will add the rendezvous to it.

[@jeffshadow2407]

I have a 2006 Rainier and the first O2 sensor just failed (heater element) at 79,216 miles and sixteen years!

[@fleetcore5516]

I've got an 06 rendezvous with the 3.5 in it, almost 220k miles on it. Still going very strong just one very minor oil pan leak.

[@ThaGVPSon]

That buick Ranier/ chevy trailblazer has one of the best engines GM ever made right up there with the ls1 and SBC 350. The atlas 4.2 straight 6 is so smooth and super quick for a big SUV. They run forever really well engineered engines and get good mpg too. Straight 6s are so superior to a V6 but just aren't as cost effective to manufacture which is why the jeep 4.0 and BMW stopped making inline 6s too.

[@jay1182]

Another correction they went to 2008 is have an 07 ! Don’t know where you got your info

[@misteralvinstone]

I get why the Car Wizard recommends the Regal over the Century. I wouldn't say stay away from the Century. My personal experience with my 2003 Buick Century was a good one. I had mine from 2003 to 2018 with 230,000 miles. Stopped driving it only because it was totalled in a rear end collision. If I found one owned by someone's grandma or grandpa at a cheap price I would take a chance with it. Good runner all those years with minimal repairs.

[@TheCattleDriver]

Yup, get the gasket replaced when you buy it, or more likely it’s been repaired if it’s still on the road today. I’d agree they’re boring but doesn’t make them bad

[@rickdecarlo]

The lacrosse does not come with only a 3.6. I own 2007 with a 3.8. Excellent car. Over 500,000km and rolling

[@tvt00ns]

The later ones did

[@Alfa_Camaro]

I have an 09 cxl with a 3.8l v6

[@djplonghead5403]

07 should not have a 3800

[@juliusreed6233]

Do you still own it/ drive it??

[@louisyork1894]

Got a white 04 Lesabre with 109,000 and some change on it. Great mpg and enough power to chug it down the road pretty damn well. I’ve had several LeSabres and Bonnevilles over the years and they’ve all been fantastic cars, especially for the money. I just love them.

[@Orangebreadeduck]

I love my Lesabre Limited that I bought in May of this year. It's been very comfortable and hasn't left me stranded yet like my Taurus did.

[@JohnnyRay920]

How it doing now? I just bought a 2005 LeSabre Limited with just 58k miles. Runs good, but has an oil leak at the intake that's going to cost me $750 to get fixed. I'm going to get it fixed because after driving for a little while, you can smell oil getting onto the exhaust.

[@heyykaycee2394]

@@JohnnyRay920 I had an 02 Lesabre custom that I just got rid of in March. I bought it with 44k miles and it lasted me until 141k. Best car I’ve ever owned and lasted me 7 years. The only reason I got rid of it was due to rust in the rear tire Wells into the trunk. But the series 2 3.8l engines are basically indestructible. I hope you have long life for your Lesabre

[@josuevargas621]

@@heyykaycee2394 i have Lesabre 04 V2 3.8 in CR

[@ZippoVarga]

The 3.8 was the base on the Buick Grand National which, in 85, 86 and 87 were the fastest production car beating Corvette and Mustang GT's. That 3800 is bullet proof and well tested through out the years. Beyond the SBC, that little 3.8 was certainly an engine that could easily rack up 400,000 miles if properly maintained. I agree 100% on your summation of the good vs. the bad. Cheers David! Zip~

[@FPFN1513]

I love my 2 rendezvous 2005 2006...they are good looking cars, high height cars protect them from water, they are simply not too much electric complicated dashboard... Transmission original... Bug ample mirrors and back windows

[@Jason_556]

How many miles on each one? I’ve got an 07 CXL model myself. 186 k on it. Had to replace a few things but nothing too major.

[@ponchoman49]

A couple of things here. The Buick Reatta was based on the FWD Riviera chassis and featured the same 3800 V6 which made 165 HP in it's first few years and then 170 in its last. Second the LaCrosse and Rendezvous only had one specific trim with the 3.6 and are actually rather hard to find. The majority of 2005-2009 LaCrosses carried the 3800 series III V6 which was even better than the series II version having corrected the intake with a steel version. The LaCrosse CXS from 2005 to 2007 with the 3.6 is the one to avoid. If you see a base CX or higher trim CXL those are all 3800's. The Rendezvous carried the 3400 from 2002 to 2005 and aside from the intake issues aren't really all that bad if this is taken care of as soon as you start noticing your coolant level dropping mysteriously. 2006 to 2007 had the improved 3500 and those seem to be a great engine with decent power. Its the high end trim level versions of this crossover with the 3.6 that are best avoided from 2004 to 2006 and whatever you do don't buy a Rendezvous with AWD in any model year as those have a plethora of issues that are very costly to fix!

