Like Fedlawman, I too own a Rendezvous. I agree with everything Fed said in his post. (Gosh, I'm easy.) I'd only add that as you've noticed, the usable space in the Rendzvous is cavernous (like a minivan). People seem to really like the I6 in the Trailblazer, Envoy and Bravada, and I wouldn't disagree. But the Rendezvous is simply larger than those trucks when it comes to carrying volume, and several times already that volume has come through for my wife and me. I couldn't be more pleased.
I too tried looking for a update to that safari trip with the RDV but no luck. Hopefully they'll publish something soon or at the end of the event. I'm pretty curious as how well the RDV handled the journey.
First let me say thank you to all of you have posted valuable information on this forum - it made our decision to purchase a Rendezvous so much easier. We just picked up our Black Rendezvous with gray interior on Saturday and are just about ready for our first refueling.
My question is this: The manual states to use 87 or higher octane fuel however, our dealer advised not to use anything higher than 87 because "it could potentially damage the engine during the winter". What is everyone out there using and what have you heard?
And, if 87 or higher is better will I get greater gas mileage? So far we're averaging 21.2 mpg on the first tank with 4 gallons to go - actually better than our convertible!
sam: I don't know about damage caused by higher octane in winter. This is the first I've heard of it.
I do know that virtually everything I've ever read, from owners and elsewhere, has stated that mileage does not improve when using higher octane. So I save my dough.
In the case of an older engine, higher octane sometimes will do away with an engine knock. And that may even change with today's increasingly electronically-controlled engines.
jp614 - Thanks a lot for finding this site. It is great news for Buick to have very minimal problems passing through treacherous mountains, passes and offcourse dirt and gravel roads. Looks like the AWD is performing quite well even though people think that it is not supposed to be used for "lots of" off road activities. Even the lower profile has not been issue as of now which is good news.
I think you're the first owner of a black RDV to join us...congratulations! Admit it, you got the black so it would match your diecast model, didn't you?
Regarding your octane question, using higher octane gas will not harm your car, but since the engine is not tuned to run on it, you will not gain any benefit either.
I remember a few years ago,I wanted to increase the horsepower of my Miata 1.8L engine. I learned that by retarding the timing and switching to 92 octane (to prevent knock), I could gain a handful of ponies. It worked too! Today, with VVT engines, these tweaks are no longer needed as the engine management computer constantly adjusts the valve timing depending on revs, throttle position, and yes, type of fuel.
regrettably, the RDV does not have a VVT engine so, unless you were to change the timing yourself, there is no danger of knock, and therefore, no need for higher octane gas.
Have had my RDV for a month...very pleased. Got rid of Firestone tires immediately and put on Michelins....now better handling! On a recent 2000 mile trip I averaged 25.5 mpg and got as high as 27.8 on one leg. Local driving has been 21+ mpg. The only thing I disliked was the appearance of the alumininum suspension from the rear, so I painted most of it flat black! It hides the aluminum very nicely. Can't imagine why Buick did not do this as most car undercarriages are painted black to hide this part of the suspension. Love the ride and the versatility of this vehicle. If I had my preference I would want the GM 3800 engine in this vehicle. This is the first car I have owned where many people are stopping me to look at it and ask questions. I took the "Rendezvous" and the "CX" badging off and it is now a very clean looking vehicle. Buick has a winner in this one! Richard, Port Orange, Florida
I'm sure somewhere in 1700 posts someone mentioned this - has anybody had a trailer hitch attached to their Rendezvous and towed anything? I need to tow a 2500 lb camper and I was wondering how capable this vehicle is in the towing department.
Also, how can you spend $30K on a vehicle and then turn around and change the tires immediately? Doesn't that cost $600 or more? Were the Firestones that bad? Anybody else have to change tires? Is there a tire updgrade option?
That is awesome gas mileage! Our CXL rarely sees the freeway and we consistently score between 16 and 17 MPG. Not to worry though, with about a 250 mile range per tankful, it lasts us almost two weeks since neither the wife nor I commute in the RDV.
