1987 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 During the 1990s, while the four-door sedan superseded the two-door coupe entirely, forced-induction engines made their return, with superchargers replacing turbochargers.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.
Social links
Common 1987 Buick Regal problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1987 Buick Regal, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Engine Stalling and Shutting Off While Driving:
- One of the most common and dangerous issues reported by owners is engine stalling and shutting off while driving. This problem is most frequently observed in Buick Regals from bad years and can occur around 72,000 miles driven. It poses a significant safety risk and requires prompt attention to prevent accidents.
- Loss of Power While Driving:
- Owners have reported experiencing a sudden loss of power while driving their Buick Regal. This issue can be disconcerting and dangerous, as it can lead to unexpected reductions in speed or unresponsiveness to the throttle. Addressing this problem promptly is crucial for safe driving.
- Timing Chain Issues:
- Another common problem with the 1987 Buick Regal is related to timing chain issues. The timing chain is crucial for synchronizing the engine's components, and any issues with it can lead to performance issues and potential engine damage. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to prevent further complications.
- Window Regulation Problems:
- Some Buick Regal owners have reported problems with window regulation in certain model years. Issues with window mechanisms can lead to inconvenience and affect the overall functionality of the vehicle. Addressing these problems promptly can help maintain the comfort and usability of the car.
- Decreased Gas Mileage:
- Certain model years of the Buick Regal have been associated with decreased gas mileage. This can impact the overall cost of ownership and efficiency of the vehicle. Monitoring fuel consumption and addressing any underlying issues affecting gas mileage can help improve the car's performance.
- Brake Failures:
- Owners have reported brake failures in specific model years of the Buick Regal. Brake issues pose a significant safety risk and can lead to accidents if not addressed promptly. Regular brake inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to address issues before they escalate. Owners of the 1987 Buick Regal should stay vigilant about these reported problems to ensure the longevity and safety of their vehicles.
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 is in a 1987 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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1987 Buick Regal get?
18 combined
Find and Compare Cars
| 1987 Buick Regal | |
|---|---|
| Personalize Find a car | 6 cyl, 3.8 L, Automatic 4-spd Compare |
| Fuel Economy | |
| EPA MPG | Premium Gasoline 18 combined city/highway MPG 15 city 23 highway 5.6 gals/100 miles |
| Unofficial MPG Estimates Shared by Vehicle Owners | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
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 engine is in a 1987 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 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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1987 Buick Regal get?
18 combined
Find and Compare Cars
| 1987 Buick Regal | |
|---|---|
| Personalize Find a car | 6 cyl, 3.8 L, Automatic 4-spd Compare |
| Fuel Economy | |
| EPA MPG | Premium Gasoline 18 combined city/highway MPG 15 city 23 highway 5.6 gals/100 miles |
| Unofficial MPG Estimates Shared by Vehicle Owners | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
1987 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Wheels problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Buick Regal vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1987 Buick Regal
The NHTSA has received 27 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Buick Regal. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1987 Buick Regal vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-15
- VIN: 1G4GJ1173HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BRAKES AT TIMES TAKE EXCESSIVE EFFORT TO STOP CAR. HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES WITHOUT ANY WARNING AND WILL THEN WORK NORMAL AGAIN. THIS IS A TURBO REGAL EQUIPPED WITH A POWER MASTER BRAKE SYSTEM UNIQUE TO THESE CARS. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM ON THESE CARS AND SHOULD BE LOOKED INTO AS IT IS VERY UNSAFE TO HAVE A BRAKE SYSTEM THAT CAN FAIL WITHOUT ANY WARNING. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-01