[@johnwagner4559]

Love my 03 lesabre!!! Replace upper and lower intake gaskets and plenum and coolant elbows and drive forever! Bulletproof 3.8! Beautiful car with new oem chrome 8 spoke wheels, no rust anywhere and yes I bought it from original elderly owners! Not your grandpa's car at all. Sporty as hell.

[@The_R-n-I_Guy]

I've had my 96 Buick Roadmaster for about 8-10 years now. The LT1 has over 160k miles and is still going strong

[@mattharris7256]

I work at a car dealership and they just had a 03 park avenue with 17k original miles on it traded in. True grandma car and they only gave em like 600 bucks for the trade in. Fully loaded leather dual climate control and stuff. Cool car

[@birdking6389]

2005 to 2009 lacrosse equipped with 3800 III . Very good buy.

[@terryschneider7344]

I've got a 2001 Regal. 163,000 miles, never had any problem, except extremely hard to check power steering or add fluid. Very comfortable and has plenty of get up and go with that awesome turbo!

[@coinsagE46m3]

The 3.6 wasn't the only motor you can get in the rendezvous. I've got one with the 3.4 and at 160k it's perfectly reliable.

[@TG715]

You must have an earlier Rendezvous which is based on the Pontiac Aztek which has the 3400 series. Love my Aztek.

[@CSmart7396]

@@TG715 I’ve got 197,000 on my 2004 Aztek with the 3.4. I wish Car Wizard would do a video on an Aztek one day!

[@V8cars2]

Yap. i have that car with the 3.5 LX9 engine. even better then the 3400.

[@md2k8]

@@CSmart7396 Agreed

[@christianmotley262]

Don't run it hot

[@lifelover2301]

My dad has had 4 rendezvous over the years and he loves them . They are roomy inside and they are fantastic in the snow !! There was actually three different engines , 1st was the 3.4 and they also had the 3.5 and 3.6 .

[@gtowrx2001]

The 3.4 and 3.5 were not terrible engines. My grand am has a 3.4 with 216k miles. 3.6 is rumored to be a turd though.

[@Jason_556]

Got a 07 CXL model with 3.5 engine with 185k. Only thing wrong is an exhaust leak out of the crossover pipe. Need to also fix my glove box that broke.

[@cliffwest5617]

Wizard , I agree . I had a 2000 Century that had milky oil . I parked it for awhile , then towed it to a trusted mechanic. Intake gaskets and water pump later . And it was fixed. It had the cloth seats as you said , but it had electric windows and locks and trunk release. Maybe boring to some ,but to me a reliable daily driver that I took long road trips over 3000 miles each . No problem 30+ mpg.

[@looksmaxxxine]

You said you HAD one. What made you sell it or did it finally decide to give up on you? I recently bought a 2003 Century with only 77k miles for my little sister. We had to replace the water pump because it was leaking coolant. After watching this video, I'm worried now and deciding if I should sell it before it's too late.

[@brandonjohnson7613]

@@looksmaxxxinehow did the car end up treating you? I just got one as well

[@looksmaxxxine]

@@brandonjohnson7613 it currently has about 83k miles on it and it’s running fine. A/C works and we did an oil change when we got it in March. After replacing the water pump, it hasn’t leaked coolant again.

[@brandonjohnson7613]

@@looksmaxxxine wow that’s great to hear. I’m still getting mine up and running and hope to have the same results as you

[@jamesstaggenborg4461]

I've been driving mine over 200K and it's still worth keeping in my opinion. ​@looksmaxxxine

[@MostlyBuicks]

RE: LaCrosse MISLEADING! The 2005-2009 CX and CXL has the beloved 3.8 series III engine. The CXS has the lousy 3.6. They also had in 2008 and 2009 the Super with the 5.3L V8!

[@2old4allthis]

The NHTSA ratings are also better than he said

[@Jason_556]

My daughter had an 07 and got into a head on collision. Other than being bruised up she came out unscathed. Definitely a safe car.

[@pedroramirez5164]

I have a Buick Rainier 2005, since 2014, with 126 k, . 6 cilinder. Today 176 k. Still runing great.

[@stevenkeleher2793]

The Buick Lucrene was also a really good large car. They made it From 2006-2011. The best years for it was the 2006-2008 because they came with the last version of the 3.8 (series III), And they are very smooth riding and somewhat cheap to maintain and they have lots of luxury features, but it doesn't sacrifice reliability and I love that.

[@getchasome6230]

They're junk. That's why you domt see very many anymore

[@stevenkeleher2793]

Including me, there’s around 4 people that own Lucrene’s in my town, and I see them on the road all the time. They are a park ave but better. They share the same engine, and lots of people would disagree with what ya said

[@stevenkeleher2793]

Also, I know people with over 200k on theirs and they say they need little maintenance. I don’t understand how the 3.8 is a bad motor?

