The 1996 Buick Regal represents the final year of its sixth generation, a mid-size sedan known for its traditional American comfort. Available as Custom, Limited, and the performance-oriented Gran Sport (GS) trims, new pricing ranged from approximately $20,000 to $27,000. It stood out for its plush ride, quiet cabin, and the potent, reliable 3.8L V6 engine, especially the supercharged option in the GS, making it popular for its refined, smooth driving experience.
The Good
The 1996 Regal offers exceptional comfort with its plush ride and quiet interior, appealing to those seeking a relaxed commute. Its robust 3.8L V6 provides reliable, ample power for practical use and emotional satisfaction. Known for good long-term reliability (engine-wise), it presents excellent used value, combining practicality with a sense of traditional American luxury.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses include common transmission issues (4T60-E/4T65-E), upper intake manifold gasket failures on the 3.8L V6 leading to coolant leaks, and various electrical gremlins like power window motors. Rust can also be a significant concern, especially in regions that use road salt. Suspension components also wear over time.
1996 Buick Regal: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.1L V6 (base)
- 3.8L V6 (standard on Limited, optional on Custom)
- 3.8L Supercharged V6 (Gran Sport – GS) - Horsepower:
- 3.1L V6: Approximately 160 hp
- 3.8L V6: Approximately 170 hp
- 3.8L Supercharged V6: Approximately 205 hp - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- 3.1L V6: Around 18-20 MPG city / 28-30 MPG highway
- 3.8L V6: Around 17-19 MPG city / 26-28 MPG highway
- 3.8L Supercharged V6: Around 16-18 MPG city / 24-26 MPG highway - 0-60 Times (Estimates):
- 3.1L V6: Approximately 9-10 seconds
- 3.8L V6: Approximately 8.5-9 seconds
- 3.8L Supercharged V6: Approximately 7.5-8 seconds - Towing Capacity:
- Approximately 1,000 lbs (not designed for heavy towing) - Trim-Level Features:
- Custom: Base model, typically includes power windows and locks, air conditioning, AM/FM radio, cloth upholstery, and dual airbags.
- Limited: Adds more luxury with the 3.8L V6 engine standard, power driver's seat, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, upgraded audio system, and often includes features like optional leather seats and simulated woodgrain trim.
- Gran Sport (GS): The performance trim, featuring the 3.8L Supercharged V6, a firmer sport-tuned suspension, specific exterior badging, alloy wheels, and often includes bucket seats and a more aggressive stance. ABS and traction control were typically standard or widely available on higher trims.
1996 Buick Regal Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1996 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Regal |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | OSHAWA #2 |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LD9 |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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What Problems Does the 1996 Buick Regal Have?
The 1996 Buick Regal, while featuring the generally robust 3.8L V6 engine, is prone to several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns common for its era. A primary issue is the upper intake manifold gasket failure, particularly on the 3.8L V6, which can lead to coolant leaks and internal engine damage if not addressed. This was a widespread design flaw on many GM vehicles of this period.
Another significant concern is the automatic transmission (4T60-E or 4T65-E). Owners frequently report issues such as delayed shifts, slipping gears, hard shifts, or complete failure, often occurring between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Regular fluid changes are crucial but may not always prevent eventual failure.
Electrical problems are also common. These can manifest as malfunctioning power windows (due to faulty regulators or motors), intermittent dashboard lights, issues with the radio, or keyless entry systems. Age-related wiring degradation contributes to these glitches.
Heater core leaks can lead to a sweet coolant smell inside the cabin, fogged windows, and wet passenger footwells. Additionally, with age, components of the steering and suspension systems, like tie rods, ball joints, and control arm bushings, commonly wear out, resulting in clunking noises or loose steering. Rust is also a major long-term reliability concern, particularly on body panels, subframes, and brake lines, especially in colder climates where road salt is used.
While no widespread, critical recalls specific to the 1996 Regal are prominently remembered, these common issues often require diligent maintenance or repairs as the vehicle ages.
Another significant concern is the automatic transmission (4T60-E or 4T65-E). Owners frequently report issues such as delayed shifts, slipping gears, hard shifts, or complete failure, often occurring between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Regular fluid changes are crucial but may not always prevent eventual failure.
