Model year guide

2005 Buick Terraza

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2005 Buick Terraza is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 29 on record.

2005 Buick Terraza — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

2005 Buick Terraza at a glance

Safety recalls3
Owner complaints120
Combined17–18 mpg
Typical price$3,170

Included: that car's specs and build sheet, model-year recall campaigns and a fair price.

2005 Buick Terraza recalls 3

Suspension:rear NHTSA Campaign #10V110000 · 19/03/2010

THE BRAUN CORPORATION HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA ABOUT A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2008 GENERAL MOTORS MOBILITY CONVERSION, HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE LOW FLOOR MINIVANS. DURING CONVERSION, THE DRIVER OR PASSENGER SIDE TRAILING ARM MODIFICATION MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY WELDED.

Fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND WILL HAVE A SUPPLY OF RETROFIT PARTS AVAILABLE TO REMEDY THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 4, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BRAUN AT 1-800-488-0359.

Steering NHTSA Campaign #09E005000 · 17/02/2009

DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONS<SUP>TM</SUP>" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN THE STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING IN THE HUB AREA.

Fix: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-2492 AND PRESS 5.

Parking Brake NHTSA Campaign #05V287000 · manufacturer #05059 · 20/06/2005

CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 135, 'PASSENGER CAR BRAKE SYSTEMS.' TO MEET THE STANDARD, THE VEHICLE MUST NOT MOVE FOR FIVE MINUTES WHEN STOPPED ON A STEEP HILL WITH THE PARKING BRAKE APPLIED AND THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL (N). SOME OF THESE VEHICLES FAILED THIS TEST.

Fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR PARKING BRAKE LEVER SLIPPAGE AT EACH REAR BRAKE CALIPER AND REPLACE THE CALIPER IF LEVER SLIPPAGE IS IDENTIFIED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 14, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR SATURN AT 1-800-972…

Source: U.S. NHTSA, checked 4 Nov 2026. A campaign covers the model year; to see whether a particular car still needs the repair, check its VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer.

2005 Buick Terraza common problems

The most-reported problem areas across all 120 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Service Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.
Latches/locks/linkages
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Steering
Steering should be tight and centered — no play, clunks or wandering. Test at low and highway speed; listen for power-steering whine.
Structure
Inspect for rust, fresh undercoating, mismatched paint, uneven panel gaps and any sign of prior collision or frame repair.

2005 Buick Terraza safety ratings

Frontal crash★★★★★
Side crash★★★★★
Frontal — driver★★★★★
Frontal — passenger★★★★★
Side — front seat★★★★★
Side — rear seat★★★★★

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (NCAP), tested as the 2005 Buick Terraza (Later Release). Ratings can differ by body style and drivetrain.

2005 Buick Terraza MPG & running costs

Combined17–18 mpg
City16 mpg
Highway22 mpg
Est. annual fuel cost$3,825
EPA size classMinivan - 4WD
TransmissionAutomatic 4-spd
5-yr fuel cost vs average new car$7,125 more

Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov. The EPA lists 2 versions of this model year; combined is shown as a range and the other figures are averages.

What's a 2005 Buick Terraza worth?

Low
$1,400
Typical price
$3,170
High
$4,950

From 29 comparable 2005 Buick Terraza listings.

Estimated 5-year cost to own

A rough guide to what running a 2005 Buick Terraza costs over five years and 75,000 miles.

Fuel (5 yrs)$19,125
Fuel only$19,125
Per mile$0.26

How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.

Dimensions & weight

Length
205.1 in
Width
72.0 in
Height
72.0 in
Wheelbase
121.3 in
Curb weight
4,389 lb
Front track
63.0 in
Rear track
63.0 in

Manufacturer-reported figures for the 2005 Buick Terraza. Source: Transport Canada vehicle specifications via NHTSA.

Investigations & service bulletins

NHTSA defect investigations 3

POWER SLIDING DOOR Closed

ODI EVALUATED GENERAL MOTORS' (GM) DATA, CONDUCTED CONSUMER INTERVIEWS, INSPECTED AND TESTED MY 2005-2007 GM MINIVANS WITH REGARD TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT OF A POWER SLIDING DOOR (PSD) OPENING WHILE THE VEHICLE IS OUT OF PARK. ODI IDENTIFIED A HIGH WARRANTY CLAIM RATE. HOWEVER, THESE CLAIMS ARE RELATED TO VARIOUS PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH DOORS NOT PROPERLY OPENING OR CLOSING AND NOT SPECIFICALLY TO DOORS OPENING WHILE D…

NHTSA #EA07019 · Latches/locks/linkages, Structure · opened Dec 2007 · closed Feb 2009

