The 1988 Buick Regal has 7 recalls, with the most serious concerns centered on suspension and steering failures that can cause a wheel to completely separate from the vehicle or ball joints to break loose, either of which can result in a sudden loss of control.
Several suspension issues affect this model. Cracks can develop in the wheel hub mounting surface and, if severe enough, allow a wheel to detach while driving. Separately, lower control arm ball joints and tie rod ball stud nuts can loosen and separate, eliminating steering control without warning. There is also a corrosion-related suspension concern affecting vehicles in high-corrosion regions east of the Manitoba/Ontario border, where frame cradle retainer bolts can pull through corroded retainers, compromising the structural connection between the engine cradle and body.
On the brakes side, the left front brake hose can rub against the fender area and wear through, leaking fluid and reducing braking power. An electrical issue with the brake light switch can cause it to overheat, melt, and stick in the open position, leaving the brake lights dark when the pedal is pressed. The hood secondary latch may also fail to engage properly, allowing the hood to fly open while driving and block the driver's view. Finally, the seatbelt anchor bolt on certain vehicles can pull through the upper anchorage plate, meaning the belt may not restrain an occupant in a crash.