Midlife - I am actually satisfied with the Firestone tires. Their cornering grip is marginal at best, but they are smooth and quiet on the road.
BTW, we have quite a few new owners here. There is a Buick Rendezvous "owner's forum" here at edmunds where you can read about us "old timers" and introduce yourselves! We'd love to hear from you and learn what led you to the RDV and how your buying/ownership experience has been.
I find I get about 3 miles up and 3 down from where I set the speed...say 55. Anyone know a way to tweak the software to respond say about 2 miles up and 2 down. Is this what the rest of you see?
Use any octane you want. Your dealer is out to lunch. Like others, I will tell you that higher grades will do nothing for you so save your money.
A friend of mine has a friend that works at a gas station and quite often they dump higher grades into the 87 octane tank if that's what they are running out of. So.. if what your dealer said is true, there would be a lot of people damaging their engines.
Richard,I commented on the suspension some time ago. Wondered the same thing about the silver color. Thought about painting it but was concerned about it peeling off and looking worse. I guess in time it will darken with age. Midlife and Fedlaw I also,have the Firestone Affinity's on my RDV and have to disagree with all the negative comments on them. So far, I find them to be an exceptionally good handling safe tire. If I thought otherwise I would not hesitate to change them. jp64 , thanks for the "Inca Trail link , very interesting and shows the RDV more then held it's own.
Thanks for the warm welcome to the forum and for the fast info on the octane question. We figured what we were told was suspect but one never knows. We've put about 350 miles on our new toy since we picked it up on Saturday mainly because we just can't stop driving it! It's nice to drive a vehicle that turns so many heads.
Just had to introduce myself as the new owner of a Black rendezvous gray interior CX with the 1SC package. I have lurked here quite awhile getting all the info from all the posters while we were deciding what to buy. We are very happy with our purchase and want to say thanks to everyone for all the info everything you described about the RDV was true and made buying one for us a breeze.
I went by a large suburban Tx dealer over the weekend and they only had 1 CX in stock, and I knew a lot more about it than the dealer did. Was nice, but I'm still looking. Did not see all the gadgets everyone talks about on it, must need to get the higher model, forgive me if I havne't memorized the option sheet.
Regarding the motor, has anyone driven the 3.5 olds v6 in the intrigue?? Sweet new design OHC motor that would really go well in this vehicle. Lots of torque, 215 hp, smooth as a electric motor, and it revs like a maxima motor all the way to redline. Its based on the northstar caddy motor (not a cutoff job like typical GM, but 1 cyl cloned 6 times). I loved the motor but not the intrigue enough to buy one. Sources say its too expensive to mfg so GM will be dropping it. I say GM is dumb - use that motor in the Rendezvous, and you have a REAL contender for the import SUV's everyone compares it to. Also would really take this above the Pontiac version (although looks and wheelbase do a good job of that too).
I also read on one post of a rumor that GM will chop off a cyl of new I6 and make a I5 for the the rendezvous - more expensive development so they can throw that motor away too...
Sorry, just seen GM do this too many times. I can dream of a 3.5 Rend.....
I too was dreaming of a bigger engine too but folks have told me the 3.5 Olds V6 won't fit the engine bay of the RDV/Aztek, same as with the 3800 V6.
I've read reports of development of I5's and I4's based off of the new I6 from the GM triplets in the near future. But who knows if they'll make it into RDV/Aztek.
110cubic feet in back. No kids, but I've put four foot wide boards flat back there. 62" sheets of glass. A three level ferret cage. And I already know that my wife's and my skis will lie flat in back when the snow starts to fly. Oh yeah. The Rendezvous is big enough all right. What else do you want to know?
CWJ
P.S. Hi to the Brians, John, Buzzbo, R5, Tony and any other "oldsters" still lurking around this thread. Gammera just turned 5(k) this week.
3.5L production stops in spring 2002. Motor cost too much to upgrade for 2003 US emissions standards. I-5 might be an option for the Rendezvous though. I know there are a number of decent engines in the GM pipeline.