Electrical problems are also common. These can manifest as malfunctioning power windows (due to faulty regulators or motors), intermittent dashboard lights, issues with the radio, or keyless entry systems. Age-related wiring degradation contributes to these glitches.
Heater core leaks can lead to a sweet coolant smell inside the cabin, fogged windows, and wet passenger footwells. Additionally, with age, components of the steering and suspension systems, like tie rods, ball joints, and control arm bushings, commonly wear out, resulting in clunking noises or loose steering. Rust is also a major long-term reliability concern, particularly on body panels, subframes, and brake lines, especially in colder climates where road salt is used.
While no widespread, critical recalls specific to the 1996 Regal are prominently remembered, these common issues often require diligent maintenance or repairs as the vehicle ages.
How long will the 1996 Buick Regal last?
The 1996 Buick Regal, particularly models equipped with the durable 3.8L V6 engine, often demonstrates impressive long-term durability. Well-maintained examples can easily surpass 200,000 to 250,000 miles, with some owners reporting vehicles exceeding 300,000 miles. This translates to 15-20+ years of service, contingent on regular maintenance.
The 3.8L V6 engine is the primary highlight of its durability, frequently outlasting other vehicle components. However, significant weaknesses over time include the automatic transmission, which often requires rebuilding or replacement past 100,000 miles. Electrical components, suspension bushings, and steering parts will inevitably degrade. Rust also becomes a pervasive issue, affecting structural integrity and aesthetics in salt-belt regions. Persistent coolant leaks from the intake manifold gasket can compromise engine longevity if not properly addressed.
The 3.8L V6 engine is the primary highlight of its durability, frequently outlasting other vehicle components. However, significant weaknesses over time include the automatic transmission, which often requires rebuilding or replacement past 100,000 miles. Electrical components, suspension bushings, and steering parts will inevitably degrade. Rust also becomes a pervasive issue, affecting structural integrity and aesthetics in salt-belt regions. Persistent coolant leaks from the intake manifold gasket can compromise engine longevity if not properly addressed.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1996 Buick Regal offered a range of built-in tech and entertainment features typical for its mid-90s luxury segment, though modest by today's standards. Standard equipment included an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player, and higher trims or optional packages might include a CD player, a graphic equalizer, and steering wheel audio controls. Power windows, power door locks, and power side mirrors were standard across most trims, along with air conditioning and cruise control. Optional features included automatic climate control, a power driver's seat, and a remote keyless entry system.
Driver-assistance features were minimal. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on the Custom trim and generally standard on Limited and Gran Sport models. Traction control was also available, particularly on the more powerful Gran Sport.
Regarding safety features, the 1996 Regal came standard with dual front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. It included 3-point seatbelts for all outboard occupants and child safety locks on the rear doors. Side-impact protection beams were integrated into the doors.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 1996 Buick Regal provided insights into its safety performance:
Driver-assistance features were minimal. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on the Custom trim and generally standard on Limited and Gran Sport models. Traction control was also available, particularly on the more powerful Gran Sport.
Regarding safety features, the 1996 Regal came standard with dual front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. It included 3-point seatbelts for all outboard occupants and child safety locks on the rear doors. Side-impact protection beams were integrated into the doors.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 1996 Buick Regal provided insights into its safety performance:
- Frontal Driver: 4 out of 5 stars
- Frontal Passenger: 3 out of 5 stars
- Side Driver: 3 out of 5 stars
- Side Rear Passenger: 4 out of 5 stars
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1996 Buick Regal Prices and Market Value
When new in 1996, the Buick Regal Custom typically retailed around $19,500 - $21,000. The Limited trim was in the $22,000 - $24,500 range, and the performance-oriented Gran Sport (GS) could reach $24,500 - $27,000. Today, current used market prices for a 1996 Buick Regal typically range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and maintenance.
This vehicle has experienced maximum depreciation, meaning its value is no longer significantly affected by its original MSRP. It has reached its "floor" in terms of depreciation. Factors affecting its minimal resale value include overall mechanical condition (especially transmission and engine health), the presence of rust, interior wear and tear, and documented maintenance history. Models with the supercharged 3.8L V6 in good shape might command slightly higher prices due to enthusiast interest.
