The 2012 Buick Regal marked a return to a more sporting image for the brand. A mid-size sedan, it was based on the Opel Insignia. Model years for this generation ran from 2009-2017. Key trims included the base Regal, Turbo, and GS. New, the Regal ranged from approximately $26,000 to $35,000. Its blend of European handling with American comfort and features made it a popular choice for buyers wanting a premium experience without the premium price tag.
The Good
The 2012 Buick Regal offers a compelling blend of attributes. Performance-wise, the Turbo and GS models deliver satisfying acceleration. Comfort is a strong suit, with a well-appointed interior. The design is stylish and understated. Fuel efficiency is respectable, and the Regal represents excellent value for money. For the emotional buyer, it offers a touch of European flair, while the practical buyer appreciates its reliability and features.
The Bad
Some known weaknesses of the 2012 Buick Regal include potential issues with the timing chain, especially in the turbocharged models. Some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system and electrical components. Also, the rear headroom can be limited for taller passengers. It's crucial to check the vehicle history for maintenance records and any reported problems before purchasing.
2012 Buick Regal: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Ecotec Inline-4: (Base & Premium)
- 2.0L Ecotec Turbo Inline-4: (Turbo)
- 2.0L Ecotec Turbo Inline-4: (GS)
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L: 182 hp
- 2.0L Turbo: 220 hp
- 2.0L Turbo GS: 270 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.4L: 19-20 mpg city / 30-31 mpg highway
- 2.0L Turbo: 18-19 mpg city / 28-29 mpg highway
- 2.0L Turbo GS: 18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.4L: 9.0-9.5 seconds
- 2.0L Turbo: 7.0-7.5 seconds
- 2.0L Turbo GS: 6.2-6.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base Regal: Cloth upholstery, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, seven-speaker audio system, 17-inch alloy wheels.
- Regal Premium: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, rearview camera, rear parking sensors.
- Regal Turbo: More powerful turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension.
- Regal GS: High-performance turbocharged engine, Brembo brakes, Interactive Drive Control System (adjustable suspension and steering), sport seats, unique exterior styling, 19-inch alloy wheels.
2012 Buick Regal Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Regal |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan Front-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | OSHAWA #1 (OSH) |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1632.93 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | gas/ethanol i4 2.4l/145 |
| Engine Size | 42.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $27,055 USD |
| Invoice Price | $25,973 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $885 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Buick Regal Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Buick Regal often revolve around the timing chain, particularly in the turbocharged models. Premature wear of the timing chain can lead to engine damage if not addressed. Listen for rattling noises on startup. Another common issue involves the infotainment system and its various electronic components. Issues with the radio, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity have been reported. Some owners have also experienced problems with the power windows and door locks.
Recalls for the 2012 Buick Regal include issues with the electronic park lock lever, which could allow the vehicle to roll away if not properly engaged, and potential fuel leaks due to a faulty fuel pump flange.
Long-term reliability concerns mainly stem from the aforementioned timing chain and electronic component issues. Regular oil changes with the correct synthetic oil are crucial to minimize timing chain wear. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance and addressing any warning signs promptly can help mitigate potential problems and extend the vehicle's lifespan. It's always recommended to review the vehicle's history for any service records or reported issues before purchasing.
Recalls for the 2012 Buick Regal include issues with the electronic park lock lever, which could allow the vehicle to roll away if not properly engaged, and potential fuel leaks due to a faulty fuel pump flange.
Long-term reliability concerns mainly stem from the aforementioned timing chain and electronic component issues. Regular oil changes with the correct synthetic oil are crucial to minimize timing chain wear. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance and addressing any warning signs promptly can help mitigate potential problems and extend the vehicle's lifespan. It's always recommended to review the vehicle's history for any service records or reported issues before purchasing.
How long will the 2012 Buick Regal last?
With proper maintenance, a 2012 Buick Regal can realistically reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report achieving 10-15 years of service. Key to longevity is consistent maintenance, especially oil changes with synthetic oil for the turbocharged engines.
Long-term durability can be affected by the timing chain issue (as mentioned before). Also, some interior components may show wear and tear over time. Rust can be a concern in areas with harsh winters and road salt, so regular washing and waxing are important.
Long-term durability can be affected by the timing chain issue (as mentioned before). Also, some interior components may show wear and tear over time. Rust can be a concern in areas with harsh winters and road salt, so regular washing and waxing are important.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Buick Regal offers a respectable array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features include a seven-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-zone climate control. Higher trims added features like a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
Entertainment is provided via a standard AM/FM radio, CD player, and auxiliary input jack. Optional features included a navigation system and satellite radio.
