1986 Buick Regal problems
The Buick Regal is a line of mid-size cars marketed by Buick since 1973. For nearly its entire production, the Regal has served as the premium mid-size/intermediate offering of the Buick product range. Introduced as a submodel of the Buick Century, the model line is currently in its sixth generation. From the 1970s to the 1990s, the Regal served as the Buick counterpart of the Pontiac Grand Prix and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme.
Originally introduced as a personal luxury coupe, the Regal was later expanded to a full model line. To showcase its success in NASCAR racing, from 1982 to 1987, Buick introduced the Buick Regal Grand National, Regal T-Type, and the limited-production Buick GNX. During the 1990s, while the four-door sedan superseded the two-door coupe entirely, forced-induction engines made their return, with superchargers replacing turbochargers.
For 1999, the Buick Regal inaugurated the sale of GM vehicles in the Chinese market, with the 1997 design lasting through 2008. Following the 2004 model year, Buick retired the nameplate in North America, with the Regal replaced by the Buick LaCrosse.
For 2008, Opel introduced the Opel Insignia as its largest sedan, with Buick rebranding the model line as the Regal for the Chinese market. For 2011, GM reintroduced the Regal to North America, rebranding the Insignia sedan for North America. For 2018, Buick introduced the second-generation Opel Insignia, sourcing all production from Germany; alongside a first-ever liftback sedan, the Regal TourX was the first Buick station wagon in 22 years.
After 2020, as the division shifted away from car model lines, Buick ended sales of the Regal in North America.
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Common 1986 Buick Regal problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Buick Regal 1986, several common problems have been reported:
- Ignition Key Stuck Due to Failed Shifter:
Owners have experienced issues with the ignition key getting stuck in the ignition, particularly when the transmission is in park. This problem is often linked to a faulty shifter or automatic transmission, causing the key to be stuck and preventing it from being removed. Restarting the vehicle or adjusting the gears has been reported as temporary solutions. - Stalling Due to Mass Air Flow or Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure:
Another common problem reported by owners is random stalling and stuttering while driving at various speeds. This issue is often associated with a malfunctioning mass air flow sensor (MAF) or crankshaft position sensor (CPS). Replacing these faulty sensors is necessary to resolve the stalling problem, which can be dangerous, especially at highway speeds. - Power Window Switches Malfunction:
Owners have encountered issues with the power windows in the Buick Regal 1986, where the windows would stop working abruptly. This problem is typically caused by a faulty switch, leading to the power windows intermittently working or failing altogether. Replacing the power window switches is a common solution to restore the functionality of the windows.
These common problems with the Buick Regal 1986 can be frustrating for owners and may require timely repairs to ensure the vehicle's proper functioning. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and costly repairs in the long run.
Is Buick Regal a reliable car?
The Buick Regal is considered reliable, with a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal.
What is the best year for a Buick Regal?
This is the overall most reliable Buick Regal year. According to motorandwheels.com, the 2011 Buick Regal is the best in the entire line. Featuring an excellent engine, solid powertrain, and great performance and comfort, it is still a top choice for anyone seeking a midsize and reliable sedan.
What engine came in a 1986 Buick Regal?
From 1986 to 1987, the 307 cu in (5.0 L) V8 was available as an option. The 3,791 cc (3.8 L; 231.3 cu in) 2-bbl V6 was standard. The 200-4R overdrive transmission was an option with either engine.
What is the top speed of a 1986 Buick Regal?
That power feeds to the road via a four-speed automatic transmission, allowing the T-Type to storm the ¼-mile in an “official” 15.2 seconds on its way to its top speed of 136mph.
Is the Buick Regal a reliable car?
According to carparts.com, the Buick Regal is generally reliable, like many midsize sedans. Out of 34 rated sedans, the Buick Regal is ranked 13th for reliability. In other words, it's about as reliable on average as many other sedans of its type.
What engine came in a 1986 Buick Regal?
From 1986 to 1987, the 307 cu in (5.0 L) V8 was available as an option. The 3,791 cc (3.8 L; 231.3 cu in) 2-bbl V6 was standard. The 200-4R overdrive transmission was an option with either engine.
What is the top speed of a 1986 Buick Regal?
That power feeds to the road via a four-speed automatic transmission, allowing the T-Type to storm the ¼-mile in an “official” 15.2 seconds on its way to its top speed of 136mph.
Why did they stop making Buick Regal?
Why did Buick stop making the Regal? The end of the Regal line came as a result of a shift in Buick's corporate strategy. The company decided to shift its focus to its line of SUVs, and the Regal's discontinuation was part of a larger reduction in Buick's passenger car lineup.
