2011-2017 Buick Regal Fuel Pressure Sensor: A Complete Replacement Guide
Solve stalling, rough idling, and Check Engine lights by understanding your Regal's fuel pressure sensor.
- Diagnose correctly: Symptoms can be caused by the sensor, its electrical connector, or the fuel pump. Check the connector for corrosion first.
- Identify the right part: Turbo models have high- and low-pressure sensors; they are different parts. Confirm which one has failed.
- Choose quality brands: For reliability and to avoid repeat repairs, select an OEM-quality brand like ACDelco or Bosch.
- Driving is not recommended: A failing sensor can cause the engine to stall, creating a significant safety risk.
Is Your Fuel Pressure Sensor Failing?
A bad fuel pressure sensor can cause noticeable problems with your Buick Regal. Because the engine's computer receives incorrect information, it can't properly manage the fuel supply. This can lead to a range of issues from annoying to serious.
Common Symptoms of Failure:
- Check Engine Light: This is the most common sign. You may see codes like P0089, P0191, P0087, or P228D stored in the computer.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may stall unexpectedly, either at idle or while driving, which can be a serious safety concern.
- Hard Starting: Your Regal might take longer than usual to start, or you may have to crank the engine several times.
- Poor Engine Performance: You may experience hesitation when you accelerate, a general lack of power, and a rough or unstable idle. 🎬 Watch: Fixing rough idle and misfire codes on the 2.4L engine.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: If the sensor causes the engine to run rich (too much fuel), you'll notice you're visiting the gas station more often.
High-Pressure vs. Low-Pressure Sensors
It's crucial to identify which sensor your car needs. The 2.0L Turbo GDI engine has both a high-pressure sensor on the fuel rail and a low-pressure sensor elsewhere in the fuel system. The 2.4L engine has a sensor on its fuel rail. They are not interchangeable. A diagnostic scan that provides live fuel pressure data is the best way to determine which sensor is faulty.
🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and test a faulty fuel rail sensor.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When replacing the fuel pressure sensor, you have several brands to choose from. For a critical electronic part like this, quality and reliability are more important than saving a few dollars.
Tier 1: OEM Quality Brands
These brands are either the original equipment manufacturer for GM or are known for meeting the same high standards. They are the safest bet for a long-lasting, reliable repair.
- ACDelco: As GM's official parts brand, ACDelco is the closest you can get to the original part that came on your Regal. It is the recommended choice for fit and performance.
- Bosch: A major OEM supplier for many car brands, Bosch parts are known for their engineering and reliability. They are an excellent alternative to ACDelco.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
These brands offer a good balance of quality and value. They are trusted in the industry and are a solid choice if an OEM-level part isn't in the budget.
- Standard Motor Products (SMP): A well-respected brand that engineers its parts to be direct OE replacements, often testing them to ensure performance.
- Dorman: Dorman is known for making a vast range of aftermarket parts. While some owners have had success, others prefer to use OEM brands for critical electronic sensors to ensure reliability.
Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Options
Brands like URO Parts and Walker Products are typically more budget-focused. While they can get your car back on the road, their long-term durability may not match that of the higher-tier brands. For a part that can cause stalling and driveability issues, investing in a better brand is often wise.
Pro Tip: Check the Connector First!
General Motors issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 20-NA-197) for many vehicles that use similar sensors. It notes that corrosion or damage to the sensor's electrical connector can cause the exact same symptoms and trouble codes as a failed sensor. Before buying a new part, unplug the sensor and carefully inspect the connector and pins for any green or white corrosion. Cleaning the connector and applying a small amount of dielectric grease might solve your problem without needing a new sensor.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace the fuel pressure sensor can vary depending on your engine and which part you choose. The prices below are estimates.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Sensor | $55 - $100 |
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $42 - $88 |
| Shop Labor | $95 - $150 |
| Total Professional Repair | $140 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the fuel pressure sensor located on a 2011-2017 Buick Regal?
For both the 2.4L and 2.0L Turbo engines, there is a fuel pressure sensor located directly on the fuel rail, which is a metal pipe that supplies fuel to the injectors on top of the engine. 🎬 See this walkthrough for locating and replacing the high-pressure sensor. Some GDI models may have a second, low-pressure sensor located on the fuel line or as part of the fuel pump assembly in the gas tank.
Can I replace the fuel pressure sensor myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for someone with basic mechanical skills. The process involves relieving the fuel system pressure, disconnecting the battery, unplugging the sensor, and using a wrench to remove it. However, you must work on a cool engine and take precautions when working with gasoline. If you are not comfortable with this, a professional mechanic can do the job in about an hour.
What happens if I don't replace a bad fuel pressure sensor?
Ignoring a failing fuel pressure sensor can lead to more significant problems. Continuous poor engine performance can strain other components, and stalling in traffic is a major safety hazard. You will also fail an emissions test if your Check Engine Light is on.
Is there a recall for this part on my Buick Regal?
No, there are no active recalls from GM or the NHTSA specifically for the fuel pressure sensor on the 2011-2017 Buick Regal. However, a technical service bulletin (PIP5203A) was issued for 2011 models related to high fuel pressure and codes P0089/P228D after certain engine repairs.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13500745 13516496 12721112 13579380
The sensor is typically located on the engine's fuel rail or on the fuel line. It uses a 3-pin electrical connector. The correct sensor depends on the engine (2.4L or 2.0L Turbo) and specific fuel system (low or high pressure).
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick Regal:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Fuel Pressure Sensor Failing?
- Common Symptoms of Failure:
- High-Pressure vs. Low-Pressure Sensors
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Tier 1: OEM Quality Brands
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
- Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Options
- Pro Tip: Check the Connector First!
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off