2018 Buick Regal TourX Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2018 Buick Regal TourX and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Buick Regal TourX has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Buick Regal TourX has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2018 Buick Regal TourX?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2018 Buick Regal TourX, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or unusual readings, as these can provide further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes from the vehicle's computer, pinpointing the issue more accurately. Additionally, visually inspect the wiring and connections under the hood for any signs of damage or looseness, as these can also lead to the check engine light activating. Finally, don’t overlook the value of your owner’s manual, which can offer tailored troubleshooting advice and clarify what the check engine light may signify for your specific model. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action towards resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2018 Buick Regal TourX?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2018 Buick Regal TourX, it can signal a range of common issues that DIY enthusiasts can investigate. One of the first things to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is often the simplest fix and can easily trigger the light. If the gas cap is secure, consider examining the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and may require replacement. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can cause the light to illuminate, indicating a need for further inspection. Worn or faulty spark plugs are another frequent culprit, affecting engine performance and potentially leading to misfires. The mass airflow sensor is also critical; if it malfunctions, it can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, prompting the check engine light. Lastly, issues with ignition coils or engine misfires, which can stem from various factors, should not be overlooked. Addressing these common problems promptly can help maintain the vehicle's performance and prevent more significant issues down the line.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2018 Buick Regal TourX?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2018 Buick Regal TourX, it is crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light is your vehicle's way of alerting you to possible issues within the engine or emissions system, which can range from simple fixes to serious malfunctions. Ignoring this signal can lead to more significant problems, including costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. For instance, issues like engine misfires or overheating can escalate quickly, posing safety risks not only to you but also to other road users. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you can prevent further damage, enhance fuel efficiency, and maintain the overall reliability of your vehicle. Therefore, if you see that light come on, it’s best to investigate the cause as soon as possible to ensure your Buick Regal TourX remains in optimal condition.

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