Introduced for the 2005 model year, the Buick Terraza was a luxury-themed minivan that didn’t sell particularly well in North America when it was new. But it offers outstanding value on the used market, given its luxurious amenities and V6 power. Both engines were mated to the 4-speed GM 4T65E transmission, which with routine maintenance can be fairly reliable. However, Buick Terraza transmission problems do still happen. So let’s find out what you can do.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Buick Terraza Transmission Models
Buick Terraza: 4T65E FWD Transmission
Buick Terraza Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate
Pricing varies by model. To be 100% sure on pricing, have your VIN# handy and use our Get An Estimate feature to look up your transmission by VIN#.
Replacement 4T65E Transmission:
| Transmission | Street Smart Transmission |
|---|---|
| 4T65E | 1935 |
What are the DTC codes related to Buick Terraza transmission problems?
| Trouble Code | Description |
|---|---|
| P0717 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal |
| P0730 | Incorrect Gear Ratio |
| P0753 | Shift Solenoid 'A' Electrical |
| P0758 | Shift Solenoid 'B' Electrical |
| P1860 | TCC PWM Solenoid Circuit Electrical |
Buick Terraza Transmission Recalls
None Found
Buick Terraza Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)
Problem – Drivers can experience unusually harsh shifts, along with the following DTC’s: P0716, P0717, P0730, P0753, P0758, P1860, P1887
Solution – Inspect, repair and/or replace the transaxle 20-way connector to the transmission wiring harness
TSB 00-06-04-037A – Harsh shifting with DTC’s P0716 and/or P0717 – 4T40E Transmission | 4T45E Transmission | 4T65E Transmission
Problem – Some drivers may experience unusually harsh gear changes, accompanied by a P0716 and/or P0717 DTC
Solution – This problem can be caused by an intermittent connection of the input speed sensor circuit at the transaxle 20-way connector
TSB 06-07-30-023 – 4T65E transmission 1-2 Shift Shudder
Problem – Shuddering or shaking may be felt during the 1-2 shift, under light acceleration at speeds below 25 mph.
Solution – To correct this common 4T65E transmission problem, the entire second clutch assembly will need to be replaced.
TSB 08-07-30-016 – Slipping, refusal to shift, overheating
Problem – Slipping between the gears, overheating, refusal to shift out of a gear, and/or DTC P0894 or P0218, may be because by friction material debonding from the torque convertor clutch (TCC).
Solution – If the friction material has circulated throughout the transmission, the entire transmission may need to be replaced. It is possible to remove the material from the internal components (like transmission cooler lines and the valve body), but it depends on the extent of the damage.
Common Problems with the Buick Terraza Transmission
TCC Solenoid Circuit DTC – Buick Terraza 4T65E
Problem – Diagnostic trouble codes (P0742, P2761, P2764) relating to the torque convertor clutch, may be caused by an incorrectly routed internal wiring harness that can short itself out over time.
Solution – To solve this problem, reposition the tan colored TCC solenoid so that it does not come in contact with the metal wiring harness retaining clip.
Lack of Response
Leaking Fluid
Low Fluid
Burning Smell
Grinding or Shaking
Whining, Clunking or Humming
Refuses to Go Into Gear
Torque Converter Issues
Valve Body Issues
Transmission Noisy in Neutral
Gears Slipping
No 3rd or 4th Gear
No 1st or 2nd Gear
No Reverse
Dragging Clutch
Trouble Codes / Check Engine Light
Can I drive with a transmission problem?
Once you’ve discovered that you have a transmission issue, continuing to drive your minivan can make the problem even worse. Many 4T65E transmission problems like slipping in and out of gear, or refusing to shift out of a gear, will get a lot worse if you continue to drive. And you may have to spend even more money to replace broken hard parts like a clutch drum. At which point it may be more cost effective to just buy a remanufactured 4T65E transmission.
How often does a Buick Terraza transmission need to be replaced?
With proper maintenance, a Buick Terraza 4T65E transmission can last between 130,000-180,000 miles. A properly built remanufactured 4T65E on the other hand, may last significantly longer if all of the factory design flaws are addressed.
How are Buick Terraza transmission issues diagnosed?
The first step to diagnosing a 4T65E transmission problem is to connect a code reader to the OBDII port under the dash. After all of the diagnostic trouble codes have been assessed, the mechanic can then perform a visual inspection, and possibly a test drive, to verify the problem.
How is a Buick Terraza transmission replaced?
