The Buick Park Avenue spans 1991–2005 with 25 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1997, 1998, 1999 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1991, 1992, 1993. It delivers up to 21 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Buick Park Avenue is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1991 to 2005 across multiple generations.
How to read a Buick Park Avenue VIN — every digit explained
Every Buick Park Avenue carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Buick and the country it was built in.
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Park Avenue.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Park Avenue, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Buick Park Avenue have?
The Buick Park Avenue has 25 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1991–2005. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2003 Buick Park Avenue recalls 1
Latches/locks/linkages:trunk Lid:lock
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE MAY BE INSTALLED OR FORCED OUT OF THE PROPER POSITION.
Risk. IF THE CABLE IS OUT OF THE PROPER POSITION, IT COULD INCREASE THE FORCE REQUIRED TO ACTIVATE THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE AND A PERSON TRAPPED IN THE TRUNK MAY NOT BE ABLE TO RELEASE THE TRUNK LATCH USING THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL SECURE THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE CABLE TO ENSURE THAT THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE OPERATES PROPERLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 19, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300.
2002 Buick Park Avenue recalls 1
Latches/locks/linkages:trunk Lid:lock
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE MAY BE INSTALLED OR FORCED OUT OF THE PROPER POSITION.
Risk. IF THE CABLE IS OUT OF THE PROPER POSITION, IT COULD INCREASE THE FORCE REQUIRED TO ACTIVATE THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE AND A PERSON TRAPPED IN THE TRUNK MAY NOT BE ABLE TO RELEASE THE TRUNK LATCH USING THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL SECURE THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE CABLE TO ENSURE THAT THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE OPERATES PROPERLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 19, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300.
2001 Buick Park Avenue recalls 2
Latches/locks/linkages:trunk Lid:lock
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE MAY BE INSTALLED OR FORCED OUT OF THE PROPER POSITION.
Risk. IF THE CABLE IS OUT OF THE PROPER POSITION, IT COULD INCREASE THE FORCE REQUIRED TO ACTIVATE THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE AND A PERSON TRAPPED IN THE TRUNK MAY NOT BE ABLE TO RELEASE THE TRUNK LATCH USING THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL SECURE THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE CABLE TO ENSURE THAT THE EMERGENCY TRUNK RELEASE HANDLE OPERATES PROPERLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 19, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 104, "WINDSHIELD WIPING AND WASHING SYSTEMS." THESE VEHICLES HAVE A WIPER SYSTEM MICROPROCESSOR THAT IS SUSCEPTIBLE TO VOLTAGE TRANSIENTS, WHICH CAN CAUSE A "LATCH-UP" CONDITION IN THE SYSTEM CONTROLLER.
Risk. IF MICROPROCESSOR "LATCH-UP" OCCURS, THE CUSTOMER WILL NOT BE ABLE TO OPERATE THE SYSTEM IN BOTH THE LOWER AND HIGH-SPEED MODES REQUIRED BY THE STANDARD.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR COVER WHICH CONTAINS THE MICROPROCESSOR.
2000 Buick Park Avenue recalls 3
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3800 V6 (L36) ENGINES AND CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, THE REGULATORS HAVE A MUCH HIGHER THAN USUAL RATE OF FUEL LEAKS. A LEAK CAN ALLOW FUEL TO ENTER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD THROUGH A VACUUM LINE. IF THE ENGINE DOES NOT START WHEN CRANKED, THE FUEL FROM THE LEAKING REGULATOR AND A MISTIMED SPARK CAN CAUSE A BACKFIRE.
Risk. THE BACKFIRE CAN RUPTURE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE RUPTURE OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD CAN DISPLACE A FUEL LINE, PULLING AN INJECTOR OUT OF PLACE, AND CAUSING A FUEL LEAK AND POSSIBLE FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS WITH IMPROVED DIAPHRAGMS. THE RECALL WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASED MAILINGS. PHASE 1 BEGAN ON JUNE 30, 2004, AND PHASE 2 BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE INTERNAL FLUID LEAKS IN THE BRAKE HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT.
