59 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.
Most common 1997 Buick Regal problems
36 of the 136 complaints (26%) are about the engine.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Steering › Rack and Pinion
14
0
0
0
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine
14
0
8
0
Engine
10
0
6
0
Electrical System
9
0
1
0
Steering
6
0
0
0
Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer
4
0
0
0
Tires
4
0
0
0
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · brakes
4
0
0
0
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission
4
0
0
0
Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System · engine
4
0
1
0
8 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe15V701000
Filed Oct 26, 20151,003,556 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC
Defect. 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, 09V-116, and 15V-201 to address the possibility that engine oil may drip onto the hot exhaust manifold.
Risk. 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 original remedy will instead receive the improved remedy under the original recall number. The recall began on February 19, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Oldsmobile customer service at 1-800-442-6537 and Pontiac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is 15757. Note: Until the improved remedy has been applied, owners are advised to park their vehicle outside since the fire risk exists even when the vehicle is unattended.
Defect. 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 DROPS OF ENGINE OIL MAY BE DEPOSITED ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD THROUGH HARD BRAKING.
Risk. 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 1-800-630-2438, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537, AND PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668 OR HTTP://WWW.PONTIAC.COM OR HTTP:WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.
Filed Feb 17, 2009979 vehiclesDorman Products, Inc.
Defect. 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 THE STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING IN THE HUB AREA.
Risk. 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.
Filed Mar 12, 2008207,542 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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 THE PLASTIC SPARK PLUG WIRE CHANNEL AND BEYOND.
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 MAY 2016. , FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2016. UNTIL THE REMEDY IS COMPLETED, GM STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT OWNERS OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS (1) THAT OWNERS DO NOT PARK THEIR VEHICLE IN A GARAGE, CAR PORT, OR OTHER STRUCTURE; (2) IF OWNERS NOTICE A BURNING ODOR, THEY SHOULD HAVE THEIR DEALER INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE WITHOUT CHARGE; (3) USE PREMIUM FUEL (91 OCTANE OR HIGHER) IN THE VEHICLE AS RECOMMENDED IN THE VEHICLE'S OWNER MANUAL. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080 OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM>HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM</A> .
Filed Dec 11, 2003750,283 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. 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.
Risk. 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. IF THE PINION SHAFT MOVES EVEN FURTHER, THE DRIVER WILL REQUIRE MUCH HIGHER EFFORT TO TURN LEFT AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO TURN THE WHEEL AS MUCH AS INTENDED. WITH THE MAXIMUM PINION SHAFT MOVEMENT, WHICH REQUIRES INTERNAL GEAR COMPONENT DAMAGE, THE DRIVER CAN ENCOUNTER HIGH RESISTANCE TO TURNING LEFT, FOLLOWED BY UNINTENDED POWER ASSIST TO THE RIGHT. IN ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
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 1-800-630-6537; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
Filed Dec 16, 1999155,149 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS MAY STOP WORKING DUE TO A SEPARATION BETWEEN THE DRIVE PIN AND CRESCENT IN THE CRANK ARM ASSEMBLY.
Risk. DRIVER VISIBILITY COULD BE REDUCED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES FOR THE PRESENCE OF A PLASTIC WATER DEFLECTOR AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE WIPER MOTOR CRANK ARM AND INSTALL A WATER DEFLECTOR. ON VEHICLES RECEIVING A REPLACEMENT CRANK ARM AND NEW WATER DEFLECTOR, DEALERS WILL ALSO APPLY ADDITIONAL SEALING MATERIAL TO IMPROVE WATER DEFLECTION AWAY FROM THE CRANK ARM ASSEMBLY AND WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF THE WIPER PARK MECHANISM.
Filed May 15, 1998149,342 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. 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."
