Fix It

The original factory stereo in a 1998 Buick Regal was available with two different options; an in-stereo tape player or an in-stereo compact disc player. Regardless of the option choice, the removal method is the same. Despite the excellent reliability of Buick factory radios, they do fail occasionally; leaving the driver and passenger with an eerily-silent interior. Replacement factory stereos are available in used condition from most salvage yards for a nominal fee or new from Buick dealerships for a much higher price.

Instructions

Removal

1

Open the drivers side door and remove the left instrument panel insulator by prying it free with a flat-head screwdriver.

2

Press the tilt lever on the steering column and adjust the steering wheel as far down as it will travel.

3

Remove the retaining screws on the lower leading edge of the ash tray panel cover. Pull the cover forward to disengage the retaining clips. Disconnect the ash tray lights electrical connector and remove the lower ash tray trim panel.

4

Open the passenger door. Disengage the instrument panel trim plates retaining tabs inside the air vents using a flat-head screw driver. Pry around the circumference of the instrument panel trim plate with a flat-head screwdriver until all of the retainers are disengaged. Pull the instrument panel trim plate away from the dashboard and set it aside.

5

Remove the screws holding the radio in place using a ratchet and metric socket. Pull the radio out and unplug the black antenna cable from the back of the radio. Disconnect the radios electrical connector and remove the radio from the vehicle.

Installation

6

Reconnect the radios antenna cable and electrical connector. Set the radio into position and reinstall the radio retaining bolts. Torque the bolts to 18 inch-pounds with a torque wrench.

7

Set the instrument panel trim plate into position and press down on it from left to right in order to seat the retaining clips. When the panel is properly seated there should be no large gaps between the panel and upper dash pad or radio face.

8

Reconnect the lower ash tray cover panel to the ash tray lights electrical connector. Set the panel into place and press down on it until the integrated locking tabs are fully-seated. Reinstall the lower ash tray panel retaining screws and torque them to 18 inch-pounds with a torque wrench.

9

Tilt the steering wheel back to a normal position. Reinstall the left instrument panel insulator. Turn on the ignition and test the radio.

A Ford factory warranty guarantees repair and/or replacement of specific systems and components of a vehicle, within the limitations outlined in the warranty plan. To receive the full benefit of the coverage, owners must have all scheduled maintenance performed on their vehicle. Failure to adhere to the maintenance schedule may result in voiding the warranty coverage.

Function

Only an authorized Ford dealership may make the repairs. The dealership may use Ford or Motorcraft parts. In addition, Ford technicians may install remanufactured components or other parts as instructed by Ford or the dealership management. According to the warranty language, the vehicle owner must allow the dealership a "reasonable" period to make necessary repairs.

Considerations

Keep invoices for receipts for parts and repairs, and make sure to record work performed on the vehicle in the Scheduled Maintenance Guide. Vehicle owners do not have to pay for repairs covered under the factory warranty over the life of the warranty period unless specifically stated in writing. Some states have regulations that may override certain provisions of the warranty, such as the coverage period or the payment of taxes, which becomes the owners responsibility.

Types

The Ford factory warranty covers bumper to bumper, powertrain, safety restraints, corrosion and powerstroke diesel engines. The components covered include engine components and the transmission. The warranty replaces tires on a "prorated basis up to 36,000 miles.

Time Frame

The factory warranty covers warranted repairs based on the number of years or the number of miles on the vehicle, whichever comes first. For instance, the bumper-to-bumper coverage has a three-year/36,000 miles warranty. The powertrain and safety restraints have coverage for five years/60,000 miles, depending on what is reached first. Some vehicle corrosion has five years/unlimited miles and the powerstroke diesel engine (6.0 or 6.4-liter) has five years/100,000 miles.