Used 2006 Buick Rainier Consumer Reviews
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Truly useful
Bill, 10/30/2009
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
I purchased this former short-term rental vehicle with 13k miles on it in Dec '06. Now with 65k miles on it, the only thing that has malfunctioned was a headlight relay, quickly replaced under warranty. It's dead reliable, smooth, comfortable, great in snow and good at towing a 4k lbs, 26ft sailboat. Milage average is 19 mpg with mostly highway driving. Quality of materials and assembly is very high - the leather upholstery is actually better than that in my '04 Mercedes.
Rainier
John T Valentine, 08/01/2005
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
A gook looking SUV with all the options. Nice drive with power. Very quiet and a smooth ride. The fuel economy is poor, city 16 highway at 20. Headroom for a big guy like myself is not as much as I would like, but would be fine for anyone under 6 foot 1. Nice engine.
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Best Car I ever drove
Frank, 11/15/2008
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
After driving a Ford Explorer for almost 200,000 miles, my Buick Rainer has been a pleasure to drive. The ride and features are great--especially air adjustable load levelers. Great car.
Love My Ranier
LENA BELSHER, 08/04/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I have owned many SUVs over the past 15 years, and the Ranier beats them all, in comfort,features,and quality. There are so many standard features, which will be extras in any other SUV. It is fun to drive, and gas mileage is decent for a mid size SUV. My sister, brother, and cousin all bought TrailBlazers, and now wish they would of checked out the Ranier. They love it. You will get your money's worth! I highly suggest that if you are in the market for an SUV, you have to check out the Buick Ranier!
Love my Buick!
missmegs702, 08/15/2013
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
23 of 27 people found this review helpful
After owning many other cars, incl. a Mercedes C230, my Buick Rainier is by far my favorite car, maybe ever. I'm in my early 30's, and a few years ago I probably would have scoffed at driving a Buick. In 2011 we were looking for a work SUV for my hubby (trailblazer, etc) and came across it at a dealership and got it for a steal. The next year he bought a truck, and I happily took over the Rainier. It is so comfortable, air ride is fantastic and it drives great. We got an extended warranty and had to have some of the suspension fixed (airbags and sensors) right after we bought it, but really no issues since. Have taken it on several long trips and it's just so comfortable! Really a great SUV.
Glad I Found This One
JB, 05/06/2007
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
I love this vehicle. I've owned several autos in the past, including two Toyotas and a Chevy Trailblazer ('04). I usually go pretty basic on them, then look at the owner's manual later and realize all the goodies I didn't have on mine. All that has changed with buying the Rainier. If this truck were a movie, it would truly be a "sleeper." I don't know why more people haven't discovered all the virtues of this vehicle.
Better than Lexus
Adrian, 12/02/2005
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Having looked at all models in this price range I selected the Rainier and don't regret it at all. Quieter ride than Lexus and other competitors and the finish is superb. Mileage was as expected - average 19 overall.
Impressive
Rainer, 06/26/2009
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great driving, it does not feel like I'm riding in a truck! - The look of the vehicle is what I love the most.
sharp ride
keith, 08/19/2009
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Bought suv to replace 2002 saturn. Drove the rainer beause it had options like the SL 300 saturn.The mileage at 41000 was 19.7 now meaning 10 months later mileage 16.7.All is far better in safety and road control with this vehicle.Sharp and great ride.
My "BIG" SUV
jelap, 02/04/2007
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have been a 2006 SUV Buick owner for about 7 months now. Overall I am disapointed with the performance with the V6 291hp AWD, Hits slight inclines with a lot of difficulty, have to shove into 3rd gear to climb hills. Comfort wise, it is OK for me for my medium frame and build. Not very good on gas, get about 17-18 on streets, look at the mileage before you buy and factor in your daily/weekly/monthly cost. It is a sleek sexy car for the average person, The quality of the car is "huh" OK. The doors are "very" heavy and make a lot of noise when opening and closing, I tried oiling and greasing them, but to no avail. The lift mechanism for the hydraulics, when adjusting for heavy loads, is very noisy.
My car
mcquiston, 08/21/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Very limtied cup holders. Front seats need to go back another couple of inches for taller people. The settings should be key linked and not linked via remote
AWD Issues
Michelle, 12/26/2008
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
From week one, the Rainier has attempted to shift into AWD when in reverse. The shuddering that results makes it very difficult to back out of a parking space. Changing the rear differential fluid ($125) didn't help. Now the bearings in the front differential just burned up. Thankfully, the Buick dealer covered it even though I am 4,000 miles out of warranty. I am considering dumping this vehicle as I drive 30,000 miles per year and can't afford to be towed to the dealer on a regular basis.
