Positioning:
The 2003 Buick Regal was positioned as a mid-size sedan offering a comfortable and refined driving experience, often appealing to a mature demographic seeking value and reliability. It competed with models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus.
Comparison Points:
The Regal's key differentiators included its powerful V6 engine options (especially the supercharged Grand Prix GTP-derived L67), comfortable ride quality, and a more traditional American luxury feel compared to its Japanese rivals. Interior space and trunk capacity were competitive within its segment.
Highlighted Features:
Optional Supercharged 3.8L V6 engine, refined interior appointments, comfortable ride, available Driver Information Center, premium sound systems.
Manual Advantage:
Provides factory-derived information, ensuring accuracy and completeness, unlike aftermarket condensed guides.
Engine:
3.8L V6 (L36, L67 Supercharged), 3.9L V6 (L32 OHV)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), Automatic Transmissions (4T65-E, 4T65-E HD)
Brakes:
Front Disc (Vented), Rear Disc, ABS System
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Independent Suspension (Chapman Strut/Trailing Arm)
Steering:
Rack and Pinion, Power Steering
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instruments, Accessories
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (Manual and Automatic Climate Control)
Body:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags)
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Repair:
Engine Component Replacement, Transmission Servicing, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, HVAC System Servicing
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Explanations of System Operation
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications
Body And Trim:
Interior trim removal and installation, exterior panel alignment and replacement, door and window regulator repair, bumper cover servicing.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter replacement, muffler and pipe replacement, exhaust hanger repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump replacement, fuel filter replacement, fuel injector servicing, evaporative emissions (EVAP) system troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator replacement, water pump replacement, thermostat replacement, coolant hose replacement, heater core servicing.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component-level repair.
Diagnostic Tools:
Guidance on using OBD-II scanners, understanding live data streams, and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Engine Code 1:
L36 (3.8L V6)
Displacement 1:
3.8 Liters (231 cubic inches)
Configuration 1:
Naturally Aspirated, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Horsepower 1:
200 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 1:
225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Code 2:
L67 (3.8L V6 Supercharged)
Displacement 2:
3.8 Liters (231 cubic inches)
Configuration 2:
Supercharged, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Horsepower 2:
240 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 2:
280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Engine Code 3:
L32 (3.9L V6 OHV)
Displacement 3:
3.9 Liters (237 cubic inches)
Configuration 3:
Overhead Valve (OHV)
Horsepower 3:
175 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque 3:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (Top Safety Pick)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (Top Safety Pick)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
Acceptable
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
Acceptable
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (Acceptable/Good depending on specific test results year)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS - Traction Control System)
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Front Side Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-Point Seatbelts (All Seating Positions), Pretensioners (Front)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations based on oil type).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, change as needed (typically around 50,000-100,000 miles depending on severe use).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Spec:
Dex-Cool (GM 1825M) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Common Problems:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump failure, fuel pump issues, PCM failures, coolant leaks (especially around the Northstar V8 if equipped in other W-body models, though less common in Regal), occasional transmission shifting issues.
Buick Legacy:
Buick has a long-standing reputation for producing comfortable, well-appointed, and durable vehicles, often positioned as a premium American marque.
Regal Lineage:
The Regal nameplate has been used by Buick since 1973, evolving through various platforms and styles, becoming a staple in Buick's lineup known for comfort and performance variants.
Manufacturing Location:
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada; Lake Orion, Michigan, USA (GM Assembly Plants)
