Market Position:
Full-size luxury sedan targeting the premium segment, competing with domestic rivals like Lincoln Continental and Cadillac DeVille, and international contenders such as Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series.
Competitive Analysis:
The 1996 Park Avenue offered a blend of American comfort, spaciousness, and a quiet ride. Its C-body platform provided a large, solid foundation. Competition often focused on refined powertrains, advanced technology, and distinct luxury cues.
Key Features:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride quality, V6 engine options, front-wheel drive, optional Gran Touring suspension, premium interior appointments, extensive feature availability.
Coverage Areas:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories
Page Count:
Estimated 150-250 pages (typical for a 1996 owner's manual)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Systems Covered:
Instrument Panel and Gauges, Audio System (Radio, Cassette), Climate Control (HVAC), Exterior and Interior Lighting, Driver Controls (Steering Wheel, Pedals), Power Door Locks, Remote Keyless Entry (if equipped), Security System, Airbags, Seat Belts, Child Seat Restraints, Parking Brake, Cruise Control, Basic Driving Procedures, Fuel and Oil Recommendations, Battery Care, Air Filter Replacement, Wiper Blade Operation, Tire Pressure Monitoring (basic), Exterior Care, Interior Cleaning
Procedures Included:
Understanding dashboard indicators, operating infotainment and climate controls, proper use of lights, adjusting seating and steering wheel, locking/unlocking doors, engaging and disengaging safety restraints, basic driving techniques, fuel filling procedures, checking engine oil level, battery maintenance, air filter inspection and replacement, washer fluid replenishment, cleaning interior and exterior surfaces, basic troubleshooting for common indicators, customer assistance information
Technical Depth:
Covers owner-level maintenance, operation of features, and basic care. Does not delve into in-depth mechanical repair or advanced diagnostics typically found in a service manual.
Length:
Approximately 207.2 inches
Width:
Approximately 74.4 inches
Height:
Approximately 55.4 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 110.8 inches
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,600 - 3,800 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (1996-1999 models, based on general platform)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (1996-1999 models, based on general platform)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) (optional on some trims)
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear three-point seat belts, front seat belt pretensioners, side-impact door beams.
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player, optional CD player, 6-speaker sound system (optional).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional traction control.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity typical for the era).
Convenience Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry (optional), automatic climate control (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual for specific recommendation)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
GM Type 1, 50/50 mix with distilled water (typically green coolant)
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III
Known Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (Series I 3800), water pump leaks, EGR valve issues, early generation electronic transmission control glitches, potential for dashboard delamination, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints).
Air Filter Part Number Example:
GM 25533945 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 U.S. Quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 14-15 U.S. Quarts
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 4.5-5.0 U.S. Quarts (dry fill, check dipstick)
Brand Heritage:
Buick, founded in 1899, is one of America's oldest automotive brands, historically known for comfortable, quiet, and upscale vehicles.
Model Evolution:
The Park Avenue nameplate has a long history within Buick. The 1996 model represents the third generation, based on GM's C-body platform, following the previous Riviera-based models. It received styling updates and technological improvements over earlier generations.
Production Years:
1991-1996 (Third Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Orion Assembly, Michigan, USA