My Buick
Rick, 01/04/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Nice ride. Only negatives are fuel mileage and cup holders. It has all the equipment that our Yukon had.
Great SUV
BANKER, 03/28/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I had owned Jeeps for 20 years. This vehicles is superior in many ways. It drives and handles better. Mileage is better and it rides very nice. It is very quiet and has all the power you need with a V-8. I am very pleased with this purchase and would buy again.
Better than expected
ken, 06/03/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We bought our Rainier 1 month ago and we both love it. It is quiter & smoother than we expected and so far the build quality is flawless. Like all SUV's we would like better gas mileage however it's what we expected. I have no complaints.
Amazing SUV!
Holly, 01/03/2007
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is the best! My husband and I bought it for the room, safety features and comfort. We will be starting a family soon and this car is great. My friend bought one because she loved driving in mine so much.
Really disappointed
Norman, 08/18/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
We should have taken a longer test drive and done more homework. The seats are extremely uncomfortable. Tried to trade it in after a month, but already no trade-in value. The dealer obviously didn't want it back!
Falls Short
Barb, 10/23/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Our Buick Ranier has plenty of interior room, and has so far been very reliable. However, the interior build quality leaves alot to be desired! Everything from the door handles, and door power panel mouldings, to side door mouldings has fallen off and the seatbelts stick. The rear end makes an "undetermined" noise and it does not handle great if you have to do any sudden "avoidance manuevers" while driving. I drive mostly highway and have never seen anywhere near the supposed 21mpg mark. I average 17.2mpg in a 2WD. It should not be in the luxury class, as it is just another mediocre GM SUV. Admittedly disappointed. Can't wait til my lease is up! Terrible resale value. GM will never listen to what buyers really want...Thats why Toyota & Honda have really taken off. They listen to concerns and work with them to build vehicles people want.
2006 Buick RunAndDontGoNier
Toby, 08/01/2017
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
It's been an ok vehicle, except for... - Window control panel shorted out and was smoking when it got a little rain on it and woke up to all windows down and no way to roll them back up - Load stabilizer pump just stopped working for a month, then started working again but was really slow. - Traction control doesn't like sharp right turns and engages and disengages repeatedly then gives an error that there is something wrong with the traction control for the rest of the drive then the next day no error.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Few Suspension and Transmission Concerns
Cindy, 07/22/2008
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchase my used Rainier in December of 2007. For the most part I am very satisfied. I have had ongoing stabiltrack issues, and the driver's window keeps coming out of the track. My most recent problem was that the shift sensor, wiring harness and valve body went out at 40,600 miles. I am thankful for the 50,000 mile warranty. I was told that there is nothing that can be done about the window. "Don't roll it down while going down the road". GM and the dealership refused to do a transmission service after my transmission got hot. They had it pulled apart and had the filter in their hand. I love the vehicle, but can't say that I will buy GM because of the service.
Great mid-sized SUV
Richard, 10/01/2008
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Really like this vehicle. It's super quiet and smooth riding. Has a classy look to the exterior and the interior is quite comfortable. Absolutely no problems in a little over 33,000 miles. Gas mileage over the long run is 18.2 mpg in 95% city driving - very few freeway miles. Not bad for the size and comfort of this vehicle. Back seat passengers don't have much legroom, but it's not designed to be a full-size SUV. Cupholders are a little quirky, but only a minor concern.
Fun to drive
JAMES ZUNIGA, 05/09/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive. Very smooth riding and quiet. Comfortable seats. Easy to park. Lots of power for an inline 6. Has lots of extras that are optional on other vehicles. The navigation is simple and handy.
Like the Rainer
bob, 06/09/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my Rainer for 2 weeks. I bought a program car with 8600 miles on it. Love the ride, comfort quiet and handling. This replaced my 2000 Jimmy, wow what a difference. So far, the mileage has been about 20 to 21 mpg 70% hwy and 30% town driving. I am real pleased with this. I will be looking a purchasing the 100K GM extended warranty, and deals on this?
Mostly satisfied
Chelle, 10/04/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just purchased this vehicle, but was not looking for it. Wanted an Envoy, and could not get one, so this was suggested. Overall, I am happy with the vehicle. I have always owned a minivan, so this is different. However, the sad part about this vehicle is the gas mileage, it stinks! I was not prepared for the little gas mileage that it gets, but I am keeping it and just have to get used to it. Hopefully it will not let me down.
