Market Position:
Mid-size sedan and coupe offering from Buick, positioned as a comfortable and stylish personal car within the GM lineup.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, and Dodge Spirit. The Skylark aimed for a balance of comfort, refinement, and a touch of sportiness in its SE trim.
Key Features:
Smooth ride, spacious interior for its class, available V6 engines, front-wheel drive platform.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Diagnostics, Maintenance
Page Count:
Unknown (Digital, Comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
PDF Download (Digital Software)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and main bearing service, camshaft and valve train service, timing gear/chain/belt service, lubrication system service, cooling system service.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system service, ignition system service, emissions control system service, turbocharger (if applicable) service, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission service (e.g., 4T60-E), manual transmission service (if applicable), clutch service, drive axle service, universal joints and CV joints service, propeller shaft service.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service (disc and drum), parking brake system service, hydraulic system bleeding, anti-lock braking system (ABS) diagnostics and repair.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension component service (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends), wheel alignment specifications, power steering system service, steering column service.
Electrical System:
Battery and charging system service, starting system service, lighting system service, instrument cluster service, power windows, power locks, and power seat service, wiper and washer system service, horn service.
HVAC:
Heating and air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling and service, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core), HVAC control system service.
Body Chassis:
Door panel removal, interior trim service, bumper service, exterior panel alignment, body rust repair procedures, chassis lubrication, frame straightening (if applicable).
Maintenance:
Oil change intervals and specifications, filter replacement procedures, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and fill, brake fluid flush, air filter replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures, use of diagnostic scan tools (OBD-I), symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation of various vehicle systems. Includes torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounding points, and component locations.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and major component overhauls. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
NHTSA Driver Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 1993 in available digital records, typical for the era.
NHTSA Passenger Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 1993 in available digital records, typical for the era.
Active Features:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts, collapsible steering column.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation for conventional oil).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km)
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, whichever comes first (with filter replacement).
Engine Oil Type 2.3L:
API SG, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Type 3.1L:
API SG, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Coolant Type:
GM Type II Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent)
Known Issues Quad4:
Head gasket failures (particularly early versions), oil consumption, rough idle.
Known Issues 3.1L V6:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump leaks, some electronic control module (ECM) issues.
Known Issues General:
Window regulator failures, AC system leaks, suspension wear (ball joints, struts).
Brand Heritage:
Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history dating back to 1899, known for producing upscale, comfortable, and reliable vehicles.
Model Evolution Skylark:
The Skylark nameplate has been used by Buick for various models throughout its history, evolving from a convertible to a more mainstream front-wheel-drive platform in the 1980s and 90s. The 1993 model is part of the final generation of the H-body Skylark.
Production Years Eighth Gen:
1986-1993
Manufacturing Location:
General Motors Oshawa Car Assembly, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
