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Used 2004 Buick Rainier Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
136 reviews

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best I've ever had

Gort, 03/08/2010
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
24 of 24 people found this review helpful

I have owned a lot of vehicles and this is by far the best. Great performance, I feel like a King driving this. All the options you could ask for. Quite smooth ride. You just cannot beat this SUV. I stumbled upon it by accident and will never buy anything other than a Buick SUV again. People need to stop complaining about the mpg. Its an SUV if you want better than 25 mpg get a geo metro. I get 15-16 in city and 18- 21 highway. So impressed I wish I could write more in this space. Perfect SUV for a family looking for performance, reliability, safety, room, comfort, options, quite smooth ride, good looks inside and out, not to mention you will be driving something that not everyone else drives.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Air conditioning

tcharles, 05/29/2010
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
23 of 24 people found this review helpful

The air conditioning just went on me. It actually works but it will not blow out of the top vents. It blows out of the bottom and through the defrost areas. Was told by a dealer that it'll cost me over $3000 to repair it because of where the vent is located. Has anyone else had this problem?

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Not your average College Student's Car!

mannyr5653, 12/30/2013
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
36 of 39 people found this review helpful

Being only 19, this isn't car most college guys have. Im the only one on campus with one of these! Ever since I bought my Rainier, It has been nothing but good to me. It has proved to be a reliable, luxurious, and all around great vehicle. Only repairs I've done are oil changes and new brake pads. This truck is extremely comfortable and surprisingly easy to drive. The V8 is very powerful, and can get up and go. Highway driving is awesome, the rear air suspension really makes the ride a million times better. The AWD is awesome when driving in snow and rain, it has kept me out of a lot of trouble. It really is a hit or miss with the rainier, either you get a good one or you get a lemon.

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4 out of 5 stars

Buick Ranier

David Michaud, 10/12/2006
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful

I currently have about 70,000 miles on the SUV. My major expense was for replacement of blower motor for the AC system at 65,000 miles. At about 55,000 miles it was discovered the dip stick for checking the transmission fluid was corroded and fell off in the reservoir. This should have been covered by a warranty regardless of the miles. The paint for various buttons on the radio started wearing off showing the white undercoating.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

Bitter Sweet

Tony1234, 02/22/2010
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful

This 2004 AWD Rainier has major ongoing issues. Starting at 80,000 miles its one repair after another. I love the features, style and ride. I don't tow, off road or plow. I just drive like any normal person. All scheduled normal lube maintenance has been practiced as recommended by manufacture manual yet the AWD never seems to work. I replaced the transfer case, transmission, front differential, axles, 4 decoder motors, wiring harness and 2 front wheel sensors($9,000+)and the front wheels still don't work. This whole vehicle should have been recalled in my opinion. Oh! The speedometer is brke

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Buick Rainer V-8

shadav, 12/11/2011
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
21 of 23 people found this review helpful

I have owned several Buick's and this is by far the worst one I have owned. The one I traded in had 143,000 miles on it and was still running perfectly. With the Rainier, I began have trouble around 60,000 miles. The instrument panel had to be replaced, then the air conditioner blew hot air on the passenger side. Then it was the transfer case, then the air bags used in the suspension area began leaking. At this very moment, it is parked in my garage with a broken water pump. I haven't driven it in 4 months. Instead, I bought a used vehicle that I paid cash for to get around town in. It has been much more reliable than the Buick.

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1.88 out of 5 stars

Don't bother with this one...

rknack, 10/18/2013
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
19 of 21 people found this review helpful

My Rainier is a piece of garbage. Parts are expensive, and labor even more so unless you are like me and do your own repairs - and even then, it is so poorly designed that it is a major undertaking to repair. As an example, the front differential blew up recently and I had to remove the steering rack, axles, AND the engine oil pan (the passenger side axle goes THROUGH the oil pan!) to remove it. Many of the bolts are difficult to get at. It would have cost me $2500 in labor alone to have a shop repair it for me, plus parts cost. I will NEVER willingly own another vehicle in this series again, and if I could afford to buy another vehicle I would. At least it's fully paid for...

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4.88 out of 5 stars

LOVE MY BUICK

LOVE MY BUICK, 05/16/2009
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

Absolutely love my Rainier! I tow a 5,000 pound camper every summer with no effort and no problem. The only thing I dislike is the heat system. Can't figure it out! Love everything else about it. Will be disappointed when have to replace and cannot buy another. Mine is loaded with every imaginable extra. Have read the owners manual more than ever in any other vehicle! Would recommend this vehicle highly.