Risk. 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.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings97V223000
Filed Nov 14, 19974,387 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE PIPE CAN CONTACT THE PIOWER STEERING ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BRAKE LINE TO WEAR THROUGH.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN THE LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID AND EVENTUAL LOSS OF HALF OF THE VEHICLE BRAKE SYSTEM.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR PROPER CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE BRAKE LINE AND POWER STEERING ASSEMBLY. ASSEMBLIES FOUND TO BE OUT OF POSITION WILL BE REPOSITIONED AND ALL ASSEMBLIES SECURED TO MAINTAIN PROPER CLEARANCES. ADDITIONALLY, THOSE BRAKE LINES FOUND TO HAVE BEEN DAMAGED WILL BE REPLACED AND PROPERLY ROUTED.
All 8 campaigns on file, newest first.
What owners reported
Newest filings
EngineFire
Filed Feb 28, 2019IL
1997 BUICK REGAL. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO SAFETY RECALL ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE NOTICE . CONSUMER WRITES VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE AND MANUFACTURER STATED THERE WAS NO PROOF FOR CAUSE OF FIRE. *AS *TR
Electrical System
Filed Oct 26, 2018138,000 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH AND MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF. APPROXIMATELY TEN MINUTES LATER, THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED AND OPERATED NORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000. THE VIN WAS INVALID. *TT CONSUMER STATED DEALERSHIP IS NOW CLOSED AND WILL BE TAKING IT TO A REPAIR SHOP. UPDATED 12/20/18*JB
Engine
Filed Oct 5, 2016TN
BUICK FIXED 3 RECALLS BUT WON'T FIX ON SAY I HAVE TO PAY FOR ANOTHER PART BEFORE THEY CAN FIX LAST RECALL.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Sep 27, 2016NH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS IN A PARKING LOT, THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MAJOR INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Engine
Filed Aug 22, 2016FL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME TO SCHEDULE THE RECALL REPAIR FOR SEVERAL MONTHS. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE CONTACT WOULD NEED TO WAIT FOR THE SECOND NOTICE. THE MANUFACTURER COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 2, 2016WI
1997 BUICK REGAL. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEALERSHIP DENIED REIMBURSEMENT REQUESTS FOR ENGINE OIL DEPOSITED ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD RECALL NOTICE. *SMD THE CONSUMER WAS DENIED REIMBURSEMENT, BECAUSE THE REPAIR WAS DONE AFTER THE RECALL WAS MAILED. *JB
EngineFire
Filed May 11, 2016107,000 milesIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 BUICK REGAL. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE CONTACT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 107,000.
Engine
Filed Mar 16, 2016IL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE ENGINE OVERHEATED AS AN UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS WHERE THE ENGINE MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR WAS REPLACED EACH TIME BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED FOR THE THIRD TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
EngineFire
Filed Feb 29, 2016195,000 milesIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 BUICK REGAL. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE FAILURE RECURRED TWO WEEKS AFTER THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 195,000.
EngineFire
Filed Feb 26, 2016GA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, IT CAUGHT FIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
EngineFire
Filed Feb 22, 2016150,000 milesMI
FIRE STARTED IN THE ENGINE, RESULTING IN THE CAR EXPLODING IN ABOUT 10 MINUTES TOTAL. TOTAL LOSS. CAUGHT FIRE TO MY FRIENDS GARAGE. THE CAR WAS PARKED AND RUNNING WHILE WE RAN INSIDE TO PAY FOR SOME STUFF. HEARD AN EXPLOSION AND WENT TO INVESTIGATE, AND SAW THE HOOD AND DASH AND THE ENGINE ON FIRE. MY FRIEND JUMPED ON HIS TRACTOR AND PUSHED IT AWAY FROM THE GARAGE, AND STARTED DUMPING SNOW ON IT. FIRE DEPT CAME AND PUT IT OUT.
