For family-oriented owners with weekend camping gear to haul around, Rainier made perfect sense when comfort and relative value were priorities. Owners also liked the slew of high-end features, including a Bose audio system, dual-zone climate control, heated leather seats, a sunroof and power adjustable pedals.
The most common complaint is fuel consumption, though driving a large SUV with a powerful engine is admittedly never the most cost-conscious way to travel. Other owners complain of sub-par interior quality for the price as well as uncomfortable seats.
Reliability issues include potentially poor air conditioning performance, random warning lights and electronic issues, drivetrain noise and failure of the four wheel drive system. Though the engine, transfer case and transmission hardware appear to be solid and reliable, the electronics that control them can be concerns.
For instance, strange AWD behavior can be caused by water leaking into a sensor, and a poor ground can cause the ABS light to come on unexpectedly. On early models, water can leak into the transmission via the dipstick tube as well-- so be sure to check the fluid and look for rust on the dipstick. This is remedied by a new dipstick seal.
On a test-drive, be sure that the engine is free of questionable sounds and that the transmission shifts cleanly, sharply and without hesitation or slipping. Listen for clicking or grinding noises from the front or rear end of the Rainier, especially when turning at low speeds. Ensure there are no warning lights illuminated, and question any of the above issues if present.
Investigate the service history of the model in question. Remember, with any four wheel drive vehicle, a full fluid change is a good idea if you aren't sure of its history. Buying a certified used model at a dealership and opting for an extended warranty is recommended.
Though this platform had a long list of recalls when originally launched, it seems many of the bugs were ironed out by time the Buick variant arrived. Rainier recalls dealt with faulty turn-signals and brake-lights, a bad windshield seal and potentially faulty power steering hoses. Your dealer can help determine which, if any, of these items need to be addressed.
Look for a good deal on a model from a GM dealership that's up to date on service and recall work, and opt for as new a machine as your budget will allow, just to be safe. An extended warranty may be a good idea here too. Ultimately, a well maintained, dealer-serviced Rainier should prove a powerful and comfortable family companion for those who require its capabilities.
photo:General Motors
The most common complaint is fuel consumption, though driving a large SUV with a powerful engine is admittedly never the most cost-conscious way to travel. Other owners complain of sub-par interior quality for the price as well as uncomfortable seats.
Reliability issues include potentially poor air conditioning performance, random warning lights and electronic issues, drivetrain noise and failure of the four wheel drive system. Though the engine, transfer case and transmission hardware appear to be solid and reliable, the electronics that control them can be concerns.
For instance, strange AWD behavior can be caused by water leaking into a sensor, and a poor ground can cause the ABS light to come on unexpectedly. On early models, water can leak into the transmission via the dipstick tube as well-- so be sure to check the fluid and look for rust on the dipstick. This is remedied by a new dipstick seal.
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| 2007 Buick Rainier |
On a test-drive, be sure that the engine is free of questionable sounds and that the transmission shifts cleanly, sharply and without hesitation or slipping. Listen for clicking or grinding noises from the front or rear end of the Rainier, especially when turning at low speeds. Ensure there are no warning lights illuminated, and question any of the above issues if present.
Investigate the service history of the model in question. Remember, with any four wheel drive vehicle, a full fluid change is a good idea if you aren't sure of its history. Buying a certified used model at a dealership and opting for an extended warranty is recommended.
Though this platform had a long list of recalls when originally launched, it seems many of the bugs were ironed out by time the Buick variant arrived. Rainier recalls dealt with faulty turn-signals and brake-lights, a bad windshield seal and potentially faulty power steering hoses. Your dealer can help determine which, if any, of these items need to be addressed.
Look for a good deal on a model from a GM dealership that's up to date on service and recall work, and opt for as new a machine as your budget will allow, just to be safe. An extended warranty may be a good idea here too. Ultimately, a well maintained, dealer-serviced Rainier should prove a powerful and comfortable family companion for those who require its capabilities.
photo:General Motors
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