Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (battery, alternator, wiring, ignition, instrument cluster, infotainment).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1997 Buick Park Avenue owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
Tl* the contact owns a 1997 Buick Park Avenue. While driving, the contact noticed an odor of burning plastic. The contact noticed a little smoke coming from the rear driver's side panel. The contact coasted the vehicle over to the side of the road, turned off the rear defroster, disconnected the plug, removed the rear panel, and noticed that the electrical feed and module were melted. The vehicle was taken to bay ridge Chevrolet (1575 86th st, brooklyn, ny 11228, [phone]) where it was diagnosed that part number: 25623688 (red radio antenna module), the ac (delco pt1183), and the rear window all needed to be replaced due to the connection. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failures and provided case number: 9-5585220430. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
My problem is, the left blinker of the front, back and headboard is not working. But if I put on my flashers, all my lights are working, including the left blinker. I took it in and they told me that its not the light bulb, and its not the fuses from both the front and the headboard fuses boxes, and I've been told by research and the mechanic that this is not a new problem and its been an occurring issue for the 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue. . .updated 07/20/15
In 10 degree weather in the midwest, started the 1997 Park Avenue ultra to warm up. Put the rear defrost on, on my way to work about 20 minutes after he initial start of the vehicle, I began to smell something relating to burning electrical or electrical components. Upon further investigation, I found the module in the drivers side "c" pillar next to the rear window appeared to be melting/burning. I removed the module and found the power connector to the module had completely melted and almost caused an electrical fire. Due to my experience in electronics and vehicle electrical systems I was able to repair the module and replace the burned connectors with another type of connector. I would recommend anyone that owns a GM with this module, check connections and put electric safe dielectric grease on the connections to avoid arcing and possible fire.
Problems with starting up vehicle. Please provide information. Mr consumer also states that the car wouldn't start after getting gas at a full service gas station. When she tried the ignition the air bag exploded. She substained swelling to both arms and her right hand. Even today she's taking physical therapy and has nerve damage to right arm and shoulder pain. Ph 09-dec-2002
1997 Park Avenue has difficulties with the electrical system. Vehicle's engine blew up at 89,000 miles because the intake manifold leaked engine coolant into the engine and caused it to seize. In seven years the consumer had to replace the vehicle's battery five times. *****
The A/C will turn on again after I turn it off. The radio will shift to cassette and back while displaying e33. Drivers window will come down unevenly and get wedged. The alternater went out and the bottom bolt stripped during removal. There is a lurch sometimes during shifting.
While traveling instrument panel displayed an off track function, within minutes vehicle lost power, and consumer was locked in for 15-20 minutes. Dealer notified. But, vehicle was inspected by an independent repair shop.
Vehicle experienced a fire in the engine compartment, believe this fire was caused by a loose wire on the starter, claim 25-5562-917.
Insured believes the engine fire was caused by a loose wire in the starter, claim 25-5562-917.
Fire occurred in the engine compartment, fuse box relay suspected as cause, claim 42-1331-250.
Electrical complaints in other Park Avenue years
Frequently asked questions
How common are electrical problems on the 1997 Buick Park Avenue?
NHTSA has 24 complaints about the electrical system of the 1997 Buick Park Avenue, 11% of the model year's 219 complaints. The component named most often is 12v/24v/48v battery (11 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1997 Buick Park Avenue electrical problems?
No. NHTSA lists no electrical system recall for the 1997 Buick Park Avenue, though it has 3 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1997 Buick Park Avenue electrical problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 91,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 0 crashes, 4 fires and 1 injury to electrical system problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.