EngineFire
Filed Jan 12, 2016190,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE WHILE DRIVING. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND STATED THAT THE FIRE ORIGINATED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V701000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 190,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 8, 2016145,000 milesIL
WAS DRIVING MY 1997 BUICK REGAL GS 3.8 WHEN I HAD MY SON IN THE CAR WENT TO TURN LEFT AND WHEN IN THE TURN ALL THE LIGHTS START TO FLASH AND THE CAR SHUT DOWN .. HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED LATER TO FIND OUT IT IS THE IGNITION SWITCH NOW CAR IS SITTING WILL NOT START ALL LIGHTS FLASH WILL NOT CRANK OR TURN OVER ... BEFORE ALL THAT HAPPENED WHEN I WOULD MAKE A LEFT TURN YOU COULD HEAR A CLICKING COMING FROM THE DRIVERS SIDE TIRE AND THE LIGHTS WOULD COME ON ... EVERYTHING YOU TOUCHED ON THE STEERING WHEEL , TURN SIGNALS , WINDSHIELD WIPERS ANYTHING WOULD MAKE ALL CLUSTER LIGHTS COME ON AND SHUT DOWN THE CAR . THANK GOD KNOWONE WAS INJURED OR KILLED
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Dec 18, 2015WI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. NO FURTHER DETAILS WERE AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Nov 10, 2014141,072 milesCA
AFTER TAKING MY CAR TO THE MECHANIC 6 TIMES TO REPAIR THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON/ABS LIGHT/TRAC OFF LIGHT COMING ON, HE REPLACED THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL BEARING WITH A MORE EXPENSIVE MODEL AND REPLACED THE MODULE ON THE ABS PUMP THAT HAS THE CIRCUIT BOARD AND PUMP GEARS. THE PROBLEM WENT AWAY FOR APPROX. 1 1/2 WEEKS AND NOW IS BACK! AM GOING TO THE MECHANIC TO SEE WHAT IS GOING ON. *TR
Service Brakes
Filed Oct 24, 2014140,359 milesCA
THE SERVICE VEHICLE SOON/ABS WARNING LIGHT/AND TRAC OFF LIGHT LIT AND THE CAR LURCHED AS IF THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED AT THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL. THE ERROR CODE WAS C1225, WHICH IS TOO MUCH SPEED AT THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL. THE BEARING AND SENSOR WAS REPLACED 3 TIMES AND THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURRED. THE MECHANIC ALSO REPLACED THE ABS PUMP MODULE (THE ELECTRONIC PART OF THE ABS UNIT) AND THEN HAD TO UPGRADE THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL BEARING AND SENSOR TO ANOTHER BRAND THAT WAS 2X AS EXPENSIVE. THE ABS PROBLEM AFFECTED THE STEERING (MAKING IT HARDER TO STEER AND MORE NOISY), AND ALSO AFFECTED THE SHIFTING OF THE TRANSMISSION. THE ONLINE WARNINGS SAID THAT IT COULD DAMAGE THE TRANSMISSION IF NOT CORRECTED. I EVEN TRIED REPLACING THE MODULE OF THE TRACTION CONTROL UNIT UNDER THE DASH. THIS WAS A VERY TIME CONSUMING AND COSTLY REPAIR, AS THE LEFT FRONT BEARING WAS REPLACE A TOTAL OF 4 TIMES AND TWO VISITS FOR THE ABS MODULE AND PROGRAMMING. I SEE THAT ANOTHER OWNER HAD SIMILAR PROBLEMS AT ABOUT 140,000 MILES. *TR
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Filed Jul 21, 2014140,000 milesGA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE SEIZED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER WHEELS LOCKED. ALSO, THE ANTI TRACTION, AND THE ABS LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED OR DIAGNOSED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000. UPDATED 09/05/14*LJ
Engine
Filed Feb 25, 2014106,000 milesOH
THE LOW COOLANT LIGHT SENSOR FLASHES ON AND OFF, IF THE CAR IS IDOL THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE MOVES UP RAPIDLY. I HAVE HAD THE COOLANT AND THERMOSTAT CHECK, BOTH ARE FINE. MY MECHANIC ADVISED TO CHECK THIS WEBSITE FOR ENGINE COOLING RECALL AND THERE IS ONE. I NEED TO KNOW WHERE TO TAKE MY CAR TO GET THIS ISSUE FIXED UNDER THE RECALL. *TR
Engine and Engine CoolingFire
Filed Jul 10, 2013WI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE ENGINE BEGAN TO OVERHEAT AND EMITTED SMOKE. IN ADDITION, THE ENGINE PLUGS IGNITED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO WAS UNABLE TO LOCATE THE PROBLEM. THERE WERE TWO RECALLS UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBERS 09V116000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) AND 08V118000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) HOWEVER, THE CONTACT'S VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE. UPDATED 09/05/13*LJ THE HEAD GASKETS AND COILS FAILED. UPDATED 09/05/13
Power Train
Filed Jul 18, 2012195,111 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE SMELLED OIL COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE WHILE PARKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSIS. THE DEALER DID NOT DIAGNOSE A FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY STATED THAT THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 195,111 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 195,115.
