2016 Buick Verano

59 complaints on file, page 1 of 3.

1. Filed Mar 29, 2026Failure Mar 28, 2026Las Vegas, NVElectrical system, Power train, Steering

   While driving on the highway there was a random harsh jerk on my car, and I was immediately unable to maintain safe speeds driving nearly causing a serious crash. All of the service lights (Service Parking Assist, Service Power Steering, Service StabiliTrak, and Check Engine Light) should up on the dashboard. Trying to engage the vehicle into drive after parked had a harsh jerk shifting into gear and the accelerator was not working properly (going extremely slower than applied pressure). Mobile mechanic reader coded my vehicle with U0101 “Lost Communication with TCM”. After touching that TCM connection all of the service lights randomly turned back off, and the vehicle drove (temporarily) normal. No repairs were performed due to possible recall concerns.

   NHTSA complaint 11727752
2. Filed Feb 3, 2026Failure Jan 5, 2026Maricopa, AZAir bags, Engine, Unknown or other

   I am submitting this complaint to report a safety-related issue involving my 2016 Buick Verano. At approximately 112,000 miles, the vehicle experienced a major transmission failure that significantly affected drivability. Shortly thereafter, an airbag warning light illuminated, indicating a potential malfunction of the supplemental restraint system. An independent mechanic advised that the vehicle was no longer safe or economically reasonable to repair due to the transmission failure and the airbag system warning. The cost of transmission repair was estimated between $5,000.00 and $7,000.00. The vehicle could not be safely driven, sold, or repaired, leaving me with an inoperable vehicle and an outstanding loan balance. I am submitting this complaint to ensure this issue is documented and reviewed, as transmission failure combined with an airbag warning presents a serious safety concern. Also, it’s been widely documented by other consumers of having the same problem with the transmission failing prematurely on these type of vehicles as well.

   NHTSA complaint 11715188
3. Filed Jul 30, 2025Failure Jul 25, 2025Atlanta, GAAutomatic transmission

   After consulting with a certified technician, I’ve learned this model uses the same 6-speed transmission (6T40) found in several GM vehicles, and that it’s widely known to fail prematurely—many as early as 100K–117K miles. There are dozens of similar consumer complaints filed with NHTSA and discussed online. These are not isolated incidents but part of a consistent pattern of early, costly failures.

   NHTSA complaint 11677381
4. Filed Jul 28, 2025Failure Jan 1, 2023Linden, NCBody

   The paint has severely faded, chipping, and it is not from environmental factors- I have less than 30,000 miles on a 2016 Buick Verano. There are multiple websites confirming other consumers have had the same issues with their 2015/2016 Buick Verano.

   NHTSA complaint 11676782
5. Filed Jun 30, 2025Failure Jun 30, 2025189,000 milesHumble, TXElectrical system

   The contact owns a 2016 Buick Verano. The contact stated that the doors of the vehicle were locking and unlocking independently, and the radio failed to turn off as needed. The contact stated that an unknown relay and sensors were previously replaced; however, the failure persisted. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was hacked. The failure mileage was approximately 189,000.

   NHTSA complaint 11670260
6. Filed Apr 8, 2025Failure Apr 7, 2025Los Angeles, CAEngine

   Engine is known for bad piston rings and a poor emission ventilation system causing extreme engine pressure, blowback, and oil consumption. Engine stalled due to NO oil in it. No oil warning light appeared. Almost ran over two pedestrians as my car would not brake quickly enough as there was no power to any of the systems. And now I have to pay well over $6,000 to repair it? I JUST had my oil changed 5 days ago.

   NHTSA complaint 11653419
7. Filed Aug 20, 2024Failure Jul 20, 2024134,700 milesRexburg, IDAir bags

   The contact owns a 2016 Buick Verano. The contact stated while starting the vehicle and driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passenger's side seat sensor failed to detect a passenger in the seat. The “Air Bag Off” and “Service Air Bag” messages were displayed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to Special Coverage Adjustment: 23520 Passenger Presence Sensor (PPS) Module; however, the VIN was not included in the Special Coverage Adjustment. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 134,700.

