2005 Buick Rendezvous Consumer Discussions

Buick Rendezvous Temperature Problems

• Overheating Rendezvous ...

  Written by: jprice1022 on Feb 6, 2012 2:22:29 PM

  Our 2005 Rendezvous has had nothing but issues after a year of having it. We've replaced the hubs / bearings 5 times. Now the overheating issue. We just dropped it off at a local shop just to find out in his experience the all mighty Rendezvous has issues with overheating which most likely is caused by a cracked head. I contacted Buick over all the issues with this vehicle, but they ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Maintenance and Repair

• "Security" light steady; everything works

  Written by: toddhoudek on Aug 19, 2011 3:56:54 PM

  I just purchased a 2005 Buick Rendezvous with a steady "Security" light on. Everything works fine, but I asked about this light from the used car lot they said it was just because no key fobs were programmed. I purchased a new fob and could not get it to program. After much reading on the internet, I'm beginning to wonder if is a BCM problem. I went to the dealer, and ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Overheating

• 2005 Buick Rendezvous Overheating Problem

  Written by: jamieb22 on Oct 22, 2011 12:18:54 PM

  This GM vehicle sucks! It has multiple design flaws and the American consumer is the guinea pig for the company! We have tried for two years to repair the overheating problem to no avail. If you think that contacting the dealership of the company you will get lots of lip service but no satisfaction in dealing with the overheating problem. WE are still waiting on the claim number that GM's customer ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Transmission and AWD Problems

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [rdecat]

  Written by: schultzie on Oct 22, 2011 10:48:56 AM

  I did get the speedometer issue resolved. My mechanic replaced a part in the control panel. The "transmission" issue is still unresolved. Has clunked 2x this week, and will probably not be happening when the mechanic looks at it again! ☺

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [rdecat]

  Written by: gmcustsvc on Sep 26, 2011 8:52:42 AM

  rdecat, I apologize for the problems you are experiencing with your vehicle. Have you been in contact with your local GM dealership? Please keep me posted when the issue has been taken care of. Thank you, Caron, GM Customer Service

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob?

  Written by: schultzie on Sep 26, 2011 7:01:29 AM

  I did hand the car off to our daughter! It hasn't done this for awhile now. Strange thing, the speedometer issue seems to happen when my husband is driving. He uses the cruise control. I'm wondering if that is what is going on. When we turn off the engine and let the car sit for a bit, the speedometer then works. I am driving the other kiddie car, the Saturn Ion. ... Read More

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [schultzie]

  Written by: rdecat on Sep 26, 2011 4:58:19 AM

  Same problem with my 05! including the speedometer issue. No one has an answer to the transmission problem but I'd love one - it really feels like the tranny is going to drop. mine now has a 156k on it and I'm getting ready to hand it off to my daughter

Buick Rendezvous Parking Lamp Out

• parking lamp out

  Written by: nazrul on Sep 2, 2011 6:14:02 AM

  I have a 2005 Buick Rendezvous which shows me that out of parking lamp. As a result, no signal, head light, parking light and break light on. Only, front two lights (which on when normally engine start) are on. Could any body suggest what to do.

Buick Rendezvous Transmission and AWD Problems

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [rupe74]

  Written by: schultzie on Aug 23, 2011 1:49:19 PM

  When I took it in to the mechanic, they could not duplicate it. It will go for months without doing this, then start up again for a day or two. It seems to happen when accellerating from a dead stop. It feels like it is clunking, then engages.

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [rupe74]

  Written by: gmcustsvc on Aug 23, 2011 10:42:50 AM

  rupe74, Were you planning on having the vehicle diagnosed? Please keep me posted when the issue has been taken care of. Thank you, Caron, GM Customer Service

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [schultzie]

  Written by: rupe74 on Aug 22, 2011 1:03:32 PM

  I am having the exact same symptoms with my 05 Rendezvous. Did you ever get it resolved?

