1998 BUICK REGAL

7 recalls, 376 complaints - 93 TSBs

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

Defect Description

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 1998-1999 Chevrolet Lumina and Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1997-2004 Buick Regal and Pontiac Grand Prix, 2000-2004 Chevrolet Impala, and 1998-2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles. The affected vehicles were previously repaired under recalls 08V-118, ... Read more

Consequence

Engine oil that drips onto the hot surface of the exhaust manifold may result in a fire.

Remedy

The remedy applied under recalls 08V-118, 09V-116, and 15V-201 did not adequately remove the safety risk. Under the improved remedy, dealers will replace the engines front valve cover and gasket. Vehicles that are covered by recalls 08V-118, 09V-116, or 15V-201 that have not yet received the ori... Read more

1,003,556 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Defect Description

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING 1,497,516 MY 1997-2003 BUICK REGAL, MY 1998-2003 CHEVROLET LUMINA, MONTE CARLO AND IMPALA, MY 1998-1999 OLDSMOBILE INTRIGUE, MY 1997-2003 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 3.8L V6 NATURALLY ASPIRATED ENGINE. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH DROP... Read more

Consequence

IF THE MANIFOLD IS HOT ENOUGH AND THE OIL RUNS BELOW THE HEAT SHIELD, IT MAY IGNITE INTO A SMALL FLAME AND MAY SPREAD TO THE PLASTIC SPARK PLUG WIRE CHANNEL AND BEYOND INCREASING THE RISK OF AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ENGINES FRONT VALVE COVER AND FRONT-VALVE-COVER GASKET WITH NEW PARTS OF AN IMPROVED DESIGN AND REMOVE THE ENGINES PLASTIC COVER AND PLASTIC OIL-FILL-TUBE EXTENSION, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2016. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-... Read more

1,497,516 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

STEERING

Defect Description

DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONS<SUP>TM</SUP>" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN... Read more

Consequence

A BROKEN STEERING KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy

DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-2492 AND PRESS 5.

979 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Defect Description

GM IS RECALLING 207,542 MY 1997-2003 BUICK REGAL AND PONTIAC GRAND PRIX VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 3.8L SUPERCHARGED V-6 ENGINE. THESE VEHICLES HAVE HIGHER FRONT ROCKER COVER GASKET TEMPERATURES, CREATING THE POTENTIAL FOR EARLIER DEGRADATION OF THE FRONT ROCKER COVER GASKET AND EVENTUAL OIL SEEPAGE.

Consequence

CERTAIN UNDERHOOD FIRES MAY BE CAUSED BY DROPS OF ENGINE OIL, FROM SEEPAGE OR SPILLAGE, BEING DEPOSITED ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD THROUGH HARD BRAKING. IF THE MANIFOLD IS HOT ENOUGH AND THE OIL RUNS BELOW THE HEAT SHIELD, IT MAY IGNITE INTO A SMALL FLAME AND, IN SOME INSTANCES, THE FIRE MAY SPREAD TO... Read more

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ENGINES FRONT VALVE COVER AND FRONT-VALVE-COVER GASKET WITH NEW PARTS OF AN IMPROVED DESIGN AND REMOVE THE ENGINES PLASTIC COVER AND PLASTIC OIL-FILL-TUBE EXTENSION, ALONG WITH THE 1-3-5 SPARK PLUG WIRE RETAINERS, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING M... Read more

207,542 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

STEERING:RACK AND PINION

Defect Description

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE LOWER PINION BEARINGS IN THE POWER RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY IN WHICH THE RETAINER TABS WERE NOT CRIMPED PROPERLY. THESE RETAINERS COULD FAIL AND PERMIT THE BALL BEARINGS TO ESCAPE.

Consequence

IF THIS OCCURS, THE PINION SHAFT CAN BE FORCED UPWARD DURING LEFT TURNS AND BACK DOWN AS THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED BACK AND TO THE RIGHT. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL NEED TO EXERT MORE EFFORT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL, SIMILAR TO A VEHICLE WITHOUT POWER ASSISTED STEERING. ... Read more

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW LOWER PINION BEARING UNLESS INSPECT OF THE EXISTING BEARING INDICATES THAT REPLACEMENT OF THE GEAR ASSEMBLY IS NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 5, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-... Read more

750,283 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE VERTICAL HEAD LAMP ADJUSTING DEVICE MAY NOT BE CALIBRATED PROPERLY.