[@stevenkeleher2793]

And it’s not like they sold a whole bunch of them, they sold under a million of them so they aren’t as common because Buick’s are more “grandma/grandpa cars” but they will run forever

[@atx-cvpi_99]

The ones with the Northstar and 3.9 are bad

[@addicted2bass87]

Really pleased to see the Regal on your "to buy" list. I own a 2001 Regal GS and it has been my daily driver since 2014. I've driven that car all over the eastern United States. It has been a exceptionally reliable car that has never let me down. I will be rolling over the 200k mile mark on it very soon. However, I would like to point out that the 3800 Series II has the EXACT same intake gasket issue as the 3100. They all will fail at some point, I had to replace mine a few years ago at 150k. These motors are very similar and GM used the same gasket material. The the 3800/3100 motors are essentially bulletproof otherwise. The only difference between the Regal and Century is the motor and trim, otherwise they are the exact same car. Recommending one over the other doesn't really make any sense considering they are built on the same platform and have very similar engines that both suffer from the same problem.

[@jakethesnake4971]

I had the same car. So 3 years later do you still have it?

[@addicted2bass87]

@@jakethesnake4971 I stopped driving it about a year ago at 234k miles. It still ran and drove perfect, but the rust and rot had gotten REALLY bad. I bought a 2006 Tahoe Z71 to replace it and gave the Regal to my buddy's dad to drive around his property.

[@carlosloyola4585]

Thanks to you I now have a 2004 Chevy Monte Carlo SS SC Intimidator edition, a 2003 Monte Carlo SS Pace Car and today I bought a 2001 Buick Park Avenue Ultra. Love my 3800's V6! Thanks man and keep it up the good work and advices! 🍻

[@stevesmith6236]

I hear ya! I have a '94 Regal sedan with the 3800 Series I, a '99 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP coupe, and a 2005 LeSabre. 3800 lover here too.

[@borisvandruff7532]

I just bought an 02 Park Avenue yesterday. 70,000 miles on it! Amazing car, amazing deal!

[@RedPillVegan]

I like that you are enthusiastic about buicks man. The right buicks have major street creds in my neighborhood.

[@dogsbark5750]

In terms of Buick motors from what i have experienced the late 30s straight 8 is one of the most reliable vehicles of all time. They are great classic cars with a top speed over 100mph making it one of the fastest cars for its day as well as drivable today. Buick does not get enough love.

[@BudMovies]

I've got a '93 Park Avenue Ultra in mint condition and I absolutely love it!

[@vergofmadness3527]

SO JELLY. DX

[@christophergene4217]

Well I have a 2005 Buick LaCrosse CXL and it has the 3.8 V6 only 72,000 miles and nothing major needed to the motor only thing I had to replace at 62,000 was the plastic elbows that deliver coolant to the motor and I replaced them with the metal ones and no issues thus far it’s a really amazing car

[@michaelscofield2444]

Hello. What's your thoughts on offer I have. 2005 Buick Lacrosse CXL with 3.8 V6 has 110,000miles on it. Very clean inside and out. Clean title. Has 20"rims on it. Price he selling is 4900$ but I am not giving that for sure definitely less than that. Still didn't have to check it. But let me know your thoughts on what should I focus most when I go to check the car

[@ronaldwilliams2962]

I own a 2008 Buick Lacrosse with a 3.8 litre engine. Not a 3.6 litre engine. I like the style and it is an excellent vehicle with 118, 900 miles on it and been a very reliable vehicle.

[@malcomM96]

i heard those northstars are bad

[@hidinfrombiden1734]

​@@malcomM96yeah no shit😅. The starter is located underneath the intake manifold🤦‍♂️.

[@malcomM96]

@@hidinfrombiden1734 my gawd

[@hidinfrombiden1734]

@@malcomM96 just for the record, I jumped to conclusion that you were talking about the Northstar V8. I honestly don't know about the 3.6 Northstars, but if it's anything like big bro, it's a complicated little bastard lol🤣.

[@vicalsi1568]

Greatest engine ever is the Buick 3.8 no matter the series. From 88 and up you can't go wrong.

[@Mustansirtaher6]

Yes the best 3.8

[@Jack9788]

Love the paint work on that 1973 Buick Centurion convertible.

[@zach2beat]

Car wizard going to the gym so he can multi-class into warrior!!!

[@MasterJim2020]

My first car was a Buick Encore. So I’m glad to see Car Wizard uploading a buy and not to buy video for Buick cars.

[@md2k8]

The Buick Encore is a vehicle not to buy, both four-cylinder engines, same with the Chevrolet Trax.

[@richardcutts196]

Some of the Lacrosse's have 3.8v6 engines. Saw one on craigs' list.

[@geeksimmer2488]

I got a 07 lacrosse with the 3.8 v6 engine. Smooth ride and very reliable engine but i have heard of the transmissions being very fragile. I keep my transmission fluids topped off and I have had no problems so far

[@patnarciso35]

All Lacrosses came with the 3.8

[@richardcutts196]

@@patnarciso35 Only the 05-09 CX and CXL versions had the 3.8.