Big surprise
PeterJ, 11/25/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Never thought I'd buy a Buick, but after testing the Rainier vs. the Envoy, Pathfinder, 4Runner and looking at everything else it comes out on top. Smooth, quiet, excellent mix of features, and the V8 gets unexpectedly decent mileage (15.8 city, and 22 highway). It has been perfect, no issues since day one, hope it stays that way. On top of all the pluses, the GM rebates made a great deal, over $9000 off MSRP.
A Great Midsize SUV
William Bennett, 06/04/2018
updated 07/06/2021
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
No major problems up to 100,000 miles then replaced the computer & fuse box--now runs great! However, Love the Car. In fact this is the second Ranier I have owned ( a 2004), which still runs great at 220,000 miles, driven by my sister-in-law.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great Vehicle--No more van!
BKnight, 12/05/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love my Rainier. I have the PGA Tour edition. The only drawback is the odd cup holder and storage situation, but otherwise I am very pleased. MPG average is 17-18 (I drive on country roads to work each day.) It gets 22- 24 on the highway. I had a loaded Honda Odyssey. I'm so glad to be out of the van!
Problems
Ken, 07/21/2010
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 9 people found this review helpful
My grandmother bought this car used for me. She purchased the v8. Of course mpg is terrible. Great power and acceleration. Not enough storage room inside car though. Have had many problems and it has been in the shop for about 2 weeks with some sort of engine problem. ugh!
Junk
w gotwals, 08/22/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 5 people found this review helpful
1197 total miles and the car would not start. Complete electrical shut down. It"s been out of service for 3 days now attempting to be fixed. Can't GM do a little better job
Replaced My Rendevous
Ty K, 11/18/2005
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2004 Rendevous and this 2006 Rainier replaced it. I missed a couple of features from the Rendevous. There is no parking assist and it does not customize the radio and seat settings on the key fob like the Rendevous. It does have curb view on the rear view mirror, but the mirrors are smaller than the Rendevous. The Rainier feels more stable on the road than the Rendevous and is quieter. I am getting better mileage than with my old Rendevous.
Great
Elizabeth , 11/18/2005
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Me and my family of two boys decide to buy this car it had a very reasonable price for the amount of luxury that was provided. The seats are very comfortable the ride is extremley quite and comfortable. The power is okay but could be more. I love the look of the car. I would recomend it anyday. But the cup holders up front need improvment.
Ranier, Surprise
ranier, 04/14/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought our Buick Ranier on a whim, while out shopping one day. Normally, this is a foolish thing to do. I had researched so many other SUVs and wanted a 4 wheel drive vehicle for our southwest lifestyle. We immediately went on a four day weekend drive in mountainous Utah. We took a hunters trail over a 9000 foot mountain which included crossing creeks and traversing glaciers etc. No Problem for the 2 wheel drive Ranier. The six cylinder engine moves out very nicely. Comfort is awesome. My wife asked me the other day if I ever suffered from buyers remorse since or impulsive purchase? None.
2006 Buick Ranier
m buckenmayer, 04/17/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this mid size SUV. I drove over 20 other SUVs before deciding on purchasing the Ranier. It has plenty of pep, even with a 6 cy engine. The interior is the most comfortable of all SUVs I test drove. I am very tall and need a long seat, the Japanese SUVs were too short seated to give me proper leg or hip support. The ride is quiet, quiet, quiet. I love the XM/CD/ radio/nav system. Also there is lots of room as I easily can haul 5 golfers and their golf bags. I chose leather interior and it is very comfortable and very classy. The only thing I would change would be more storage space in the middle console.
Everything I Need
frank, 02/06/2007
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After driving a Cadillac Deville for the last 10 years the Rainier compares in features and comfort. I needed a vehicle with the luxury of a Cadillac and towing capacity of a truck. Behold the Rainier is the perfect vehicle for my needs.
Love it
Joyce, 03/18/2007
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am so happy with my new truck. I went from a 1999 Tahoe to this. There is nothing that comes close to the comfort this truck offers. It is easy on the eyes and you will find your self not wanting to pull up in the garage.
Horrible Gas Mileage
shrimp525, 08/08/2006
2006 Buick Rainier CXL 4dr SUV AWD (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
I really love the way my new car drives, but the gas mileage is horrible. I have been averaging 10.1 miles per gallon. I have tried driving with the windows open but nothing helps. I do love the car but I would like to get more mileage from a tank of gas. I drove almost all highway and got 239 miles on a full tank.