Driver-assistance features were limited, but the Regal offered stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and multiple airbags as standard. Optional safety features included rear parking sensors and a rearview camera.
The 2012 Buick Regal received strong crash-test ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS gave it a "Good" rating in most crash tests, earning it a Top Safety Pick designation.
Entertainment is provided via a standard AM/FM radio, CD player, and auxiliary input jack. Optional features included a navigation system and satellite radio.
Driver-assistance features were limited, but the Regal offered stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and multiple airbags as standard. Optional safety features included rear parking sensors and a rearview camera.
The 2012 Buick Regal received strong crash-test ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS gave it a "Good" rating in most crash tests, earning it a Top Safety Pick designation.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Summit White
Black Onyx
Quicksilver Metallic
Crystal Red Tintcoat
Carbon Black Metallic
Graphite Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Cocoa/Light Cashmere
Ebony
2012 Buick Regal Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Buick Regal ranged from approximately $26,000 to $35,000 depending on the trim and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from $6,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.
The Regal has depreciated significantly over time, which is typical for most vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, service history, and trim level. Models with lower mileage and a clean service history command higher prices. The GS trim generally holds its value better than the base models due to its performance-oriented features.
The Regal has depreciated significantly over time, which is typical for most vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, service history, and trim level. Models with lower mileage and a clean service history command higher prices. The GS trim generally holds its value better than the base models due to its performance-oriented features.
2012 Buick Regal Cost of Ownership
The 2012 Buick Regal falls into the average range for mid-size sedans regarding ownership costs. Insurance rates are generally moderate. Fuel costs depend on driving habits and the engine choice, with the turbocharged models consuming slightly more fuel. Maintenance costs are also average, although potential repairs related to the timing chain can be expensive. Overall, the Regal is neither exceptionally economical nor overly costly to own, making it a reasonably priced option for budget-conscious buyers.
2012 Buick Regal Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Ethanol
Fuel Capacity
32.93 liters
City Mileage
4.55 km/l
Highway Mileage
2.68 km/l
2012 Buick Regal Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Buick Regal Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2012-03-07
Recall no.
12v093000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 Buick Regal Vehicles Manufactured From February 22, 2011, Through February 22, 2012 FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108 ?lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment.? DUE TO A Software Error, THE Parking Lamps DO NOT Activate When Either THE Parking Lamps or Headlamps ARE Turned ON.
Consequence
Inadequate Lighting Could Reduce THE Visibility OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Potential FOR A Crash.
Remedy
General Motors Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Body Control Module Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 29, 2012. Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-521-7300.
Notes
General Motors Recall NO. 12048.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:turn Signal
Recall date
2012-10-04
Recall no.
12v484000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Buick Regal and Model Year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Two Turn Signal Bulbs IN Each Front Turn Signal. IF ONE OF THE Two Front Turn Signal Bulbs Burn OUT IN Either Front Turn Signal Lamp, There IS NO Indication TO THE Driver. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
IF THE Driver IS NOT Aware That A Turn Signal IS NOT Functioning Properly, THE Driver MAY Continue TO Drive THE Vehicle. IF Half OF A Front Turn Signal IS NOT Illuminating, Other Driver's MAY NOT BE Aware That THE Affected Vehicle IS Turning, Thereby Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, Dealers Will Update THE Body Control Module Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began IN September 2014. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 12212.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System
Recall date
2013-05-06
Recall no.
13v173000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 and 2013 Buick Lacrosse and Regal, and Model Year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco Vehicles Equipped With Eassist. These Vehicles MAY Have A Condition IN Which THE Generator Control Module (Gcm) MAY NOT Function Properly. This Could Cause A Gradual Loss OF Battery Charge and THE Illumination OF THE Malfunction Indicator Light.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicle IS Continued TO BE Driven, THE Engine MAY Stall And/Or THE Vehicle MAY NOT Start. IN Addition, There MAY BE A Burning or Melting Odor, Smoke, and Possibly A Fire IN THE Trunk.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Test THE GCM and Replace IT, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 11, 2013. Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-521-7300. Gm's Recall Campaign Number IS 13136.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:power Adjust
Recall date
2014-07-23
Recall no.
14v447000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2012 Buick Lacrosse, Regal and Chevrolet Camaro, AS Well AS Certain 2010-2012 Cadillac Srx, Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain Vehicles, Equipped With Power Height Adjustable Driver and Passenger Seats. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Bolt That Secures THE Driver's and Passenger's Power Front Seat Height Adjuster MAY Fall OUT Causing THE Seat TO Drop Suddenly TO THE Lowest Vertical Position.