Consequence

DRIVER VISIBILITY MAY BE IMPAIRED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN OWNER'S MANUAL INSERT CONTAINING INSTRUCTIONS FOR OPTICALLY AIMING THE HEADLAMPS.

411,880 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE OWNER MANUALS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIREMENT INFORMATION PERTAINING TO THE VEHICLE HEADLAMP AIMING DEVICE. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Consequence

IF THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES ARE REPLACED, CUSTOMERS MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY AIM THE HEADLIGHTS.

Remedy

OWNERS WILL BE MAILED AN OWNER MANUAL'S INSERT WHICH CONTAINS THE APPROPRIATE INFORMATION.

149,342 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Complaint Statistics

376 total complaints 8 crashes 47 fires 5 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
STEERING:RACK AND PINION	36
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	33
ENGINE	29
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	26
STEERING	23
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE	14
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS	13
TIRES	11
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	10
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	10

Incident date: Mar 4, 2022

On my way home from purchasing the vehicle, the car began to lose power and i noticed black smoke though the rear view mirror. Another driver signaled me down, so I pulled over and realized my car was on fire. The fire was in the engine compartment from what appeared to be the exhaust manifold. Sinc... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Mar 4, 2022

Fire

Incident date: Mar 4, 2022

Fire

Incident date: May 5, 2021

The contact owns a 1998 Buick Regal. The contact stated that the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 317,000.

Incident date: Mar 14, 2020

EVERY TIME I TURN ON MY LEFT OR RIGHT TURN SIGNAL IT SHORTS OUT.... TOOK TO A MECHANIC AND HE DID SOME RE WIRING AND IT WORKED FOR A LITTLE BIT THEN STARTED TO HAPPEN AGAIN.... I DON'T WANT TO SPEND A BUNCH OF MONEY ON IT ANYMORE. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Incident date: Mar 14, 2020

Incident date: Jul 5, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HER HUSBAND WAS IDLE AT A GUARD SHAFT, WHEN SHE SAW SMOKE COMING FROM THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER MOVED FORWARD AWAY FROM THE GUARD SHAFT AND PARKED THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE CONT... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Feb 1, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR CONTINUED TO RANDOMLY FLASH. ALSO, ONCE THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE ENGINE WOULD MISFIRE AND THE VEHICLE WOULD OVERHEAT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIG... Read more

Incident date: Feb 1, 2016

Incident date: Aug 16, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT OIL WAS LEAKING ONTO THE REAR EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND SPARK PLUGS. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE F... Read more

Incident date: Sep 12, 2017

THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ON THE DRIVERS FRONT DOOR IS FAULTY I WENT THROUGH THREE MASTER WINDOW SWITCH'S AND STILL SOMETHING WRONG. THE CRUISE CONTROL HAS FAULT EVEN AFTER SOME SENSORS REPLACED. AND THE DIGITAL ODOMETER DISPLAY QUIT WORKING BUT THE REST OF THE GAUGES STILL WORK THE ODOMETER QUIT SHOW... Read more

Incident date: Sep 12, 2017

Incident date: Jan 12, 2017

CAR HAS BECOME VERY HARD TO TURN, UNLESS MOVING.

Incident date: Jan 28, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS UNDERGOING SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE, THE MECHANIC NOTICED AN OIL LEAK EMERGING FROM THE REAR VALVE COVER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED APPROXIMATELY ONE YEAR AGO FOR THE FRONT VALVE COVER PER A RECALL, BUT THE FAILURE RE... Read more

Incident date: Oct 18, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE PARKING THE VEHICLE IN THE GARAGE, THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE HOOD. THE ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE FAILU... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Jul 27, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT PARKED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED SMOKE. SHE ATTEMPTED TO START THE IGNITION AND WAS INFORMED BY OTHERS THAT THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO AN OIL LEAK IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND FILED A... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Dec 1, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR... Read more

Incident date: Feb 5, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MAN... Read more

Incident date: Dec 11, 2015

Incident date: Feb 27, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V701000 (ENGINE) AND 00099V356 (VISIBILITY); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR... Read more