In Sep., Buick RDV sold almost 4000 units, passed Acura MDX, M-B M Class and BMW X5, only behind the Lexus RX300's 6000 plus record. In Oct., helped by 0% financing, RDV sales jumped to about 6500 unit, passed Lexus RX300, and became the No.1 selling luxury SUV in the US. Well done.
Unfortunately its only a 1:24 scale model. I did get the CXL AWD with the 3rd row seats though! Interesting that the model has Good Year tires on it. Anyone interested, it's made by Maisto and available at Loblaws for about $9.95.
It is a black CXL BUT, it does have a moon roof and the wheels are not chrome. Front doors and hatch open and the third row folds down. It's a pretty cool little model.
i bought my new RDV CXL in Sept. it wouldnt unlock when i went in park, the service engine lights came on, the battery lights were flashing, it wouldnt start one day, and the dealer replaced the BCM. then 2 weeks later the alarm wouldnt arm, and the seats wouldnt go into position, and the break - in mileage was over and the car was getting 14mpg highway still. back to the dealer and another BCM had to be installed. anyone know about the lemon laws in virginia? i smell lemon big time. i would really love this car if i had it to drive without breaking every other week.
ljknott - I have never heard of these problems before, but they all sound computer related. Some of us have encountered a few computer "bugs" so, maybe they are related. I would give the dealer a third and final shot at fixing the problems...if it still doesn't work, then you're ready to go directly to Buick and have them take care of you. I'm sure they will.
I have a hitch on my Rendezvous for my fishing boat. It pulls the boat surprisingly well but I doubt my boat, motor and trailer weigh over 1200 pounds. Let me know how 2500 lbs. feels behind you.
Below is what Edmunds listed for an options package. Notice that this package includes a sliding rear cargo tray?? Is this correct?
1SB FWD CX Security Package
Includes storage system with sliding rear cargo tray, PASS-Key III theft-deterrent system with fuel interrupt, P215/70SR16 all-season blackwall tires with puncture sealant feature, tire inflation monitor, all-speed traction control, universal garage door opener, cargo mat, instrumentation, driver information center, cluster instrumentation including temperature, compass, fuel economy and personalization features, OnStar safety system with global positioning system and 24-hour assistance, overhead console, and ultrasonic rear park assist. NOT AVAILABLE with 1SA or 1SC or 1SD.
Well the RDV I ordered on Oct. 11 came in Nov. 5, we purchased it on the 7th . This is the second Black RDV talked about here. I would like to thank all of you that helped out with getting full leather seating in a CX. This drove the dealer nuts, but that is why they make the big bucks. (By the way if the dealer is ordering on computer it is now listed as an interior option, but you got to look for it) The wife put a 150 miles on it in 24 hr, and she got a full night sleep, I'm amazed. The kids and wife love it!!
Thanks again for your help. Let ya'll know of any problems that come up.
Edmunds has been so wrong for so long on Rendezvous options, why should they be right now? But seriously, I don't think that the Rendezvous storage system and a sliding cargo tray would be compatible in the same vehicle. The storage system is a series of "in-floor" compartments with flip up covers.
My understanding is that the HUD can only be had as part of the luxury package. Some sites give the impression that it can be purchased separately, but I recall several posters here say that their dealers couldn't do that. Have you asked a dealer or Buick yet?
I've been lurking in the background reading away because I haven't really had much to say. We've had our vehicle for two weeks now and we are still completely satisfied with no reservations on purchasing the Rendezvous. Gas mileage is down to 18.6...mainly stop and go with no highway this tank. We just passed our break-in period of 500 miles so we'll be testing out the pickup, etc. a lot more.
Does anyone know where on the vehicle the paint color code is located? We've got Black and according to our service department he 'thought' it was "R41" but wasn't sure (scary). He also said that it should be located somewhere on the truck..such as the door or glove compartment but so far we have yet to locate it! If anyone can provide info we would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.