Risk. WHEN THE REAR BRAKE PROPORTIONING, ANTILOCK BRAKE, TRACTION CONTROL, OR STABILITY CONTROL FEATURE IS ACTIVATED IN SOME DRIVING SITUATIONS, THE FEATURE MAY NOT PERFORM AS DESIGNED.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE ABS HYDRAULIC MODULATOR UNIT AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE HYDRAULIC MODULATOR.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 104, "WINDSHIELD WIPING AND WASHING SYSTEMS." THESE VEHICLES HAVE A WIPER SYSTEM MICROPROCESSOR THAT IS SUSCEPTIBLE TO VOLTAGE TRANSIENTS, WHICH CAN CAUSE A "LATCH-UP" CONDITION IN THE SYSTEM CONTROLLER.
Risk. IF MICROPROCESSOR "LATCH-UP" OCCURS, THE CUSTOMER WILL NOT BE ABLE TO OPERATE THE SYSTEM IN BOTH THE LOWER AND HIGH-SPEED MODES REQUIRED BY THE STANDARD.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR COVER WHICH CONTAINS THE MICROPROCESSOR.
1999 Buick Park Avenue recalls 3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH INCORRECT FRONT BRAKE ROTOR, BRAKE CALIPER ASSEMBLY, BRAKE PADS, AND CALIPER MOUNTING BRACKET ON EITHER THE LEFT OR RIGHT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE.
Risk. A VEHICLE WITH THIS CONDITION CAN PULL TO ONE SIDE DURING A BRAKING MANEUVER. IN ADDITION, VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE COULD BE INCREASED.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR CORRECT BRAKE PARTS AND REPLACE ANY INCORRECT ROTORS, CALIPER ASSEMBLIES, BRAKE PADS, AND CALIPER MOUNTING BRACKETS.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3800 V6 (L36) ENGINES AND CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, THE REGULATORS HAVE A MUCH HIGHER THAN USUAL RATE OF FUEL LEAKS. A LEAK CAN ALLOW FUEL TO ENTER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD THROUGH A VACUUM LINE. IF THE ENGINE DOES NOT START WHEN CRANKED, THE FUEL FROM THE LEAKING REGULATOR AND A MISTIMED SPARK CAN CAUSE A BACKFIRE.
Risk. THE BACKFIRE CAN RUPTURE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE RUPTURE OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD CAN DISPLACE A FUEL LINE, PULLING AN INJECTOR OUT OF PLACE, AND CAUSING A FUEL LEAK AND POSSIBLE FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS WITH IMPROVED DIAPHRAGMS. THE RECALL WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASED MAILINGS. PHASE 1 BEGAN ON JUNE 30, 2004, AND PHASE 2 BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:vacuum
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BRAKE BOOSTER TO PEDAL ASSEMBLY ATTACHMENT NUTS MAY BE LOOSE.
Risk. IF THESE NUTS ARE LOOSE, THE BRAKE PEDAL MAY BE LOW, THE ASSEMBLY MAY BE LOOSE, THE BRAKES MAY NOT RELEASE, AND IF THE NUTS BACK COMPLETELY OFF, BRAKING MAY BE LOST. ALSO FUME AND WATER INTRUSION TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAN OCCUR.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE ANY MISSING BRAKE BOOSTER TO BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY NUTS AND TIGHTEN ALL FOUR (4) NUTS TO SPECIFIED TORQUE.
1998 Buick Park Avenue recalls 2
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE FRONT SEAT SHOULDER BELTS THAT MAY TWIST, ALLOWING THE WEBBING TO BECOME JAMMED IN THE RETRACTOR.
