1988 Buick Regal Limited 2.8 Owners Manual

The 1988 Buick Regal Limited with 2.8L V6 engine is a mid-size luxury coupe featuring front-wheel drive, electronic fuel injection, 4-speed automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, premium sound system, and comprehensive instrumentation. Below are key sections for vehicle operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting & Operating 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fluid Capacities 8. Emergency Procedures 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 2.8L V6 MFI engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, power accessories, climate control system.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.8L V6 Multi-port Fuel Injection
Transmission	4-speed automatic with overdrive
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Brakes	Power front disc/rear drum
Steering	Power steering
Suspension	Independent front with coil springs
Seating Capacity	5 passengers
Fuel Capacity	18 gallons
Curb Weight	Approximately 3,200 lbs

Instrument Panel

Standard instrumentation includes speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, and warning lights.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph
Tachometer: Engine RPM display
Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, brake, battery

WARNING! Never ignore warning lights; stop vehicle immediately if red warning lights illuminate.

Starting & Operating

Proper starting procedure and daily operation guidelines.

Fasten seat belts and ensure parking brake is engaged
Insert key and turn to ON position (wait for warning lights to cycle)
Turn key to START position and release when engine starts
Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds before driving
Release parking brake and select gear

CAUTION! Do not race engine when cold. Allow proper warm-up time.

Specifications

Engine: 2.8L V6 MFI, 112 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque: 145 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic THM 125C
Fuel Economy: 18 city / 26 highway (estimated)
Wheelbase: 108.0 inches
Length: 192.0 inches
Width: 72.7 inches
Height: 54.5 inches
Tires: P205/70R14
Fuel Requirement: 87 octane unleaded

Controls & Features

Comfort and convenience features including climate control, audio system, and power accessories.

Climate Control: Manual temperature control with A/C, heater, defroster. Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Power Features: Windows, door locks, seats (optional). Lighting: Automatic headlamp control, interior lighting.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change
Every 6,000 miles: Tire rotation, fluid checks
Every 15,000 miles: Air filter replacement
Every 30,000 miles: Spark plugs, fuel filter
Every 50,000 miles: Transmission fluid change
Every 60,000 miles: Coolant flush, timing belt

Tip: Keep maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Fluid Capacities

Recommended fluid types and capacities.

Fluid	Capacity	Type
Engine Oil	4.5 quarts	10W-30
Coolant	12.5 quarts	50/50 antifreeze
Transmission	7.5 quarts	Dexron II
Fuel Tank	18 gallons	87 octane
Brake Fluid	As needed	DOT 3

Emergency Procedures

What to do in case of common emergencies.

Flat Tire: Use jack and spare tire in trunk
Overheating: Turn off A/C, turn on heater, stop safely
Dead Battery: Use jumper cables following proper procedure
Stuck Accelerator: Shift to neutral, brake to stop

WARNING! Always carry emergency kit: flares, flashlight, first aid.

Care & Cleaning

Proper cleaning and preservation of vehicle interior and exterior.

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, wax regularly. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean vinyl with mild cleaner. Windows: Use glass cleaner without ammonia. CAUTION! Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage finishes.

Warranty Information

Basic warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles. Powertrain: 36 months/36,000 miles. Rust perforation: 36 months/unlimited miles. Contact Buick dealer for warranty claims and service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery connections, fuel level, spark plugs
Overheating	Coolant level, thermostat	Check coolant, inspect radiator, replace thermostat
Poor fuel economy	Air filter, tire pressure	Replace air filter, check tire inflation
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Inspect brake rotors, replace if necessary
Electrical issues	Alternator, battery	Test charging system, check battery voltage

Service: Contact authorized Buick dealer for professional service.