Buick Regal Drivetrain and Transfer Case: 4 Symptoms Worth Taking Seriously (2018-2020)

Most drivetrain and transfer case problems announce themselves well before they strand anybody. On a 2018-2020 Regal, these are the ones worth acting on.

1. A hum that changes with steering input, which usually points at a wheel bearing

By the time this is obvious you are generally replacing more than one part. Start by looking at front differential actuators.

2. Vibration that appears above 55 mph and grows with speed

This is the symptom people put off longest and regret most. Start by looking at transfer case encoder motors.

3. A four wheel drive light that flashes and never engages

This one is usually early, which is good news, because it is cheap to fix early. Start by looking at front differential actuators.

4. A clunk on the transition from drive to reverse

This one is usually early, which is good news, because it is cheap to fix early. Start by looking at CV axles.

What to Do Next

Transfer case and differential fluid on a schedule that tightens sharply if you tow or run in dust. Wheel bearings are replaced on noise, not on mileage.

Ride height, axle ratio and locking differential content all change these numbers.

Genuine GM parts, dealer priced, shipped from Dallas. our Buick OEM parts catalog has the full catalog, or search for Regal transfer case encoder motors.