Risk. WHEN THE SHOULDER BELT WEBBING BECOMES JAMMED IN THE RETRACTOR, THE BELT MAY BE UNUSABLE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR THE PRESENCE OF UPDATED FRONT SHOULDER BELT BEZELS AND WHERE NECESSARY, INSTALL NEW FRONT SEAT SHOULDER BELT OPENING BEZEL KITS.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3800 V6 (L36) ENGINES AND CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, THE REGULATORS HAVE A MUCH HIGHER THAN USUAL RATE OF FUEL LEAKS. A LEAK CAN ALLOW FUEL TO ENTER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD THROUGH A VACUUM LINE. IF THE ENGINE DOES NOT START WHEN CRANKED, THE FUEL FROM THE LEAKING REGULATOR AND A MISTIMED SPARK CAN CAUSE A BACKFIRE.
Risk. THE BACKFIRE CAN RUPTURE THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE RUPTURE OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD CAN DISPLACE A FUEL LINE, PULLING AN INJECTOR OUT OF PLACE, AND CAUSING A FUEL LEAK AND POSSIBLE FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS WITH IMPROVED DIAPHRAGMS. THE RECALL WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASED MAILINGS. PHASE 1 BEGAN ON JUNE 30, 2004, AND PHASE 2 BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
1997 Buick Park Avenue recalls 3
Seats:mid/rear Assembly
What's wrong. THESE VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH CENTER REAR SEAT BELT ANCHOR BOLTS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES."
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE SEAT BELT SYSTEM WOULD NOT WITHSTAND THE REQUIRED LOAD AND INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT COULD OCCUR.
Fix. DEALERS WILL TIGHTEN THE CENTER REAR SEAT BELT ANCHOR BOLTS TO SPECIFICATION.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip
What's wrong. THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL MODULE OR THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE AND TRACTION CONTROL MODULE CAN CAUSE THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) TO CYCLE DURING A NON-ABS BRAKE APPLICATION.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN AN INCREASE IN VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL MODULE OR THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE AND TRACTION CONTROL MODULE.
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE FRONT SEAT SHOULDER BELTS THAT MAY TWIST, ALLOWING THE WEBBING TO BECOME JAMMED IN THE RETRACTOR.
Risk. WHEN THE SHOULDER BELT WEBBING BECOMES JAMMED IN THE RETRACTOR, THE BELT MAY BE UNUSABLE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR THE PRESENCE OF UPDATED FRONT SHOULDER BELT BEZELS AND WHERE NECESSARY, INSTALL NEW FRONT SEAT SHOULDER BELT OPENING BEZEL KITS.
1996 Buick Park Avenue recalls 3
Electrical System:ignition:anti-theft:control Module
What's wrong. THESE VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH A MALFUNCTION ALARM, LIGHTING AND LOCKING (MALL) MODULE THAT CAN CONTAIN A DAMAGED CAPACITOR. IF THE CAPACITOR IS DAMAGED, THE "KEY IN THE IGNITION" WARNING CHIME AND THE DRIVER SEAT BELT UNBUCKLED WARNING CHIME AND INDICATOR LAMP MAY NOT WORK. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION" AND FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." IN ADDITION, OTHER CHIME REMINDER FUNCTIONS, INTERIOR LIGHTING CONTROLS, AND POWER DOOR LOCKING FEATURES ARE ALSO AFFECTED.
Risk. CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE; THE DRIVER MAY NOT BE AWARE THAT THE KEY WAS LEFT IN THE IGNITION OR THAT THE SAFETY BELT WAS NOT BUCKLED.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF REQUIRED, REPLACE THE MALL MODULE.
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
What's wrong. A BACKFIRE DURING ENGINE STARTING CAN CAUSE BREAKAGE OF THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE A NO-START CONDITION AND POSSIBLY AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL UPDATE THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE PROGRAMMING. UNTIL THE CAMPAIGN REPAIR IS MADE, THE VEHICLE HOOD SHOULD BE SHUT WHENEVER STARTING THE VEHICLE TO REDUCE THE CHANCE OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
What's wrong. THESE VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH ONE OR MORE INCORRECT SAFETY BELT AND/OR SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ENDS. THIS DOES NOT CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES."
Risk. CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: IF AN INCORRECT PART IS USED, THE BELT MAY NOT LATCH PROPERLY, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE OCCUPANT SHOULD A VEHICLE CRASH OCCUR.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT ALL FRONT AND REAR SAFETY BELT LATCH ENDS AND SAFETY BELT BUCKLES FOR CORRECT PARTS AND REPLACE ANY INCORRECT PARTS.