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4 out of 5 stars

2004 Buick Rainier 5.3 V8 - Great Car

DC-in-MD, 06/13/2017
updated 06/15/2020
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful

** Update - RIP - at 255000 miles. Well Rainier finely made his last trip. at over 255000 miles it still had the original engine and transmission. Never had to touch them. But keeping it on the road just get to be too expensive. Not that it needed any major repairs, but the repairs it needed were expensive. Like Motor mounts... a new fuel pump, valve cover gaskets, and a main seal. The cost of repairs was just more than the car was worth. SAD because she still ran well and everything worked as it should. so RIP old friend I purchased my Rainier back in 2007 with 40K miles on it. It was a Dealer certified used car. I have put nearly 200,000 miles on it to date and other than a few issues I have to say its one of the best cars I have ever owned. Other than normal maintenance items, unexpected repairs were a catalytic converter at just over 100,000 miles (thanks Baltimore for all the potholes) and a failed A/C compressor clutch mechanism. The compressor was working great but the clutch would stop working after about 20 minutes of driving. Other than those 2 unexpected repairs I have only had to do normal maintenance items and repairs for wear and tear. That's to be expected on a car with over 200K miles. ** Likes** Comfortable, quiet and handles like it's on rails. Lots of power and the AWD will not leave you stuck in the snow. **dislikes** wish it had more headroom for the driver. At 6'2" my head is almost touching the ceiling. Wish it also had a manual AWD lockup switch. **Final thoughts** It's a great car, fun to drive and for a V8 AWD SUV I get an average combined MPG of about 17 commuting in Washington beltway traffic which I do not think is bad. One last comment: After 13years of salt and winter driving the car has No RUST. Paint still shines and the body is in great shape, other than a number of rock chips on the hood. Well made car :-) Would definitely buy it again if I could. In fact, I am keeping an eye out for a lower mileage one now. The V8's are hard to find.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

What an amazing vehicle!!

LAUGH1969, 08/31/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful

I narrowed my search down to the GMC Envoy SLT, and the Rainier. I decided to go with the Rainier, and I am so glad I did. It is so much more luxurious, comfortable, classier, and sooooo much quieter then the Envoy. Buick did an outstanding job, I would recommend anybody that is in the market for a "Refined Utility Vehicle", as Buick calls it, to defiently look at the Rainier. My wife owns a Buick Rendezvous, both of Buicks trucks are so much nicer then the competition. To me, and to others who drive it, will see how it is a smaller, five passenger version of a Cadillac Escalade.

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2 out of 5 stars

More Electrical Problems

brassones, 07/30/2011
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
15 of 17 people found this review helpful

My Rainer has had soo many electrical problems. 1. No speedometer for over 2 yrs 2. No gas gauge for 1 yr 3. The ambient temp sensor was knocked loose because the water pump dislodged it causing the A/C to quit working. So its 100 degrees outside and the rad out says its -14. Cost me $600 to repair 4. And not to mention every once in a while when you hit a bump wrong at night, the headlights will just quit. And I have checked connections. Anyone else have ideas or comments.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Wouldn't You rather drive a buick!

Joseph, 01/12/2007
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

I purchased my Rainier 12/06. Have driven it about 600 miles so far. Love it! I wish I had gotten it alot sooner. I have driven, and was willing to buy the new '06 Explorer, but after driving it and deciding it wasn't all what they said, I decided to try a Pathfinder. Too expensive. So I decided to try a TrailBlazer, Envoy and such. Drove the Buick and was sold! I love the power, quietness, options and such. Explorer comes with one power-point, where Buick has three. Also if you go to U-haul they won't rent you a trailer if you have a Explorer. Enough said about the tranny.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best car I've ever had

Jimjxx, 01/25/2006
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Quiet, solid ride with good styling and quality accessories. I also like the fact that I'm driving a different type of vehicle---not something driven by "everybody and his brother".

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Great Value

Will, 01/04/2007
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Smooth and quiet ride. Great truck on a long trip. Love all the options. Great value. Too bad Buick does not know how to market this vehicle as I do not fit the over 50 age group who would "rather be driving a Buick". I bought the truck by a chance viewing on the car lot.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

terror on the road

terror on the road, 10/15/2010
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
10 of 12 people found this review helpful

I started having problems a week ago with the check engine light coming on. I took it to the buick daler here in selma, they found no problem. I was advised to go to larry puckett in prattville. I live about 50mins. from prattville.Anyway, halfway there my truck caught on fire from behind,which I was unaware of until I heard a noise like a blown out tire. To my surprise,when I got out with my teenager daughter and a set of twins; the rear of the truck was on fire.By te time I picked up the kids and ran, the entire rainier was engulfed in flames.The fire was so intense it consumed the entire under carrage,air stablizer,the complete motor,the stepping bar,and two tires, it could have exploxed