Incident date: Feb 27, 2016

Incident date: Mar 7, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE M... Read more

Incident date: Feb 16, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ENGINE OIL WAS LEAKING PROFUSELY ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT A QUART OF OIL WAS PROVIDED WEEKLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICA... Read more

Incident date: Feb 17, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONT... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2016

WHILE DRIVING I SMELT SOMETHING BURNING AND FOUND THAT THE HEATED SEAT OVER HEATED TO THE POINT IT MELTED ITEMS IN MY PURSE,COAT, WALLET, AND BURNT THE LEATHER SEAT. NO ONE WAS IN THE SEAT BUT I FEEL THIS IS A DEFINITE SAFETY ISSUE. I CALLED BUICK AND WAS TOLD THIS WAS NOT A RECALL ISSUE

Incident date: Feb 6, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE PARKED AND UNOCCUPIED, THE VEHICLE IGNITED INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES AND INFORMED THAT THE FIRE ORIGINATED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED A... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Dec 7, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2000

NOTIFIED OF SAFETY RECALL ENGINE DESIGN FLAW BY GM. RECALL #15V701. NO PARTS AVAILABLE/UNKNOWN WHEN PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE/KEEP ENGINE OUT OF GARAGE DUE TO FIRE POSSIBILITY. MY ENGINE SMOKES LIGHTLY BUT CONTINUALLY WHEN RUNNING AND CONTINUES FOR A SHORT TIME AFTER IGNITION TURNED OFF. VARIOUS MECH... Read more

Incident date: Sep 18, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED NECK INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE FRONT PASSENGER ALSO SUSTAINED CHEST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. TH... Read more

Crash 2 injured

Incident date: Sep 18, 2015

Crash 2 injured

Incident date: Dec 23, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL WAS NOTICED WITHIN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE ODOR OF FUEL WAS ONLY PRESENT WHEN THE HEATER WAS ACTIVATED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURE... Read more

Incident date: Sep 3, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, SHE SMELLED A STRONG BURNING ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER AND CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTS... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Nov 5, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT NOTICED OIL WAS LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION KEY FAILED TO GO INTO THE IGNITION AND FAILED TO TURN BACK. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURE... Read more

Incident date: Sep 15, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS AND TAIL LIGHTS BLEW OUT. IN ADDITION, THE IGNITION KEY WAS RUNNING HOT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NO... Read more

Incident date: Sep 15, 2015

Incident date: Apr 8, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. THE CONTACT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. NO POLICE OR FIRE REPORTS WERE FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRING HARNESS NE... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Dec 10, 2010

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED OUTSIDE OF THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE, IT CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Dec 16, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MA... Read more

Incident date: Oct 21, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE DEALER WAS NOT YET NOTIFIED OF THE RECALL. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO DETERMINE WHEN THE PARTS AND THE PERMANENT REMEDY FOR... Read more

Incident date: Dec 13, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED WITH THE ENGINE OFF. THE CONTACT HAD DRIVEN THE VEHICLE FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE HOUR PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE AND A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. NO INJURIES... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Jun 15, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING INTO THE DRIVEWAY AT ABOUT 5 MPH, THERE WAS SMOKE EMITTING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD, WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE CONTACT LIFTED THE HOOD AND THE ENGINE IMMEDIATELY BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ATTEMPTED TO EXTINGU... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Jun 15, 2015

Fire

Incident date: Apr 14, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, A LOUD NOISE EMITTED WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SHAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V527000 (STEERING). THE MA... Read more

Incident date: Mar 12, 2015

I USED MY TURN SIGNALS TO MAKE A RIGHT HAND TURN AND MY CAR TURNED OFF. NO LIGHTS, TURN SIGNALS, DASH LIGHTS, BRAKES WERE SOFT, AND STEERING WAS HARD. IF I HAD BEEN ON THE FREEWAY WHEN THIS HAPPENED I WOULD HAVE BEEN IN A CAR ACCIDENT. THIS HAS HAPPENED TWO TIMES NOW AND I AM NOW UNABLE TO START MY... Read more

Incident date: Jan 2, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT SMELLED AN ODOR OF BURNING RUBBER. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY ENGULFED IN FLAMES WITHIN 15 MINUTES. THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS WERE ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAIL... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Apr 1, 2014