POWER SLIDING DOOR OPENING Closed

ODI HAS RECEIVED REPORTS THAT THE POWER SLIDING DOORS OPENED WITHOUT COMMAND WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON MODEL YEAR 2005 AND 2006 GENERAL MOTORS MINIVANS (CHEVROLET UPLANDER/VENTURE, PONTIAC MONTANA SV6/MONTANA, BUICK TERRAZA, AND SATURN RELAY). SOME REPORTS INDICATE THAT THE DOOR MAY NOT HAVE BEEN CLOSED AND LATCHED BEFORE DRIVING AWAY CAUSING THE DOOR TO REVERSE (OPEN) AT LOW VEHICLE SPEEDS. HOWEVER, OTHER R…

NHTSA #PE07044 · Latches/locks/linkages, Structure · opened Aug 2007 · closed Dec 2007

ELECTRICAL HARNESS DAMAGE Closed

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION OPENED THIS INVESTIGATION ON NOVEMBER 29, 2005, BASED ON ONE CONSUMER REPORT TO ODI AND A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN ISSUED BY GENERAL MOTORS. THE BULLETIN, NO. 1613174, ISSUED ON FEBRUARY 21, 2005, STATES IN PART, "SOME CUSTOMERS MAY REPORT A STALL AND/OR NO CRANK, NO START CONDITION AFTER THE WIPERS ARE USED." ANALYSIS OF THE AVAILABLE DATA INDICATES THAT THE PROBLEM EXPERIENCE O…

NHTSA #PE05063 · Electrical System · opened Nov 2005 · closed Mar 2006

An investigation means NHTSA is examining a possible defect — it is not a recall, and many close without one.

Manufacturer service bulletins 561

Technical notes the manufacturer sent to dealers about known issues and fixes. Useful to mention to a mechanic — they are not recalls and repairs may not be covered. Showing the 10 most recent of 561.

This PI directs technician to training regarding sliding door operation.

Bulletin PIT3532C · Jan 2026

This PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.

Bulletin PIP5601C · Jul 2025

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.

Bulletin PIT5074R · May 2025

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.

Bulletin PIT5074R · May 2025

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.

Bulletin PIT5074R · May 2025

This preliminary information discusses a possible moan noise from the rear axle , engineering is reviewing the concern. 

Bulletin PIP6057 · Apr 2025

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment…

Bulletin PIP5358D · Feb 2025

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads. The J-35616-64B is the latest test probe released for checking tension or probing t…

Bulletin PIT5074Q · Dec 2024

This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester  and Vehicle Data Record…

Bulletin PIP4723J · Electrical System · Oct 2024

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures…

Bulletin PIT5099H · Sep 2024

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, listed for the TERRAZA RWD/AWD. Model-year data, not specific to one car.

Canadian recalls 3

Transport Canada recall campaigns for the 2005 Buick Terraza. Relevant if the car was first sold in, or imported from, Canada.

Other

Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk…

Transport Canada #2019420 · Aug 2019

Suspension

On certain Aztek (AWD), Montana (AWD), Relay (AWD), RendezVous (AWD), RendezVous (FWD), Silhouette (AWD), Terraza (AWD), Terraza (FWD), Uplander (AWD) and Venture (AWD) vehicles equipped with independent rear suspension, when operated in extreme cold temperature and on rough roads, water and salt can intrude past the ball joint seal. The combination of theses conditions may the…

Transport Canada #2006199 · Aug 2006

Brakes

Certain vehicles do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 135. To meet the Standard, the vehicle must not move for five minutes when stopped on a steep hill with the parking brake applied and the vehicle in NEUTRAL (N). A part that was not manufactured to specifications can cause the parking brake to fail this test. A loud popping noise as the parking brake is applied or a…

Transport Canada #2005184 · Jun 2005

Source: Transport Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database.

About the Buick Terraza

The Buick Terraza is a four-door minivan marketed by Buick from the 2005 to 2007 model years as a luxury crossover sport van. As Buick's first minivan for the North American market, it was a badge-engineered variant of the Chevrolet, Pontiac, and Saturn minivans sharing the U platform, all manufactured in Doraville, Georgia.

From Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Describes the model line in general, not this model year specifically.

2005 Buick Terraza trims & engines on record

Trims
CXL · CX
Engines
3.5L 6-cyl

2005 Buick Terraza vehicles on record

Other Buick Terraza model years

2005 Buick Terraza — frequently asked questions

Does the 2005 Buick Terraza have any safety recalls?

NHTSA lists 3 recall campaigns for the 2005 Buick Terraza. Whether an individual car still needs a recall repair depends on its VIN — check it on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are done at no charge.

What are the most common problems with the 2005 Buick Terraza?

Across all 120 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are electrical system, electronic stability control (esc), service brakes.

What is the 2005 Buick Terraza safety rating?

NHTSA gives the 2005 Buick Terraza crash-test ratings of frontal 5★, side 4★ (out of 5; this model year pre-dates NHTSA's overall score).

What gas mileage does the 2005 Buick Terraza get?

The 2005 Buick Terraza has U.S. EPA estimates of 17–18 mpg combined, depending on engine and trim (2 versions).

How much is a 2005 Buick Terraza worth?

Comparable 2005 Buick Terraza listings run roughly $1,400–$4,950, typically around $3,170 (from 29 vehicles).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.