Model Generation:
Third Generation (G-Body facelift)
Model Years Covered:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Chassis Code:
L-Body (W-Body platform derived)
Market Position:
The Buick Regal from 1997-2004 was positioned as a mid-size sedan offering a comfortable ride and a degree of luxury within the GM lineup. It competed against models like the Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, and Honda Accord.
Competitive Analysis:
The Regal of this era offered a more American-oriented luxury feel compared to its Japanese counterparts, with a focus on V6 engine options and a smooth, quiet ride. It aimed to provide a more approachable luxury experience than higher-tier GM sedans.
Key Features:
Comfortable interior, available V6 engines, often equipped with premium features for its class, spacious cabin for its segment.
Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Sedan
Coverage Areas:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Manual Format:
Downloadable Digital File
Delivery Method:
Instant Email Delivery
Printability:
Printable (single page, chapter, or full manual)
Device Compatibility:
All PC & MAC Computers, Tablets, Smartphones
Required Software:
Adobe Reader (free download available)
Manual Purpose:
To provide comprehensive guidance for servicing, diagnosing, and repairing all aspects of the Buick Regal vehicles covered.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical System, Body and Chassis, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Interior Components, Exterior Components, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Component Removal and Installation, Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Testing, Repair Procedures, Reassembly, Specifications, Torque Values, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive A-Z repair and service procedures, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians
Technical Areas Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel & emissions, transmission/transaxle, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, body & paint, heating & air conditioning, restraints, electrical/electronic controls, dashboard, instruments, and more.
Specific Procedures Included:
Engine timing procedures, fuel injector testing, brake pad replacement, suspension component replacement (struts, ball joints), power steering system repair, HVAC blower motor replacement, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement, radiator and cooling fan service, body panel alignment, door lock actuator repair, headlight and taillight bulb replacement.
File Format Details:
Digital PDF, typically searchable text with embedded images
Image Quality:
High-quality illustrations, diagrams, and photographs
Content Structure:
Organized into logical chapters and sections for ease of navigation
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Options:
2.4L LD9 I4, 3.1L L82 V6, 3.8L L36 V6, 3.8L L67 Supercharged V6
Engine 2 4L Ld9:
2.4L DOHC I4
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (3791 cc)
Horsepower L36:
200 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque L36:
225 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Performance 3 8L Supercharged V6
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (3791 cc)
Horsepower L67:
240 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque L67:
280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Management System:
OBD-II Compliant Electronic Engine Control Module (ECM)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on engine and year.
Horsepower Ld9:
150 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque Ld9:
155 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (4-speed automatic was standard across most trims)
Transmission Features:
Electronic controls, Driver Shift Control (selectable modes like Performance/Traction Control on some models)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Wheelbase:
Approx. 109.5 inches (2781 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 198.4 inches (5039 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 71.4 inches (1814 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (1497 - 1633 kg), varies by engine and trim
Wheel Size Standard:
16 inch
Tire Size Standard:
P225/60R16 (varies by trim)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (for models tested)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on select models)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side-impact airbags (optional on some trims), Crumple zones, Steel-reinforced passenger cage
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Infotainment System:
Optional premium sound systems, CD players, cassette players, analog climate controls. Higher trims may have basic trip computers.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited driver assistance features for the era; primarily ABS and optional traction control.
Connectivity Features:
Basic options like power windows, power locks, cruise control. OnStar was a rare option on later models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (consult specific engine for exact recommendation).
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 3.8L V6: 3.1L V6: 3.8L V6: SAE 5W-30. 3.8L Supercharged V6: SAE 5W-30 (often recommended Dexron VI for later models).
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346997 (Orange) or equivalent silicate-free HOAT coolant
Fluid Capacities Engine Oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) for 3.8L V6 engines, 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) for 3.1L V6. Always verify with dipstick.
Common Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (3.8L V6), coolant elbows leaking (3.8L V6), power steering pump leaks, alternator failure, transmission solenoid issues (4T65-E), wheel bearing failure, window regulator failures, headliner sagging.
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), whichever comes first.
Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid
Fluid Specifications Power Steering Fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.0 - 12.0 quarts (9.5 - 11.4 L), varies by engine and radiator size.
Brand Heritage:
Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history dating back to 1899, known for offering comfortable and premium vehicles with a focus on refinement and a smooth ride, often targeting an older demographic.
Model Evolution This Generation
Model Evolution This Generation:
The Regal in this generation (1997-2004) was based on GM's W-body platform and received a significant refresh for the 1997 model year, giving it a more modern appearance. It retained its focus on comfortable cruising, with the supercharged V6 offering a performance variant.
Production Locations:
Primarily Lansing, Michigan, USA (Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant)
Model Series Designation:
GM W-body platform