Consequence
IF THE Driver's Seat Unexpectedly Drops, THE Distraction and Altered Seat Position MAY Affect THE Drivers' Control OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Height Adjuster Shoulder Bolts, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed Interim Letters TO Owners ON September 11, 2014. THE Recall Began ON December 26, 2014. Owners MAY Contact GM Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (chevrolet), or 1-800-462-8782 (gmc). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14271.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear
Recall date
2020-12-10
Recall no.
20v764000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2013 Buick Regal, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse Vehicles Sold or Ever Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These Vehicles MAY Have Rear TOE Links That Received Excessive Electrocoating (E-coat) Corrosion Protection, Which Could Cause THE E-coat TO Become Brittle and Break Away When Contacted BY Road Debris. Over Time, THE E-coat MAY Chip Away, Exposing THE Metal TOE Link and Making IT More Susceptible TO Corrosion. Corrosion MAY Eventually Cause THE TOE Link TO Thin and Ultimately TO Fracture.
Consequence
A Rear TOE Link Fracture MAY Reduce THE Driver's Ability TO Control THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Suspension TOE Links and Adjuster Fasteners Free OF Charge. Parts ARE NOT Currently Available. Owners Were Mailed AN Interim Notification ON January 27, 2021, and April 15, 2021. A Third Notification WAS Mailed ON August 19, 201. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202308930.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear
Recall date
2021-12-22
Recall no.
21v00f000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse, 2012-2013 Buick Regal, and 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Sold or Ever Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These Vehicles MAY Have Rear TOE Links That Received AN Improper Amount OF Electrocoating (E-coat) Corrosion Protection, Which Could Cause THE E-coat TO Become Brittle and Break Away When Contacted BY Road Debris. Over Time, THE E-coat MAY Chip Away, Exposing THE Metal TOE Link and Making IT More Susceptible TO Corrosion. Corrosion MAY Eventually Cause THE TOE Link TO Thin and Ultimately Fracture.
Consequence
A Rear TOE Link Fracture MAY Reduce THE Driver's Ability TO Control THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Suspension TOE Links and Adjuster Fasteners, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 27, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212346640. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recalls 20v-764 and 21v-633.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2012 Buick Regal Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2012 Buick Regal Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Buick Regal is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Buick Regal Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2012 Buick Regal competes against mid-size sedans like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, and Hyundai Sonata. In terms of performance, the Regal GS offers a sportier driving experience than the Accord or Camry, but the base models are less engaging. Feature-wise, the Regal offers a comparable level of equipment, especially in higher trims.
Reliability is where the Regal falls slightly behind the Accord and Camry, which have a stronger reputation for trouble-free ownership. The Fusion and Sonata offer similar levels of reliability to the Regal. Price-wise, the Regal is generally more affordable than the Accord and Camry, but slightly more expensive than the Fusion and Sonata.
Alternatives to the 2012 Buick Regal include the Acura TSX for a more refined driving experience, or the Mazda6 for a more sporty and engaging drive. If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry are better choices. If budget is a major concern, the Ford Fusion or Hyundai Sonata offer similar features at a lower price point.
Reliability is where the Regal falls slightly behind the Accord and Camry, which have a stronger reputation for trouble-free ownership. The Fusion and Sonata offer similar levels of reliability to the Regal. Price-wise, the Regal is generally more affordable than the Accord and Camry, but slightly more expensive than the Fusion and Sonata.
Alternatives to the 2012 Buick Regal include the Acura TSX for a more refined driving experience, or the Mazda6 for a more sporty and engaging drive. If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry are better choices. If budget is a major concern, the Ford Fusion or Hyundai Sonata offer similar features at a lower price point.
Ranks #1705 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1705 | 2012 Buick Regal | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Buick Regal a Good Sedan?
The 2012 Buick Regal is ideal for buyers seeking a comfortable and stylish mid-size sedan with a touch of European flair. It's worth buying, especially on the used market, if you're looking for a vehicle that offers a premium experience without the premium price tag.
However, it's crucial to have a pre-purchase inspection to check for potential issues like the timing chain. The Turbo or GS trims offer a more engaging driving experience, but the base model is still a comfortable and well-equipped option. If reliability is a major concern, consider other alternatives like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.
However, it's crucial to have a pre-purchase inspection to check for potential issues like the timing chain. The Turbo or GS trims offer a more engaging driving experience, but the base model is still a comfortable and well-equipped option. If reliability is a major concern, consider other alternatives like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.