Electrical System
Filed Apr 12, 2012151,000 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION WHILE SITTING AT A TRAFFIC STOP, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH THE ILLUMINATION OF ALL OF THE WARNING LIGHTS ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE STARTER AND BATTERY WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE CONTINUED AFTER THE REPAIR. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 151,000.
Steering
Filed Jul 20, 2011137,000 milesWI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE VEHICLE WOULD LOOSE POWER STEERING. THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 08V118000 (STEERING), BUT THE VIN WAS NOT A PART OF THE RECALL. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED, BUT DENIED ASSISTANCE WITH THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE WAS NOT REMEDIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 137,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 137,025.
Engine and Engine CoolingFire
Filed Jun 22, 2011TX
1997 BUICK REGAL. CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE EXPLODED AFTER EXITING. *TGW
Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed May 2, 201180,000 milesWI
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL GAUGE DID NOT INDICATE THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF FUEL IN THE TANK. THE FAILURE OCCURRED FREQUENTLY AND MORE OFTEN IN SEVERE WINTER WEATHER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 138,000. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 80,000.
Engine and Engine CoolingFire
Filed Jan 26, 2011OH
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD SHUT ON AND OFF ALONG WITH THE RADIO AND THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SMOKE. THE CONTACT DROVE ONTO THE EMERGENCY LANE AND WITHIN A FEW MINUTES THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE RECALL WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE SALVAGE LOT THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING BECAUSE OF AN OIL LEAK THAT CAUSED THE FIRE. THE RECALL CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER WAS 08V118000,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Engine and Engine CoolingFire
Filed Jun 22, 201078,000 milesIL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 BUICK REGAL. SHE STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN UNDISCLOSED LOCATION. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE WAS DIRECTLY RELATED TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 08V118000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 6, 2010150,000 milesNJ
CARS ENGINE WOULD CUT OFF WHEN USING EITHER TURN SIGNAL. ALL DASH LITES WOULD MOMENTARILY COME ON,OR JUST AIR BAG LITE WOULD COME ON BEFORE STALLING. REPLACED IGNITION SWITCH TO CORRECT. MANY OTHER REGAL CUSTOMERS HAVE COMPLAINED ON-LINE,NOTHING DONE ABOUT IT!!! VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION!!!!. *TR
Engine and Engine CoolingFire
Filed Sep 16, 2009158,000 milesAL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE # 09V116000 (09V116000). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND REPAIRED ACCORDING TO THE REMEDY REFERENCED IN THE RECALL. HOWEVER SHORTLY AFTER THE REPAIR THE VEHICLE HAD AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FLAMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 158,000.BL
Electrical System
Filed Aug 29, 2009116,611 milesKY