Buick Rendezvous Steering and Suspension

• 2005 Buick Rendezvous Steering Noise-sharp

  Written by: cassandraj on Aug 15, 2011 11:11:41 AM

  Hello, I desparately need some help. Recently replaced the power steering pump due to leakage (for the 2nd time). 1st time at a mechanic in town; 2nd time at the dealership. Now that the leakage problem is fixed; I am getting a sharp squeeling noice when making turns. Seems sound occurs mostly to one side. Has anyone had this? This problem did not show up until the power steering pump was ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Transmission and AWD Problems

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [schultzie]

  Written by: gmcustsvc on Aug 8, 2011 11:48:36 AM

  schultzie, I apologize for the problems you are experiencing. Were you planning on having the vehicle diagnosed by a GM dealership? Please keep me posted when the issue has been taken care of. Thank you, Caron, GM Customer Service

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [vjcollins]

  Written by: schultzie on Aug 8, 2011 9:14:42 AM

  Hi, Yes, we still have the Rendezvous. I took it into our mechanic, and they couldn't get it to duplicate the problem. It only happens at certain times, usually when you try to accelerate at a stop sign/light. It will go for a month, not doing it. (sporadic) I'm under the impression that it might be a solenoid? (sp) It happened again this Saturday, when accelerating out into traffic. Have you ... Read More

• Re: 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob? [schultzie]

  Written by: vjcollins on Aug 8, 2011 6:16:56 AM

  Hello, do you still have your 05 Rendezvous? Were you able to diagnose the transmission problem?? I have the same problem on my 06 Rendezvous and wonder what the result was. Thanks, Valerie

Buick Rendezvous Overheating

• Coolant and Overheating Issue

  Written by: brucemcgr on Jan 5, 2011 2:41:20 PM

  I have a 2005 Buick Rendezvous with the "34" engine. Recently it has developed a problem where the car says it is overheating, the dial runs all the way to "H" the red light comes on, chimes sound and all that. There are no leaks anywhere, and when I pop the hood the coolant reseviour is full and it bubbles. It is NOT bubbling because it is hot. If I pop ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Transmission and AWD Problems

• 2005 Buick Rendezvous transmission prob?

  Written by: schultzie on Dec 21, 2010 4:47:32 PM

  I have a 2005 Buick Rendezvous 6 cyl. auto. 119k that's transmission makes a clunking noise shifting into 1rst gear(only) sporadically in stop and go traffic. If I hit the gas, this doesn't not happen. Almost feels like I am driving on ice. I had the transmission fluid flushed recently, and that was normal. This doesn't happen all the time. Any clues?

Buick Rendezvous Maintenance and Repair

• Sluggish when turning and when getting up to speed

  Written by: cassandraj on Oct 11, 2010 10:21:06 AM

  I have a 2005 Buick Rendezvous and I have been noticing that when I come to a complete stop and then proceed to make a turn my gas response does not kick in right away. I have recently replaced the fuel filter and up'd the my gas to 99 or better octane, but the problem did not go completely away. Has anyone experienced this same thing? If, so please let me ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Overheating

• dollar signs

  Written by: handymantom on May 17, 2010 6:52:04 PM

  What would cause a 2005 buick rendezvous to over heat, not go over 10 to 40 mph and shake

Buick Rendezvous Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Buick Steps Up to the Plate [tidester]

  Written by: ealford on Nov 1, 2008 9:33:23 AM

  It is valid to make generalizations about a vehicle's reliability when there are so many problems with it and when GM acknowledges a problem and doesn't do anything about it ie; the fuel gauge problems experienced with the 2004-2005 Rendezvous. The reason there are so many posts is because there are so many people dissatisfied with their cars.

• Re: 2003 Buick Rendezvous [442455]

  Written by: ealford on Aug 26, 2008 9:57:11 AM

  I have a 2005 RDV and the only connector even close to this location isn't inside the vehicle but under it and the connector is water proof. I have exhaustedly searched for it inside with no luck. As I said there is one at that location under the car.

• no title

  Written by: 442455 on Aug 9, 2008 3:57:59 PM

  The following was copied from a Google search GM Starting problems, various electrical gremlins. Drivers of some 200006 GM minivans (full list below) may come into your shop complaining of some really strange symptoms. Among the comments you might get is that the engine won't start, starts with difficulty or stalls. The starting troubles may be accompanied by an inoperative or out-of-whack fuel gauge. In addition, the MIL and the ABS ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous

• Dangerous, any one else having this problem?