- VIN: 1G4GJ117XHP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1987 BUICK REGAL. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS THE BRAKES BECAME EXTREMELY RESISTANT AND DIFFICULT TO DEPRESS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHERE THE MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE MASTER BRAKE SYSTEM WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. AFTER THE REPAIR, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CONTACT HAD THE MASTER BRAKE SYSTEM REPLACED THREE TIMES BUT TO NO AVAIL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-13
- VIN: 1G4GJ1178HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: HI, THERE WAS NO INCIDENT, BUT I DID CALLED GM ABOUT THE FOLLOWING AND THEIR RESPONSES, THERE WAS NO "U.S. POWERMASTER RECALL" ON MY VEHICLE. CAN YOU PLEASE RESEARCH THIS LINK (HTTP://WWW.GNTTYPE.ORG/TECHAREA/BRAKES/USRECALL.HTML) AND SEE IF MY VIN # I ADDED IS INCLUDED IN THE POWERMASTER RECALL? THANK YOU *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-25
- VIN: 1G4GJ1176HP
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: HUB CAPS DISLODGE FROM WHEELS. MANUFACTURER WILL NOT RESPOND TO MY CORRESPONDENCE FOR ASSISTANCE. I HAVE PHOTOS AND CORRESPONDENCE. *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G4GJ1173HP
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHILE DRIVING WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED FORWARD AND STRUCK A TELEPHONE POLE. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE DRIVER'S SIDE QUARTER PANEL. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE HOME. HE DID NOT FILE A POLICE REPORT. AFTERWARDS, HE NOTICED THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED ALTHOUGH THE BRAKE DISENGAGED THE SWITCH. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TO A DEALER FOR INSPECTION. *AK UPDATED 12/27/2005 - *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4GJ1173HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: VEHICLE RECALL UNDER UNITED STATES POWERMASTER RECALL CAMPAIGNE: POWER MASTER BRAKE SYSTEM/FAULTY PRESSURE SWITCH 86-C-15 GENERAL MOTORS RECALL BUICK CLAIM INFORMATION 1987 REGAL TURBO COUPE HP400001 HP 465289. WE HAVE CONTACTED GENERAL MOTORS BUICK DIVISION GAIL REINKE PHONE 866-834-3547 SHE IS ON NOTICE OF THE PROBLEM THE RECALL AND MY SAFETY CONCERNS. THIS CAR IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE IN MY OPINION AT ANY SPEED. BOTH BUICK AND GENERAL MOTORS ARE AWARE OF THE RECALL, HAVE HAD OPPORTUNITY TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND HAVE DENIED UP TO THIS POINT REPAIRING THE RECALL DEFECT. DT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-13
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DUE TO BRAKE PROBLEMS IT IS HARD TO STOP FOR VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4GM1176HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THEIR IS A MALFUNCTION IN THE BRAKES, BECAUSE WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLYED THEY WILL LOCK UP. THIS WILL HAPPEN OCCASIONALLY. THEIR IS A RECALL BUT THE DEALSHIP IS SAYING HIS VEHICLE IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL DUE VIN#. NLM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-04
- VIN: 1G4GJ1175HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: NOTIFIED 2 RECALLS, SHORE BUICK WHO CHANGED THE PARTS. NEVER NOTIFIED OF 3RD RECALL (MASTER CYLINDER) GM WILL NOT REPAIR DUE TO THE 8 YEAR WINDOW TO RESPOND. I CAN NOT DRIVE CAR IN THIS CONDITION HAZARDOUS TO MYSELF AND ALL OTHER DRIVERS AND PEDESTRIANS. SCC *NLM **DIMSII IVOQ ENTRY POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT-OVER TO ARTEMIS*759895
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-01
- VIN: 1G4GJ1175HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES ARE HARD TO PUSH. HA STO STAND ON THE PEDAL TO GET IT TO STOP. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-01
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 60MPH, AND WHEN HE WENT TO APPLY BRAKES THEY DIDN'T WORK AT ALL. IT HAPPENED INTERMITTENTLY. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: IN CHECKING YOUR DATA BASE THERE HAVE BEEN AT LEAST 100 FAILURES, BUT NO RECORD OF AN INVESTIGATION. THE POWER MASTER SYSTEM WAS USED ONLY ON LIMITED MODELS SO THE INCIDENCE OF FAILURE IS VERY HIGH. THIS IS A FAILURE THAT LEAVES THE DRIVER WITH LITTLE OR NO BREAKING ABILITY. I AM DISAPOINTED THAT NHTSA HAS REFUSED TO LOOK INTO THIS PROBLEM FOR THE LAST 12 YEARS.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4GJ1173HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: IN AN EMERGENCY BRAKING SITUATION WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, PEDAL DOES NOT MOVE AND MORE STOPPING DISTANCE IS REQUIRED. THIS HAPPENS ON ANY TYPE OF ROAD SURFACE AT ANY SPEED. A /MECHANIC WAS NOT ABLE TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4GM11Y6HP