OUT OF THE BLUE BY USING THE TURN SIGNAL OUR 1997 BUICK REGAL'S ENGINE WOULD STALL. IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC, WE HAD NO BRAKES OR POWER STEERING. ALL DASHBOARD LIGHTS WOULD FLASH. OUR CAR WAS TOWED TO THE GM DEALERSHIP AND THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS REPLACED. NOW EVERYTHING IS WORKING FINE. *TR
Visibility
Filed Aug 3, 2009NJ
IT WAS POURING DOWN RAIN YESTERDAY. I WAS DRIVING TO WORK, WITH MY WINDSHIELD WIPERS ON AS USUAL. OUT OF NOWHERE, MY LEFT WINDSHIELD WIPER STOP WORKING AND I LOST VISUAL OF THE ROAD. IT WAS SO DANGEROUS, ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT. I COULDN'T GO TO WORK BECAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. I STOP MY CAR NEARBY UNTIL IT STOP RAINING. MY SAFETY WAS AT RISK. *TR
Engine and Engine Cooling › EngineFire
Filed Jun 23, 2009200,000 milesMA
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT PLACED OIL IN THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE WAS ON FIRE ONCE HE ARRIVED HOME. THE VEHICLE QUICKLY BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES AND HIS NEIGHBOR EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED BY THE TIME THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT FILED A REPORT. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust SystemFire
Filed Jun 23, 2009100,458 milesIN
I LEFT WORK ON MY BREAK DROVE A HALF MILE TO HOME GOT OUT MY CAR AND CAME IN THE HOUSE FOR ABOUT FIVE MINUTES. THEN A OFFICER WAS AT MY DOOR AND TOLD ME MY CAR WAS ON FIRE. THE FLAMES WERE VERY BAD UNDER MY HOOD. THE POLICE WAS TELLING EVERYONE TO MOVE THERE CARS AND STAY IN THERE APARTMENTS. IT TOOK ABOUT TEN MINUTES BEFORE THE FIREMEN TO GET THERE. WHEN THEY ARRIVE AND OPEN THE HOOD A BALL OF FIRE SHOT OUT. THEY PUT IT OUT. THE CAR WAS BURNT UP BADLY. SO I CALL GM AND GAVE A FIRE REPORT. IT WAS A RECALL ON MY ENGINE AND GM SENT ME A LETTER TO GO AND GET IT SERVICE. AND I DID GO TO MIKES BUICK ON 04/09 AND THEY FIX THE RECALL. AND ON 05/25/09 THAT'S WHEN MY CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. MIKES CAME OUT AND TOWED MY CAR TO THERE SHOP. THEY CALL ME ABOUT FIVE DAYS AFTER THAT AND SAID THEY COULD NOT DO ANY THING FOR ME. NOW I HAVE NO TRANSPORTATION TO WORK THEY JUST DON'T CARE ABOUT THERE MISTAKE. MY CAR WAS PERFECTLY FINE UNTIL THEY WORKED ON IT AND THEN IT JUST BADLY BURNT UP. I REALLY NEED SOME HELP WITH THIS PROBLEM I AM A SINGLE MOTHER OF 5 AND NOW I HAVE NO TRANSPORTATION FOR WORK OR SCHOOL. PLEASE HELP US. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. *TR
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 13, 2009PA
TL*THE CONTACT DOES NOT OWN A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT READ AN ARTICLE REGARDING NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 09V116000. THE RECALL WAS ISSUED DUE TO AN OIL LEAK THAT COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO CATCH FIRE. HE BELIEVED THAT THE REMEDY FOR THE RECALL WOULD NOT REPAIR THE FAILURE. GM STATES THAT THEY WILL REMOVE THE SPARK PLUG WIRE RETENTION CHANNEL AND INSTALL TWO NEW PLUG WIRES. HE BELIEVES THAT THIS WILL NOT CORRECT THE FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE COULD STILL CATCH FIRE IN THE FUTURE. THE CONTACT BELIEVES THAT THE LEAKS SHOULD BE REPAIRED AT THE CORE OF THE ISSUE. THERE IS NOT ONE PARTICULAR VEHICLE IN QUESTION, BUT THE RECALL INCLUDES THE 1997-2003 BUICK REGALS, 2000-2003 CHEVROLET IMPALAS, 1998-1999 CHEVROLET LUMINAS, 1998- 2003 CHEVROLET MONTE CARLOS, 1998-1999 OLDSMOBILE INTRIGUES, AND 1997-2003 PONTIAC GRAND PRIXS. THE VIN AND MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.