This vehicle has experienced maximum depreciation, meaning its value is no longer significantly affected by its original MSRP. It has reached its "floor" in terms of depreciation. Factors affecting its minimal resale value include overall mechanical condition (especially transmission and engine health), the presence of rust, interior wear and tear, and documented maintenance history. Models with the supercharged 3.8L V6 in good shape might command slightly higher prices due to enthusiast interest.
1996 Buick Regal Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 1996 Buick Regal are generally very low due to its age, safety profile, and modest market value. Fuel consumption, while not stellar by modern standards, is acceptable for its era, using regular unleaded gasoline; expect around 17-20 MPG combined. Maintenance costs are typically economical as parts are widely available and relatively inexpensive, with many repairs manageable for a DIY enthusiast. However, major repairs like transmission rebuilds or intake manifold gasket replacement can be costly at a professional shop.
Overall, the 1996 Buick Regal can be an economical vehicle to own long-term, provided a well-maintained example is purchased and you're prepared for potential age-related fixes. Preventative maintenance is key to keeping costs down.
Overall, the 1996 Buick Regal can be an economical vehicle to own long-term, provided a well-maintained example is purchased and you're prepared for potential age-related fixes. Preventative maintenance is key to keeping costs down.
1996 Buick Regal Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1996 Buick Regal Safety Rating
NHTSA
1996 Buick Regal Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
1996-04-19
Recall no.
96v069000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Left Front Brake Line CAN Contact THE Transaxle Mounting Bracket or Attachment Bolt.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Cause THE Brake Line TO Wear Through, Resulting IN Loss OF Brake Fluid and Eventual Loss OF One-Half OF THE Vehicle's Brake System, Increasing THE Potential FOR A Vehicle Accident.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicle FOR Proper Brake Line Clearance and Reposition Those Brake Lines Found TO Have Less Than Minimal Clearance. Additionally, Those Brake Lines Found TO Have AN Indentation Caused BY THE Contact Will BE Replaced and Properly Routed.
Notes
System: Brakes; Hydraulic; Lines.vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. Note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time, Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020 or Buick AT 1-800-521-7300. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
Recall date
1996-07-01
Recall no.
96v116000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
A Backfire During Engine Starting CAN Cause Breakage OF THE Upper Intake Manifold.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Cause A No-Start Condition and Possibly AN Engine Compartment Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Update THE Powertrain Control Module Programming. Until THE Campaign Repair IS Made, THE Vehicle Hood Should BE Shut Whenever Starting THE Vehicle TO Reduce THE Chance OF Personal Injury.
Notes
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Equipped With 3.8l V6 Engine. Owner Notification: Owner Notifications Began During July 1996. Note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Buick AT 1-800-521-7300; Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737; or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
Recall date
2007-03-12
Recall no.
07e021000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators, P/Nos. Fp10020-11b1, Fp10026-11b1, and Fp10027-11b1, Sold After January 9, 2007, AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. THE Universal Pressure Regulators (Upr) Were Produced Without AN O'ring and Retainer.
Consequence
Fuel MAY Leak, Possibly Resulting IN A Fire.
Remedy
Delphi Will Notify Owners and Replace THE UPR Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 23, 2007. Owners CAN Contact Delphi AT 877-411-8770.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed BY General Motors.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Steering:rack and Pinion
Recall date
2003-12-11
Recall no.
03v527000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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. 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.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 03062.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
1996 Buick Regal Insurance
Insurance for a 1996 Buick Regal is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1996 Buick Regal Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1996 Buick Regal competed in the crowded mid-size sedan segment against rivals like the Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, Pontiac Grand Prix, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, and imports such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Maxima.
In terms of Performance, the Regal's available 3.8L V6 (especially the supercharged GS) offered strong acceleration, often outperforming base models of domestic rivals and even some 4-cylinder imports. Its ride, however, prioritized comfort over sporty handling, making it less engaging than a Maxima or even a Grand Prix GTP.
Regarding Features, the Regal provided a quiet, comfortable, and well-appointed cabin, often feeling more upscale than its direct GM siblings. It featured standard amenities like power accessories and A/C, with options like leather and automatic climate control. However, it lacked the cutting-edge tech or refined interior materials sometimes found in higher-trim Japanese competitors.
