by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2001 Buick Regal Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 0.00
Based on 0 Owner Reviews â–¶
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2001 Buick Regal is a mid-size sedan produced by General Motors. It represented a continuation of the Regal's long history as a comfortable and reliable family car. This model year falls within the second generation of the redesigned Regal. Key trims included the base LS and the higher-end GS. What made the Regal popular was its blend of comfortable ride, spacious interior, and affordable price point, offering a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. New, pricing ranged approximately from $23,000 - $27,000.
The Good

The 2001 Buick Regal offered a comfortable and smooth ride, appealing to buyers seeking a relaxing driving experience. Its V6 engine provided adequate performance for daily driving. The Regal was known for its generally good reliability, reducing potential repair headaches. For practical buyers, it represented a strong value proposition due to its affordability and features. Its styling, while not flashy, was generally perceived as elegant and understated.

The Bad

Several issues plagued the 2001 Buick Regal. The intake manifold gasket was a known weak point, leading to coolant leaks. The plastic used could crack over time. The ABS system could also experience failures. Rust, particularly in areas prone to road salt, was also a potential problem. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to mitigating these risks.

2001 Buick Regal: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 3.8L V6 (LS and GS)
  • Horsepower:
    • LS: 200 hp
    • GS: 240 hp (Supercharged)
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • LS: 19 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
    • GS: 18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • LS: 8.5 seconds
    • GS: 6.8 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LS: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and a basic audio system.
    • GS: Upgraded features such as a supercharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, leather seats, alloy wheels, and premium audio system. It also included fog lights and a rear spoiler for a sportier appearance.
    • Both trims generally came with front airbags and antilock brakes, though specific options and packages could vary.

2001 Buick Regal Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2001
Make Buick
Model Regal
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Canada
Manufacturing City STE. THERESE
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine L36
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

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2001 Buick Regal Have?

The 2001 Buick Regal, like many vehicles of its era, had its share of commonly reported issues. A prevalent problem was the failure of the intake manifold gasket, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine damage if left unattended. Another area of concern was the ABS system, with reports of sensor failures and malfunctioning components. Rust, particularly in northern climates where road salt is used, was another long-term durability concern. Exhaust systems, especially mufflers, were prone to corrosion and needing replacement.
Regarding recalls, it's essential to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website using the VIN to determine if any specific recalls apply to a particular vehicle. While specific model year variations in common problems were not drastically different, earlier models in this generation sometimes exhibited more pronounced transmission issues. The supercharged GS models required more diligent maintenance due to the increased stress on the engine components.

How long will the 2001 Buick Regal last?

With proper maintenance, a 2001 Buick Regal could easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners have reported exceeding this mark with regular oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs. However, neglect can significantly shorten its lifespan. The key to long-term durability lies in addressing known weaknesses, such as the intake manifold gasket and ABS system, promptly. Rust prevention is also crucial, especially in areas with harsh winters. Ultimately, consistent care will determine how many years of reliable service a 2001 Regal provides.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2001 Buick Regal offered a reasonable array of tech and safety features for its time. The base model typically included a standard AM/FM radio with a cassette player. The higher-end GS trim often featured an upgraded sound system with a CD player. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, primarily consisting of cruise control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were available as an option on some models. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard on the GS and optional on the LS. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) should be consulted for specific safety performance details, but generally, the Regal performed reasonably well in frontal impact tests for its class. It's important to remember safety technology was less advanced compared to today's standards. Optional features included things like power seats and sunroof.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Light Pewter Metallic
Dark Bronzemist Metallic
Black
White
Red Metallic
Dark Blue Metallic
Gold Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Gray
Neutral

2001 Buick Regal Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2001 Buick Regal had a price range of approximately $23,000 to $27,000, depending on the trim level and options. As a used vehicle, the 2001 Regal has depreciated significantly. Current used market prices typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (rust-free is highly desirable), mileage, maintenance records, and whether it's the base LS or the more desirable supercharged GS trim. Low mileage examples in excellent condition command a premium, but generally, it's an affordable used car option.

2001 Buick Regal Cost of Ownership

The 2001 Buick Regal is generally considered economical to own, especially as a used vehicle. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel economy is decent for its class, but not exceptional. Maintenance costs can be reasonable if you stay on top of routine servicing. However, potential repairs like the intake manifold gasket or ABS issues can increase costs. Parts are generally readily available and relatively inexpensive. Overall, with proper maintenance, it's a budget-friendly option.

