🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Regal

Year:

2004

Generation:

Third Generation (GMX360)

Chassis Code:

GMX360

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and vehicle owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair information in an accessible digital format, saving time and money compared to relying solely on professional mechanics.

Content Format:

Complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications for comprehensive repair.

Convenience:

Single, easy-to-use PDF manual; no need to flip through multiple books; print only necessary pages.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service and Repair

Scope:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'everything you will ever need')

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine Management, Control System, Fuel Service, Emission Control, Intake, Exhaust, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic Transmission, Clutch (if applicable), Manual Transmission (if applicable), Transfer Case (if applicable), Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle

Chassis Suspension Brakes:

Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake System, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering

Electrical Electronics:

Electrical System, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Horn, Meter, Audio/Visual, Cruise Control, Engine Immobilizer

Body Interior Exterior:

Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior Trim

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, DTC Code Explanations

Repair Rebuild:

Component Removal and Installation, Disassembly and Assembly, Overhaul Procedures, Component Rebuilding

Depth:

Factory-level, including step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics.

Specificity:

Vehicle-specific, not generic. Exact same manual used by dealership technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac Compatible

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (free online)

Printability:

All pages printable, ability to blow up images and print enlarged copies.

Binding:

Digital (PDF) - no physical binding

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format, printable pages)

Searchability:

Assumed searchable due to PDF format, facilitating quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

The 2004 Buick Regal was available with several engine options. Commonly found were the 3.8L V6 (L36 naturally aspirated and L67 supercharged) and potentially a 2.8L V6 (LA3) in some markets. The manual covers all these variants.

3.8L V6 Naturally Aspirated:

Approx. 200-205 hp @ 5200 rpm, 225-230 lb-ft torque @ 3600 rpm

3.8L V6 Supercharged (L67):

Approx. 240 hp @ 5200 rpm, 280 lb-ft torque @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Port Fuel Injection (PFI) with sequential fuel injectors. Supercharged models utilize an intercooler system.

Engine Codes:

L36 (3.8L V6), L67 (3.8L Supercharged V6), LA3 (2.8L V6)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Predominantly 4-speed automatic transmissions were standard.

Transmission Options:

While automatic was dominant, some markets or specific trims might have had variations. The manual covers available transmissions for all models.

Automatic Features:

Features like electronically controlled overdrive and torque converter lock-up for improved fuel efficiency. Specific transmission models include the 4T65-E.

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

Sedan (4-door)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 109.0 inches (2769 mm)

Length:

Approximately 197.3 inches (5011 mm)

Width:

Approximately 71.4 inches (1813 mm)

Height:

Approximately 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and options, generally between 3,400 - 3,700 lbs (1542 - 1678 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

The 2004 Regal generally received good ratings in frontal crash tests (e.g., 5-star driver, 4-star passenger from NHTSA, though specific data may vary slightly year-to-year within the generation).

IIHS Small Overlap Front:

N/A (IIHS Small Overlap Front testing was not conducted on vehicles of this era).

Traction Control:

Available, often part of StabiliTrak on higher trims or supercharged models.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Standard front airbags. Optional side-impact airbags may have been available on certain trims.

Seat Belts:

Height-adjustable front seat belts, pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available with various audio systems, including premium sound options, CD players, and cassette decks. Some models may have had early forms of satellite radio integration.

Traction Control Stabilitrak:

StabiliTrak stability control system was an option on higher trims, enhancing vehicle stability during critical maneuvers.

Onstar:

GM's OnStar telematics system was an available option, providing features like emergency assistance and vehicle diagnostics.

Climate Control:

Available with manual or optional automatic climate control systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on oil quality (e.g., synthetic).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type. The manual will detail specific intervals and fluid types for the 4T65-E transmission.

Spark Plug Replacement:

For 3.8L V6 engines, platinum-tipped spark plugs typically have a replacement interval of 100,000 miles. Iridium plugs may have similar or longer intervals. The manual will specify exact types and intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

Typically SAE 3.8W-30 API certified. Dexos specification may be recommended for later models if applicable to the engine design, though GM's earlier oil specifications would apply for 2004.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or equivalent like Dexron-VI) automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for the 4T65-E transmission. Refer to manual for precise specification.

Coolant Type:

GM's conventional green ethylene glycol-based coolant or a compatible extended-life coolant. The manual will specify the correct type and mixture ratio.

Common Regal Issues:

While generally reliable, common issues can include intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on earlier 3800 Series II), power steering leaks, ABS sensor failures, and occasional transmission solenoid issues. The manual provides diagnostic steps for these.

📚 Vehicle History

Buick Heritage:

Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing upscale, comfortable, and reliable vehicles. The Regal line has traditionally represented a mid-size to large sedan offering.

Regal Evolution:

The 2004 Regal belongs to the third generation (GMX360), which was based on GM's W-body platform. This generation emphasized a more refined and performance-oriented approach compared to some earlier models, particularly with the introduction of the supercharged 'GS' variant.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily produced in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.

Production Years For Gen:

Third generation (GMX360) production ran from model year 1997 to 2004.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward 10 Best Engines:

The 3.8L Series II V6 engine (both naturally aspirated and supercharged) used in the Regal was a recipient of Ward's 10 Best Engines award multiple times in its production run, highlighting its refinement and power.

Car And Driver 10Best:

While the Regal itself wasn't consistently on the 10Best list, its platform and powertrain were highly regarded in the mid-size segment of its era.