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Buick...I thought they had better quality

????, 04/27/2007
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

My Buick Rainer has 57,000 miles. Every three or four months since I purchased the SUV I have had major problems. The drive train, the driver side seat, and major problems with the four wheel drive mechanism. I am very luckly that I purchased the extended warranty. I would not recommend purchasing this SUV. Just recently one dealship that I brought it to because it was making a very loud banging noise said, "You must have purchased a Friday afternoon car," after they saw the long list of things that I have already had to fix. Basically agreeing that there are and has been some major problems with my SUV. Buyer beware. I would not recommend this SUV

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Sporty Meets Luxury

Latana, 08/21/2006
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I have owned my Rainier since 12/31/2003. I have loved it from day one. I bought it sight unseen from a recommendation and have never regretted it. Mine is loaded. DVD system, Bose sound system with 6 cd changer, XM radio, OnStar, every option they had was on this SUV. It was my first SUV after always owning big luxury cars. I have never had to have any service but oil changes.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Okay for my first SUV. But I love Buick.

Neeka, 07/20/2009
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I brought my Buick Rainier last June. I needed to get an up to date buick I had a 93 lesabre, the air went last summer. Thats when I knew it was time to get a new car, or a new used one. Thats when I did my research, I wanted a car buick but when I seen the rainier I said thats what I want. Guess what I hav I got it too.The only problem I had was with the CD Player. I hav to get a new radio in there any way. My CD's got stuck in them. I am just going to get one put in there myself. Otherwise the vechicle is okay. I had a recnt problem with the AWD, but the dealership where I went to go buy it from fixed, it was still under warranty. That was a plus.

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5 out of 5 stars

Yeah, I really would rather drive a Buick

Eugene Evans, 02/19/2009
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought my Buick because I use a wheelchair to get around, and the car I had was unable to hold the lift, and the wheelchair at the proper level.It bottomed out constantly. The Buick has all the room and comfort you expect from a Buick, and at 6'2", I have plenty of leg room. As far as some people complained about fuel mileage, I am getting 18mpg around town, and get 28mpg on the highway and I don't drive like the proverbial Little Old Lady just because I'm handicaped.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Class & Performance

Al Pal, 12/27/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

When we saw the Ranier in the dealer showroom we both were immediately impressed with the classy look, both inside and out. This is a rugged SUV that will look exceptionally good heading for a formal event. It rides like a dream. Quiet, comfortable and full of exhileration - even with the 275 HP 6 cylinder engine. This engine stands right up there with the V8s. The Buick name tag is a plus (at least to us). We had a 1985 Riviera (One of my favorite cars) and a 1988 Skyhawk (which we had bought for our daughter). Both were great cars and we expect the Ranier to be even better.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great ride

born1980, 08/15/2007
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

We had been looking mostly at imports and then stumbled upon this little known beauty. It is amazing the amount of car we got for the price. It is hands down the quietest vehicle I have driven, cars included.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fabulous!!

annettem, 01/10/2004
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

This is the 5th SUV we have owned in the last 7 years and so far, the best!! We have owned 3 Ford Explorers and a Mercedes Benz. They all ride hard; the Benz being a little more comfy but still not adequate. The Rainier is very smooth riding, which is paramount to us in an SUV. The heat/AC system is perfect..no fooling with knobs adjusting temps. all the time. The cabin is extremely quiet,supportive but comfortable seats, excellent audio (we didn't opt for the Bose) and a joy to drive. Car steers and handles very well. The outside design of the car is classy. Buick has come through with a gem.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Used Rainier Purchase

Seaclusion, 10/29/2007
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Recently purchased used Rainier with V8 34000 trading in a GMC Envoy 6 cyl.First impressions are very favorable.No complaints and has a better ride than the GMC. Also V8 is a major plus for this vehicle. I have noted that AWD seems to engage in reverse as noted by one of your participants which will require watching.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Very quiet & comfortable

alm, 12/08/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Compared to the GM lineup, the Buick has more elegant feel. It is very quiet and acceleration is smooth.