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ENGINE CHECK LIGHT COMES ON AND SOMETIMES THE VEHICLE WILL NOT START AND/OR WILL HESITATE ON THE FREEWAY. VEHICLE TAKEN TO MECHANIC, ADJUSTMENTS WERE MADE, BUT PROBLEM REMAINS UNCORRECTED. *AK *ML
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-18
- VIN: UNAVAILABLE
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE CONSUMER HAS BEEN EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH SEAT BELT BUCKLE. SEAT BELT BUCKLE IS CRACKED. THE MANUFACTURER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4GJ1177HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: A FUSE BLOWS UNEXPECTEDLY, WITH NO WARNING VEHICLE HAS NO BREAKING POWER.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-04
- VIN: 1G6GM11Y1HP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE SHOULDER/LAP BELT LOCKS UP, TRAPPING OCCUPANT INSIDE VEHICLE, RELEASE BUTTON JAMS; DEALER LUBRICATED BUCKLE, REPLACED WITH REAR BELT, STILL HAS PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4GJ1175HP
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE STALLED IN TRAFFIC.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-19
- VIN: 1G4GJ1175HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: POWER BRAKES REPLACED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G4GJ1178HP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN PASSENGER IN AN ACCIDENT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G4GJ1178HP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN PASSENGER IN AN ACCIDENT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-01
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TRAILING ARM AND BUSHING IN VEHICLE MAKES A LOUD NOISE WHEN DRIVING. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-20
- VIN: 1G4GJ1172HP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: POWER BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER HAS FAILED, EXPERIENCED TOTAL LOSS OF BRAKING. TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-01
- VIN: 1G4GK4774GP
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: VACUUM ASSIST WHICH CONTROLS BRAKES AND POWER STEERING FAILED, LOSS OF BRAKES AND STEERING. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-01
- VIN: 1G4GK4774GP
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: VACUUM ASSIST WHICH CONTROLS BRAKES AND POWER STEERING FAILED, LOSS OF BRAKES AND STEERING. TT
1987 Buick Regal recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1987 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: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
- Summary: MANUAL VALVE LINK IN THE TRANSMISSION MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY FORMED.
- Consequence: THE VALVE LINK COULD SEPARATE RESULTING IN A GEARSELECTION DIFFERENT FROM WHAT THE DRIVER SELECTS. ALSO, CAR COULD BE STARTEDWITH TRANSMISSION IN GEAR ALLOWING VEHICLE TO MOVE IN AN UNANTICIPATEDDIRECTION.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE MANUAL VALVE DETENT LEVER LINK.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1987 Buick Regal problems:
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 ...
1987 Buick Riviera Q&A: Fuel Gauge Problems | JustAnswer
Sep 27, 2012 ... I have a 1987 Riviera. Problems ... Is this a common problem with the Riviera and if so, what is the solution? ... I have a 1995 Buick Regal Gran ...
1987 Buick Regal Turbo T - $15,000 OBO | Turbo Buick Forum ...
It has the digital dash which was not very common. The engine seems to be in great shape and I haven't had any issues with it. Transmission has ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 1994 Buick Regal 3.8L V6 | JustAnswer
Jul 11, 2009 ... I have a 1994 Buick Regal 3.8L V6 and have 2 problems. 1) While I'm driving if I hold the gas pedal down at a steady speed I can feel the ...
Buick Regal 2013 problems with transmission - CarGurus
May 22, 2018 ... I have a 1987 Buick Regal Limited with power locks. Passenger side door is a mess. Plastic/ metal type outside door handle is cracked and loose, ...
Other years of Buick Regal
Are you having problems with your 1987 Buick Regal?
Leave your review of 1987 Buick Regal