TL * THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 BUICK REGAL. WHILE MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE RESTARTED AND WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE FAILURE RECURRED EIGHTEEN TIMES OVER A PERIOD OF THREE MONTHS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAI... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2014

Incident date: Apr 12, 2014

MY SON RECEIVED A VEHICLE RECALL FROM GM ON HIS BUICK REGAL FOR POTENTIAL COMPARTMENT FIRE. HE BROUGHT THE CAR INTO A LOCAL DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE RECALL WORK COMPLETED. APPROXIMATELY THREE WEEKS LATER ON APRIL 12TH MY SON DROVE HIS CAR 15MILES TO WORK AND NOTICE IMMEDIATELY AFTER GETTING OUT OF T... Read more

Fire

Showing 50 of 376 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 1998 BUICK REGAL

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
3.8L 6-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	17.0	27.0	21.0	Regular	$2,950
3.8L 6-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	16.0	25.0	19.0	Regular	$3,300

CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 1998 BUICK REGAL

93 manufacturer communications from 83 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY	11
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	5
138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM	4
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER	4
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	4
350000 EQUIPMENT	4
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	3
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER	3

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Procedures to Unlock Delco Radio with Theftlock.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Procedures to Unlock Delco Radio with Theftlock.

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock ce

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

350000 EQUIPMENT

199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

200000 WHEELS

This informational bulletin provides information on wheel bearing P/N 13582664 being received new with visible rust and no action is needed as this does not affect the part performance.

200000 WHEELS

This informational bulletin provides information on wheel bearing P/N 13582664 being received new with visible rust and no action is needed as this does not affect the part performance.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Vehicle Recalls

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

This informational bulletin provides the technician with information on what E85 fuel may due to a non E85 vehicle.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This preliminary bulletin provides a way to aid the technician in diagnosing transmission fluid leaking from the trans breather vent.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint lamp, Service Vehicle Soon lamp on and/or radio locked, possibly after module replacement. Techni

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

L67 ENGINE OIL SMELL OR ODOR, LEAK AT LEFT OR FRONT VALVE COVER (REPLACE VALVE COVER GASKET, GROMMENTS AND SPARK PLUG WIRE RETAINERS FOR CYLINDERS 1-3-5). *NJ UPDATED 7/25/2008 *PE

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

ENGINE COOLANT CONSUMPTION OR COOLANT LEAK (INSPECT FOR MATERIAL DEGRADATION/REPLACE INTAKE MANIFOLDS) *TT UPDATED 11/02/07 *NJ

180000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

INTERMITTENT CHUGGLE OR FISHBITE ON LIGHT ACCELERATION OR A HIGHWAY SPEEDS WITH NO DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS). *TT

020000 SUSPENSION

TIE ROD SPECIFICATIONS REVISED. GM TECH LINK. *TT

010000 STEERING

REVISED OUTER TIE ROD END NUT TIGHTENING SPECIFICATION/TIE ROD END JAM NUT TIGHTENING SPECIFICATION ADDED. *TT

138200 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW

POOR RADIO RECEPTION OR RADIO STATIC/ INCREASED INTERFERENCE WITH REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER ON OR SOME REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER GRIDS MAY BE INOPERATIVE. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

BROKEN CONSOLE OR STORAGE COMPARTMENT LID LATCH. *TT UPDATED *EH

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

NEW REAR MAIN SEAL AND SPECIAL TOOL FOR INSTALLATION. *TT

063200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE

NEW UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD AND GASKET KITS. *TT

122000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS

LEFT AND/ OR RIGHT FOG LAMP MAY BE INOPERATIVE. *MJ

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

INOPERATIVE LEFT OR RIGHT FOG LAMP. *EH

015000 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

POWER STEERING GEAR LOWER PINION BEARING, SAFETY RECALL 03062. *TT

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

HVAC SIDE TO SIDE TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCE. *SC

138120 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT

MANUAL DUAL ZONE FAN AND MODE KNOB REPLACEMENT. SERVICE VME. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

CUP HOLDER MAY NOT RETAIN CUPS. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