1986 Buick Regal car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Regal problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Structure problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Buick Regal vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Buick Regal complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Buick Regal.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-01
- VIN: 2G4WB14T2K1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRONT CRADLE BOLT PULLED THROUGH RETAINER DUE TO CORROSION. *AK CONSUMER STATED THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS SEEN BY TWO MASTER TECHNICIANS AND WAS TOLD THE VEHICLE WILL NOT GET FIXED. *YH
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-07
- VIN: 1986 BUICK
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I TRIED TO CONTACT THE GUY IN THE WSJOURNAL ABOUT ENGINES ACCELERATING, TO NO AVAIL. HAVE HIM SEND ME AN EMAIL AND I WILL ENLIGHTEN HIM AS TO CAUSE ON THE FIRST ONE. HAVENT FIGURED OUT WHAT HAPPENED TO THIS RUN AMOK CAR,YET. BUT WILL SEND DETAILS IN EMAIL! *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-04
- VIN: 1G4GK4772GP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND APPLYING THE BRAKES, BRAKE PEDAL IS VERY HARD AND SOMETIMES THE PEDAL GOES STRAIGHT TO THE FLOORBOARD. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-25
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE SEPARATED FROM THE RIM AND CAME OFF WHILE IN MOTION. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-08-01
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ENGINE BURST INTO FLAMES WHILE DRIVING. PREVIOUS REPAIRS WERE DONE, INCLUDING THE TRANSMISSION. SPEED ABOUT 35 MPH, PULLED OVER AND GOT OUT, LEFT CAR PARKED. FIRE DEPARTMENT DID NOT SHOW UP. *AK
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-01
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: THREE WHEELS HAVE HAD FAILURE IN THEIR STRUCTURE/CRACKS ON THE SPOKES.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-09
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE REPLACED TWICE, ONCE RESULTING IN ENGINE CATCHING ON FIRE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-25
- VIN: 1G4GJ4746GP
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND ALL OF A SUDDEN VEHICLE JUST TOOK OFF WIDE OPEN WITH SUDDEN ACCELERATION. THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE VEHICLE MY WIFE HAD TO STAND UP ON THE BRAKES AND REACH DOWN TO TURN THE IGNITION OFF. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1C4CW698698
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE PULLING OUT OF HIS DRIVEWAY HIS VEHICLE JUST TOOK OFF, CAUSING HIM TO HIT TWO TREES. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-12
- VIN: 2G4WB14WXK1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: HAVING PROBLEM WITH DISC BRAKES CALIPER PINS AND ROTORS FROZE AND RUSTED. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-12
- VIN: 2G4WB14WXK1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: HAVING PROBLEM WITH DISC BRAKES CALIPER PINS AND ROTORS FROZE AND RUSTED. TT
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CORROSION LEAD TO WASHER FAILURE RESULTING IN SUBFRAME ABSORBER FAILURE. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAIL. TT
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-28
- Crash: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR WAS RUN IN PARK PUT CAR IN REVERSE IT ACCELERATED AND HIT FOUR CARS. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-08-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G4HP6937GH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL/ACCIDENT/INJURY. *SKD
1986 Buick Regal recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1986 Buick Regal.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
- Consequence: SERVO ROD ASSEMBLY COULD CATCH ON ENGINE COMPONENTS ANDRESULT IN A STUCK THROTTLE WITH POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: INSTALL A NEW BUSHING IN CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: UNDER EXTENDED HEADLAMP USAGE, CIRCUITRY IN THE HEADLAMP SWITCH PANEL MIGHT EXPERIENCE INCREASED RESISTANCE AND EXCESSIVE HEAT BUILDUP.
- Consequence: HEADLIGHTS WOULD CYCLE ON AND OFF. SUDDEN LOSS OFHEADLIGHTS UNDER SEVERE WEATHER OR NIGHTIMER DRIVING CONDITIONS COULD RESULTIN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: REPLACE HEADLIGHT SWITCH WITH MODIFIED SWITCH.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SMALL CRACKS MAY DEVELOP IN THE BODY PILLAR AROUND THE DOOR STRIKER BOLT HOLE.
- Consequence: CRACKS WOULD INCREASE LEADING TO DIFFICULTY IN CLOSINGTHE DOOR AND MIGHT ALLOW DOOR TO COME OPEN DURING A CRASH, INCREASINGLIKELIHOOD OF INJURY TO OCCUPANTS.
- Remedy: INSTALL INNER AND OUTER REINFORCEMENT PLATE ON BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT BODY PILLARS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: LEFT HANDED DRIVER'S SIDE SHOULDER BELT ANCHOR PLATE MAY BE UPSIDE DOWN IN LOCK PILLAR SO THAT THE UNTHREADED SLOT OF THE PLATE ALIGNED WITH THE HOLE IN THE LOCK PILLAR. THIS RESULTED IN THE ANCHOR BOLT BEING DRIVEN INTO THE SLOT INSTEAD OF THE THREADED HOLE OF THE ANCHOR PLATE. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IN A VEHICLE CRASH, BELT ANCHOR BOLT MAY PULL LOOSE FROM ANCHOR PLATE, THUS FAILING TO COMPLY WITH FMVSS 210, SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES, AND INCREASES LIKELIHOOD OF INJURY TO OCCUPANT.
- Remedy: INSTALL A BOLT ANCHOR PLATE REINFORCEMENT AND NEW BOLT, AS NECESSARY.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1986 Buick Regal problems:
Q&A: 1986 Buick Regal Grand National - Common Issues, Parts ...
Feb 28, 2013 ... Hi sorry you had to do that if you had no spark then the problem has to be the spark module this is located on the bottom of the coil, i wish ...
What are some common problems with Grand Nationals? | Turbo ...
if you purchase a turbo regal from someone, make sure that they know ahellofalot more than you do- if they own more than 3 intercooled turbo ...
1990 Buick Regal - Engine Surging and Hesitation While Accelerating
Feb 15, 2010 ... What about a throttle body service? These two things will cause idle issues and the pump can cause the acceleration issues. I wouldn't replace ...
1986 GN brake upgrade ? | Turbo Buick Forum | Buick Grand ...
I guess I'd rather just replace to a new master cylinder..........if that's what the "common" problem is that happens to these cars over time.
Buick Regal Problems and Complaints - 47 Issues
Top Buick Regal Problems · Ignition Key Stuck Due to Failed Shifter · Stalling Due to Mass Air Flow or Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure · Power Window Switches ...
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