2001 Buick Regal Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2001 Buick Regal Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2001 Buick Regal Recalls & Defects

Seat Belts
Recall date 2001-04-06
Recall no. 01v109000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Certain Passenger Vehicles, Equipped With Sunvisor Located AIR BAG Labels, Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard NO. 208, "occupant Crash Protection." These Vehicles Have A Message Area Less Than 30 CM Which Does NOT Meet THE Requirements OF THE Standard.
Consequence These Vehicles DO NOT Comply With THE Standard.
Remedy GM Will Mail A NEW Bilingual AIR BAG Label With Installation Instructions. However, THE Customer MAY Bring THE Label TO Their Dealer FOR Installation Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Began MAY 4, 2001. Owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Label and Installation Instructions Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537 or Buick AT 1-800-521-7300.
Notes Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts
Recall date 2000-08-07
Recall no. 00v228003
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles, Light Duty Trucks, Sport Utility Vehicles, and Mini Vans Equipped With TRW Seat Belt Buckle Assemblies. THE Buckle Base OF These Seat Belt Assemblies Were NOT Properly Heat Treated and Therefore DO NOT Pass THE Load Bearing Requirement OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 209, "seat Belt Assemblies."
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, THE Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicle's Safety Belt Buckle Assembly Date Codes And, IF Necessary, Will Replace ANY Safety Belt Buckle Assembly.
Notes Owner Notification Began August 24, 2000. 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; Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020; GMC AT 1-800-462-8782; Oldsmobile AT 1-800-442-6537; Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737; or Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date 2000-11-13
Recall no. 00v371000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. Some OF These Vehicles Exhibit A Condition IN Which THE Driver Side Impact AIR BAG Inflator Separates From THE AIR BAG Module During Deployment.
Consequence IF THE Inflator Separates, THE AIR BAG Will NOT Deploy Properly During A Crash and Occupant Protection Would BE Reduced. IF IS Also Possible That A Separated Inflator Could BE Propelled Downward and Could Result IN Injury TO A Rear Seat Passenger Whose Foot IS Positioned Approximately Under THE Inflator Module.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Side Impact AIR BAG Module.
Notes Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During December 2000.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 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering
Recall date 2008-10-17
Recall no. 08e063000
Source NHTSA
Summary Dorman Products IS Recalling 3,900 Intermediate Steering Shafts Dorman Part Nos. 425-151, 425-152, and 425-153, (Sold Under Dorman's "OE Solutions" Brand Name), Balkamp #'S 7-3057, 7-3058, 7-3059 (Sold Under THE "napa" Brand Name), and Platinum Parts #'S 2425151, 2425152, and 2425153 Manufactured During THE Month OF September 2007. These Replacement Steering Shafts CAN BE Used ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Weld Connecting THE Inner Tube TO THE Outer Tube MAY BE Defective.
Consequence IF THE Weld Fails, Loss OF Steering Could Result, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dorman Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Steering Shafts Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 16, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Dorman Toll Free AT 1-800-523-2492.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Dorman's OE Solutions Brand Name, Balkamp's Napa Brand, and THE Platinum Brand Steering Shafts and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors Corporation.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.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2009-04-08
Recall no. 09v116000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
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 Engine?s Front Valve Cover and Front-Valve-Cover Gasket With NEW Parts OF AN Improved Design and Remove THE Engine?s 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.
Notes GM Recall NO. 09047.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Steering
Recall date 2009-02-17
Recall no. 09e005000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
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.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Dorman Steering Knuckles and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors Corporation.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2008-03-12
Recall no. 08v118000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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 THE Plastic Spark Plug Wire Channel and Beyond.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Engine?s Front Valve Cover and Front-Valve-Cover Gasket With NEW Parts OF AN Improved Design and Remove THE Engine?s 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> .
Notes GM Recall NO. 07035. Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date 2015-10-26
Recall no. 15v701000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
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 Engine?s 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.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/Header/Muffler/tail Pipe
Recall date 2015-10-26
Recall no. 15v701000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
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 Engine?s 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.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2001 Buick Regal Insurance

Insurance for a 2001 Buick Regal is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2001 Buick Regal Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2001 Buick Regal competed in the mid-size sedan segment against rivals like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Nissan Altima. In terms of performance, the Regal GS (with its supercharged engine) offered competitive power, but the base LS was less inspiring than some competitors. The Camry and Accord were generally regarded as more reliable, although the Regal could be reliable if properly maintained. Features were comparable, though some rivals offered more advanced technology options even at that time.
Price-wise, the Regal was often more affordable than the Camry or Accord, making it a value proposition. The Ford Taurus was a similar competitor in terms of price and overall experience. If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord would be better choices. If you're looking for a balance of comfort and value, the Regal could be a decent option, but consider a thorough inspection before purchasing. The Nissan Altima offered a sportier driving experience.

Ranks #2067 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
2067 2001 Buick Regal (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Buick Regal a Good Sedan?

The 2001 Buick Regal is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable and spacious used car. It's worth buying if you find a well-maintained example with relatively low mileage and a clean title. The supercharged GS trim offers more performance, but the base LS can be a good value. Avoid examples with obvious signs of neglect or rust. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential, especially to check for common issues like the intake manifold gasket leak. It's a decent option for those prioritizing comfort and affordability over cutting-edge technology or sportiness.

2001 Buick Regal Owner Reviews

0.00
Consumer Rating, Based on 0 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Author Image
Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.