Best Years to Buy a Used Buick Verano
The Buick Verano is a popular used car choice, but certain model years have documented issues worth knowing about — including timing chain stretch on 2.0t ecotec. Here's a breakdown of the best and worst years to buy.
Known Issues — Buick Verano
- 2012–2017: Timing chain stretch on 2.0T Ecotec — same as Chevy Malibu/Cruze; rattling on cold start [High severity]
Years to Avoid
Exercise extra caution with model years 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 due to documented high-severity issues. If buying one of these years, have a pre-purchase inspection done and verify any known repairs have been completed.
- 2012–2017: Timing chain stretch on 2.0T Ecotec
What to Inspect Before Buying
- Run a VIN report (Carfax or AutoCheck) to check for accidents, title issues, and odometer rollbacks
- Ask specifically about Timing chain stretch on 2.0T Ecotec — verify it has been addressed
- Verify all open recalls at NHTSA.gov/recalls using the VIN
- Have an independent mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection ($100–$200)
- Ask for service records — consistent maintenance history is the best reliability indicator
Check Repair Costs Before You Buy
See repair cost estimates, known issues, and a pre-purchase inspection checklist for any by model year.
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