  Written by: lea3182 on Apr 10, 2007 1:33:16 PM

  My 2005 buick will die instantly. I will drive down the freeway and my car will die. For example I will be driving 50+ mph, and the car dies, kind of similar to slamming on my brakes. Things in my car will go flying it stops so abruptly. It gives no warning signs, just stops, and the engine turns off. It dies so instantly and stops right in its tracks so ... Read More

Rendezvous Suspension Upgrades

• side airbags and "side curtain" airbags different?

  Written by: hawaiianguy on Sep 30, 2007 8:51:32 PM

  As I've already said, I think the CXL and Ultra models at leaset from 2004 up have "side airbags" and a traction control system. From a website describing the 04 RDV: "CXL FWD ($30,935) and CXL AWD ($33,140) add leather upholstery, six-way power seats, automatic dual-zone air conditioning, heated mirrors, premium eight-speaker stereo with steering-wheel-mounted controls, separate rear-seat audio controls and headphone jacks, tire inflation monitor, and unique exterior trim. Both ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Accessories and Modifications

• Adding upgrades to 2005

  Written by: vernonea on Jul 29, 2007 10:41:10 PM

  I purchased a 2005 Rendezvous. I see that in 2006, Buick introduced the Nv system as an option. Could i get this system to work on my 2005? Also, I really like the HUD feature. Anyone know where I could pick up this feature, without going to the dealer? Thanks

Buick Rendezvous Maintenance and Repair

• 2005 RDV CX AWD Drivetrain Clank

  Written by: mentalattica on Jun 21, 2007 8:46:53 AM

  Hello all, I recently purchased a 2005 Buick Rendezvous CX AWD in April of this year (it now has 44K), within the first month I noticed a Clank-Clank (two times) when I put the vehicle in Drive from Park, or Park to Reverse. From Drive to reverse it's Clank-Clank-Thump (clanks twice followed by a muffled thump) It's pretty loud and embarrassing. I did not get an extended warranty because I just ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Accessories and Modifications

• Westin Safari light bar & rear storage shelf

  Written by: barneyea on May 30, 2007 6:37:39 PM

  I installed a Westin Safari light bar on my 2005 Ultra and it did not fit. After talking to Westin, we determined that Buick had put a different engine cradle in the 3.6 cars, with different mounting holes. Westin offered to take the bar back but I made an adaptor to make it fit. They had no intention to modify their mounting kit for 3.6 Rendezvous. Now that more Rendezvous are ... Read More

Custom Grill For Buick Rendezvous W/ Instructions 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006

• Re: Custom Grill For Buick Rendezvous W/ Instructions 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 [barb9]

  Written by: intrepidcub on Mar 22, 2007 12:17:01 PM

  http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Xklusive-02-07-Buick-Rendezvous-Chrome-Grille_W0Q- QcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33645QQitemZ280094198330QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

• Re: Custom Grill For Buick Rendezvous W/ Instructions 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 [websiteworld]

  Written by: barb9 on Mar 22, 2007 11:38:55 AM

  If you have a link/phone # to where I can get this grill, it would be appreciated. ;)

• Re: Custom Grill For Buick Rendezvous W/ Instructions 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 [websiteworld]

  Written by: intrepidcub on Mar 22, 2007 10:15:29 AM

  Actually its a chrome buiuk emblem i got off ebay it one that goes on the back of a lucerne and i covered the silver buick emblem with black tape and then double sided the emblem on. i know i coulda bought one from bucik but wasnt sure on if i owuld like it and i got that emblem for 5 bucks. also it gives darkness behind the chrome to make ... Read More

• Re: Custom Grill For Buick Rendezvous W/ Instructions 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 [intrepidcub]

  Written by: websiteworld on Mar 21, 2007 12:03:02 AM

  Did you purchase your new Buick Emblem, or was that already on yours? I need to take a new photo, I put four chrome screw covers over the black screws and it looks cool

• Re: Custom Grill For Buick Rendezvous W/ Instructions 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 [websiteworld]

  Written by: intrepidcub on Mar 19, 2007 5:05:44 PM

  Looks like my XCLUSIVE grille i got only problem is it sticks out around the headlights

• Custom Grill For Buick Rendezvous W/ Instructions 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006

  Written by: websiteworld on Mar 15, 2007 9:18:00 PM

  This is a grill I installed on my 2005 Buick Rendezvous. It uses a custom grill, as well as an optional Buick ornament Click Here To Watch the Installation

Buick Rendezvous Maintenance and Repair

• RVD moaning sounds turning left at low spped

  Written by: dannaharvey on Jan 29, 2007 8:54:12 AM

  i have a 2005 buick rendezvous that i really love. however, we have replaced the rear differential and serviced it 2x. i still hear a loud moaning sound coming from the left rear while driving up and down a parking garage ramp. its only left turns at low speeds. anyone else have this problem? 2 dealerships claim this is "normal". i think not.