Steering › Rack and Pinion
Filed Feb 18, 200954,733 milesVA
1997 REGAL BUICK RECALL NO. 03V52700 WAS COMPLETED ON VEHICLE ON 3/18/04 (STEERING RACK AND PINION) VEHICLE HAD ROUGHLY 22,000. SAME PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED AGAIN WITH 54,733 MILES. VEHICLE DRIVEN AROUND TOWN. CAN'T DRIVE HAVE TO HAVE VEHICLE TOWED STEERING UNCONTROLLABLE. CALLED GM WILL NOT REPLACE. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. PROBLEM WAS JUST PATCHED. GM SHOULD HAVE TO REPLACE BECAUSE OF SAFETY ISSUE. SOMEONE COULD BE INJURED POSSIBLY KILLED. MY COMPLAINT IS THAT GM SHOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE STEERING RACK AND PINION. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT BUT COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. *TR
Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling SystemFire
Filed Dec 5, 2008143,000 milesWI
RECALL FIXED AT BUICK GARAGE ... OIL DRIPS ONTO MANIFOLD CAUSING POSSIBLE FIRE. DROVE CAR ABOUT 20 MI. AFTER BEING FIXED AND CAR STARTED ON FIRE. *TR
Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System
Filed Dec 5, 2008140,000 milesWI
ANTIFREEZE DEXCOOL LEAKS INTO ENGINE. HAD IT FIXED FOR $400+. NOW I FIND OUT THAT MY OTHER CAR IS DOING THE SAME THING. *TR
Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal
Filed Oct 12, 200830,000 milesOR
IF YOU USE TURN SIGNALS CAR WILL SHUT DOWN. GAUGES GO CRAZY ALL LIGHTS COME ON. STARTED WITH SEAT BELT LIGHT AND ABS LIGHT COMING ON FIRST TIME - - ABOUT A MILE LATER WHILE IN A PARKING LOT AND STOPPED TRIED AGAIN AND ENGINE SHUTS OFF !!!!!! FINALLY GOT CAR TO START AFTER PLAYING AROUND WITH SIGNALS AND 4 WAY FLASHER AND DROVE HOME OK BUT DID NOT USE TURN SIGNALS. WHEN IN DRIVE TRIED SIGNALS AND AGAIN CAR SHUTS OFF. THIS IS MY WIFE'S CAR 97 REGAL TURNED 30,000 MILES ON THE WAY HOME. *TR
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 29, 2008120,219 milesMO
3.8 LITER SUPERCHARGED ENGINE COOLANT LEAK - LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET IS LEAKING COOLANT. I HAVE READ ABOUT THE RECALL OR CLASS ACTION SUIT ABOUT THE COOLANT LEAKS ON 3.8 LITER ENGINES THAT ARE NOT SUPERCHARGED. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY THEY NEVER INCLUDED SUPERCHARED ENGINES. I HAVE A 1997 BUICK REGAL AND A 2001 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX THAT WERE BOTH AT A GM DEALERSHIP AND THEY HAVE THIS PROBLEM AND IT NEEDS TO BE FIXED. *TR
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 22, 2008118,328 milesSC
ENGINE LIGHT KEPT COMING ON AND THEN WHEN GO OFF. IT WAS FIXED BY REPLACING THE REAR PURGE SOLENOID ON 11-15-07. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Aug 5, 200845,618 milesNJ
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE WARNING LIGHT CONTINUED TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. AN IDENTICAL FAILURE OCCURRED ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS. IN ADDITION, DURING THE MOST RECENT INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER REPAIR, THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED OF THE SAFETY RISK INVOLVED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,618 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 54,000.