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5 out of 5 stars

I LUV MY RAINER

jane,p, 03/18/2004
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

GREAT QUIET RIDE.NICE LUXURY FEEL TO THE SUV. SEDAN QUALITY IN AN SUV. LOVE THE XM RADIO. RATES HIGH WITH MANY SUV PRODUCTS OUT THERE BUT WAS THE QUIETEST RIDING OF 99% OF MANY OTHER VEHICLES THAT I DROVE.SURPRISED THERE ARE NOT MORE OUT THERE.NICE TO BE THE ONLY RAINER IN MY COUNTY

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Buick Ranier-SUV

jconeputt, 11/16/2007
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Purchased 2004 Buick Ranier used with 22,000 miles and has been a great vehicle. This SUV has a 5.3 Liter, great power and better fuel economy than the V6 model. Great for towing. Great for extended road trips. Vehicle now has 55K miles with now service related problems.

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5 out of 5 stars

I love this SUV!

DMK, 10/29/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I looked at all the mid-size SUVs and narrowed down to the Lexus 330 and the Rendezvous. I am a loyal Buick customer, but didn't like the looks of the Rendezvous. I was really impressed when the Rainier was available. It looks great and drives like a dream. I also got a great deal on the vehicle. Lexus refused to move off sticker price.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Love this car!

Teresa, 10/27/2006
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I love this car. The engine is powerful and the Rainier has a very quiet ride. No one can believe I'm driving my car and talking on my cell phone because no one hears anything but the conversation! I have the NAV system, XM radio and OnStar. It's great!

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5 out of 5 stars

Fun,Safe and Dependable

Dr d, 12/27/2005
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This Buick Is a very stable platform . Fun to drive due to great handling for us , the average driver. Speed and acceleration that makes you feel young when you need it, entering a freeway or getting out of a jam. Sometimes, just showing off. It just feels good to know that you're in command of the road on occasion. Plenty of room for passengers & Luggage. Easily maneuvers in any grocery store parking lot and brings the bacon home safley. Might keep this for 20 years.

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5 out of 5 stars

2004 Buick Rainier

frobert micco, 06/12/2006
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have had this car for 60,000 miles. I am 67, have owned a large number of cars, domestic and import. I can tell you, this one is the best.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

McDonald's Buick Rainier Review

J McDonald, 01/02/2009
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

We have owned this car for 18 months and have really enjoyed the power of the 5.3 liter V8 and the interior comfort is excellent. Perfect for our family of four.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

nice SUV

vic22, 11/26/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Bought the car almost a month ago. Rides great - exceptionally smooth but not too soft - still has good cornering ability for an SUV. Without the rebates the car cannot compete well against imports mainly because of the interior design. Otherwise performance is at a par if not better. It has been a surprise to get only 15-16mpg in mixed suburb/hwy driving. Maybe during the summer it will get better.

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5 out of 5 stars

SUV and RUV "Refined Utility Vehicle"

GottaBbuick, 11/22/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Buick is headed in the right direction. A super SUV for "serious achievers" as Buick puts it. We love the Rainier. Quality, comfort and style.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Rainier

pooler, 12/06/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

First day I purchased major snow storm handeled fine awd system very quiet comfortable ride great sound system bose navigation system a plus gas milage not so great wish they could improve by 20%

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great!

candygurl, 06/08/2008
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I really like this SUV. I have been in many SUVs and own a Suburban. I really like the room for me and my 4 kids and the drive is nice and safe. Safety is a big plus. The kids really enjoy the fact that they can control their a/c temp. Even though the gas is not much different than the Suburban I really am enjoying my new toy.

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5 out of 5 stars

This isn't your father's Buick!!!

Allen Jones, 02/08/2019
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

The new models are available with all the technologies available on the more expensive foreign cars.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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3.88 out of 5 stars

Seatbelt

IfIcouldfly, 06/27/2006
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I think GM has finally achieved a seatbelt that is uncomfortable for every body type. The front belts come from the seat and cut into the neck of tall or large people and hit smaller people in the face. So you can get the the seat belt extension for free that enables you to move it around more however then the belt does not not lock in place making the safety value questionable.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Great SUV

rbranscum, 10/18/2005
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Extremely comfortable. I am in sales and spend a lot of time in it. It is very quiet and the heated seats and moonroof are great. Also the Bose sound system is a wonderful plus. I have the awd model and have had problems with it. It wants to engage sometimes when you are backing up. The dealership has not been able to stop it from doing it. Otherwise, great vehicle

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Chuck chooses

Chuck also, 10/23/2004
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I like many got tired of driving and in a almost prone position. The size is perfect for my business driving and love it on trips. The one thing I missed was my previous car had heads up display. I assume this will be added in the very near future. The handling is fantastic as you can make tight U-turns with little effort. Keep up with bringing us great vehicles.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Happy so far

alibid, 07/13/2006
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I just bought my Ranier 5 days ago, but thus far love it. For an SUV it rides very smoothly. This is my first Buick, but have driven one before. I am totally satisfied so far. It is comfortable & a jot to drive. Love the moon roof & 6 CD changer.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best Midsize GM SUV

WinterDrive, 04/12/2006
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

This is great SUV for long distance traveling, towing and light off-roading (which means beyond graded gravel). Winter driving performance has been outstanding. No mechnical issues barring an overiced rear wiper. V8 performance is great, with decent mileage (19+ on the highway). Interior is a bit underwhelming for the price, but functions well and has also stood up well (no squeaks or rattles).