[@eugenerickett728]

I have a 2006 lacrosse with a 3.8 engine great car and engine

[@michaelscofield2444]

Should I get a deal for a 2005 Lacrosse CXl with 110 000 miles on it, clean title, clean inside and out, 20"rims on it. Very beautiful beige color. But I never have a car like this before and I wanna try it. What's your thoughts??

[@steveenghsr2100]

We have an 89 Park Avenue with around 1000000 miles. We had to replace the cam sensor and the computer but really like it . The next thing is to find out why it sputters when shifting under heavy acceleration. Having been garaged most of its life it is a really fine ride. Thanks for your comments on the 3800 engine.It does an amazing job moving this big vehicle around. Bless You and the young lady.

[@stevesmith6236]

One MILLION miles on it???!!! Or was that a typo? 🤔

[@tyler2610]

Buick is my favorite brand and I have had many over the years including a 2004 Century I just purchased as a second car. I am aware of the intake manifold issues with the 3.1 but honestly in the 3.8 series II they have the same problem. I had two Park Avenues with the 3.8 but never had a problem and I am hoping the Century will be the same. I will definitely keep an eye on the coolant level though. I disagree that the Regal was the better car over the Century though except for the larger engine but I think you had to get the turbo charger with the Regal 3.8. My Century is loaded with leather, leather steering wheel with controls, CD/cassette, and chrome wheel covers. Yes it is basic but it is more the car for a traditionalist like me with the smoother ride, front split bench seat with the column shifter, and it is just not as sporty which most Buick people don't want. I see a lot of Century's go well over 200,000 so I am hoping mine with 113,000 will be a reliable second car. I am worried the power steering pump may be going though. It still steers very easily but whines with right turns and clunks at times and the fluid smells very burnt. I added some fluid as it was low and it steers almost normal now but the other issues still persist.

[@southernbrew4252]

I agree. The Century is a nice car.

[@TheSlashSlingingSlasher]

I got a 05 Century. Daily driver. Got it at 150k. Currently at 195k. Drove it for papa John's over a year with potholes galore. No problems whatsoever. You will have a lot of life left in that car.

[@jakebrumleg8363]

I got a 2002 Malibu with the 3.1 and honestly it’s a great car. Intake manifold gaskets are good and it don’t burn or leak oil. Was my grampas car so I plan keeping it forever. 173,000 miles and runs and drives great

[@MonkeyPunchZPoker]

Throw a $60 Wal Mart stereo with bluetooth and a back up camera (option, you'll have to buy a $20 camera from Amazon) and my 2003 Century that I just acquired is the perfect car for me. It's kind of a shame because it's such a rust bucket, if it wasn't for that I'm sure it would last another 20 years.

[@tyler2610]

@@MonkeyPunchZPoker Yeah, I’m perfectly happy with my stock cd/cassette radio and the car has great visibility (something you don’t find on a lot of modern vehicles) so I find no real need for a camera although they are a nice option. I have some minor rust on mine I would like to address before it gets to bad. My rockers have been replaced already before I bought it so they aren’t to bad but starting to rust again. In the Mid-West they all rust out unless they are never driven in the snow. When I go on vacation to Florida I am always jealous at the old rust free cars. Of course there the heat bakes the interiors and paint. Also, an update from an older comment I made. Turned out my power steering pump was okay. I had a leak in the return line that I had replaced and the scraping noise I was getting with turns ended up being the brake dust shield. I now have about 125K on it and still have not had any major issues with it.

[@tjwatson0403]

The 3800 also had intake gasket leaks in the late 90s. They had plastic intakes. They switched to aluminum intakes in 2000 and it fixed the problem. I drove from Ohio to New Orleans and Disney and back with the coolant leaking into the engine without knowing it though

[@jeffshadow2407]

3800 got the metal intake in 2005.

[@stevesmith6236]

@@jeffshadow2407 My 2005 LeSabre has the black plastic intake, and yes I had to replace the base gasket at 72K orig. miles.

[@ronaldwarren5220]

I owned an 88 Reatta for 3 years. Nice little car. There is a lot of support for these on a couple of on line forums and a few salvage yards around the USA where you can purchase used parts. The 91s are better sorted out and more desireable. They also made a convertible in 90 and 91

[@nuthinbutlove]

Just saw a vid a young man made last year of a 2004 Park Avenue Ultra that he'd just purchased. All the bells and whistles, leather everywhere. Only 90,000 miles and it was in impeccable condition both inside and out. He was so proud he made a KZbin video. Beautiful car and it drove and rode like a cloud.