   NHTSA complaint 11609743
8. Filed May 6, 2024Failure Feb 22, 2023Arlington, TXAir bags

   When I start my car air bag lights on when a passenger is not seat air bags keeps light is on and when I have passenger next to me air bag is off. I took this car to dealership I bought they want me to pay $1720 to fix the system I only driven 42000 miles since I bought I had fully guaranteed paid for 5 years by installation to the company. I am not happy for putting my vehicle I do not wish to take another place for repairs as I had not understand why the are asking a lot of money to put it right for air bag for passenger says need air bag service always when I am driving my vehicle

   NHTSA complaint 11587107
9. Filed Apr 12, 2024Failure Apr 4, 2024Twin Lakes, WIElectrical system, Blind spot detection

   The side detection system got corroded as it was exposed to water. My airbags, turn signals, speedometer, cameras, blind spot warnings, etc. went out. This costed almost $2k to replace and get fixed when this could have been avoided if the side detection parts weren't easily exposed to water. Knowing that this could happen again as this is the way the car was manufactured does not sit well with me. It started failing while on an interstate which caused very unsafe driving conditions for me and the drivers around me. This seems to be a common issue with the Buick Verano that has not been addressed in a recall. The warning lights came on as soon as the failure started occurring.

   NHTSA complaint 11582612
10. Filed Feb 7, 2024Failure Jan 22, 2024EL Paso, TXAir bags

    There are 18 complaints about the passenger airbag sensor that should have been reported as a recall. Buick issued a Special Coverage Adjustment notice for the passenger Presence sensor Reference Number: [XXX] Letter was sent to all customers; I did not ever receive it as i purchased this vehicle as used from the BUICK dealership in EL PASO TX. I recently started experiencing error messages with my airbags. Upon taking it to the dealer, the airbag sensor issue is related to the notice listed above. Because I never received the notice, I wasn't on alert for issues. I don't see why i should have to pay for this repair since its obvious this is a dealer installed defective product. Please help resolve this issue as it going to cause someone's life and by then it will be too late. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11570464
11. Filed Dec 24, 2023Failure Dec 21, 2023Amherst, OHAir bags, Electrical system, Blind spot detection

    - The side detection module became corroded, blew a fuse and stopped functioning. This was reported in a service bulletin and extended warranty protection for some GM vehicles, but not the Buick Verano. [XXX] - This happened while driving. The vehicle would still drive, but lost all gauge functions (No speedometer, tachometer, fuel, or temp gauges). -The side obstacle detection system does not work. -The system also interferes with the passenger side airbag and leaves it turned OFF with a passenger in the seat. These obviously all create a serious safety risk and have not been covered by a recall for this vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11561719
12. Filed Feb 18, 2023Failure Feb 17, 2023Sunland, CAElectrical system, Steering, Suspension

    Power Steering, Brakes, Turn Signals, Monitor Screen. The Cars steering will lock up and pull to the right hand side and the brakes get mushy. This could be deadly to myself and other motor vehicles. It happens suddenly with out warning and if there is a vehicle in the right hand lane, you will crash into it. I am waiting to take it to the dealer but prior to the steering and electrical, I told them on 10/12/21 oil service about the brakes feeling mushy and they said that’s the way they’re supposed to be. Only other passengers have witnessed the electrical and steering problem happen. At the exact same time the steering goes out the stability trek light flashes on the panel, the media screen goes out and my turn signal (if on) has no audio. I bought the car 3/26/21 @ 44,690 miles. On 10/12/21 I mentioned the brakes and about 2 months after that this electrical/steering problem started happening. It started out as little quirks but has progressively gotten worse. There is not 1 specific thing that seems to trigger the effect, it is variable.

    NHTSA complaint 11507977
13. Filed Oct 15, 2022Failure Oct 10, 2022Apopka, FLAir bags, Seats

    Buick issued a Special Coverage Adjustment notice for the passenger prescence sensor Reference Number: N15202352 Letter was sent to all customers, I did not ever receive it. I recently started experiencing error messages with my airbags. Upon taking it to the dealer, the airbag sensor issue is related to the notice listed above. Because I never received the notice, I wasn't on alert for issues. I had to pay the full amount for the fix. My bigger concern is that with the airbag service error going off - if I had been in an accident, the airbag might not have deployed. This known issue should have been a recall and fixed in this car.

    NHTSA complaint 11489395
14. Filed Oct 3, 2022Failure Sep 22, 2022Mason, MIFuel/propulsion system

    Fuel Sending Unit. Yes. Loss of power and control of vehicle due to no fuel. Mechanics have confirmed it as a common problem with GM fuel sending unit/pump No. No warnings, no lights, no indication of problem. I received a second pump and sending unit from GM and had the same problem for a 2nd time of fuel reading inaccurately and causing me to lose vehicle functionality.

