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2017 Buick Cascada Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis
2017 Buick Cascada Report

Overall Score

7.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary mechanical concern is the PCV system failure integrated into the camshaft cover, leading to costly repairs and potential drivability issues.
  • Convertible top rear glass delamination is a noted structural concern affecting vehicle integrity.
  • Despite 0 recalls, a high number of owner complaints and TSBs indicate potential underlying quality issues.
  • Safety ratings are strong, with 5 stars overall from NHTSA.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Buick Cascada

The 2017 Buick Cascada offers a stylish convertible experience, but used car shoppers should proceed with caution. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, including an overall 5-star score, its reliability is a primary concern. The 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, requiring premium fuel, delivers adequate performance but is prone to specific issues. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined. A high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests numerous potential minor issues that may require attention.

Critical Failure Risk

The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, integrated into the camshaft cover, is a significant concern. Failures can manifest as whistling noises, rough idle, stalling, and illuminated check engine lights, often with codes like P0171. The PCV valve is not a separate part and requires replacement of the entire camshaft cover assembly, leading to high repair costs.

Early detection can help you avoid a $900-$2,300 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

13
Engine5
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

3.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, affordable convertible for weekend drives.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Daily commuters who rely on their vehicle for consistent, trouble-free transportation.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Buick Cascada Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Buick Cascada.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Chassis Cab
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 5 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 2 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Convertible Top Mechanism and Seals

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Buick Cascada reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Buick Cascada is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 13.

How practical is the 2017 Buick Cascada for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.5/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Buick Cascada is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 3.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Convertible Top Mechanism and Seals at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: PCV System / Camshaft Cover (typical at 35,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $900 • Max: $2300).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

Base MSRP is $37,065.

What engine is in the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2017 Buick Cascada use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Buick Cascada, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2017 Cascada require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

10 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Buick Cascada, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Buick Cascada, body style is chassis_cab.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Buick Cascada use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Buick Cascada, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

Top complaint category: engine (5 reports, 38.5% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Buick Cascada?▾

Alternative listed in this guide: 2017 Audi A3.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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