Market Position:
The 1999 Buick Regal was positioned as a comfortable and stylish mid-size sedan, targeting consumers seeking a blend of American luxury, performance (especially with the supercharged option), and practicality. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Taurus, Dodge Intrepid, and Nissan Maxima.
Competitive Analysis:
The Regal offered a compelling package with its available supercharged V6 engine, providing performance that rivaled or surpassed many competitors. Its focus on a smooth, quiet ride and upscale interior appointments distinguished it within its segment.
Key Features:
Optional Supercharged 3800 Series II V6 engine (L67), comfortable interior, front-wheel drive, advanced (for its time) safety features, refined ride quality.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Climate Control, Body & Interior, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Page Count:
Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
PDF Download (Licensed OE Materials via RepairSurge)
Accessibility:
Accessible via web browser on PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection.
Access Period:
1 Year subscription with options for renewal discounts.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical (3.8L V6 L36/L67), Engine Performance & Emission Control, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch/Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (4T65E), Drivetrain (Front Wheel Drive Axles), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front Disc/Rear Disc, ABS), Wheels & Tires, Body & Frame, HVAC System, Electrical System (Power Distribution, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio, Security), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Diagnostics, Body Control Module (BCM) Diagnostics, SRS (Airbag) System
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal & Installation, System Overhaul, Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Torque Specifications, Wiring Harness Repair, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation, Pre-Delivery Inspection, Fluid Capacity and Specification Details
Specific Engine Procedures:
Detailed steps for engine overhaul, timing chain inspection/replacement, supercharger belt replacement, fuel injector cleaning/replacement, oil pump service.
Transmission Procedures:
Complete overhaul of the 4T65E transmission, including torque converter replacement, valve body service, clutch pack replacement, and solenoid testing.
Brake Procedures:
Front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake line bleeding, ABS component diagnosis and replacement.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, component specifications, disassembly/assembly instructions, and wiring diagrams for professional and advanced DIY repair.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Includes a comprehensive list of OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) specific to the 1999 Regal's powertrain and body control modules, with detailed explanations and diagnostic flowcharts.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, high-resolution wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, body electronics, and HVAC, allowing for precise troubleshooting of electrical faults.
Primary Engine 1:
3.8L (3791cc) V6 SFI Naturally Aspirated (L36)
Primary Engine 2:
3.8L (3791cc) V6 SFI Supercharged (L67)
Horsepower L36:
200 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque L36:
225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower L67:
240 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque L67:
280 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (L36), 91 Octane Recommended (L67)
Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:
L36
Engine Code Supercharged:
L67
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (4T65E)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only automatic offered in North America)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, overdrive, available traction control on some models.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 11.3 US quarts (10.7 liters) for complete refill; 5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) for fluid and filter change.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1999 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1999 Model Year)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on L36, standard on L67), Front-wheel Drive.
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Side-impact door beams, Crumple zones.
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player (optional), premium sound systems available, analog climate controls, basic driver information center.
Driver Assistance Features:
Traction Control System (TCS) available.
Connectivity Features:
Standard audio inputs, no Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (or 3-6 months), depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum tipped plugs typically 100,000 miles. Consult manual for exact type and interval.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 3.8L V6: SAE 5W-30, API Service SG or SH (or newer).
Coolant Type:
GM-specific orange coolant (Dex-Cool compatible) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life antifreeze.
Common Issue 1:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on L36 engines, leading to coolant leaks).
Common Issue 2:
Lower intake manifold gasket failures can cause coolant loss into the engine oil or vice versa.
Common Issue 3:
Supercharger snout seal leaks on L67 models.
Common Issue 4:
Window regulator failures, particularly on the driver's side.
Common Issue 5:
EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve clogging, leading to rough idling or stalling.
Brand Heritage:
Buick, founded in 1899, is one of America's oldest automotive brands, known for producing comfortable, refined, and well-equipped vehicles, often referred to as 'the doctor's car' or 'a comfortable ride'.
Model Evolution:
The 1999 Regal is part of the third generation (1997-2004), based on GM's W-body platform. This generation saw a significant redesign from its predecessor, offering a more modern exterior and interior, and crucially, the introduction of the supercharged V6 engine for enhanced performance.
Key Improvements Over Previous Gen:
Enhanced styling, improved chassis dynamics, introduction of the supercharged option, updated interior features, and advanced safety systems for the era.
Production Location:
Oshawa Car Assembly, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