[@bonniejohnson1518]

by far the most comfortable Buick I ever owned and drove was the 1984 Buick Park Avenue

[@nuthinbutlove]

@@bonniejohnson1518 I always wanted one and still regret not purchasing it

[@thejollyrancher6713]

My 2019 Buick Encore accumulates condensation in the charge air bypass valve that can freeze below -18°C / 0°F. When it freezes, it increases crankcase pressure and blows your PCV valve leading to a ton of white smoke, a loss of power, and ultimately an $1,100 repair if it’s not under warranty. I live in Canada and it has happened to mine twice in 31,000 km. GM’s solution was to provide a silly little winter grille cover that you need to take off when the temperature goes above freezing or your engine will overheat. Trading it in for a new Mazda CX-5 tomorrow.

[@md2k8]

A better decision to make, because these Encore's are junk. The CX-5 is excellent in reliability.

[@dalegribble3684]

So calming! Weeezard always helps me sleep

[@apprenticefelix7740]

propane

[@dalegribble3684]

juan felix pocket sand

[@kokocostanza2036]

Squirrel tactics

[@timothycoyne5874]

I had a 2014 Buick Regal GS. Beautiful car, and pretty fast. Handled nicely, too, but the fuel economy was poorer than I expected, especially for a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder turbo. I might have kept it if it had been one of the rare 6-speed manuals they made, but it was an automatic.

[@ivantuma7969]

We have a 2018 Regal TourX with the same LTG 2.0 turbo ... actually really surprised, I frequently get over 30mpg in mixed driving (from stop & go city traffic to 65 mph highway sections). One thing that does impact the mpg is the AC. I rarely use the AC and when I do it's in ECO mode. On the other hand, when my wife drives the car (she often keeps the AC on MAX) ... her mpg in the same car is more like 24. For a vehicle its size, the _potential_ gas mileage is quite high compared to other cars in the same class.

[@JurgenDX]

The 18 and up are detuned from the previous generation. They have around 40 less hp, that might explain the mpg difference

[@CrimFerret]

I very much appreciate this series. Much as I'd love to be able to go buy a new vehicle and ignore the depreciation, the reality is what I'll be able to afford is probably one of your recommendations for a good solid drive to work car. I'd rather get one that's reasonably reliable and that I can do at least some work on myself if needed.

[@JoseDiaz-rd9fh]

Absolutely most cars are junked far too soon simply because the labor for said repair is too much. For this very reason I have a 2000 Hyundai accent 5-speed. I'm quickly learning how to do all the basic maintenance. We need to start voting with our wallets so that manufacturers made cars that can be maintained buy an average Joe

[@Treesuss]

When I was 18, I had a 93 Buick Lesabre that leaked gas and was very slow and rusty. No exhaust, half the taillights out. But I’m back in the market for a Pontiac or Buick with that 3800. I’ve owned a 07 Volvo XC70 for a couple of years now and it’s a money pit. After putting in 8k, I had the trans go out. Ready for something cheap and reliable.

[@innotech]

for smaller car I recommend Buick Verano. my parents have owned a premium turbo one for a while and the thing is bulletproof

[@bobbates6642]

Growing up in Rural Ontario Canada I remember that all the well to do farmers came to Church in a Buick. I later had a couple of Buick's . Yes I had the engine you recommended. Other then having one wrecked by some farmer John and his pick up pulling my car out of the snow once and then bending the frame beyond the point of being hopeless the car was good. Good gas mileage and pretty fast. I did want the park ave. but ended up with the Regal and it was very nice just not as big as I wanted.

[@johnp556]

Classic. Grandparents were from Ingersoll.

[@BruceChastain]

great video, thank you. I've had 2 series II 3.8 engines (97 pontiac grandprix GTP and a 2002 regal LS), and i agree great engines.

[@nate1643]

Got a Pontiac bonneville with a 3.8 supercharged in it and I absolutely love it even though it’s a boat

[@thecman26]

I agree! Smooth ride and PLUSH interior!

[@DStabs720]

I miss my Regal GS everyday!

[@crownhic6827]

That Bonneville is a great road trip car.

[@nate1643]

B Kopp heck yeah, air ride in the rear, and it’s got power when you need it.

[@luisgonzalez8423]

76 continental true boat they have no boats in the 90s

[@JimRevell-ny4hw]

Mr Wizard , people have learned to trust what you say more than you think , keep up the good job !

[@macmanirving]

I had a 1975 Buick Electra 225 Custom. I had the 455 cid engine. I loved that car!!

[@austinhorner1427]

I have a 2005 Buick Rendezvous 3.4L and its the best car ive owned besides my 1.6L 1991 Geo Storm GSi. I gwt compliments on my buick all the time and the room on the inside to haul things is outstanding, ive got an after market tow hitch/tow set up and it hauls trailers and what not amazingly

[@aantonic]

i liked Geo storm 92, my first car when i came to US, never had problems and it didnt lack power

[@LilKimRobot]

I can't thank you enough for this video. I was gearing up to buy a 99 century but I had a nagging feeling so I've been putting it off while doing more research and I found this video. Thanks again!!

