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2016 Buick Regal Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·1 Critical Recall
2016 Buick Regal Report

Overall Score

7.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Steering system issues, including a power steering recall, are the most prominent concern for owners.
  • Electrical system and powertrain complaints, particularly regarding the transmission, warrant careful inspection.
  • The 2016 Regal earned a 5-star overall safety rating, indicating good crash protection.
  • Fuel economy is respectable for its class, rated at 23 MPG combined.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Buick Regal

The 2016 Buick Regal offers a blend of comfort and a somewhat premium feel, but its used-car appeal is tempered by notable reliability concerns. While it achieved a strong overall safety rating of 5 stars, potential buyers should be aware of recurring issues. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission delivers adequate performance, achieving an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined. However, a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and a significant complaint count suggest a complex ownership experience.

Critical Failure Risk

Concerns with the Electric Power Assist System (EPAS) can lead to a loss of steering assist. This issue is highlighted by a recall and numerous owner complaints.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

61
Steering10
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.6/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and a comfortable ride over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers who demand top-tier reliability and minimal unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Buick Regal Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Buick Regal.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 10 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 6 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 - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Steering System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

7,500 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Buick Regal reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Buick Regal is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 61.

How practical is the 2016 Buick Regal for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Buick Regal is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Buick Regal?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Steering System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Steering System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $2,500).

What engine is in the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2016 Buick Regal use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Buick Regal, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Buick Regal, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Buick Regal use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Buick Regal, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

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

What are the most common steering problems on the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

Top complaint category: steering (10 reports, 16.4% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Buick Regal?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Camry and 2016 Honda Accord.

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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