1992 Buick Regal

The 1992 Buick Regal is a mid-size sedan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. Engine options included the 3.1L V6, 3.8L V6, and the supercharged 3.8L V6. Transmission options included the 4-speed automatic and the 5-speed manual. The Regal was praised for its comfort, style, and performance, but it also had its share of problems.

Engine

• 3.1L V6
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak. Symptoms include overheating, low coolant levels, and oil leaks. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Head gasket failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak into the combustion chambers. Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and a loss of coolant and oil. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Timing chain failure: The timing chain can fail, causing the engine to lose power and stall. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, difficulty starting the engine, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the timing chain. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• 3.8L V6
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak. Symptoms include overheating, low coolant levels, and oil leaks. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Head gasket failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak into the combustion chambers. Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and a loss of coolant and oil. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Timing chain failure: The timing chain can fail, causing the engine to lose power and stall. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, difficulty starting the engine, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the timing chain. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Supercharged 3.8L V6
  • Supercharger failure: The supercharger can fail, causing a loss of power and boost. Symptoms include a whining noise from the engine, a loss of power, and a decrease in boost pressure. The solution is to replace the supercharger. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Intercooler failure: The intercooler can fail, causing a loss of power and boost. Symptoms include a loss of power, a decrease in boost pressure, and an increase in intake air temperature. The solution is to replace the intercooler. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic
  • Transmission failure: The transmission can fail, causing the vehicle to lose power and stall. Symptoms include slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• 5-speed manual
  • Clutch failure: The clutch can fail, causing the vehicle to lose power and stall. Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, a loss of power, and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Strut failure: The struts can fail, causing the vehicle to ride rough and handle poorly. Symptoms include a bouncing ride, excessive body roll, and a loss of control. The solution is to replace the struts. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Shock failure: The shocks can fail, causing the vehicle to ride rough and handle poorly. Symptoms include a bouncy ride, excessive body roll, and a loss of control. The solution is to replace the shocks. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Control arm failure: The control arms can fail, causing the vehicle to pull to one side and handle poorly. Symptoms include a pulling sensation when braking or accelerating, excessive tire wear, and a loss of control. The solution is to replace the control arms. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include a loss of power, dimming headlights, and a warning light on the dashboard. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Starter failure: The starter can fail, causing the vehicle to not start. Symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start the engine, no response from the starter, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Battery failure: The battery can fail, causing the vehicle to not start. Symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start the engine, no response from the starter, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the battery. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200+

Exterior

• Rust: The body of the Regal can rust, causing the appearance of the vehicle to deteriorate and the structural integrity of the vehicle to be compromised. Symptoms include bubbling paint, rust spots, and holes in the body. The solution is to repair or replace the rusted panels. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: The dashboard can crack, causing the appearance of the interior to deteriorate. Symptoms include cracks in the dashboard, peeling paint, and a loss of structural integrity. The solution is to replace the dashboard. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Seat failure: The seats can fail, causing the seat to collapse or become uncomfortable. Symptoms include a broken seat frame, torn upholstery, and a loss of support. The solution is to repair or replace the seat. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+

Summary

The 1992 Buick Regal is a solid vehicle with a comfortable interior and good performance. However, it is not without its problems. The engine and transmission are both prone to failure, and the suspension and electrical systems can also be problematic. Rust is also a common problem with the Regal. The severity of the issues varies, but some of them can be expensive to fix. Overall, the Regal is a good choice for buyers who are looking for a comfortable and stylish car, but they should be aware of the potential problems that can come with it.