Look on the glove box door. The first two option codes should show the color, they usually are followed by a "U" for upper, and a "L" for lower. If it is a two tone, the codes will be different, if it is a monotone color scheme, then the two codes will be the same.
Thanks for your input. Kind of disappointed because from what people who have it say, it's an excellent feature. Unfortunately the third row is a must for me, so I'll have to skip the HUD if that's the way it is. I haven't asked a dealer or the company yet, but when I do, I'll post it. Any other input welcomed.
I noticed about 5 Rendezvous' over the course of the weekend. They seem to all have younger to middle aged families in them which says to me that Buick is hitting it's target with this vehicle very well. Just a random observation.
Order a CXL with 1SE package, add the 3rd row seat option, and delete the chrome wheels. This setup invoices for approximately $1200 more than CXL with 1SD.
Since the 1SE package also includes both heated and memory seat options (about $400...and worth every penny), the net cost for the HUD equals about $800.
Comments
CWJ
My question is this:
The manual states to use 87 or higher octane fuel however, our dealer advised not to use anything higher than 87 because "it could potentially damage the engine during the winter". What is everyone out there using and what have you heard?
And, if 87 or higher is better will I get greater gas mileage? So far we're averaging 21.2 mpg on the first tank with 4 gallons to go - actually better than our convertible!
Look forward to hearing from y'all!
http://www.buick.com/promotions/incatrail/track.html
It's All Good!
I do know that virtually everything I've ever read, from owners and elsewhere, has stated that mileage does not improve when using higher octane. So I save my dough.
In the case of an older engine, higher octane sometimes will do away with an engine knock. And that may even change with today's increasingly electronically-controlled engines.
Regarding your octane question, using higher octane gas will not harm your car, but since the engine is not tuned to run on it, you will not gain any benefit either.
I remember a few years ago,I wanted to increase the horsepower of my Miata 1.8L engine. I learned that by retarding the timing and switching to 92 octane (to prevent knock), I could gain a handful of ponies. It worked too! Today, with VVT engines, these tweaks are no longer needed as the engine management computer constantly adjusts the valve timing depending on revs, throttle position, and yes, type of fuel.
regrettably, the RDV does not have a VVT engine so, unless you were to change the timing yourself, there is no danger of knock, and therefore, no need for higher octane gas.
Hope this helps.
was the appearance of the alumininum suspension from the rear, so I painted most of it flat black! It hides the aluminum very nicely. Can't imagine why Buick did not do this as most car undercarriages are painted black to hide this part of the suspension. Love the ride and the versatility of this vehicle. If I had my preference I would want the GM 3800 engine in this vehicle. This is the first car I have owned where many people are stopping me to look at it and ask questions. I took the "Rendezvous" and the "CX" badging off and it is now a very clean looking vehicle. Buick has a winner in this one!
Richard, Port Orange, Florida
Also, how can you spend $30K on a vehicle and then turn around and change the tires immediately? Doesn't that cost $600 or more? Were the Firestones that bad? Anybody else have to change tires? Is there a tire updgrade option?
Midlife - I am actually satisfied with the Firestone tires. Their cornering grip is marginal at best, but they are smooth and quiet on the road.
BTW, we have quite a few new owners here. There is a Buick Rendezvous "owner's forum" here at edmunds where you can read about us "old timers" and introduce yourselves! We'd love to hear from you and learn what led you to the RDV and how your buying/ownership experience has been.
For more woodtrim options
www.woodtrim.com
6000 miles and loving it!
Spiritman
A friend of mine has a friend that works at a gas station and quite often they dump higher grades into the 87 octane tank if that's what they are running out of. So.. if what your dealer said is true, there would be a lot of people damaging their engines.
www.caranddriver.com/xp/Caranddriver/features/2001/november/200111_feature_gasoline.xml
Pretty much consistent with the advice here.
http://www.autoweek.com/specials/2001_sema/
I have children ages 5,5,1. In your opinions is this vehicle big enough? Does anyone else with 3 or more children have a RDV?
