The Best Years For Buick Verano And Some To Avoid

The Buick Verano, a compact sedan produced from 2012 to 2017, offered a touch of luxury and refinement in a smaller package. For those considering a used Verano, it's crucial to understand which model years offer the best reliability and features, and which ones might come with potential problems. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision.

Buick Verano Model Years: A Quick Reference

Detailed Explanations of Each Model Year

2012: The 2012 Buick Verano marked the introduction of this compact sedan to the market. It offered a comfortable ride and a relatively upscale interior for its class. However, being the first year of production, it's more prone to initial design and manufacturing quirks. The 2.4L engine was standard, and a more powerful 2.0L Turbo engine was available as an option.

2013: The 2013 Verano saw only minor tweaks from the inaugural year. Trim levels and feature availability remained largely the same. While some minor improvements may have been implemented during production, the overall experience was similar to the 2012 model. Therefore, potential buyers should be aware of the same potential issues.

2014: The 2014 model year brought some notable improvements, including a standard rearview camera, which significantly enhanced safety and convenience. The infotainment system was also upgraded with Buick IntelliLink, offering improved connectivity and functionality. However, the issue of oil consumption in some 2.4L engines persisted, and there were some reports of transmission issues surfacing in this model year.

2015: This year introduced a refreshed exterior design, giving the Verano a more modern and appealing look. Interior materials were also upgraded, enhancing the overall sense of luxury. Furthermore, safety features were improved, contributing to a safer driving experience. While the 2015 model shows improvement, the potential for oil consumption in the 2.4L engine remains a factor to consider.

2016: The 2016 Verano received only minor updates to features and options packages, focusing on refining the existing offerings. This year is generally considered one of the more reliable model years, with fewer reported issues compared to earlier models. The instances of oil consumption in the 2.4L engine were also significantly reduced.

2017: As the final year of production for the Buick Verano, the 2017 model year saw limited availability in some markets. It shares many of the positive characteristics of the 2016 model, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a reliable and well-equipped compact sedan. The 2017 Verano is often considered one of the most reliable years due to its mature design and fewer reported problems.

Key Features & Improvements Explained

Standard Rearview Camera: This feature, added in 2014, significantly improves safety by providing a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when reversing. This helps drivers avoid collisions and navigate tight spaces more easily.

Buick IntelliLink Infotainment System: Introduced in 2014 and improved throughout the Verano's production run, Buick IntelliLink offers a more user-friendly and connected driving experience. It includes features like smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and access to various apps.

Refreshed Exterior Styling: The 2015 Verano received a facelift, giving it a more modern and appealing appearance. This included changes to the front and rear fascias, as well as updated headlights and taillights.

Upgraded Interior Materials: The 2015 model also saw improvements in the quality of interior materials, enhancing the overall sense of luxury and comfort. This included higher-quality upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and improved trim pieces.

Enhanced Safety Features: Throughout its production run, the Verano was equipped with a range of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Later models also offered advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Potential Issues & Concerns Explained

Oil Consumption (2.4L Engine): This was a common issue, particularly in the earlier model years (2012-2014), where some 2.4L engines exhibited excessive oil consumption. This can lead to engine damage if not properly monitored and addressed. Symptoms include the need to frequently add oil, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a potential check engine light.

Infotainment System Issues: Some owners of early Verano models reported issues with the infotainment system, including glitches, freezing, and connectivity problems. These issues were often addressed with software updates, but some problems persisted.

Engine Sensor Problems: Some Veranos experienced issues with engine sensors, such as the oxygen sensor or mass airflow sensor. These problems can lead to reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light.

Transmission Issues: While less common than oil consumption, some owners reported issues with the Verano's transmission, including rough shifting, slipping, and outright failure.

Which Verano Engine is Best: 2.4L or 2.0L Turbo?

The choice between the 2.4L naturally aspirated engine and the 2.0L turbocharged engine depends on your priorities.

• 2.4L Engine: This engine offers adequate power for everyday driving and delivers decent fuel economy. However, it's worth noting the potential for oil consumption issues, particularly in earlier model years. It is also less expensive to maintain as it does not require a turbocharger.

• 2.0L Turbo Engine: This engine provides significantly more power and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. However, it's less fuel-efficient than the 2.4L engine, and turbocharged engines typically require more specialized maintenance. The turbocharger itself is also an additional component that could potentially fail.

Recommendations Based on Budget and Needs

• Budget-Conscious Buyer: If you're on a tight budget, a 2015 or 2016 Verano offers a good balance of features, reliability, and affordability. Be sure to have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchasing, paying particular attention to potential oil consumption issues.

• Performance Enthusiast: If you prioritize performance, a Verano with the 2.0L Turbo engine is the way to go. Look for a 2016 or 2017 model to minimize the risk of potential problems.

• Reliability Focused: For those prioritizing reliability above all else, the 2016 and 2017 model years are the best choices. These models have fewer reported issues and represent the most refined versions of the Verano.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Buick Verano year is the most reliable? The 2016 and 2017 model years are generally considered the most reliable due to fewer reported issues and mature design.

Is the Buick Verano expensive to maintain? Maintenance costs are generally average for a compact sedan, but potential oil consumption issues in earlier models can increase expenses.

What is the average lifespan of a Buick Verano? With proper maintenance, a Buick Verano can last 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more.

Does the Buick Verano have any known recalls? It's essential to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any recalls related to specific model years.

What is the fuel economy of the Buick Verano? The 2.4L engine typically achieves around 21 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, while the 2.0L Turbo engine gets around 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

Is the Buick Verano a good car for long road trips? Yes, the Verano offers a comfortable ride, a quiet cabin, and decent fuel economy, making it suitable for long road trips.

What common problems should I look for when buying a used Verano? Potential oil consumption in the 2.4L engine, infotainment system glitches, and transmission issues are things to watch out for.

Is the Buick Verano a safe car? The Verano generally received good safety ratings from IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA.

Does the Buick Verano hold its value well? Like most cars, the Verano depreciates over time, but well-maintained models in good condition can retain a reasonable value.

Where can I find reliable reviews and ratings for the Buick Verano? Websites like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and Consumer Reports offer valuable reviews and ratings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Buick Verano requires careful consideration of its model year and potential issues. While earlier models may offer a lower price point, the 2016 and 2017 model years generally provide the best combination of reliability, features, and overall value. Thorough inspection and research are essential for making an informed decision and enjoying the benefits of this compact luxury sedan.