I just got a 00 Buick Regal. Drives smooth, and cruises well on the highway. However, I noticed it has a delayed start when cold.

Is this normal for the 3800 series II engine? I don't think it needs a tune-up because it doesn't idle rough or have issues during normal driving.

txgreasemonkey

Make sure your battery is fully charged and in good shape. Clean battery terminals and cables with a battery brush. Also, it could be that you need new spark plugs. Many owners of cars with FWD V6 and V8 engines procrastinate in changing plugs, because of the difficulty in reaching the rear plugs. Install the exact ACDelco plugs that came in the car. In my opinion, platinum plugs should be changed at about half the recommended mileage and left in no more than 50,000 miles. Cars need to reach a certain cranking speed before they will start. Full synthetic engine oil allows the engine to turn over faster and easier, draining the battery less in the process. This is particularly important in winter. Therefore, I'd recommend you use a full synthetic engine oil meeting the viscosity requirements for your car; e.g., Mobil 1 5W-30.

Dan_Patrick

Thank you for these important tips. I believe you are correct because the car has less than 67,000 miles the previous owner may not have changed the plugs due to the hard to reach location. For motor oil I usually use Castrol synthetic blend. Cleaning the battery terminal is easy enough.

I think I also read that these newer Buick Regals have an electrical problem that causes a delayed start, but it can be fixed. Do you have any knowledge of this problem?

Regards

txgreasemonkey

Sorry, I don't.