[@cannoncolossus2449]

Small Buick = Buick Reatta. There's actually a small enthusiast market for them. They come with the 3800 V6, which is well known for their reliability.

[@SPARTANLuis067]

I just wish he would point out that it's the Series 1 NOT the Series 2 that he and everyone (including me) love. The S1 has a good amount less power (180-90 I believe) and less fuel economy, not meaning it's a slow inefficient dog or anything but it's a far cry from the 240bhp of the supercharged version. Truly unfortunate it's fwd only as a rwd Reatta would be absolutely amazing but GM 🤷‍♂️

[@heidid3646]

My father had a 96 Buick Rivera with the 3.8L supercharged II engine, beautiful car. Drove it until over 300,000 kilometres and it still ran so nicely. Reason he stopped driving it was due to something involving the frame. Lasted him years though!

[@fredyherrera9667]

I own a Buick Lucerne cxs 4.6 32 valve DOHC v8 all black out and in it’s a 07 drives beautiful

[@kingfatz1287]

Finally. I'm a huge Buick lover

[@overbanked]

I have a 2015 Buick LaCrosse, and I love it

[@mazda9624]

This video was pretty entertaining to watch with my friend because we both own a "do not buy" Buick as our daily drivers. I have a 2004 Buick Century and he has a 2004 Buick Rendezvous. Everything you said about them was spot on. He's a mechanic, so he's fine with the Rendezvous, but I really wish I had the Regal GS instead of my Century.

[@veehix1149]

My grandpa had a 2002 Buick century that recently died. It lasted 450,000+ miles

[@looksmaxxxine]

​@VEEHIX how did he get it to last that long

[@looksmaxxxine]

Do you guys have any issues with yours? I bought a 2003 with leather seats and only 77k miles for my sister. We already had to replace the water pump because it was leaking coolant.

[@veehix1149]

He just treated it good. One good thing he did was change the oil every 2 weeks

[@brandonjohnson7613]

@@veehix1149changing the oil every 2 weeks is really expensive and super often. how much was he driving???!

[@billyduffany3387]

I have had 3 Buick centurys. I bought all really really cheap, under $500 each. I got them before i saw this video. The first one the engine seized up. This is when I found out about the intake gasket problem. The second one I bought ,I replaced the intake gasket almost immediately and did the oil changes every 3 to 5 thousand and got over 300000 miles out of it and sold it and still driving my third one which I changed the intake gaskets as soon as I got it. Besides the rocker panel rot I have had no other real problems with the last 2. Thanks Wizard the the great information.

[@keyleehyde85]

I have a 2006 Buick rendezvous, and I’ve had it for years and it runs great and looks great and very well kept

[@Jason_556]

Make sure to change your transmission fluid. That’s the weak link in the Rendezvous. Got an 07 CXL model with 186k on it.

[@denise8242]

I want the Buick Park Avenue. I know the 3.8 engine is great and tough. It does ride like a cloud, it's a very nice, dependable vehicle.

[@rudiknaus4139]

I had a 1992 park avenue ultra, one of the best designs of Buick cars of all time! Unfortunately there were big problems with the security chip key, water in the front and trunk and lately no overdrive shifting .. so i sold it .. 😳

[@Akecherfd8424]

There are a lot of buick centurys on the road.

[@Futton]

Right my 99 century running anazing only got 87k

[@BELDAM808]

Lots of century's and lesabres lol.

[@alexnolasco1339]

I still have one, the engine is gonna run forever but the interior electronics and plastics are seriously on their way out. I'm currently looking to sell it for like 300 bucks

[@misteralvinstone]

I had a 2003 Buick Century that I bought new. Had it for 15 years. I put 231,000 miles on it. The only reason I don't have it anymore is due to being rear ended so badly that it could not be fixed. I had no serious problems with it mechanically. A starter here, an alternator there. Very good runner.

[@alexnolasco1339]

@@misteralvinstone the real question is, how many of your windows still work? How many gauges are still reading? Mines at about 180k and I never know how much gas is in the tank

[@musicman4267]

I’ve got a 2001 Buick century with almost 250k miles and I always check the oil and everything because of this motor likes blowing headgaskets and intake gaskets but I haven’t even seen any coolant in oil

[@NG-td6yw]

Thank you Mr Car Wizard! My first Buick 84 Regal I brought from my Sister who brought it new in 84 owned for 15 years sold it to me driving it for another 15years till transmission guy installed it wrong catching on fire with me jumping out' I own a 05 Park Avenue now brought it 2013 With 80k with warranty new trans, motor monts, intake, seats, windows' Buick dealer tell me i have a New car now! Lol I love driving this car, so smooth and dependable' now with 2007k still running strong' Its one of the last SE's 300 built with the plantuim/sliver top with black two tone...your right the 3800 is the Best engine ever made This will be my 8th year owning...coworkers ask for rides when there car breaks down on them...😆

[@huiliu888]

I am driving 2005 Buick Lacrosse CXL (200,000 mile now) with 3.8L V6 engine. It runs great. I plan to let it run to 300,000 miles.

