VehicleVerdict

2013 Buick Regal electrical system problems

The 2013 Buick Regal has 38 electrical system complaints filed with NHTSA — 28% of the year's total, and up sharply from the prior model year.

38

Electrical System complaints

28%

Share of year

1

Crash-involved

1

Related recalls

Electrical System complaints by year

Related recalls

13V173000Electrical SystemMay 6, 2013 · 42,904 units

Defect

General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Buick LaCrosse and Regal, and model year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco vehicles equipped with eAssist. These vehicles may have a condition in which the Generator Control Module (GCM) may not function properly. This could cause a gradual loss of battery charge and the illumination of the malfunction indicator light.

Consequence

If the vehicle is continued to be driven, the engine may stall and/or the vehicle may not start. In addition, there may be a burning or melting odor, smoke, and possibly a fire in the trunk.

Remedy

GM will notify owners and dealers will test the GCM and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on June 11, 2013. Owners may contact GM at 1-800-521-7300. GM's recall campaign number is 13136.

What owners report

I'VE HAD FOR THE LAST FEW YEARS HAD ISSUES WITH MY 2013 BUICK REGAL TURNING OFF WHILE DRIVING CAUSING A FEW ACCIDENTS THAT HAS NEARLY CAUSE ME MY LIFE. THE CAR HAS HAD MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL ISSUES I'VE TRIED GETTING FIXED AND I'VE DEALT WITH DAMAGE TO MY VEHICLE DUE TO THIS. CAR HAS TURNED OFF ON ME…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Electrical System · June 18, 2020 · crash

Common questions

How many electrical system complaints does the 2013 Buick Regal have?

NHTSA has 38 complaints about the 2013 Buick Regal electrical system — 28% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2013 Buick Regal electrical system?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the electrical system: 13V173000.

Related

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.