Engine and Engine CoolingFire
Filed May 22, 2008AZ
1997 BUICK REGAL DIED WHILE DRIVING AND CAUGHT FIRE. CONSUMER STATES THAT SHE WAS THEN INFORMED OF A RECALL AND BELIEVES THAT BUICK SHOULD COMPENSATE HER SO SHE CAN PURCHASE A NEW VEHICLE. *KB THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER IN THE MAIL 1 MONTH AFTER THE FIRE. RECALL # 08V118000 *JB
Engine and Engine CoolingFire
Filed May 4, 2008125,000 milesOH
1997 BUICK REGAL GS ON THURSDAY MAY 1, 2008 I RECEIVED IN THE MAIL A RECALL LETTER FROM GM. IN THIS LETTER IT EXPLAINS THAT THESE VEHICLES HAVE HIGHER ROCKER COVER GASKET TEMPS. IN SHORT, THIS COULD LEAD TO VEHICLE FIRE AND SURROUNDING PROPERTY. ON FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2008, MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING THIS VEHICLE AND PARKED AT A FRIENDS HOUSE. WHILE THE CAR WAS PARKED AND ENGINE OFF, THE CAR CAUGHT FIRE IN THE ENGINE AREA. THE VEHICLE AND CONTENTS WERE TOTALLY DESTROYED. DAMAGE WAS ALSO CAUSED TO THE FRIENDS HOUSE. *TR
Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Feb 23, 2008137,500 milesIL
ENGINE CRADLE FELL OUT OF CAR WHEN WIFE WAS DRIVING KIDS HOME FROM SCHOOL. *TR
Steering › Rack and Pinion › Rack
Filed Dec 28, 2007128,281 milesTX
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT WAS DIFFICULT TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL AND REQUIRES A LOT OF EFFORT. HE FEELS IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE HE IS UNABLE TO STEER PROPERLY. GENERAL MOTORS STATED THAT NOTHING COULD BE DONE BECAUSE HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 03V527000 (STEERING:RACK AND PINION), EVEN THOUGH THE FAILURES ARE IDENTICAL. THE GM RECALL NUMBER IS 03062. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 128,281. UPDATED 02-14-08. *KB
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch
Filed Jun 21, 2006134,000 milesIL
UNABLE TO REMOVE KEY FROM IGNITION. THE SAFETY MECHANISM THAT PREVENTS THE IGNITION KEY FROM BEING REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH WHILE DRIVING HAS MALFUNCTIONED, THUS KEEPING THE IGNITION KEY CAPTIVE WHEN DRIVER IS READY TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. WHEN VEHICLE SHIFTED INTO "PARK" THE DOORS UNLOCK AS EXPECTED (CONFIRMING PROPER OPERATION OF THE PARK SWITCH), BUT THE IGNITION SWITCH DOES NOT ALLOW THE KEY TO BE ROTATED TO THE EXTRACTION POSITION. AFTER A SEEMINGLY RANDOM AMOUNT OF TIME AFTER PUTTING THE VEHICLE IN PARK, A SMALL CLICK IS HEARD IN THE STEERING COLUMN, THE KEY CAN THEN BE ROTATED TO THE EXTRACTION POSITION, AND THE KEY CAN BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE COLDER THE TEMPERATURE, THE LONGER THE DRIVER MUST WAIT FOR THE KEY TO BE RELEASED. TYPICAL WAIT TIMES BEFORE THE KEY CAN BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH ARE BETWEEN 1 SECOND TO 10 MINUTES. *JB
Steering › Rack and Pinion
Filed May 19, 2006108,000 milesNJ
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS THE VEHICLE WAS DIFFICULT TO STEER LEFT AND RIGHT. THIS OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED. THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL, # 03V527000, REGARDING THE STEERING RACK AND PINION. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. UPDATED 7/25/2006 - *NM
