The 1996 Buick Regal has two recalls, the more serious being a brake line that can wear through after rubbing against a nearby bracket, causing fluid loss and reduced braking ability on one side of the front axle with no warning.
The other recall involves the steering gear: retainer tabs on the lower pinion bearings may not have been properly crimped, allowing ball bearings to escape the assembly. If this happens, the steering wheel becomes noticeably harder to turn.
At a glance
What can fail
The lower pinion bearing retainer tabs weren't crimped properly. The retainers may fail and let ball bearings escape, making steering harder.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the lower bearing and replace the lower pinion bearing or rack and pinion steering gear assembly if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The left front brake line may rub against the transaxle mounting bracket or bolt, wearing through the line. This causes brake fluid loss and half-system brake failure, increasing stopping distance.
What the fix does
Brake lines will be repositioned to prevent contact. Lines with wear marks will be replaced and properly routed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