1995 Buick Park Avenue recalls 1
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. THE DRIVER SIDE HEADLAMP LENS HAS AN INCORRECT AIM PAD NUMBER ON THE LENS. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Risk. CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: IF THESE HEAD LAMPS ARE RE-AIMED USING A MECHANICAL AIMING DEVICE THAT UTILIZES THE AIMING PAD NUMERS, THE RESULTANT AIM WOULD BE OUT OF THE SPECIFIED RANGE. THIS MAY CAUSE A VISIBILITY PROBLEM INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER SIDE HEADLAMP ON VEHICLES WITH THE CORRECT OUTBOARD LOWER PAD NUMBER.
1993 Buick Park Avenue recalls 1
Power Train:automatic Transmission:cooling Unit And Lines
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 1991 THROUGH JULY 1995. THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINE CAN SEPARATE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED IN LOW TEMPERATURES IN COMBINATION WITH HIGH TRANSMISSION LOADS.
Risk. VEHICLE FIRES CAN OCCUR DUE TO THE SPILLAGE OF TRANSMISSION FLUID.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINES.
1992 Buick Park Avenue recalls 1
Power Train:automatic Transmission:cooling Unit And Lines
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 1991 THROUGH JULY 1995. THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINE CAN SEPARATE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED IN LOW TEMPERATURES IN COMBINATION WITH HIGH TRANSMISSION LOADS.
Risk. VEHICLE FIRES CAN OCCUR DUE TO THE SPILLAGE OF TRANSMISSION FLUID.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER LINES.
1991 Buick Park Avenue recalls 1
Parking Brake:conventional:mechanical
What's wrong. WHEN APPLIED, THE PARKING BRAKE LEVER ASSEMBLY MAY RELEASE ONE OR MORE TEETH, REDUCING THE CABLE LOAD TO THE REAR BRAKES.
Risk. DEPENDING ON THE EXTENT OF THE LEVER RELEASE AND ROADLEVEL. THE PARKING BRAKE MAY NOT HOLD THE VEHICLE, ALLOWING IT TO ROLL, WHICHCOULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. VEHICLE DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 105.
Fix. REPLACE PARKING BRAKE LEVER ASSEMBLY.
Best and worst years for the Buick Park Avenue
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 15 tracked years, the worst years are 1997, 1998, 1999 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1991, 1992, 1993.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 Park Avenue | — | Best | |
| 1992 Park Avenue | — | Best | |
| 1993 Park Avenue | — | Best | |
| 1994 Park Avenue | Structure | Average | |
| 1995 Park Avenue | Steering | Average | |
| 1996 Park Avenue | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1997 Park Avenue | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 1998 Park Avenue | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 1999 Park Avenue | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 2000 Park Avenue | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 2001 Park Avenue | Electrical System | Average | |
| 2002 Park Avenue | Electrical System | Average | |
| 2003 Park Avenue | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 2004 Park Avenue | Exterior Lighting | Average | |
| 2005 Park Avenue | Wheels | Average |
What are the most common Buick Park Avenue problems?
The most-reported Buick Park Avenue problems are Air (3 reports), Other (12 reports) and Seats (24 reports) — out of 1,212 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Buick Park Avenue specifications & dimensions
The 2005 Buick Park Avenue measures 207″ long on a 114″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 3,801 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Buick Park Avenue window sticker.
| Wheelbase | 114″ (289 cm) |
| Rear track | 62″ |
| Body / trim | Park Avenue 4dr Sedan Base |
| Curb weight | 3,801 lb (1724 kg) |
| Front track | 63″ |
| Overall width | 75″ (190 cm) |
| Overall height | 57″ (146 cm) |
| Overall length | 207″ (525 cm) |
| Weight distribution (front/rear) | 63/37% |
How the Park Avenue's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999–2005 | 207″ | 75″ | 57″ | 114″ | 3,779 lb |
| 1996 | 206″ | 74″ | 55″ | 111″ | 3,534 lb |
| 1993 | 206″ | 75″ | 56″ | 111″ | 3,269 lb |
| 1991 | 205″ | 75″ | 56″ | 111″ | 3,578 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Buick Park Avenue cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Park Avenue holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 111 cu ft of passenger volume and 20 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Buick Park Avenue tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Buick Park Avenue get?
