1997 Buick Regal LS review from North America
"3.8L V-6 engine is a great engine"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Battery at 75,000.
Rear running lights at 75,000.
Alternator around 82,000.
Windshield arms separated from drive motor 85,000.
Valve cover gaskets replaced around 88,000.
Idler pulley for serpentine belt tensioner at about 102,000 replaced due to bearing failure.
Replaced left from hub bearing due to ABS sensor not working around 105,000.
Blower motor bearing noise replaced at 198,000.
General comments?
Good car for GM. I've been a Toyota man most of my life. Lots of power, room and very comfortable. 29-30MPG highway and 24MPG all around. Car made for assembly line in Canada though and at 203,350 miles interior pieces are falling apart.
No major engine problems yet. I've done a lot of routine work like plugs/wires twice, Serpentine belt and tensioner twice, Replaced all hoses, transmission fluid at 150,000, etc.
Experienced typical problems like upper door moldings on front doors, wiper motor problem, right door sticking, stabilizer noise from rear of car, etc. Car still runs great with lots of power, and I've always used premium. Transmission starting to make a little noise and causing some concern. Will car last to 300,000? I don't think so, but so far it's been a good car. Leaks a little oil out timing chain cover.
Recommended reviews
| 1997 - Regal GS 3.8L Super Charged Great car to drive plagued by mechanical problems |
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| R.I.P. My Buick |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 69000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 203350 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 8th June, 2007 |