Target Audience:
Individuals seeking a comfortable, reliable, and stylish American sedan.
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler Sebring, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord.
Vehicle Attributes:
Comfortable ride, spacious interior, V6 engine options, available performance variants (e.g., Supercharged).
Manual Value:
Provides essential knowledge for maximizing vehicle lifespan, maintaining optimal performance, and ensuring safe operation, all at a competitive price point.
Primary Coverage:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, and safety for the 2001 Buick Regal.
Key Sections:
Safety Seats, Seat Belts, Air Bags; Instruments and Controls; Pre-Driving Checks; Climate Control; Starting and Driving; Emergency Procedures; Service and Appearance; Maintenance; Technical and Consumer Information.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-350 pages (typical for this era and model).
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, basic troubleshooting, fluid levels, maintenance recommendations for specified engine variants.
Chassis:
Brakes, steering, suspension fundamentals, tire pressure and care.
Electrical:
Dashboard indicators, warning lights, lighting systems, basic fuse identification (limited).
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control system operation (HVAC), power accessories, audio system basics, seating adjustments.
Safety Security:
Seat belt usage, child seat installation, airbag system explanations, door locks and security features.
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire inflation, wiper blade replacement guidance.
Pre Drive Checks:
Instructions on checking tires, lights, fluid levels before operating the vehicle.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, tire changing, safe operation in adverse conditions, basic troubleshooting for non-starting situations.
Appearance Care:
Basic cleaning and detailing recommendations for interior and exterior.
Depth:
Focuses on owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not cover in-depth diagnostic procedures or complex repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
Base Engine Option:
3.8L V6 OHV
Base Engine Displacement:
3791 cc
Base Engine Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Performance Engine Option:
3.8L Supercharged V6 OHV
Performance Engine Displacement:
3791 cc
Performance Engine Horsepower:
240 hp @ 5200 rpm
Performance Engine Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane recommended for Supercharged models for optimal performance).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
IIHS Front Offset Test:
Acceptable (Good rating typically achieved in later iterations of the W-body).
ABS:
Standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Optional on many models, standard on Supercharged variants.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side airbags were not standard and less common.
Seat Belts:
Three-point lap and shoulder belts for all outboard seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for exact recommendations).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000 to 7,500 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule (consult manual for specific fluid type and procedure).
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (Dexos is not applicable for this model year).
Coolant Type:
GM Goodwrench Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool compatible coolant.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Common Wear Items:
Intake manifold gaskets (especially on the 3800 V6), power steering pump leaks, wheel hub bearings, exhaust system components.
Supercharger Specific:
Supercharger coupler wear, potential for supercharger oil leaks on performance models.
Spark Plugs:
Correct spark plug type and gap are critical for optimal performance and fuel economy; the manual will specify the exact part number and torque specification.
Buick Legacy:
Buick has a long history of producing comfortable, well-appointed, and reliable American automobiles, often positioned as a premium marque within General Motors.
Regal Lineage:
The Regal nameplate has been used by Buick since 1973, evolving through various body styles and market segments. The 2001 model represents the third generation of the Regal, built on the updated W-body platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Model Year Production:
The 2001 model year was part of the third generation (1997-2004) of the Buick Regal.