[@brycejames2127]

Hmmm? I have owned cars with the 3.1 V6, and never had an issue with them, great strong engines in my opinion. And yes, the 3.8 L was great too. 👍🏻

[@allenleavell2847]

Just like I've had a car with the "terrible" 3.6 V6 for 7 years now, and haven't had a problem

[@md2k8]

@@allenleavell2847 That's good.

[@misteralvinstone]

My old Buick Century with the 3.1L V6 never had any problems with 230,000 miles. Changed the oil every 3,000 miles (or so), trans service every 50,000 miles, flushed the coolant every few years, and brakes when needed. Only reason I don't have it anymore is due to a severe rear end accident that totalled the car. That car was very good to me.

[@tweedpenguin712]

@@allenleavell2847 anecdotes aren’t the majority. Go back to school

[@ThePolarBearProductions]

I have a 2000 LeSabre! Got it from a buddy of mine when it had 147k on it for $1000. Has some issues (leaky valve cover gaskets, history of coolant leaks, had a shot suspension for a while, bypassed AC system that makes summertime driving for me absolute torture, etc) but overall it’s a solid car. If she still had a working AC system and was lower Milage is give it 5/5. But it gets a 4-4.5/5 for me.

[@JBPlaysGames1]

I am right in the same boat with you on hating that dang 3.1 V6! I had a 99 Malibu, got it cheap, spent the first few weeks I owned it down, getting brake and fuel lines replaced. Then I drove it for maybe a month or so, and then one day, it just wouldn't start. No matter how hard we tried. It would crank with no start, wasn't making any crazy noises so we though WTH!? So a close family friend was telling myself and my uncle they are known for timing issues. There were multiple revisions of the timing set in a few years. So, we got the right one, and figured we'd fix it, since money wise I was still in it for very little. Got to tearing it apart, get the old timing set out and my uncle discovers that my CAM SNAPPED IN TWO! In the block! Had no clue, like I said no real indicators or anything. It only had like 130k miles on it too, car it self was in relatively decent shape as well. I now refuse to buy anything for myself thst has the 3.1, or ANY of its derivatives. Still can't believe it.

[@JSSuper281]

I had a Century and loved it. Drove it 283K miles before I decided to let it go. I serviced the thing regularly and caught the intake leak immediately at the 82K mile mark. They either leak air into the coolant and sludge up or coolant into the oil and grenade. It's an easy fix, just don't procrastinate.

[@ajayp3835]

I just bought the car, how did you catch it? What do I look for?

[@JSSuper281]

@@ajayp3835 I noticed some coolant leaks running down the heads from the lower intake when I did an oil change. It had the factory DexCool in the car and that sludges faster with it leaking. Wait for the car to be cold and pop off the radiator cap. The cap and the top neck would have sludge in it depending on how long it has been leaking. To find out if it leaks into the oil, it can leave a bit of a foam on the oil cap and then it starts to make the oil look a little weird. Obviously if it gets really bad the oil will look like chocolate milk and at that point its pretty far gone.

[@peterkneissl3358]

Had it leak also and caught it early. Fortunately was leaking as best as we could tell external only. Pricey repair but I had a bunch of top deck work done since we had to take all the stuff off the top of the engine. Other than that car is rock solid. 2001 buick century.

[@jamesslick4790]

The funny part about "Grandma" (or Grandpa) cars is, Today's Grandmas and Grandpas were the target market of the original Mustangs and GTOs! in the '60s. And THEY later embraced Honda Accords and BMWs in the '80s. I was BORN in the early 60's and have ALWAYS been into (REAL) Buicks and Cadillacs (My first car as a young,dumb kid in 1978 was a 1963 six window Cadillac Sedan DeVille!) All of my buddies wanted Camaros!

[@Jushwa]

I’m so glad you said the Rendevous is hideous, I remember my gr4 teacher had one and i thought that it was absolutely the ugliest car in the parking lot. It’s just horrible, although the taillight running across the back is kind of what we have now on a lot of new cars.

[@damilolaakanni]

Ugly, but better looking than the Aztek it was based on.

[@Jason_556]

Yeah! I’ve got an 07 CXL model myself. It took some time to get use to it. Very comfortable ride I’ve got to say. I’ve had it for 4 years been a good SUV so far.

[@kevinwells4888]

Hey Wizard, Big fan. My 06 Lacrosse has a 3800. They also receive 5 stars from NHTSA FRONTAL-CRASH

[@Jason_556]

My mother’s 07 had one also. That car was super comfortable and was a cloud car also. We gave it to my daughter as a hand me down. She got into a head on collision with a Lincoln Town Car. Daughter was ok. Other driver in the Town Car somehow got her foot almost amputated.