Steering › Rack and Pinion
Filed Mar 27, 2006105,771 milesIN
MY WIFE IS COMPLAINING OF A HARD LEFT STEER ON HER 1997 BUICK REGAL. THE PROBLEM DOES NOT OCCUR ON EACH TURN AT THIS TIME, BUT COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING. BUICK'S CUSTOMER HOT LINE IS REFUSING TO MAKE THE REPAIR ON HER CAR. THEY CLAIM THAT THIS CAR IS NOT INVOLVED WITH THE RECALL # 03062. YET THE RECALL SHOWS THIS RECALL COVERS THE BUICK REGAL MODEL BUILT BETWEEN 08-01-96 THROUGH 07-31-97. THIS CAR WAS BUILT IN THIS TIME FRAME. THIS COULD CAUSE MY WIFE TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT WITH THE POTENTIAL OF FATAL INJURIES. *JB
Steering › Rack and Pinion
Filed Jan 11, 2006CA
I NOTICED THAT I WAS HAVING PROBLEMS STEERING WHILE TURNING LEFT AND RIGHT - VERY STIFF AND HARD TO MANIPULATE STEERING WHEEL WHILE AT LOW SPEEDS. I CHECKED TO MAKE SURE THAT THE FLUIDS WERE ALL LEVEL ETC. AND THE TIRES WERE PROPERLY INFLATED. I CONTINUED SEVERAL WEEKS LATER AND AGAIN THE POWER STEERING FLUID WAS LOW (3RD WEEK OF DEC 2003 & 2ND WEEK OF JAN 2004). I PLANNED ON TAKING THE CAR IN FOR MAINTENANCE WHEN I RECEIVED THE RECALL NOTICE DURING THE 3RD WEEK OF FEB 2004. I TOOK THE CAR INTO SIGNAL HILL BUICK IN CALIFORNIA FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. I WAS MET WITH THE RUDEST SERVICE POSSIBLE, I WAS UNABLE TO GET A RIDE HOME, THE TECHNICIAN I SPOKE TO INITIALLY WOULD NOT EVEN TELL ME WHAT COULD BE THE PROBLEM WITH MY STEERING OTHER THAN THEY WOULD LOOK AT IT AND CORRECT THE PROBLEM. IT WAS NEVER NOTED THAT STEERING SYSTEM WAS DAMAGED AND NEEDED TO BE SERVICED. WHEN I TOOK THE CAR TO HOOMAN BUICK IN CULVER CITY, CA, THEY TOLD ME THAT THE SYSTEM WAS DAMAGED AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED IN ITS ENTIRETY. *JB
Steering › Rack and Pinion › Rack
Filed Nov 28, 200510 milesOH
UNABLE TO MAKE LEFT TURN WITH EASE. LEFT TURNS ARE VERY HARD AND AT TIMES DOES NOT TURN LEFT AT ALL. STEERING WHEEL DOES NOT AUTOMATICALLY RETURN TO CENTER POSITION. I WAS UNABLE TO MAKE A COMPLETE LEFT HAND TURN, WHICH CAUSED ME TO OVER TURN AND DRIVE OFF THE ROAD. *NM
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Filed Nov 7, 200530,000 milesNY
DT: THE CONTACT WAS PULLING OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND THE BRAKES WOULD NOT WORK. WHEN HE APPLIED THE BRAKES THE PEDAL WENT COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATIONS PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT. WHEN THE MECHANIC INSPECTED THE VEHICLE HE SAID THE BRAKE LINES WERE CORRODED AND SPLIT. THE VEHICLE WAS ROUTINELY MAINTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FROM THE MECHANIC TO THE SERVICE DEALER. THE DEALER CONFIRMED THE PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKES. THEY REPLACED THE BRAKE LINES, BUT THE BRAKE LINES WERE STILL LEAKING. THE MANUFACTURER SAID THE BRAKE CORROSION WAS DUE TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES.*AK
Complaints 1-50 of 136, newest first, reproduced as filed.
No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Oct 26, 2015. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.