1. Verify the Obvious (Easy Checks First):
* Battery: A weak battery can cause all sorts of electrical gremlins, especially in cold weather. Check the battery voltage with a multimeter. Should be around 12.6V fully charged. If low, jump start it and see if the car starts.
* Fuel: Though seemingly obvious, make absolutely sure the fuel tank isn't empty. The gauge may be faulty.
* Ignition Switch: Try turning the key multiple times, ensuring it fully engages.
* Fuses and Relays: Inspect the fuses and relays related to the fuel system and ignition. A blown fuse or bad relay can cut power to the fuel pump. Consult your owner's manual for their locations.
* Check Engine Light (CEL): Is the CEL on? If so, have it scanned with an OBD-II code reader. This might give valuable clues. A code P0171, P0174, or similar points to a fuel system issue, while other codes point towards other problems.
2. Investigate Snow-Related Possibilities:
* Snow/Water Ingress: Four inches of snow is substantial. Could snow or water have entered the engine compartment and shorted something out? Carefully inspect for any signs of water damage, especially around electrical components.
* Sensor Problems: Cold temperatures can affect various sensors. A crucial sensor malfunction might trigger a safety shutdown, even without setting a code immediately.
* Cutoff Switch (if applicable): If your Buick has a specific "cutoff switch" (like an inertia switch), locate and check it. Often these are resettable.
3. More Advanced Troubleshooting (If the above don't help):
* Fuel Pressure Test: This is crucial. A fuel pressure gauge connected to the fuel rail will definitively tell you if the fuel pump is delivering adequate pressure. This is the best way to isolate the pump itself as the problem. You'll likely need a special fitting to connect to the fuel rail for this test. Low pressure strongly suggests the pump is faulty.
* Fuel Pump Relay Test: Even if the relay looks okay visually, it could be intermittently failing. You can test it with a multimeter or by swapping it with a known good relay (if you have one of the same rating).
* Listen for the Pump: Have someone turn the ignition key to the "on" position (don't crank the engine). You should hear a brief humming sound from the fuel pump in the tank. If you don't hear it, the pump or its relay might be the culprit.
4. Before Replacing the Fuel Pump:
* Accessibility: Replacing a fuel pump can be a challenging job, requiring dropping the fuel tank. Familiarize yourself with the process before starting. There are many helpful videos online (search YouTube for "1998 Buick Regal fuel pump replacement").
* Safety: Work in a well-ventilated area. Gasoline fumes are extremely flammable and dangerous. Disconnect the battery negative terminal before starting any work near fuel lines.
* Parts: Ensure you have the correct fuel pump for your specific model. Obtain all necessary gaskets and seals.
In short: Don't jump straight to replacing the fuel pump. Systematic troubleshooting will save you time and money. The snowy conditions complicate things, so eliminating other potential causes is essential. A fuel pressure test is the most definitive step before committing to a pump replacement.