• Re: Flickering Lights [rdz2005]

  Written by: tjw2 on May 2, 2006 3:43:41 PM

  In less than one year's time, our 2005 Rendezvous has twice just completely shut down (once on a busy interstate highway). Two Buick dealers have been unable to diagnose the problem and GM has been somewhat unresponsive. Has anyone that has experienced this problem had any luch in getting it resolved, whether through the dealer, GM, or state lemon law? Thanks for any suggestions.

2002 Buick Rendezvous Class Action?

• 2002 Buick Rendezvous Class Action???

  Written by: fader325 on Mar 27, 2006 11:01:33 AM

  Does anyone know if there is a pending Class Action Against Buick on the 2002 RDV Model? We have a CX that we purchased used in June 2005. Since then, we have replaced the manifold intake gasket ($500)(at about 46k/mi) it needs an A/C Compressor before the weather gets hot here and it is in the shop as I speak with a leaking Head Gasket...possibly more, because it had a gush ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Maintenance and Repair

• Manifold Gasket and Wheel Bearing Issues

  Written by: nascarqueen24 on Feb 2, 2006 5:05:22 AM

  Good morning owners: I an in Toronto, Canada. I do not own a Rendezvous, but my sister has. Big issues with this vehicle. First, manifold gasket systemic problem with GM Pontiacs and Buicks. My 2000 Pontiac Montana had a gasket failure in 2005, caught it early and got dealer to fix and pay - under the goodwill - it sure helped that I printed off pages from these boards. It intimidated ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous

• God Rest Ye Sad Rendezvous owners...Get a KIA !

  Written by: kphelan101 on Nov 2, 2005 5:47:10 AM

  I finally (and sadly) traded in my AWD Buick RDV for a 4WD Kia Sportage. I drove the Chevy Equinox, several Jeep models, Hyundais, Honda SUVs, etc. before I settled on the Sportage. I LOVE IT. I truly got sick and tired of the problems and the run-around that I was getting from GM and Buick......I was OVER IT. The problems just kept coming and I was running out of money ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Resale value..

  Written by: jeep1988 on Nov 1, 2005 10:27:11 AM

  I have always heard the knock against the Rendezvous was the reslae value. Here is a review link from cars. com. For the initial cost of the vehicle, it seems to lose value fairly quickly. I have a friend that sells Buicks, and he said the same thing. He said they are good vehicle, but for some reason, they drop in resale value. http://research.cars.com/go/crp/summary.jsp?makeid=7&modelid=5407&year=2005&bg=t

Buick Rendezvous Maintenance and Repair

• 2005 rendezvous stalling : HELP !!

  Written by: amseidl on Oct 21, 2005 5:42:03 PM

  My 2005 buick rendezvous started stalling out a few months ago and I have not been able to get it fixed. I have the 3400 V-6 and I know the rendezvous has had its share of problems. It will stall when I have the A/C off ( I have the auto A/C) and I come down a long hill or lately go up a little hill. I can make it stall ... Read More

• Re: You've missed the point [regalluvr2]

  Written by: jk27 on Sep 14, 2005 12:32:23 PM

  regalluvr2 said, "Our local Buick dealer hasnt sold a new RDV in 2 years and doesnt keep any in stock." That's very unfortunate for your local Buick dealer. The dealer by us is selling them like hotcakes! Seriously, I've noticed LOTS more RDV's on the road lately. Here are some statistics for you (you seem to imply that Rendezvous are NOT selling well -- which is simply not the case): In ... Read More

• Re: Is the Rendezvous a good buy???? [da_rookiee]