I went by a large suburban Tx dealer over the weekend and they only had 1 CX in stock, and I knew a lot more about it than the dealer did. Was nice, but I'm still looking. Did not see all the gadgets everyone talks about on it, must need to get the higher model, forgive me if I havne't memorized the option sheet.
Regarding the motor, has anyone driven the 3.5 olds v6 in the intrigue?? Sweet new design OHC motor that would really go well in this vehicle. Lots of torque, 215 hp, smooth as a electric motor, and it revs like a maxima motor all the way to redline. Its based on the northstar caddy motor (not a cutoff job like typical GM, but 1 cyl cloned 6 times). I loved the motor but not the intrigue enough to buy one. Sources say its too expensive to mfg so GM will be dropping it. I say GM is dumb - use that motor in the Rendezvous, and you have a REAL contender for the import SUV's everyone compares it to. Also would really take this above the Pontiac version (although looks and wheelbase do a good job of that too).
I also read on one post of a rumor that GM will chop off a cyl of new I6 and make a I5 for the the rendezvous - more expensive development so they can throw that motor away too...
Sorry, just seen GM do this too many times. I can dream of a 3.5 Rend.....
DD
I've read reports of development of I5's and I4's based off of the new I6 from the GM triplets in the near future. But who knows if they'll make it into RDV/Aztek.
Congrats on your new purchase and we're glad you finally spoke up! We're looking forward to seeing more of you.
tidester
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SUVs
CWJ
P.S. Hi to the Brians, John, Buzzbo, R5, Tony and any other "oldsters" still lurking around this thread. Gammera just turned 5(k) this week.
This way that can have the normal 3.4L and a $$$ upgraded engine without a large amount of retrofitting.
It's All Good!
Unfortunately its only a 1:24 scale model.
But just think! If the gas mileage scales the same way, you'll be getting over 400 mpg!
tidester
Host
SUVs
Sometimes I amaze myself!
Is that what's called profiling in the trade?
tidester
Host
SUVs
ljknott - I have never heard of these problems before, but they all sound computer related. Some of us have encountered a few computer "bugs" so, maybe they are related. I would give the dealer a third and final shot at fixing the problems...if it still doesn't work, then you're ready to go directly to Buick and have them take care of you. I'm sure they will.
Begging your pardon! ;-0
tidester
Host
SUVs
1SB FWD CX Security Package
Includes storage system with sliding rear cargo tray, PASS-Key III theft-deterrent system with fuel interrupt, P215/70SR16 all-season blackwall tires with puncture sealant feature, tire inflation monitor, all-speed traction control, universal garage door opener, cargo mat, instrumentation, driver information center, cluster instrumentation including temperature, compass, fuel economy and personalization features, OnStar safety system with global positioning system and 24-hour assistance, overhead console, and ultrasonic rear park assist. NOT AVAILABLE with 1SA or 1SC or 1SD.
Thanks again for your help. Let ya'll know of any problems that come up.
T.T.F.N.
I think the RDV looks good in black, at least in 1/24th scale. I've never seen one in person. Maybe you could post some photos for us?
CWJ
CWJ
My understanding is that the HUD can only be had as part of the luxury package. Some sites give the impression that it can be purchased separately, but I recall several posters here say that their dealers couldn't do that. Have you asked a dealer or Buick yet?
CWJ
Does anyone know where on the vehicle the paint color code is located? We've got Black and according to our service department he 'thought' it was "R41" but wasn't sure (scary). He also said that it should be located somewhere on the truck..such as the door or glove compartment but so far we have yet to locate it! If anyone can provide info we would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.
I take it that you've moved on to bigger and better things over at GM...so, what's new?
Order a CXL with 1SE package, add the 3rd row seat option, and delete the chrome wheels. This setup invoices for approximately $1200 more than CXL with 1SD.
Since the 1SE package also includes both heated and memory seat options (about $400...and worth every penny), the net cost for the HUD equals about $800.