Market Position:
The Buick Terraza was positioned as a premium minivan, offering a more refined and comfortable experience compared to its GM sibling platforms, often targeting families seeking a blend of utility and upscale features.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other mainstream minivans of the era, including the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and its GM stablemates (Chevrolet Uplander, Pontiac Montana SV6, Saturn Relay). Its distinguishing features often included a more car-like ride and Buick's signature quiet cabin.
Key Features Manual:
Extensive coverage of both available V6 engines, detailed troubleshooting guides, high-quality visuals, and direct comparability to factory dealership workshop manuals.
Engine Systems 3.5L:
Engine Controls, Cooling, Electrical, Exhaust
Engine Systems 3.9L:
Engine Controls, Cooling, Electrical, Exhaust
Powertrain Systems:
Automatic Transmission Overhaul, Automatic Transmission Troubleshooting, Drive Axle Limited Slip, Rear Drive Axle, Transfer Case, Universal Joint, Wheel Drive Shafts
Brake Systems:
ABS, Disc Brakes, Hydraulic Brakes, Parking Brake
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Power Steering, Steering Column
Electrical Body:
Electrical Component Locator, Exterior Lights, Gages, Horns, HVAC, Immobilizer, Instrument Panel Inflatable Restraint Module Replacement, Keyless Entry, SIR Disabling and Enabling, Wiper Washer, Wiring
Interior Exterior:
Cabin Air Filter, Doors, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Roof, Seats
General Coverage:
Maintenance, Frame Underbody, Vehicle DTC
Procedures Included:
Engine removal/installation, transmission overhaul, brake system diagnostics and repair, suspension component replacement, electrical troubleshooting, HVAC system service, interior and exterior trim repair, body panel alignment, powertrain control module (PCM) diagnostics, airbag system service, ABS system bleeding and repair, limited slip differential service, body control module (BCM) function testing.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail covering all aspects of vehicle service, from routine maintenance and diagnostics to complete component overhaul and repair. Includes detailed procedures, specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Primary Engine 3.5L Lx9:
3.5L OHV V6. Displacement: 3500cc. Configuration: V6. Fuel System: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI). Bore x Stroke: 96.0mm x 81.0mm. Compression Ratio: 9.8:1.
Primary Engine 3.9L Lz9:
3.9L OHV V6 with Variable Valve Timing (VVT). Displacement: 3880cc. Configuration: V6. Fuel System: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI). Bore x Stroke: 97.0mm x 89.0mm. Compression Ratio: 9.6:1.
Horsepower 3.5L:
Approximately 200-205 hp @ 5600 rpm (varies by model year).
Torque 3.5L:
Approximately 220-225 lb-ft @ 3200-4000 rpm (varies by model year).
Horsepower 3.9L:
Approximately 240 hp @ 5800 rpm.
Torque 3.9L:
Approximately 245 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 21 gallons (79.5 L)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only 4-speed auto offered for these engines)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shifting, torque converter clutch (TCC) for improved fuel efficiency.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent.
Length:
Approximately 201.4 inches (5116 mm)
Width:
Approximately 72.5 inches (1841 mm)
Height:
Approximately 68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 120.0 inches (3048 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 20.5 cubic feet (581 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 63.1 cubic feet (1787 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approximately 131.9 cubic feet (3735 L)
Curb Weight Min:
Approximately 4383 lbs (1988 kg)
Curb Weight Max:
Approximately 4552 lbs (2065 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approximately 5907 lbs (2680 kg)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
5-Star (2005-2007 model years)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
5-Star (2005-2007 model years)
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
4-Star (2005-2007 model years)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
4-Star (2005-2007 model years)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4-Star (30.1% likelihood of rollover)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) (standard on most models), StabiliTrak (optional on some models).
Passive Safety Features:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Side curtain airbags (for all three rows), Front seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment Options:
Available with AM/FM stereo, CD player, optional DVD rear-seat entertainment system, and available SiriusXM satellite radio. Bose premium audio system was also an option.
Driver Assistance Features:
Key features include cruise control. Some models may have had optional rear parking assist sensors.
Connectivity Features:
Available keyless entry system. OnStar communication system was optional on some trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil. Consult owner's manual for exact recommendations based on driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically recommended replacement around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement typically every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Consult owner's manual. Typically recommended around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for 'normal' service, but frequent towing or severe use may require earlier changes. This manual provides detailed procedure.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (synthetic recommended for optimal performance and longevity).
Coolant Specification:
GM Universal Orange Coolant (or equivalent DEX-COOL compatible antifreeze).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3.
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
GM Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron III/VI ATF.
Known Issues:
Potential for transmission solenoid issues (especially on older 4T65-E units), power steering pump leaks, AC evaporator leaks (resulting in poor cooling), interior trim creaks and rattles, and occasional issues with power sliding doors. The manual provides diagnostic procedures for these and more.
Brand Heritage:
Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing comfortable and refined vehicles, often positioned as a premium American brand. The Terraza aimed to carry this legacy into the minivan segment.
Model Evolution:
The Buick Terraza was introduced for the 2005 model year as a replacement for the Buick Rendezvous (though the Rendezvous was an SUV-like crossover). It was part of GM's strategy to offer a distinct minivan for each of its brands on the shared U-body platform. The Terraza received minor updates during its production run but remained largely consistent.
Production Years:
2005-2007
Manufacturing Location:
General Motors Oshawa Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.