[@Jack51971]

A 1991 to 2005 Park Avenue would be a great ride for you Wizard. Big seats for a big guy!

[@masonmack7453]

I’ve got a 2003 century, got it with 169k miles and I’m up to 204k with no major issues but I take great care of it and do all maintenance myself

[@alaaibrahim6570]

One of the greatest channels. I respect you man. I bopped if you talked about Buick enclave

[@lukedubnicka7128]

To my knowledge, the Rendezvous came with the 3.4L V6. Head gasket failures galore. I also owned a Bonneville, and I can attest that the 3.8L V6 is awesome. I had no issues with it.

[@Jason_556]

Get the one with 3.5, they fixed that issue 06 and 07.

[@SixMeter]

I have the 2005 Buick Lacrosse with the 3.8L I am the 2nd owner. It had 97,000 miles on it and now I have 196,000 and is still going without major problems just (General Mainteance). The check engine light has never come on yet. I have gotten 32 mpg with the A/C and cruise on traveling 5 hours round trip from Northeast Missouri to Davenport Iowa area and back. Thanks for the advice you share! Nice to have a go to mechanic on here.

[@bonniejohnson1518]

with all vehicles alot depends on how they were driven and cared for..........Willie

[@SixMeter]

@@bonniejohnson1518 And how well the factory assembled them.

[@Jason_556]

Six meter that’s more than my Honda Civic gets.

[@SixMeter]

@@Jason_556 Really!

[@flymachine014]

Loving this series! Keep them coming!

[@md2k8]

Me, too.

[@tbperry83]

You're on point about the buick park ave. I have a 2000 Park Ave base model and she is still running strong at 270,000 miles on the original motor and tranny. She's a part of the family. My dad rode in mine and went and bought a roadmaster with the LT1 and loves his too. Now my son has a 2007 buick lacrosse himself. I'd gladly get another myself. Thanks for the review Car Wizard. I'm still curious about the Buick encore as well. I see many for sale but haven't heard much about them.

[@kellygrant4964]

I have a 2001 Regal LS. Came from my parents which they bought new. They have a 2016 Toyota Avalon. The Buick seats are more comfortable and the car is just as quiet. My parents still enjoy the Regal when I go visit them. They are still to this day one of the most comfortable cars. With the knowledge when it does need work done it will not break the bank to do it. If you can find one well taken care of ... get it!

[@franciscodanconia45]

2003 Rendevous for the win! EXCELLENT SUV! Tons of room inside, good mileage, super comfortable, low maintenance cost. I wish they still made them.

[@md2k8]

The Rendevous is not a good crossover to purchase. The CX-5 is a lot better in fuel economy and reliability for crossovers.

[@patrickmartin3322]

@@md2k8 the CX-5 is about a decade newer, and is much more expensive

[@md2k8]

@@patrickmartin3322 Agreed

[@Jason_556]

Make sure you replace the head gaskets. Other than that it’s a good vehicle. Change trans fluid also. Transmission are the only weaknesses in Rendezvous. I have an 07 CXL model with 3.5 with 186 k on it.

[@NightRiderBUICK]

Finally ppl giving buicks some love

[@NightRiderBUICK]

Way better than a dog pile chevy

[@Jason_556]

No, that would FORD! Seriously! 2010 and newer! 😊 My cousin says he wants to burn his to the ground. 2011 F150 that is.

[@DFX4509B]

Supercharged 3.8 Riviera: 'Yo, Wizard!' EDIT: Centuries from the same era as the GN could be turbocharged for a bit of sleeper cred, and actually, the '86-'89 Century wouldn't look too bad with a blackout job and some spiderweb rims.

[@katherine3276]

I just got one and wanna know what the wizard has to say about it

[@scottvanderbly264]

superchargers always go on those so be prepared to replace if you get the Riviera buy one with out the supercharger

[@WhirlinGraphics]

My second car was a 1975 Buick Skyhawk. Light metallic blue with herringbone cloth seats. Small little hatchback that was pretty fast for that era because it had a 3.8 V6! My claim to fame was that I won a drag race in it against my older brother’s friend in his ‘64 Mustang.

[@dennismattson8383]

Got a mint Silver '96 Regal True Granny's car with 65k miles from CA for $1000... Got new tires, and brakes.. Replaced water pump, coolant elbows, oil sending unit, fuel pressure regulator, plugs, wires, radiator, ac compressor, and condenser.. next is lower intake gaskets, ATP plenum. Car drives like a dream.. The 3800 is one if the best engines EVER.. My Series II will be indestructible once the lim gaskets are done.. I'll be modding it.. wheels, tint, lowering, exhaust, etc.. But It will last forever, and I plan on keeping it forever as a 2nd work/roadtrip cruiser.. Absolutely LOVE this Car..