2002 Buick Rendezvous Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.09/5 Average
226 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Who woulda thought -- a Buick SUV? More accurately, the Rendezvous is one of a new breed of crossover vehicles that combines the look and utility of an SUV with the comfort of a touring car. The Rendezvous is based on the Pontiac Aztek, itself based on GM's minivan family consisting of the Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana and Oldsmobile Silhouette.

Pros:
  • Available third-row seat that folds flush with the load floor, independent rear suspension, optional rear parking assist.
Cons:
  • Down on power compared to the competition, minimal off-road capability.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 226.00
  • small breaks big bucks - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    Just after the extended warranty was up the power window quit working. A small plastic piece broke costing $190. Now the other front window has made a loud pop and I am afraid to use it for fear it will not roll up soon. The ac condensor has a pinhole rubbed in it by the frame the quote is $800. If summer would have come a month sooner the vehicle would have still been under warranty. The mechanic that quoted the ac problem said that this is a common problem that he sees a lot.

  • No major problems until warranty expired - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    Our family purchased this vehicle with 15,000 miles left on the warranty. Within a few thousand miles after warranty expiration, right and left wheel bearings and air condintioning needed repair. Approximately every 3 months since then (over the past 4 years), a major malfunction has occurred, which usually consists of the car not starting for a variety of reasons, including major fuel line corrosion. I dont understand how this vehicle has been reviewed so highly. Most people Ive talked to with Rendezvous have had similar experiences. Our mechanic feels so bad for us that he frequently undercharges for his services.

  • Great, but... - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    Great SUV, but weve had problems with its computer system, which has been frustrating.

  • Known Problems Cost Money - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    Ive owned my 2002 Rendezvous since the summer of 2001. I absolutely loved my Rendezvous up until last year. Once I reached about 50K, its been problem after problem. The A/C condenser went, engine antifreeze gasket leaks, and we had to replace the transmission and the cars computer. In addition, there were other costly repairs, like excessive tire wearing (never in an accident). Weve had to get two wheel alignments and four new tires twice in the past 18 months. Also had the AWD light come on, and of course that was broken. Another major hassle is a blockage in the igintion. Insert the key, and it hits an obstruction which is a metal piece which is suppose to retract, but doesnt.

  • Buy That Warranty! - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    This seemed to be a great vehicle and I thought it was pretty well built. We had the standard air conditioner cracks (warranty) and the drivers lumbar knob has broken off three times, but it wasnt until after the warranty ran out that we got to experience the head and intake gaskets (as everyone else seems to have also experienced). The extended warranty (thank God I bought it) sent an inspector to the dealership to ensure there was no fraud with all the problems I was charging to them. The dealership even started paying my extended warranty deductible! I will never buy a GM automobile again. This is a good vehicle for about 2 years and then you are in trouble.

  • Never Again - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    The car was great until 45K. The spare tire housing became corroded so the tire could not be removed, we had to replace. The intake value went out at only 50K. After that major work, the head gasket went out at 55K. In between there were problems with the electrical system, the door panel controls falling into the door, and the drivers side window keeps slipping.

  • Almost perfect - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    Bought the first year. Loved the interior room. Big storage in console and wifes pocketbook fit underneath. All cars should have the heads-up display. Never would have ordered it but it came with the car and we loved it once we had it. Unfortunately, instrument cluster failed twice and had to be replaced. Third time vehicle caught fire and was totally destroyed. Bad Buick design or incompetent dealers mechanics? Who knows? Replaced it with the Acura MDX which isnt nearly as good. Wish wed bought another Rendezvous!

  • Worst car ever owned - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    This is the worst and most unsafe car I have ever owned or driven! Heard this was a flop from GM. The car rocks like a boat when driving and on highways the car is pushed when passing of a truck or bigger vehicle. Computer system in this car is a nightmare! Constantly in the shop! Biggest and costliest mistake!

  • Have owned 3 years with very few problems - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    I bought my Rendezvous used in 5/2004 for $17K and have had only one problem. The left front bearing went and was repaired under warranty. It has been a very reliable car, and is superb in the snow. I currently have 66,000 miles on it and no problems. I recommend buying a used one with an extended warranty. The gas mileage is very good for a truck this size. I get about 19/20 mpg average. None of the truck chasis SUVs can come close to the comfort and handling of this SUV. Its not perfect, but its a steal if bought used. Go ahead and compare it to the Pilot, even MDX, its that good.

  • Awesome change - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
    By -

    Believe it or not, I traded a Lincoln Navigator to purchase this car. I needed better gas mileage and a shorter car to fit in parking garages. I also wanted an SUV because I didnt want a minivan. I test drove EVERY SUV on the market, and chose the Buick RDV. I LOVE this car. I love the interior comfort, the third row seats, and the size of the vehicle. It fits Lacrosse Sticks for 3 kids which was a "must". The pickup is good on the highway, and the gas mileage is a great improvement from what I was used to. I would recommend this car to anyone!!!

Buick Rendezvous Reviews By Year:
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