2012 Buick Regal Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant issues reported with exterior lighting, engine oil consumption/timing chain, and electrical system failures.
- The vehicle has a below-average reliability verdict based on owner complaints and recall data.
- Prioritize inspection of lighting systems, engine health, and electrical integrity.
- Six recalls have been issued, with a high number of TSBs (1144) suggesting potential quality control issues.
2012 Buick Regal
Critical Failure Risk
Issues with headlights, turn signals, and other exterior lights are common. This includes condensation inside headlight housings, bulb burnout, and ballast failure, leading to reduced visibility and potential failure without warning.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 182–270HP
- Torque
- 172–295 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing **European-inspired styling** and a comfortable ride over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a dependable, worry-free daily driver.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Buick Regal Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Buick Regal.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline or E85
- Horsepower
- 182-270 hp
- Torque
- 172-295 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Coupe
- EPA Combined MPG
- 22
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Most Common Issues
1. EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Most reportedUsage: 32 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 21 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Exterior Lighting Functionality
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Buick Regal reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Buick Regal is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 137.
How practical is the 2012 Buick Regal for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Buick Regal?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Buick Regal is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Buick Regal?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Exterior Lighting Functionality at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Exterior Lighting System (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $100 • Max: $500).
What engine is in the 2012 Buick Regal?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 2.0. Output is 182-270 hp • 172-295 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2012 Buick Regal use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Regal, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2012 Regal require Gasoline or E85 gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Buick Regal?
EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Buick Regal?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2012 Buick Regal?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Regal, body style is coupe.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Buick Regal use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Regal, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Buick Regal?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common exterior lighting problems on the 2012 Buick Regal?
Top complaint category: exterior lighting (32 reports, 23.4% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Buick Regal?
This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Buick Regal?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Acura TL and 2012 Lexus ES.