For the 1982 Buick Regal with the 4.3L 6-cylinder Engine Code [V] V Diesel, the engine oil capacity is 6.6 quarts (including filter replacement). Recommended viscosities include 10W-30 for temperatures below 16°C, 15W-40 for -18 to 16°C, and 30 weight for continuous driving above 0°C. AMSOIL recommends using high-performance synthetic diesel oils like Signature Series 10W-30 Max-Duty Diesel Oil for superior wear protection.
What oil does a 1982 Buick Regal 4.3L Diesel take?
The 1982 Buick Regal with the 4.3L V6 diesel engine requires an oil grade of CF. Depending on your operating environment, you should select the appropriate viscosity: 10W-30 for temperatures below 16°C, 15W-40 for temperatures between -18 to 16°C, or a 30 weight oil if you are engaged in continuous driving above 0°C.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the AMSOIL lookup for your 1982 Buick Regal 4.3L V6 Diesel, here are the recommended fluids and filters to maintain engine health and performance.
Engine Oil Options
| Product Name | Viscosity | Code |
|---|---|---|
| AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30 100% Synthetic Max-Duty Diesel Oil | 10W-30 | DTTQT-EA |
| AMSOIL 10W-30 Heavy-Duty 100% Synthetic Diesel Oil | 10W-30 | ADNQT-EA |
| AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Max-Duty Diesel Oil | 5W-30 | DHDQT-EA |
Oil Filter Options
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Oil Filter | EAO23-EA |
| WIX XP Oil Filter | 51036XP-EA |
| WIX Oil Filter | 51036-EA |
Other Essential Fluids
| Component | Product Name | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant | AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant | ANTPC1G-EA |
| Coolant | AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant | ANT1G-EA |
| Transmission | AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | ATLPK-EA |
| Transmission | AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | OTLQT-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Oil Grade | CF |
Engine Oil Viscosity Guide
| Temperature Range | Recommended Viscosity |
|---|---|
| Below 16°C | 10W-30 |
| -18 to 16°C | 15W-40 |
| Above 0°C (Continuous Driving) | 30 |
Engine Oil Capacity and Torque
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Oil Capacity (with filter) | 6.6 quarts |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 26 ft/lbs |
Note: Always check the oil level after refilling.
How much transmission fluid does it take?
For vehicles equipped with the 4-speed THM200-4R automatic transmission, the total fill capacity is 11 quarts. For an initial fill, you will need 5 quarts. The manufacturer’s technical service bulletin indicates that the specification has been updated from Dexron II or III to Dexron VI.
Transmission Specifications
| Component | Specification/Note |
|---|---|
| Transmission Model | THM200-4R |
| Updated Spec | Dexron VI (per TSB) |
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
Maintaining an early 1980s diesel requires attention to several key systems. Based on the technical data, owners should focus on:
- Oil Service: Ensure proper viscosity is selected based on ambient temperature to maintain engine protection.
- Cooling System: The coolant capacity is 14.8 quarts. Using a high-quality OAT or propylene glycol formula can help protect metals and gaskets.
- Filter Integrity: Use high-efficiency filters like the AMSOIL Oil Filter to manage small, wear-causing contaminants.
- Fuel System: Given the historical context of these engines, monitoring fuel system integrity is a critical maintenance priority.
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
Diesel engines face unique stresses that standard lubricants may not be equipped to handle.
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Wear | Diesel combustion creates high pressure and friction. | Signature Series 10W-30 | Delivers up to 6X more wear protection. | Requires regular oil changes. |
| Contaminants | Soot and small particles can cause abrasive wear. | AMSOIL Oil Filter | 99% efficiency at 20 microns. | Filter must be replaced per interval. |
| Extreme Temps | Viscosity changes can affect lubrication during start-up. | Signature Series 5W-30 | Excels in extreme temperatures. | Not a substitute for mechanical repair. |
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
Official NHTSA research has identified the following information regarding the 1982 Buick Regal:
NHTSA Recall Records
- Fuel Injection System: A recall (Campaign 82V012000) was issued because the governor weight retainer in the injection pump may fail, potentially causing the throttle valve to stick. The remedy involves dealer replacement of the assembly at no cost.
- Fuel Inlet Pipe: A recall (Campaign 82V080000) noted that fuel inlet pipes could develop cracks due to vibrations, leading to leakage. Dealers were instructed to install new pipes free of charge.
Disclaimer: Always verify open recalls by using your specific VIN through an authorized dealer or the NHTSA website.
NHTSA Complaint Research
One owner-reported complaint was noted regarding “Vehicle Speed Control” involving sudden acceleration. Please note that NHTSA complaints are individual owner reports and should not be treated as verified manufacturer defects.
About this vehicle
The 1982 Buick Regal represents a specific era in General Motors’ history where diesel technology was being integrated into mid-size passenger cars. The Regal itself is a long-standing Buick model line, originally serving as a premium intermediate vehicle designed to compete with other GM offerings like the Pontiac Grand Prix and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme.
Regarding the powertrain, this vehicle features a 4.3L V6 diesel engine. According to historical context regarding General Motors’ diesel production during this period (1978–1985), this engine is part of a family based on Oldsmobile gasoline architecture. It is important for owners to distinguish between the various iterations of these engines; while the earlier 5.7L V8 versions faced significant reliability challenges that impacted the reputation of GM diesel engines, the later 4.3L V6 design (introduced around 1982) was noted as being more reliable than its V8 predecessor.
Because this specific engine configuration is part of a complex transitional period for GM diesel technology, owners should verify exact engine specifications and compatibility with modern diesel additives or fuels. Typical use cases for this vehicle in its era included fuel-efficient commuting for mid-size sedan enthusiasts. From a maintenance perspective, owners of early 1980s diesels often focus on fuel system integrity, glow plug functionality, and cooling system efficiency. Given the historical reputation of GM’s diesel engines from this decade, diligent preventative maintenance is critical to ensuring longevity.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the correct oil viscosity for my 1982 Buick Regal Diesel?
The recommended viscosity depends on temperature: use 10W-30 if it is below 16°C, 15W-40 between -18 and 16°C, or a 30 weight oil for continuous driving above 0°C. AMSOIL offers options like DTTQT-EA for high protection.
How much oil should I buy for an oil change?
The capacity is 6.6 quarts with a filter. It is recommended to have at least 7 quarts on hand to ensure you can reach the proper level after refilling.
Can I use synthetic oil in this older diesel engine?
Yes, AMSOIL provides high-performance synthetics such as the Signature Series DHDQT-EA which is designed to provide superior wear protection and maintain viscosity.
What should I check regarding the cooling system?
The coolant capacity is 14.8 quarts. Ensure you use a compatible coolant like AMSOIL’s OAT formulation (ANTPC1G-EA) to protect metals and gaskets.
Is there a specific torque for the oil drain plug?
Yes, the oil drain plug should be torqued to 26 ft/lbs.
How do I verify if my vehicle has an active recall?
While NHTSA records show recalls for fuel injection and inlet pipes, you should always contact a certified dealer or use your VIN on the official NHTSA website to confirm current status.
Disclaimer: Information provided is based on available source data. Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual or a certified mechanic before performing maintenance.