1997 Buick Regal

Introduction:

The 1997 Buick Regal is a midsize sedan known for its comfort, spacious interior, and reliable performance. It was available with a 3.8L V6 engine producing 200 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission.

While the Regal is generally well-regarded for its value and dependability, it has faced some common issues over the years. Here is a comprehensive list of known problems:

Engine

• 3.8L V6:
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, rough idle, and poor performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Powertrain control module (PCM) failure: Symptoms include engine stalling, transmission shifting problems, and illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the PCM. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Oil pressure sensor failure: Symptoms include low oil pressure warning light illumination and possible engine damage. Solution: Replace the oil pressure sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• 2.4L I4:
  • Head gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and decreased engine performance. Solution: Replace the head gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic transmission:
  • Transmission slipping: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, and shuddering. Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3000+
• 5-speed manual transmission:
  • Synchronizer ring failure: Symptoms include grinding noises when shifting gears and difficulty engaging gears. Solution: Replace the synchronizer rings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

Suspension

• Front suspension struts failure: Symptoms include clunking noises, decreased ride quality, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the front struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Rear suspension shocks failure: Symptoms include decreased ride quality, excessive bouncing, and instability when braking. Solution: Replace the rear shocks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, dead battery, and illuminated battery warning light. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine or a grinding noise when starting. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Battery failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine or a dead battery. Solution: Replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Exterior

• Door handle failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening the doors or broken door handles. Solution: Replace the door handles. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Trunk lid lock failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening the trunk or a jammed trunk lid. Solution: Replace the trunk lock. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: Symptoms include cracks or splits in the dashboard. Solution: Replace the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Power window failure: Symptoms include difficulty operating the power windows or inoperable windows. Solution: Repair or replace the power window motors or switches. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary

While the 1997 Buick Regal is generally a reliable vehicle, it has some potential issues that owners should be aware of. The most severe problems include intake manifold gasket failure, PCM failure, and transmission slipping, which can be costly to repair. It’s important to have the vehicle regularly inspected and serviced to prevent or address these issues early on. Overall, the Regal offers good value and comfort but requires attention to some common maintenance and repair needs.