The Buick Park Avenue returns up to 21 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,950/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 2005 Buick Park Avenue (3.8L 6-cyl) gets 21 mpg combined and costs about $2,950/yr to fuel, emitting 423 g/mi CO₂ (smog 5/10) — about $3,750 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 Park Avenue | 18 | 27 | $2,950 | 423 | 5/10 | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 2004 Park Avenue | 18 | 27 | $2,950 | 423 | 5/10 | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 2003 Park Avenue | 17 | 27 | $2,950 | 423 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 2002 Park Avenue | 17 | 27 | $2,950 | 423 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 2001 Park Avenue | 17 | 27 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 2000 Park Avenue | 17 | 27 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1999 Park Avenue | 17 | 25 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1998 Park Avenue | 17 | 26 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1997 Park Avenue | 17 | 26 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1996 Park Avenue | 17 | 27 | $2,950 | 423 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1995 Park Avenue | 17 | 26 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1994 Park Avenue | 17 | 25 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1993 Park Avenue | 17 | 25 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1992 Park Avenue | 16 | 24 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1991 Park Avenue | 16 | 24 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Park Avenue stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this Park Avenue's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Buick Park Avenue have? Power & range
The Buick Park Avenue is offered with 1 powertrain — 3.8L 6-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 3.8L · 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | FWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Buick Park Avenue cost to own?
A used Buick Park Avenue sells for a median of about $6,995 for a 2003 — most listed between $1,700 and $7,200, from 31 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:
| Year | Typical price | Market range | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 Park Avenue | $1,700–$7,200 | 19 | |
| 2002 Park Avenue | $5,500–$5,500 | 3 | |
| 2000 Park Avenue | $2,000–$7,500 | 6 | |
| 1999 Park Avenue | $1,395–$2,500 | 3 |
For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a Park Avenue is worth today, or browse used-market prices across all models.
A Buick Park Avenue tends to depreciate faster than average. A typical example keeps roughly 37% of its value after five years — losing about 63% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 75% | $22,500 | −$7,500 |
| Year 2 | 63% | $18,900 | −$11,100 |
| Year 3 | 53% | $15,900 | −$14,100 |
| Year 4 | 44% | $13,200 | −$16,800 |
| Year 5 | 37% | $11,100 | −$18,900 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Park Avenue loses about 63% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $14,750 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Park Avenue ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Buick Park Avenue safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Park Avenue yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Buick Park Avenue last?
A well-maintained Buick Park Avenue typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.
Check your Buick Park Avenue’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Park Avenue’s VIN free →All Buick Park Avenue model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Buick Park Avenue — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — | |
| 2004 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — | |
| 2003 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — | |
| 2002 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — | |
| 2001 Park Avenue | 2 recalls | — | |
| 2000 Park Avenue | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1999 Park Avenue | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1998 Park Avenue | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1997 Park Avenue | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1996 Park Avenue | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1995 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — | |
| 1994 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — | |
| 1993 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — | |
| 1992 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — | |
| 1991 Park Avenue | 1 recall | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Park Avenue?
By owner-complaint volume, 1997, 1998, 1999 drew the most reports. 1991, 1992, 1993 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Park Avenue have?
25 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1991–2005. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the Park Avenue get?
Up to 21 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Park Avenue last?
A well-maintained Park Avenue typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Park Avenue reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Park Avenue is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Buick Park Avenue warranty?
New Buick models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Buick dealer.
Where is the Buick Park Avenue made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Park Avenue's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Buick may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much does a Park Avenue weigh?
The Park Avenue's curb weight is around 3,801 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.
How much ground clearance does the Park Avenue have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.