The compact sedan segment is flooded by numerous cars, making it a very competitive market. Buick Verano is one of the key players with a decent sales of almost 44k units sold in 2014. The numbers have only gone down compared to the previous years and the major reason for it is a much affordable alternative. The 2014 Buick Verano competes against cars like the Mazda 3, the Honda Civic, and the Ford Focus, which are all priced at least $4,000 lesser than the Buick. In terms of reliability, users have registered just 81 complaints and Buick has recalled the car 3 times. There have been a few structural and quality concerns with the car but only a few vehicles have reported facing them.
User complaints and problems
Electrical Problems
- Alternator – There were multiple users complaining regarding the electrical gauges and infotainment shutting down. It was also stated that the car takes multiple tries to get the engine running which immediately suggested a possible battery issue. Post-inspection, the battery was found to be in good health but the alternator was said to need a replacement as it failed to charge the battery. Users relied on jump-starting the car at times but replacing the alternator solved the issue.
- Power steering – It was found that the steering felt like it gets stuck in the center for a second while turning, which disturbed the maneuverability and safety while driving. The dealers confirmed it happened because of a fault in the steering control module software that needed an update.
Mechanical Problems
- Engine – The car was said to cut off power at random times without any warning. Users also noticed a hesitation when driving with the car struggling to pick pack after depressing the gas pedal. The dealers inspected the car and were able to find a low compression in the engine that was causing the issue. Upon further inspection, the head gasket seemed to be damaged and needed a replacement.
- Transmission – A lot of users stated that the button on the gear shifter knob disintegrated, falling into the user’s hand. The dealers stated it to be a manufacturing defect and are very common among the Verano owners.
- Brakes – Users stated that the car would not slow down on depressing the brake pedal and they have to let the car slow down on its own gradually. After the vehicle was towed to the dealership, the mechanics found uneven wear on the brake pads which was caused due to failed caliper pins that needed to be replaced.
Interior Problems
- Start/stop button – A majority of users complained that the start/stop button is positioned in between the radio favorites button and the infotainment touch controls. This led to numerous accidental clicks on the ignition button while moving, resulting in cutting the engine off all of a sudden.
Exterior Problems
- Panel gap – Users noticed an unusually wide panel gap between the hood and the passenger side fender. It was large enough to slip a finger in but the dealers claimed it to be a manufacturing error that has no fix.
- Tire – Users complained about the tires going flat too soon while come noticed a bubble on the sidewall. A local dealer was contacted and it was stated that the tires have been poorly manufactured.
2014 Buick Verano recalls
|
S. No. |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
5th July 2016 |
16V502000 |
Key may be removed when not in park. |
If the key is removed without the transmission in park, the vehicle may roll away. |
The dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing. |
|
2. |
2nd July 2014 |
14V417000 |
Engine block heater power cord damage. |
Exposed wires increase the risk of electrical shock and injury if the cord is handled while plugged in. |
Dealers will replace the engine oil pan/block heater cord with a new cord that is rated for temperatures of minus 40 degrees Celsius. |
|
3. |
21st February 2014 |
14V092000 |
Broken transmission adjuster cable. |
If the shift cable disengages from the transmission shift lever, a driver may be unable to shift the gear position or might display the wrong gear position. |
Dealers will inspect and replace any affected transmission shift cable adjusters. |
Should you buy the 2014 Buick Verano?
There definitely are cheaper sedans available but they also come with higher complaints and issues in comparison. The 2014 Buick Verano has managed to offer good reliability with a few premium touches that the rivals miss out on. Buick hasn’t delayed their recalls and has managed to track all the user issues as early as possible. Do make sure to check the key cylinder as there have been reports stating the users are able to remove them when not in park. Also, check if the shifter lever is sturdy as the button could fall off the knob. There isn't any major reason why the Buick should be avoided and hence, we recommend the Verano even though it sells at a premium over its rivals but the minimal complaints, great reliability, and comfort are all worth the money.