SOME VEHICLES BUILT PRIOR TO VIN BREAKPOINT 1F136536 MAY EXHIBIT INTERMITTENT MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP / SERVICE ENGINE SOON INDICATOR ILLUMINATION; ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATION; STALL / NO START CONDITION; VARIOUS EL

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

REGAL LOWER ROCKER MOLDING AT QUARTER PANEL AVAILABILITY. SERVICE VME. *TT

017500 STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

RELEASE OF NEW OUTER TIE ROD ENDS FOR SERVICE. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

THE RIGHT PIECE OF BRIGHT TRIM ATTACHED TO THE LOWER ROCKER MOLDING IN FRONT OF THE REAR TIRE RIGHT SIDE HAS SEEN A FREQUENT FAILURE. *TT

114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

WIRE HARNESS MAY BE STRETCHED, OR THE PCS MAY NOT BE ORIENTED IN THE SAME POSITION, AFTER INSTALLING A SERVICE REPLACEMENT VALVE BODY ASSEMBLY. GM TECH LINK. *TT

170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

CENTER CONSOLE AND/OR ARMREST STORAGE LID WILL NOT REMAIN CLOSED DUE TO A BROKEN LATCH. BOTH LATCHES ARE SERVICE SEPARATELY AND AVAILABLE THROUGH GM SERVICE PARTS. *TT

134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

PARTS AVAILABILITY FOR SUNROOF REPAIRS. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

POOR RADIO RECEPTION OR RADIO STATIC/ INCREASED INTERFERENCE WITH REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER ON OR SOME REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER GRIDS MAY BE INOPERATIVE. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

SUN VISORS MAY NOT STAY IN INTENDED POSITION. *TT

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

VEHICLES WITH THE CJ2 AUTOMATIC AIR CONDITIONING AND WITHOUT THE U20 CLUSTER WHICH IS THE DRIVER INFORMATION CENTER AND THE CJ2 AUTOMATIC AIR CONDITIONER DISPLAYS THE CELSIUS AND NOT FAHRENHEIT. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

SUBJECT REGARDING CARPET PULLING OUT FROM UNDER FROM THE REAR DOOR SILL PLATE, LEFT OR RIGHT SIDE. *TT

103500 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT THAT THERE IS A HOLE IN THE SHIFTER BOOT IN VEHICLES WITH FLOOR SHIFTS. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

SOME OWNERS MAY COMMENT ON A REPEAT ENGINE OIL PAN LEAK. *TT

200000 WHEELS

INFORMATION ON REFINISHING ALUMINUM WHEELS. *TT

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

SUBJECT REGARDING VARIOUS DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOMS, MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATES INTERMITTENTLY, DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES SEAT, ENGINE WILL NOT START. *SLC

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT ON THE TIME IT TAKES THE RIGHT SIDE DOOR GLASS TO DEFOG. *SLC

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

SUBJECT REGARDING HVAC TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCE SIDE TO SIDE AND/OR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES B0361, B0441 SET. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT ON WIND NOISE OR A WHISTLE AROUND THE MIRRORS ON THE FRONT DOORS. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT THAT THE CARPETING IS SEPARATING FROM, OR COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE REAR DOOR OPENING SILL PLATE MOLDING. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

CONCERNS WHERE THE CARPET PULLS OUT FROM UNDER THE SILL PLATE ON THE LEFT OR RIGHT REAR FOOT WELL AREA. *TT

135200 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR

INFORMATION ON DIAGNOSING WIND NOISE FROM THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR AREA. *TT

022000 SUSPENSION:REAR

INFORMATION REGARDING ITCHING TYPE NOISE FROM REAR OF VEHICLE. *YH

160000 STRUCTURE

INFORMATION REGARDING A CLUNK OR POP NOISE IN THE LEFT FRONT FOOT WELL AREA. *YH

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

EXPERIENCING EXCESSIVE ENGINE COOLANT CONSUMPTION, OR AN ENGINE COOLANT LEAK NEAR OR UNDER THE THROTTLE BODY AREA OF THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD. *TT

034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

THIS BULLETIN IS BEING ISSUED TO REVISE THE FASTENER REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FRONT AND REAR BRAKE CALIPER BRACKET REPLACEMENT PROCEDURES IN THE DISC-BRAKE SUB-SECTION OF BRAKES IN THE APPROPRIATE SERVICE MANUAL. *TT