    NHTSA complaint 11487645
15. Filed May 18, 2022Failure Jan 10, 202277,000 milesDallas, TXEngine, Seats

    The contact owns a 2016 Buick Verano. The contact stated that the front driver’s side seat was no longer adjustable. The contact was unable to adjust the height in order to see over the steering wheel. Additionally, while operating the vehicle the check engine warning light remained illuminated; the vehicle failed to properly accelerate. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer was notified but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer was not contacted and notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 77,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11465118
16. Filed Apr 8, 2022Failure Nov 30, 2021Mason, MIFuel/propulsion system

    Fuel level sensor failure. I haven't checked but I don't think a regular dealer would inspect for free because it's inside of the gas tank. The gas gauge gets stuck at around a quarter of a tank leading a sensible person to assume their is gas in the vehicle. This is a safety risk because your vehicle can stall in the middle of the road as it did in my case. You lose the ability to steer the vehicle and put other vehicles behind you or around you at risk. The problem has been reproduced by me when comparing the range for my vehicle (396 miles on a full tank) then resetting the trip after filling up. I then drove the vehicle across a couple weeks and the trip said I was at 335 miles and the range said 96 miles, which is an overestimate from the predicted range when filling up. I drove another 30 miles for work in the same day and the gas guage seemed to be in the exact same spot as it was earlier (and when I was stalled the time before) and my predicted range actually went up to 102 (pictures to prove all of this upon request.) And at 365 miles, it would be impossible fir my car to reach another 100 plus miles in range. My gas tank holds 15.6 miles and my average fuel economy was 25.5. When I filled the gas tank up after this trip, it put 14.7 gallons in which means I had .9 of a gallon. 25.5 × .9 is roughly 23 miles. Completely way off from the "predicted 100" it said before I filled up. Personal dealers have been completely unaware and I'm afraid to take it to a dealer in the event they try to charge me for it. No. No, there is no warning light and no check engine light. Gauge and light check works properly when vehicle is started and it runs the quick diagnostic by maxing out the gauges and turning on all of the dash lights.

    NHTSA complaint 11460200
17. Filed Feb 17, 2022Failure Jan 22, 2022Cincinnati, OHUnknown or other

    My car shut off while driving in a busy area. I was going 35 mph where the car just shut off while driving. I received a jump, but that only lasted long enough for me to get 2 lanes over for the car to cut off again. Myself and other drivers were at risk because someone could have ran into me and I had no power and unable to remove key from ignition or even turn the key. Police arrived but said that they are no longer allowed to touch our vehicles. For almost a year my car has been cutting off while parked, and have received news that my battery had a dead cell, which was causing it to shut off. I have taken it to a mechanic who says my alternator is the issue. No warning signs or messages appear before shutting off.

    NHTSA complaint 11452344
18. Filed Oct 2, 2021Failure Sep 30, 2021Fredericksburg, VAElectrical system, Power train, Vehicle speed control

    While driving home from work, my car, lost power a few times. Though, the maintenance malfunction light did come on, it was while the issue was occurring. I mention this because, in the car’s manual, it states that the light will come on BEFORE the malfunction takes place. I finally made it home, however, the car did continue to lose power while driving. The next morning I took the car to my mechanic, who experienced the same issues, then did a diagnostic test and found these results: P0011; CAM Position; RCTISATOR BNK 1; TIMING OVER ADVANCE. Today while reading over all of the complaints, it is evident that this is a SERIOUS ISSUE! This malfunction is extremely dangerous and can prove to be fatal, due to losing driving power/car cutting off while driving. I am surprised that this potentially fatal malfunction is not considered to be a recall. PLEASE DO WHAT IS RIGHT AND SET A RECALL 🙏🏽 I also saw someone’s post that stated, there was a Recall and Free replacement on cars with the letters PP within the VIN#, we’re NOT BE SOLD or Leased in the US due to a Federation Violation and Restricted code. Somehow, I was sold one of these UNSAFE and BANNED vehicles. How do those who fall into that same category rectify this problem? Thank You for your help.

    NHTSA complaint 11435225
19. Filed May 11, 2021Failure May 9, 2021Long Beach, MSAir bags

    ADVANCED DIAGNOSTICS ALERTS WHETHER SOMEONE IS SITTING IN THE PASSENGER SEAT OR NOT. SENSOR ALERTS CONSTANTLY WHILE DRIVING. IF THERE IS A PASSENGER SOMETIMES THE AIRBAG LIGHT ISN'T LIT NOTIFYING THE AIRBAG IS ON. THIS HAPPENS WHETHER THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION OR NOT AND HAS HAPPENED MANY, MANY TIMES.

    NHTSA complaint 11416132
20. Filed May 11, 2021Failure Mar 1, 202124,000 milesRochester, NYElectrical system, Blind spot detection, Unknown or other

    THE BLIND SPOT DETECTORS STOPPED WORKING AND A WARNING ON THE DASH APPEARED SAYING "SERVICE SIDE DETECTION SYSTEM". THIS WARNING POPS UP EVERY TIME I TURN ON THE CAR AND THE BLIND SPOT DETECTORS DO NOT WORK WHEN I AM DRIVING.

    NHTSA complaint 11416069