๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: Buick Model: Regal Year: 1996 Generation Model Generation: Third Generation (1994-1996) Codes Platform Code: GM W-body platform ๐ Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Buick Regal owners, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops Value Proposition: Provides factory-level repair information to empower owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving time and money. Competitive Analysis Advantage Over Generic Manuals: Vehicle-specific, not generic; exact same information used by dealership technicians. Key Features Digital Format Benefits: Searchable, printable specific pages, no greasy pages, can be safely stored on PC, easy to access diagrams. Instructional Content: Complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications. ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas All Models Covered: Yes Repair Scope: A-Z (All Repairs) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Very High (Details not specified, but implied extensive for A-Z coverage) Manual Type Type: Factory Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lube System, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case (if applicable), Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles Chassis: Suspension, Steering Column, Power Steering, Brakes (Control, Parking), Tires & Wheels Electrical And Electronics: Electrical System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Cruise Control, Engine Immobilizer, Meter/Audio/Visual Systems, Horn, Air Conditioning Body And Interior: Body Exterior & Interior, Engine Hood/Doors, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Seats, Seat Belts, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Door Locks, Wiper & Washer Systems Emissions: Emission Control System Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks, filter replacements, tune-ups Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit testing Repair: Step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components Rebuilds: Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions Disassembly And Assembly: Detailed instructions for component removal and installation Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level, highly detailed, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers Detail Level: Complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications ๐ Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Compatibility: Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible Searchable: Likely searchable due to PDF format (standard for modern manuals) Print Quality Printability: All pages are printable Image Scaling: Images can be blown up and printed enlarged Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) Software Requirements PDF Reader: Adobe PDF Reader (Free Online) Unzipping Software: Winzip (Free Online) โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 3.1L V6 (LG7/L82), 3.8L V6 (3800 Series I - L36, Supercharged L67) Performance Horsepower 3.1L: 160 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.) Torque 3.1L: 185 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.) Horsepower 3.8L: 170 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.) Torque 3.8L: 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.) Horsepower 3.8L Supercharged: 205 hp @ 4400 rpm (approx.) Torque 3.8L Supercharged: 275 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline ๐ง Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed automatic (4T60-E, 4T65-E for 3800 Series II later) Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed manual (Rare, typically not offered in North America for this generation Regal) Features Automatic Features: Electronically controlled, overdrive ๐ Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Coupe, Sedan Wheelbase: 109.5 inches (2781 mm) Length: 196.5 inches (4991 mm) Width: 71.0 inches (1803 mm) Height: 54.9 inches (1394 mm) (Sedan) / 54.1 inches (1374 mm) (Coupe) Weights Curb Weight: 3300 - 3500 lbs (approx., depending on engine and trim) ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test: Not directly available for 1996, but general W-body safety was improving. Refer to specific test data if available for comparable models. Active Features ABS: Standard on some trims, optional on others Traction Control: Optional on some models, particularly with supercharged engine Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger airbags standard Seat Belts: Front and rear seat belts ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, premium sound systems available. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims, electronic. Connectivity Multiplex Communication: Basic multiplex communication systems for certain functions, potentially leading to CAN communication later in GM history. Manual will cover wiring and diagnostics for these systems. ๐ง Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (check manual for specific engine and oil type) Tire Rotation: Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for exact specification and API service rating) Coolant: Dex-Cool (Orange, long-life coolant) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze Transmission Fluid: Dexron III (or compatible) Known Issues Common Problems: Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 3800 V6), power steering pump noise, window regulator issues, ABS sensor failures, HVAC blend door actuator problems, transmission solenoid issues. Spark Plugs: N/A (Platinum or Iridium plugs typically have extended life, but manual will specify replacement intervals). ๐ Vehicle History Brand Heritage Buick Legacy: Buick has a long history...
3300 - 3500 lbs (approx., depending on engine and trim)
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Not directly available for 1996, but general W-body safety was improving. Refer to specific test data if available for comparable models.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on some trims, optional on others
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, particularly with supercharged engine
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags standard
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, premium sound systems available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, electronic.
Connectivity
Multiplex Communication:
Basic multiplex communication systems for certain functions, potentially leading to CAN communication later in GM history. Manual will cover wiring and diagnostics for these systems.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (check manual for specific engine and oil type)
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for exact specification and API service rating)
Coolant:
Dex-Cool (Orange, long-life coolant) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or compatible)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 3800 V6), power steering pump noise, window regulator issues, ABS sensor failures, HVAC blend door actuator problems, transmission solenoid issues.
Spark Plugs:
N/A (Platinum or Iridium plugs typically have extended life, but manual will specify replacement intervals).
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Buick Legacy:
Buick has a long history of producing comfortable, upscale, and refined vehicles, often targeting a more mature demographic.
Model Evolution
Regal Positioning:
The Regal has historically been Buick's mid-size offering, evolving from a personal luxury coupe/sedan to a more performance-oriented Grand Prix sibling in its later generations.
Production
Third Gen Production Years:
1994-1996
Manufacturing Location:
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada; Fairfax, Kansas, USA
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Model Awards:
While specific awards for the 1996 Regal are not readily recalled as landmark achievements, the W-body platform as a whole was a strong seller for GM, known for its comfortable ride and value. The 3800 V6 engine was a mainstay and generally well-regarded for its durability and refinement.