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1996 Buick Regal

1996 Buick Regal

Coupe
FWD
Regular Gasoline
Horsepower
MPG Combined
21 mpg
MSRP
Torque
Reliability Score
97/ 100Excellent
Based on 273 NHTSA complaints

Should You Buy a 1996 Buick Regal?

The 1996 Buick Regal is a mid-sized sedan that combines a comfortable ride with a powerful 3.8L V6 engine, delivering 205 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. With a front-wheel-drive system and a 4-speed automatic transmission, it offers a smooth driving experience, making it suitable for daily commutes and family outings. The vehicle achieves a combined fuel economy of 21 MPG, which is reasonable for its class, although it may not be the most fuel-efficient option available today. Despite some concerns regarding safety, as indicated by 19 crash incidents and 22 fire incidents reported to the NHTSA, the Regal boasts a high reliability score of 97/100, suggesting that it can be a dependable choice for buyers looking for a used sedan.

Potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle's known issues, particularly related to service brakes and airbag systems, which have garnered multiple complaints. However, the absence of fatalities in reported incidents is a positive indicator of its overall safety performance. The Regal's spacious interior and comfortable seating make it a practical choice for families, while its robust engine provides adequate power for highway driving and city commutes alike.

Ideal For

This vehicle is best suited for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and comfortable sedan for daily commuting and family use.

Strengths

  • +High reliability score of 97/100
  • +Powerful 3.8L V6 engine with 205 hp
  • +Comfortable ride quality suitable for daily commuting
  • +Spacious interior with ample room for passengers
  • +Good balance of performance and fuel efficiency at 21 MPG combined

Weaknesses

  • -Reported issues with service brakes and airbag systems
  • -Some complaints about fire incidents, raising safety concerns
  • -Limited modern features compared to newer vehicles
  • -Potentially higher maintenance costs due to age
  • -Unknown seating capacity may limit family usability

Known Issues (NHTSA Data)

The 1996 Buick Regal has received a total of 273 complaints to the NHTSA, with notable concerns surrounding service brakes and airbag systems. While there are 19 crash incidents and 22 fire incidents reported, there have been no fatalities associated with these complaints. This suggests that while there are issues to consider, the vehicle has maintained a level of safety that is commendable. Overall, the Regal does not have any significant NHTSA complaints on record that would deter a potential buyer.

Top Complaint Areas
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP5% of complaints
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL4% of complaints
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE4% of complaints
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE4% of complaints
UNKNOWN OR OTHER3% of complaints

Performance

Horsepower
Torque
Engine
3.1 L
Cylinders
V6
Transmission
Automatic 4-spd
Drive Type
FWD

Efficiency

MPG Combined
21
Fuel Type
Regular Gasoline

Dimensions

Length
194.1 in
Width
72.4 in
Height
53.1 in
Wheelbase
107.5 in
Curb Weight
3,263 lbs
Ground Clearance

Capacity

Doors
2
Seating
Cargo
Max Cargo
Max Towing
Max Payload

Estimated Value

Value estimate unavailable. MSRP data not available for this vehicle.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Estimated Annual Cost
$4,906
Per Mile
$0.41
5-Year Total
$24,530
Fuel
$2,000/yr
Maintenance
$600/yr
Insurance
$2,306/yr
Based on industry-standard estimates for this vehicle class. Fuel cost assumes 12,000 mi/yr at national average gas prices. Maintenance uses class-based intervals, not manufacturer-specific schedules. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

Available Trims (2)

Regal
(FFS) (MPFI)
FWD
Regal
(FFS) (MPFI)
FWD

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