  Written by: jk27 on Aug 10, 2005 7:19:48 AM

  As you can see, opinions vary widely about the Buick Rendezvous. Some people love 'em; some hate 'em. Me? I'm in the camp who loves my Rendezvous. I purchased a 2002 Rendezvous CXL new. I have had 2 major problems: leaking head gasket and AC condensor. The head gasket leak occurred during the 3 year, 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty and was replaced at no cost to me. The AC ... Read More

• Re: Is the Rendezvous a good buy???? [da_rookiee]

  Written by: ckinny on Aug 9, 2005 4:35:24 PM

  I also had a 2002 RDV and it was a nightmare. What was worse was how Buick and GM treated me when I was having problems. I was "helped" into a 2005 RDV and regret that I caved in to their tactics every time I get in to this car. It has the third row seat and the only people who can manage to get and sit back there are small ... Read More

• Engine stalling--bad gas or something more serious?

  Written by: claude3 on Jul 27, 2005 10:57:37 PM

  Hello, I just spent the last few hours reading this forum and must say "Wow!" I wish that I had known all of this before I bought this car. Anyway, I bought a used 2003 Buick Rendezvous CXL with AWD back in March. It had 40,800 miles on it then and now has 45,000. Everything has been great until last week. Shortly after filling the car up with gas, it started ... Read More

• RE: AC Condenser [jay14]

  Written by: regalluvr2 on Jun 29, 2005 11:00:29 AM

  Jay, Go to the regular edmunds RDV forum and start reading at post #3955.This RDV owner was from Canada. buickrdv02, "Buick Rendezvous" #3955, 9 Jun 2005 2:58 pm Earlier this year I was at a large midwest Buick dealer and a salesman there said that the #1 problem for 2002 model RDV's sold there was failing AC condensors.Buick knows theres a condensor problem and theres a service bulletin about it.Your dealer ... Read More

• BCM: Not the cause of all problems (e.g., not starting)

  Written by: jk27 on Jun 3, 2005 1:40:02 AM

  Although people will blame the BCM for all types of problems, the fact is that BCM's on the Rendezvous do not affect engine cranking, starting or running. From the gmtechlink website (http://gmtechlink.com/index.html) Rendezvous BCM Replacement One of the common reasons for replacing the BCM was listed as “no crank, no start.” In nearly all situations on the Rendezvous, the BCM has no function in engine starting. In fact, if the BCM ... Read More

• Re: Wheel Bearings [mnyhats1]

  Written by: regalluvr2 on May 14, 2005 8:27:17 PM

  mnyhats, Heres proof that the RDV and Aztek wheel bearing problem is pretty wide spread.GM needs to help you guys out.Its pretty obvious they got ahold of some bad bearings.I found a place where you can buy a new RDV wheel hub and bearing set for $157 each but one needs to be a fair mechanic to do this by themself. omments 1. Posted Aug 12, 2004, 10:49 AM ET by ... Read More

• Re: Possible Solution For BCM Problems [jk27]

  Written by: regalluvr2 on Feb 3, 2005 4:25:22 PM

  jk,    Heres an RDV owner thats very glad that he had an extended warranty.You could have very easily ended up with this one?How would you feel then?You seem to have very little compassion for problem RDV owners.This one could sure empty the old checking account in a hurry.If I had one that bad it would be long gone by now.By the way this is from a very well known car magazines ... Read More

Buick Rendezvous

• Re: Conspiracy Theories Still Alive [jk27]

  Written by: regalluvr2 on Jan 29, 2005 9:32:00 PM

  Hi jk27,    I see you are a lawyer so that explains why you like to argue.Well,I'm a farmer from a Swedish back ground that likes to argue too.(grin)I see that a few years back you were giving advice to fellow RDV owners about invoking the lemon law.Hmmmm!      I never made the quote "How many RDV's Are Out There With No Complaints?You Dont Know.There Goes Your Theory" That was by imadazol97. ... Read More

• Re: Conspiracy Theories Still Alive [jk27]

  Written by: regalluvr2 on Jan 27, 2005 11:28:25 PM

  jk27,    I see I got your attention.Lets look right here on Edmunds at the Rendezvous Consumer Ratings and Reviews.I'll trust whats said here on Edmunds more than Consumer Reports.   2005 31 reviews with 2 bad ones 2004 145 reviews with 16 bad ones 2003 97 reviews with 9 bad ones 2002 128 with 18 bad ones       Almost every one of these people had mechanical issues with their vehicle and ... Read More