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2.25 out of 5 stars

Disappointing

Pa, 12/12/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Poor quality exterior finishing, grill misaligned. Lightweight metal is too light,bends in and out washing and waxing. Interior poor design of center console,shift,cupholders. High wind noise even higher pitch on windy day. Passenger door actually moves in and out with vibration on very windy days. Front hood emblem position forces you to have to pull hood up holding this plastic piece. A rod to hold up hood? This is a top of line vehicle. Should have gas charged openers. Just another example of cheapness along with the carpet grade.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Buick Rainier - rock solid!

nrund, 12/23/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After researching all the luxury midsized SUV's I narrowed the list to; Lexus RX330, Toyota Highlander and 4Runner Limiteds, Infiniti FX35 and Buick Rainier. I test drove all five again. The FX35 felt like a fancy station wagon. The 4Runner was a disappointment as it rattled and lacked the quality Toyota is known for. The Highlander reminded me of the RX300 I was replacing, the dull exterior and price didn’t warrant serious consideration. Only the RX330 and Rainier remained. Both are comfortable, luxuriously appointed and well constructed. Rainer’s rock solid construction, luxury amenities and GM’s financing make the Rainier a true value.

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5 out of 5 stars

the best better than cadillac

dolphinsinus, 10/01/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

the best suv ever a must drive experience, buik did it again. If it lastsas long as my lasabre i will be amazed

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Getting acquainted

palex, 12/23/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Previously had a van so there is an adjustment going on. The ride is excellent as well is the handling. Had running boards installed but they still do not give much of a platform to enter or exit vehicle on. The rear door is very restrictive for getting in or out. Wind noise is more then I expecdted at highway speeds. Fuel economy is only about 13.8 in town. Have not been on the road yet. Rear seart belts are difficult to connect because of a very short anchor strap. Rear seat heater is o.k. at low speeds but makes too much noise if it is turn up. Brakes feel somewhat spondgy right now..will have to have the dealer chect them.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

LOVE IT:)

LIN, 01/06/2005
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my Rainier in August and I cannot say enough about it. It rides beautifully. WHen I am talking on my cell phone no one even knows I am in my car that is how QUIET it rides. Only thing that I can see is that the gas mileage isnt the greatest but which SUV has great mileage? Thanks BUICK.....

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Buick Rainier - a pleasant surprise

Mahleen, 12/24/2003
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I researched all the luxury midsize SUV's I narrowed my list to RX330, Highlander and 4Runner Limited, FX35 and the Buick Rainier. The FX35 felt like a station wagon, the interior is cramped. The 4Runner rattled and lacked the quality Toyotas are known for. The Highlander exterior design is dull and price is high. Down to two; the RX330 is comfortable, luxuriously appointed and well constructed. To my surprise, the Rainer matched the RX330 in each category except the interior is not as luxurious BUT the Rainier outclassed the RX330 with its rock solid feel. Rainer’s solid construction, amenities and GM’s financing make it a true value.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Long Rides Enjoyable

James Jenkins, 09/22/2005
2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I travel a lot. I have found the Rainier a pleasure to drive for hours at a time. My partner also shares in the driving and I sleep quite comfortably in the reclining passenger seat, although I would prefer the seats to have a little more of a bucket-seat form to provide a more settled feel into the seat. Overall, this ride feels and handles more like my older Buick Park Avenue than an SUV. I luv it, just what I was looking for!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best SUV for the Price and Features IMHO

Subhash Bhattacharyy, 01/13/2005
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Plus AWD 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just purchased a 2004 Buick Rainier. Went with the 2004 for the 3000 savings, and with 7000 in additional incentive from GM, I got one heck of a deal. The ride is smoother than the MDX, 4-Runner or Sequoia. Love the quiet interior, best built American SUV.

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5 out of 5 stars

One Great SUV

vnique, 01/10/2004
2004 Buick Rainier CXL Rwd 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is a great SUV that gives a great ride that is quiet. The seats are very comfortable, especially with the adjustable lumbar support. This SUV makes driving a pleasure again.

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