034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

SUBJECT REGARDING REVISED FASTENER REQUIREMENTS FOR FRONT AND REAR BRAKE CALIPER BRACKET. *TT

090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

A CONDITION MAY EXIST IN WHICH THE FUEL GAUGE READS INCORRECTLY / FLUCTUATES, LOW FUEL CHIME SOUNDS PREMATURELY. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

SOME OWNERS MAY COMMENT ON A REPEAT ENGINE OIL PAN LEAK. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

INFORMATION REGARDING EXTRA CLIPS IN THE 4T65E TRANSMISSION. *SLC

135200 VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT THAT THE BLACK PLASTIC HOUSING AROUND THE OUTSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR TURNS CHALKY OR IS DULL IN COLOR. *TT

090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT ON THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: 1) THE FUEL GAUGE READING INCORRECTLY. 2) LOW FUEL CHIME SOUNDS PREMATURELY. 3) FUEL GAUGE MAY FLUCTUATE FROM FULL TO EMPTY. *TT

110100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN

A CONDITION MAY EXIST OF A HIGH AMOUNT OF EFFORT REQUIRED TO SOUND THE HORN. *TT

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

EXPERIENCING A LACK OF EXPECTED PERFORMANCE OF THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM IN HOT HUMID WEATHER. *TT

090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

CONDITIONS WITH INACCURATE FUEL GAUGE / FLUCTUATES, PREMATURE LOW FUEL CHIME. *TT

114200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH

SUBJECT REGARDING CLUSTERS - REPLACE CIRCUIT BOARD. *TT

116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE

SUBJECT ON ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC (OBD) SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS. *MJS

090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT THAT THE FUEL GAUGE READS INCORRECTLY / FLUCTUATES, AND THE LOW FUEL CHIME SOUNDS PREMATURELY. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

CONDITIONS WITH GENERAL WIND NOISE / WINDRUSH. *TT

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT ON RADIO CLOCK GAINS AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF TIME. *YC

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

COMMENTS ON SWITCHING BETWEEN LOCAL STATIONS OR CROSS TALK IN METROPOLITAN AREAS WITH SEVERAL STRONG AM STATIONS. *YC

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

CONCERNS OF DOOR HANDLES ON WHITE PAINTED VEHICLES TRUNING YELLOW. *YC

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE A SHAKING SENSATION WHEN VEHICLE IS OPERATED BETWEEN 35-55 MPH (55-90 KM/H) ON SMOOTH ROADS WITH CURVES OR DIPS. *YC

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT THE RADIO CLOCK GAINS AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF TIME. *YC

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

SUBJECT ON HEADLAMP AIMING OWNER MANUAL INFORMATION. *YC

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

SUBJECT ON HEADLAMP AIMING OWNER MANUAL INFORMATION. *YC

131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

SOME OWNERS MAY COMMENT THAT THE DOOR GLASS STICKS IN THE FULL UP POSITION. THIS CONDITION MAINLY HAPPENS IN WARM WEATHER. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT THAT THE RIGHT REAR FLOOR IS WET WITH CLEAN WATER ON VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN VIN BREAKPOINTS W1587942 AND W1584117. *TT

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

INFORMATION ON GROWLING NOISE IN TRANSAXLE DURING FIRST FOUR MINUTES AFTER START UP. *YC

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

CONDITION WITH WINDSHIELD WIPER ARMS/BLADES PARK AT INCORRECT LOCATION. *YC

126000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

INFORMATION ON LEFT TURN SIGNAL INOPERATIVE. *YC

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

SUBJECT ON HVAC MANUAL CLIMATE CONTROL MODE SELECTOR FIRST PHASE OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTER MAILING. *YC

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN ON HVAC MANUAL CLIMATE CONTROL MODE SELECTOR. *YC

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

INFORMATION ON MANUAL CLIMATE CONTROL MODE SELECTOR. *YC

114200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH

INFORMATION ON THE BASE AND GAGE CLUSTERS - CIRCUIT BOARD UPDATE. *TT

040000 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR

ABS PUMP RUNNING WHEN NOT NEEDED. *NJ

NHTSA Safety Investigations, BUICK REGAL

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

RP, Closed , Model Year: 1988

STRUCTURE