🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Regal

Year:

2001

Generation:

Fifth Generation (1997-2004)

Platform:

GM W Platform

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Mid-size sedan, competitor to Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord. Positioned as a comfortable, well-equipped, and domestically produced alternative.

Competitive Analysis:

The 2001 Regal offered a balance of V6 power (optional), comfortable ride, and a refined interior. Competed directly with other popular mid-size sedans of the era, emphasizing American engineering and comfort.

Key Features:

Optional Supercharged 3800 Series II V6 engine, comfortable ride quality, spacious interior, available leather upholstery, premium sound systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical System, Body, Drivetrain, Fuel System, Emissions, Diagnostic Codes, Troubleshooting

Page Count:

Undisclosed (Software-based, comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF via Web Access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel & Emissions Control, Drivetrain (FWD), Brakes (ABS, Traction Control), Steering & Suspension, HVAC, Body & Chassis Electrical, Body Systems, Restraint Systems (Airbags), Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Component Removal and Installation, Component Rebuilding, Diagnostic Troubleshooting, Electrical System Diagnosis, Wiring Harness Repair, Fluid Changes, Brake System Servicing, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Alignment, HVAC System Servicing

Technical Depth:

Factory-level diagnostics, detailed repair procedures, torque specifications, component testing, electrical schematics, troubleshooting flowcharts, OEM-level information

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary Software Platform (Web-based access)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital, designed for screen viewing and printing sections)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.8L (3800 cc) V6 OHV, 12-valve

Engine Options:

3.8L (3800 cc) V6 OHV, 12-valve (Naturally Aspirated) - RPO L36; 3.8L (3800 cc) V6 OHV, 12-valve Supercharged - RPO L67

Horsepower L36:

205 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque L36:

230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower L67:

240 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque L67:

280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Bore Stroke:

3.80 in x 3.39 in (96.5 mm x 86.0 mm)

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1 (L36), 8.5:1 (L67)

Engine Management:

GM PCM (Powertrain Control Module)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)

Transmission Optional:

4-Speed Automatic with Manual Mode (4T65-E HD on Supercharged models)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, overdrive, torque converter clutch

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

197.9 inches

Width:

71.4 inches

Height:

55.7 inches

Wheelbase:

110.5 inches

Front Track:

61.0 inches

Rear Track:

60.0 inches

Curb Weight Base:

Approximately 3,400 - 3,600 lbs

Trunk Capacity:

15.1 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4/5 Stars

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4/5 Stars

Active Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) on some models

Passive Features:

Front airbags, available front side-impact airbags, collapsible steering column, energy-absorbing interior components

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette tape player, available premium sound systems, steering wheel audio controls on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, available traction control, optional OnStar communication system.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on vehicle operation and optional communication (OnStar). No modern USB or Bluetooth connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 50,000 - 100,000 miles (refer to manual, often considered 'lifetime' by some but regular changes are beneficial).

Engine Oil Specification:

API Certified, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity and API service category)

Coolant Specification:

GM Recommended ELC (Extended Life Coolant) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Known Issues:

Head gasket failures (especially on early L36 engines), intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering leaks, window regulator failures, PCM failures, catalytic converter issues, suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings).

Oil Filter Part Number:

ACDelco PF1218 or equivalent

Air Filter Part Number:

ACDelco A3133C or equivalent

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Buick has a long-standing reputation for comfort, quietness, and a premium feel within the General Motors lineup, often targeting a mature demographic.

Model Evolution:

The Regal has evolved through several generations, with this fifth generation (1997-2004) being a significant update, sharing the W-body platform with other GM vehicles like the Chevrolet Impala and Pontiac Grand Prix. It offered a more aggressive styling and the popular supercharged engine option.

Production Years:

1973-1977, 1979-1987, 1990-1996, 1997-2004

Production Location:

Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 3800 Series II V6 engine, particularly the supercharged version, was a recipient of Ward's 10 Best Engines list multiple times during its production run, praised for its refinement, power delivery, and reliability.