2018 Buick Regal Safety Report
2018 Buick Regal plagued by significant braking system issues and multiple safety recalls, leading to reported crashes and injuries.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Buick Regal
Reliability Score
The 2018 Buick Regal receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Buick Regal
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Buick Regal:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Assist Failure / Increased Stopping Distance Loss of power brake assist, requiring excessive pedal force and leading to extended stopping distances, directly linked to recall 22V465000. Some complaints indicate recurrence even after recall repair. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Transmission/Engine Hesitation & Jolting Vehicle hesitates to accelerate, transmission fails to shift gears, or experiences jolts, particularly after the auto-engine-shutoff feature or when attempting to merge with traffic. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Shift To Park Message / Battery Drain Dashboard displays 'Shift to Park' message even when in park, preventing the car from turning off and leading to battery drain. |
Medium | Occasional | 50000 miles |
| Improperly Routed Rear Seat Belts Rear seat belts may have been improperly routed during manufacturing, potentially failing to adequately restrain passengers in a crash (recall 18V606000). |
High | Rare | new miles |
| Brake Caliper Issues / Reduced Braking Performance Potential reduction of braking performance due to issues with brake calipers (recall 18V576000). |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Buick Regal:
Frequent complaints about brake assist failure, increased stopping distance, and general braking performance issues, often linked to recalls.
Issues related to engine hesitation, stalling, or jolting, particularly with the auto-engine-shutoff feature.
Problems with transmission shifting, hesitation, and the 'Shift to Park' message.
General electrical issues, including those impacting brake assist and battery drain.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Buick Regal
Is the 2018 Buick Regal safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Buick Regal has a concerning safety record, primarily due to significant and recurring issues with its braking system, which have led to 5 reported crashes and 4 injuries. While NHTSA crash test ratings are unavailable, the presence of 3 recalls, two of which directly address critical braking components and one for seat belts, indicates notable safety vulnerabilities. Buyers should be cautious and ensure all recall repairs have been effectively completed.
What are common problems with the 2018 Buick Regal?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Buick Regal are related to the 'SERVICE BRAKES' (21% of top complaints), including loss of power brake assist and increased stopping distances. 'ENGINE' problems (16%), often tied to the auto-engine-shutoff feature, and 'POWER TRAIN' issues (11%), such as transmission hesitation and the 'Shift to Park' message, are also frequently cited.
Has the 2018 Buick Regal been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 Buick Regal has been subject to 3 NHTSA recalls. These include recalls for 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM' (22V465000), 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER' (18V576000), and 'SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER' (18V606000). It is crucial to ensure all recall repairs have been performed.
Are the brakes a major concern for the 2018 Buick Regal?
Yes, the brakes are a major concern. 'SERVICE BRAKES' is the top complaint component, with 4 specific complaints, and there are two significant recalls (22V465000 and 18V576000) directly addressing issues like loss of power brake assist and reduced braking performance. Several complaints describe sudden brake failures and increased stopping distances, leading to crashes.
What should I look for if buying a used 2018 Buick Regal?
If considering a used 2018 Buick Regal, prioritize verifying that all 3 recalls, especially those related to the braking system (22V465000 and 18V576000) and seat belts (18V606000), have been completed. Pay close attention during a test drive for any signs of brake issues (spongy pedal, excessive force needed, increased stopping distance), transmission hesitation, or engine stalling/jolting. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the significant and recurring braking system issues, multiple recalls, and reported crashes, exercise extreme caution. Ensure all recall repairs are verified and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on brakes, engine, and transmission.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Buick Regal
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Buick Regal. The data includes 19 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported crashes, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.