Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2004 Buick Regal Reliability ReportB+ grade · low risk · system-by-system breakdown

88/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: B+

A supremely comfortable and generally dependable choice, offering excellent value if key preventative maintenance items are addressed.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2004 Buick Regal

  • The system most likely to surface first: engine gaskets (major severity).
  • Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the engine and engine cooling:engine.
  • Outscores the 2002 Buick Regal by 6 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.

Is the 2004 Buick Regal Worth Buying?

The 2004 Buick Regal, especially with the venerable 3.8L V6 engine, is one of the safest used sedans you can buy if you prioritize comfort and value. Its robust mechanicals offer impressive longevity, though attention to a few specific known weaknesses is crucial for long-term satisfaction. This car represents a smart investment for a comfortable, low-cost daily driver.

Biggest Strengths

  • Legendary 3.8L Series II V6 engine durability
  • Comfortable, quiet ride quality
  • Abundant and affordable parts availability

What Tends to Fail First on the 2004 Buick Regal

The systems that break first on the 2004 Buick Regal. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Engine Gasketsmajor
2
Transmission Solenoidsmoderate
3
Electrical Systemminor
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

2004 Buick Regal Recall History

4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

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.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on April 2, 2015, that they are is recalling certain model year 2004 Buick Regal vehicles manufactured April 9, 2003, to June 1, 2003, 2004 Chevrolet Impala vehicles manufactured April 8, 2003, to June 23, 2003, and 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles manufactured April 7, 2003, to June 23, 2003. On May 18, 2015, GM expanded the recall to cover an additional 49,751 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles manufactured January 6, 2003, to June 25, 2004. In the affected vehicles, the valve cover gasket may leak.

What breaks on the 2004 Buick Regal?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other Buick Regal Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Buick Regal. Click any year for its full report.

2004 Buick Regal Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2004 Buick Regal

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair cost projections, buyer checklist, and expert verdict.

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