The Buick Regal, produced from 1997 to 2004, represents a segment of American automotive history built on the versatile GM W-body platform. Known for its comfortable ride and refined V6 engine options, including the acclaimed 3800 Series II, the Regal offered a blend of performance and everyday usability, often available in both sedan and coupe body styles. This generation of the Regal, manufactured primarily in North America, aimed to provide a reliable and enjoyable driving experience, with its engines frequently recognized for their excellence.
This comprehensive service repair manual, spanning over 8000 pages and presented in English, is designed to be an indispensable resource for both do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional mechanics. It covers all models and engines, providing in-depth information on routine maintenance, factory schedules, and preventative care. The manual details engine overhaul procedures, transmission servicing, brake system repairs, suspension and steering adjustments, and electrical system diagnostics, including extensive wiring diagrams and trouble codes. With step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, and complete torque specifications, this manual empowers users to maintain, diagnose, and repair their Buick Regal efficiently, saving time and money while ensuring optimal vehicle performance and longevity.
Model Years Covered:
1997-2004
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep vehicle working properly, DIY repairs to save money
Content Richness:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations, detailed diagrams, wiring schematics
Completeness:
100% complete and intact, no missing/corrupt pages/sections
Documentation Scope:
All models and all engines
Manual Classification:
Complete Service Repair Manual
Language Of Manual:
English
Powertrain:
Engine overhaul and rebuilding, timing belt replacement, transmission removal and installation, transmission in-car servicing, engine performance, firing orders, serpentine belt routings with diagrams
Braking System:
Brakes, brake servicing procedures, complete torque specifications for brake components
Suspension And Steering:
Front end and alignment procedures and specifications, suspension systems, U-joint and CV-joint service procedures
Electrical And Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, trouble codes, troubleshooting and diagnostics, computer diagnostic trouble tree charts, computer diagnostic codes
HVAC And Body:
Sunroof service, air conditioning service and capacities
Maintenance:
Factory maintenance schedules and charts, routine servicing
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul and rebuilding, complete disassembly based repair procedures
Troubleshooting:
Trouble codes, computer diagnostic trouble tree charts, troubleshooting and diagnostics
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics with computer diagnostic codes and trouble tree charts
Repair Detail:
Step-by-step instructions based on complete disassembly, detailed illustrations and diagrams
Specification Coverage:
Detailed specifications on every model covered, complete torque specifications, vacuum diagrams
File Accessibility:
Searchable and bookmarked for easy navigation
Compatibility:
All versions of Windows & Mac, Linux OS, iPhone, iPad, Android
Printable Pages:
Yes, allows zooming and printing of individual pages
Digital Binding:
Instant Download in PDF format
Digital Medium:
Digital file, can be burned to CD-ROM
Engine Options Covered:
All engines, likely including 3800 Series II V6 (L36 & L67 Supercharged) and potentially 2.4L DOHC L4 (LD9)
Horsepower And Torque:
Detailed specifications for all covered engine variants will be present
Fuel Delivery Systems:
Covers fuel injection systems, fuel pump operation, and related diagnostics
Cooling System Service:
Procedures for coolant, radiator, water pump, and thermostat service
Exhaust Component Repair:
Information on catalytic converters, mufflers, and exhaust manifold repairs
Ignition Component Diagnostics:
Details on spark plugs, ignition coils, and related wiring
Oil Specifications:
Likely includes API service categories and SAE viscosity grades for engine oil (e.g., 5W-30 for 3800 V6)
ECM Diagnostics:
Information on Engine Control Module (ECM) operation and diagnostic trouble codes
Transmission Types:
Likely covers the GM 4T65-E 4-speed automatic transmission as standard on most models
Manual Transmission:
While less common, if a manual transmission was offered, its service procedures would be included.
Transmission Fluid Specifications:
Will specify DEXRON-VI (or earlier compatible) automatic transmission fluid
Transmission Rebuild:
Comprehensive instructions for in-car servicing and potential removal/installation for rebuilding
Body Styles Covered:
Likely Sedan and Coupe body styles
Curb Weight Range:
Specific curb weights for different engine and trim combinations will be detailed
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
GVWR specifications for each configuration will be provided
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Coverage may include or reference NHTSA safety ratings for the model years
Traction Control System:
Information on traction control system (TCS) operation and diagnostics if equipped
Airbag System:
Details on airbag system components, sensors, and deployment procedures
Seat Belt System:
Information on seat belt operation and maintenance
Audio System Options:
Covers factory radio, CD player, and speaker system troubleshooting
Cruise Control System:
Diagnostics and repair procedures for the cruise control system
Onboard Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic port usage and trouble code retrieval
Oil Change Interval:
Factory-recommended intervals based on mileage and driving conditions (e.g., 7,500 miles or 6 months)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Critical for the 3800 V6, likely around 90,000 to 100,000 miles, with detailed procedures for replacement including tensioners and idlers.
Engine Coolant Type:
Likely a silicate-free ethylene glycol coolant (e.g., DEX-COOL or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Likely specified DEXRON-III (or compatible) ATF or a dedicated power steering fluid.
3800 Series Ii Issues:
Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks (lower intake gaskets), along with common issues like failing fuel pumps or alternator problems.
Transmission Issues:
The 4T65-E can experience issues with torque converter clutch solenoid failures or internal seal leaks.
Suspension Wear:
Common wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings due to age and mileage.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed charts outlining recommended inspections and replacements at various mileage intervals.
Buick Legacy:
Buick's heritage of comfortable, refined vehicles, often with a focus on V6 power.
W Body Platform:
The Regal utilized the GM W-body platform, shared with models like the Chevrolet Lumina and Pontiac Grand Prix, undergoing updates and facelifts during this generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in North America by General Motors.
Engine Awards:
The 3800 Series II V6 engine was widely praised and frequently appeared on Ward's 10 Best Engines list during its production.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
While specific ratings aren't in the manual itself, the manual would aid in maintaining a reliable vehicle, referencing known reliability trends for the model.