Reliability is a mixed bag. The Buick 3.8L V6 engine is legendary for its longevity, often outlasting the rest of the car. However, common issues like transmission failures (4T60-E/4T65-E) and upper intake manifold gasket leaks prevent its overall reliability from matching the legendary status of a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry from the same year, which typically had fewer major systemic flaws at high mileage.
Price-wise, when new, the Regal was competitive. On the used market today, it's generally more affordable than comparable Accords or Camrys, which command a premium due to their perceived superior long-term reliability and stronger resale.
Similar Alternatives: The Pontiac Grand Prix (especially the GTP with the shared supercharged 3.8L V6) offered a sportier aesthetic and suspension tune. The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme shared its platform, offering a slightly different stylistic approach.
Better Alternatives: For superior overall long-term reliability and fewer common major mechanical issues, a 1996 Toyota Camry V6 or 1996 Honda Accord V6 are generally better choices, though they will likely be more expensive to purchase used. For a more engaging driving experience, a 1996 Nissan Maxima is an excellent option.
In terms of Performance, the Regal's available 3.8L V6 (especially the supercharged GS) offered strong acceleration, often outperforming base models of domestic rivals and even some 4-cylinder imports. Its ride, however, prioritized comfort over sporty handling, making it less engaging than a Maxima or even a Grand Prix GTP.
Regarding Features, the Regal provided a quiet, comfortable, and well-appointed cabin, often feeling more upscale than its direct GM siblings. It featured standard amenities like power accessories and A/C, with options like leather and automatic climate control. However, it lacked the cutting-edge tech or refined interior materials sometimes found in higher-trim Japanese competitors.
Reliability is a mixed bag. The Buick 3.8L V6 engine is legendary for its longevity, often outlasting the rest of the car. However, common issues like transmission failures (4T60-E/4T65-E) and upper intake manifold gasket leaks prevent its overall reliability from matching the legendary status of a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry from the same year, which typically had fewer major systemic flaws at high mileage.
Price-wise, when new, the Regal was competitive. On the used market today, it's generally more affordable than comparable Accords or Camrys, which command a premium due to their perceived superior long-term reliability and stronger resale.
Similar Alternatives: The Pontiac Grand Prix (especially the GTP with the shared supercharged 3.8L V6) offered a sportier aesthetic and suspension tune. The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme shared its platform, offering a slightly different stylistic approach.
Better Alternatives: For superior overall long-term reliability and fewer common major mechanical issues, a 1996 Toyota Camry V6 or 1996 Honda Accord V6 are generally better choices, though they will likely be more expensive to purchase used. For a more engaging driving experience, a 1996 Nissan Maxima is an excellent option.
Final Verdict: Is the 1996 Buick Regal a Good Sedan?
The 1996 Buick Regal is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable, quiet, and spacious mid-size sedan with traditional American styling. It suits individuals who prioritize a soft, compliant ride and a powerful, reliable engine over sporty handling or advanced modern features. It's an excellent choice for a daily commuter or as reliable secondary transportation for those who appreciate a "boulevard cruiser" feel.
It can be worth buying today, but exclusively as a used vehicle, provided certain conditions are met. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial to assess the health of the automatic transmission, check for intake manifold gasket leaks, evaluate rust, and confirm electrical system integrity. Focusing on models with the robust 3.8L V6 engine (both naturally aspirated and supercharged) is advisable. The Limited trim offers a great balance of comfort and features, while the Gran Sport appeals to those desiring more power. For DIY-capable owners, its extensive parts availability makes it an even more economical choice.
It can be worth buying today, but exclusively as a used vehicle, provided certain conditions are met. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial to assess the health of the automatic transmission, check for intake manifold gasket leaks, evaluate rust, and confirm electrical system integrity. Focusing on models with the robust 3.8L V6 engine (both naturally aspirated and supercharged) is advisable. The Limited trim offers a great balance of comfort and features, while the Gran Sport appeals to those desiring more power. For DIY-capable owners, its extensive parts availability makes it an even more economical choice.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.