Because the Buick Terraza was designed as a front wheel drive vehicle (even if it has all wheel drive), the motor may have to be partially removed in order to pull the old transmission out. Obviously, installing the new 4T65E is a reverse of the removal process. However, the ECU / PCM will need to be reprogrammed / reflashed to accept the new transmission.
Recommendations for Buick Terraza transmission issues?
To save time and get back on the road faster, have your 17-digit truck VIN# handy and you can get an online quote for a reman Buick Terraza transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.
How to Solve Buick Terraza Transmission Problems
Solution A: Buy a Used Buick Terraza Transmission
Most people might think that buying a used 4T65E transmission would be the cheapest way to get back on the road. However, there is no guarantee that a used transmission won’t have the same problems that you’re having right now. And speaking of guarantees, that junkyard warranty probably won’t cover all labor charges if something goes wrong and you have to replace that transmission again.
Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Buick Terraza Transmission
If you decide to buy a rebuilt 4T65E transmission, keep in mind that most mechanics will simply use OE spec Buick Terraza transmission parts, which means that the factory design flaws will still be there. Plus, any warranty that they give you might be good at that shop. So if you have transmission problems while your out of town, that warranty won’t do you any good.
Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Buick Terraza Transmission
If you’re looking for a long term solution to your Buick Terraza transmission problems, then a remanufactured 4T65E transmission may be your best bet. There are often upgraded to correct for factory design flaws, which will make them last a lot longer than a stock transmission. And a few of them will offer nationwide warranties too.
What Transmission Do I Have?
What Problem Does Your Buick Terraza Have?
Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!
I have a 2008 only gear it will go in is reverse backwards
Shifter does not engage.what is the price for replacement
Leaking fluid, slight grinding noise, intermittently. 103100 miles, 2006 cxl
2005 Buick Terraza CXL, 158,000 miles. Check Engine light has been on for nearly a year. My new mechanic noted the computer code P1811 Maximum Adapt & Long Shift and said he would not recommend doing a transmission flush and filter replacement. It’s never been flushed before. He said at the some point the transmission will fail with this code reading. I don’t notice any problems now. Just drove to Grand Island, NE this weekend (920 miles round trip) at average 80 mph. 08/20/22
I have a 2005 Buick Terraza haven’t got it checked and have no check engine light on but planning to get it repaired this week. My transmission started shifting hard while driving about 8 months ago after I got a tune up. A month ago it won’t drive in Drive and I had to drive in 2nd gear to get home. Now it only goes in reverse. Also when I have the heat on that’s when the hard shifting starts.
Takes a long time to shift out of first. Shifts on its own faster when its colder outside rather than when its warmer
no shifting 1 gear and 2 gear
2005 Buick Terraza 135K miles. I purchased new and did all maintenance. When cold and from a stop the transmission slips and slams into 1st gear. When warm the issue goes away.
I just bought a used 2006 Buick Terraza 3.50 V6 it just started shuddering when I press my gas pedal. Hoping it’s not the transmission.
2005 BUICK TERARRA
TAKES ABOUT 20 MIN BEFORE IT CHANGES IN 2ND OR 3RD GEAR THEN DRIVES GREAT
2007 Terraza slips and shifts hard into 1st from stop…
I bought my 2006 Buick Terrzaz brand new from Luther Brookdale dealership. I kept up the maintenance little to no repairs but brakes and rotors. Then one day the car wouldn’t drive in first gear. I am so disappointed I see an old van still driving and I took care of mine. I believe Buick own me a replacement Van. I sold it back to Luther Brookdale in Brooklyn Center Minnesota for $250.00 I feel cheated and broken. They need to give me a replacement Van free. I bought this car new Low mile and everything.
06 terraza
240k mi. 2 fld and filter changes.
Hard shifts and major slippage between 2-3 & 3-4. Over heating after 1hr of +75mph
This along with uncountable electric problems through out the van. Doors, radio, lights, trans sensors (says the Trac and stability control needs service right when you start it, then goes away 5-10 min later), rear air ride won’t deflate to level the van it is always completely full, rides like a lumber wagon. Lights dim every 7-9 seconds, new alternator and battery and cables. Sometimes it looks like they are flashing off and on.
2005 buuck terazza cxl fwd. 160000 miles
Lost overdrive and 3rd gear while pulling away from parked position , was no sound etc , I shifted down to second then to 3rd and then overdrive , but when stopped had to shift down to first 2nd 3rd overdrive again
Did you ever find a solution for this? I’m experiencing the same issue now.