Buick Regal Hybrid Charging System Failure Alert

Had a very similar issue with my 2020 Buick LaCrosse Hybrid last winter. Being somewhat experienced with hybrid systems maintenance, I first suspected alternator replacement would be needed based on those symptoms. After thorough diagnostics at the workshop, it turned out the generator in the hybrid system was defective, causing charging irregularities. The symptoms matched yours exactly, difficult starts, power reduction warnings, and flickering lights. The repair involved replacing the generator unit. Total cost came to about 960 Euro including parts and labor. This issue is fairly common in these hybrid powertrains, but before jumping to conclusions, could you share: Current mileage on your Regal? When did the symptoms first appear? Does the car won't start situation happen more often in cold weather? Have you noticed any engine misfire symptoms alongside the charging issues? Is your serpentine belt in good condition? These details would help determine if you are facing the same generator failure I experienced. The generator and alternator work together in hybrid systems, so proper diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary parts replacement. The repair took about 6 hours at the workshop, but completely resolved all charging system warnings and performance issues.

Thanks for the detailed response. To answer your questions: The symptoms started about 2 weeks ago and yes, the car won't start issues seem worse in cold mornings. My mileage is at 28726 KM and I had the last service done 3 months ago. No engine misfires noticed yet, but the serpentine belt looks a bit worn. The charging system warning is pretty consistent now, appearing almost every time I drive. I will get the generator checked based on your experience, makes sense given the hybrid setup. Keeping my fingers crossed its not both the alternator and generator.

Thanks for providing those details. Since you mentioned the serpentine belt looks worn, definitely get that checked first. A failing belt can cause similar charging system issues, and it is a much simpler fix than generator replacement. My generator issue started similarly with intermittent warnings, then progressed to consistent charging problems within a month. However, in my case, the serpentine belt was fine. The voltage drop became more noticeable when the car electronics started acting up, especially during cold starts. The consistent warning lights you are seeing match the pattern I experienced before my generator failed completely. The fact that cold starts are worse also aligns with my experience, the generator in these hybrid systems struggles more in cold conditions when failing. Quick tip from my repair experience, have them check the entire charging circuit, including cable connections and grounds, while diagnosing the generator. My mechanic found some corrosion at a ground point that could have contributed to the problem. If the belt checks out okay and the symptoms persist, you are likely looking at generator replacement like I needed. The repair resolved all my issues completely and the car has been running perfectly for 8 months now.

Thanks everyone for the help. After taking the car to the shop yesterday, they confirmed it was indeed the generator causing the charging system issues, just like you experienced. The serpentine belt needed replacement too since it was worn. The total repair cost came to about 1100 for parts and labor, a bit more than I hoped but at least now I know it will be fixed properly. They are doing the work tomorrow and said it should take around 6-7 hours. The voltage drop was quite severe when they tested it, explaining why the battery low warning kept coming on. Good call on checking the ground connections too, they found some corrosion and will clean that up during the repair. Really grateful for the advice about getting the whole charging system checked rather than just assuming it was an alternator issue. Would have wasted money replacing the wrong part. Will update once I get the car back from the shop.