🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Regal

Year:

1997

Platform:

GM W-body

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1997 Buick Regal was positioned as a mid-size personal luxury sedan, offering a blend of comfort, style, and performance. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Chevrolet Lumina.

Competitive Analysis:

The Regal appealed to buyers seeking a more traditional American luxury experience compared to the increasingly globalized offerings from Japanese manufacturers. Its focus on a quiet, comfortable ride and ample interior space made it a strong contender in its segment.

Key Features:

Comfort-oriented suspension, spacious interior, optional V6 engines, refined styling, and a range of available luxury features. The availability of this digital service manual ensures owners can maintain and repair their vehicles effectively, preserving its long-term value.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Interior, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams

Page Count:

Not specified in product information, but typical factory service manuals of this era are extensive, often exceeding 1000 pages when considering all variants and diagrams.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download (accessible via web browser with internet connection)

Access Duration:

1 year of access included, with discounts for extended access.

Compatibility:

Compatible with any PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection and web browser.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical and electrical (all variants), Automatic Transmission (4T60-E/4T65-E), Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Axles, Power Steering System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (if equipped), Front and Rear Suspension, Chassis Electrical, Lighting, Climate Control (HVAC), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Body Control Modules, Restraint Systems (Airbags), Audio System, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors).

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Component inspection and testing, Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) lookup and resolution, Engine diagnosis and repair (e.g., timing belt/chain, cylinder head, fuel injectors, ignition system), Transmission removal, repair, and installation, Brake system service (pads, rotors, lines, calipers), Suspension component replacement (struts, ball joints, control arms), Steering system repair (rack and pinion, power steering pump), Electrical troubleshooting and component repair, HVAC system diagnostics and refrigerant service, Body panel repair and alignment, Interior trim removal and installation, Wiring harness repair and testing, Emisssions control system diagnosis.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, factory-derived information covering basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and complete engine/transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed step-by-step repair procedures, torque specifications, special tool requirements, and wiring schematics. Designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Includes symptom-based troubleshooting charts, guiding users through diagnostic processes for common problems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all major systems, essential for diagnosing electrical faults and repairing circuits.

Body And Interior:

Covers body panel alignment, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal, seat adjustments, airbag system diagnostics, and basic body repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Digital, high-resolution for clarity and readability of diagrams and text. Printable pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Searchability:

Likely offers searchable text functionality within the PDF, allowing for quick location of specific terms, procedures, or part numbers.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.1L V6 (LG7)

Alternative Engine:

3.8L V6 (L36) - Naturally Aspirated and Supercharged (for Grand Prix GTP, but potentially swapped into Regal variants or relevant for understanding GM W-body engine family)

Performance 3.1L:

Approx. 160 hp @ 5200 rpm, 185 lb-ft torque @ 3200 rpm

Performance 3.8L Na:

Approx. 200 hp @ 5200 rpm, 230 lb-ft torque @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil Packs

Bore X Stroke 3.1L:

3.50 in x 3.27 in (89.0 mm x 83.0 mm)

Bore X Stroke 3.8L:

3.80 in x 3.38 in (96.5 mm x 86.0 mm)

Engine Codes 3.1L:

LG7, L82 (VIN code 1)

Engine Codes 3.8L:

L36 (VIN code 2)

Cooling System:

Pressurized, liquid-cooled system with a radiator, water pump, thermostat, and fan (mechanical or electric, depending on options).

Exhaust System:

Cast iron exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter(s), muffler, and tailpipe. The manual covers inspection, repair, and replacement.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

4-speed Automatic (4T60-E)

Optional:

Not applicable for 1997 Regal; 4T65-E became more prevalent in later W-body models.

Features:

Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter, available with performance shift modes on certain trims. The manual provides detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for this transmission.

Fluid Type:

Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 10.9 quarts (10.3 liters) for a complete refill, 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for a drain and fill.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approximately 197.0 inches (5004 mm)

Exterior Width:

Approximately 71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Exterior Height:

Approximately 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 109.0 inches (2769 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and trim, typically around 3400-3600 lbs (1542-1633 kg).

Cargo Volume Trunk:

Approximately 15.2 cubic feet (0.43 m³)

Front Track:

Approximately 61.0 inches (1550 mm)

Rear Track:

Approximately 60.5 inches (1537 mm)

Wheel Size:

Typically 15-inch or 16-inch alloy or steel wheels.

Tire Size:

Common sizes include P215/60R15 or P225/55R16, depending on trim level and options. Manual will confirm specific fitments.

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 115 mm (5 x 4.53 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings NHTSA:

NHTSA frontal crash test ratings for 1997 sedans varied, but the W-body platform generally performed well for its era. Specific detailed ratings for the '97 Regal might be found in archived NHTSA data.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard or widely available. Traction Control System (TCS) was optional on some models.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear seat belts with pretensioners, side-impact door beams, collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Available premium sound systems with amplifiers. No touchscreens or advanced connectivity features common in modern vehicles.

Driver Assistance:

Limited driver assistance features for the era. ABS and Traction Control were the primary electronic aids. No adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, or other advanced systems.

Connectivity:

No built-in Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone integration. Features were limited to the vehicle's internal systems.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control (HVAC system) with air conditioning, heating, and recirculate functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:

Recommended service every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) or as per owner's manual, though often neglected. The manual will detail the proper procedure.

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature range).

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

GM P/N 1052841 (Green) or equivalent Dex-Cool (Orange) coolant for later models. Manual will specify correct type for the '97 model, likely the green type.

Known Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 3.1L), power steering pump leaks, window regulator failures, coolant elbow leaks (3.8L), fuel pump issues, ABS sensor failures, occasional transmission solenoid issues (4T60-E). The manual provides diagnostic steps for these common problems.

Spark Plugs:

Platinum or Iridium type recommended for longer service life. Manual will specify exact part numbers and gap settings.

Filters:

Oil filter, air filter, fuel filter, cabin air filter (if equipped). Manual will list recommended part numbers.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.1L V6: Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter. 3.8L V6: Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter. (Refer to manual for exact capacity).

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11.0 quarts (10.4 liters) for the 3.1L and 3.8L engines. Manual will provide precise figure.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history dating back to 1899. It has traditionally been positioned as a premium American brand, emphasizing comfort, quietness, and a refined driving experience.

Model Evolution:

The Regal nameplate has been used by Buick for various models since the 1970s. The 1997 model is part of the third generation of the W-body Regal, which debuted for the 1994 model year. This generation introduced more rounded styling and an improved chassis.

Production:

The 1997 Buick Regal was manufactured by General Motors at its Oshawa Car Plant in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1997 model year are not readily highlighted, the Buick Regal and the W-body platform generally received positive reviews for comfort and value during this period. It was a popular choice for American car buyers.