Positioning:
The 1999 Buick Riviera was positioned as a personal luxury coupe, targeting buyers seeking comfort, style, and a refined driving experience.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, and similarly sized coupes from other luxury or near-luxury brands.
Design Philosophy:
Seventh generation Riviera emphasized aerodynamic styling and a premium interior, continuing Buick's legacy of comfortable grand touring.
Manual Purpose:
This manual provides essential information for owners to safely and effectively operate, maintain, and care for their 1999 Buick Riviera.
Coverage Summary:
Covers operation, maintenance, safety, and basic troubleshooting for the 1999 Buick Riviera.
Specific Topics Listed:
Illustrated table of contents, Safety Seats, Seat Belts and Supplemental Air Bags, Instruments and Controls, Pre-Driving Checks and Adjustments, Heater, Air Conditioner and Audio Systems, Starting and Driving, In Case of Emergency, Service and Appearance and Care, Maintenance and Do-It-Yourself, Technical and Consumer Information, Index.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 250-350 pages (typical for a full owner's manual of this era, PDF format may vary)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, starting procedures, driving techniques, fuel system basics, cooling system, exhaust system (overview).
Chassis:
Braking system (operation, warning lights), steering system (operation, warning lights), suspension (general description), wheels and tires (inflation, care).
Electrical:
Instrument cluster and indicators, lighting controls, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), audio system operation, HVAC controls, battery care basics.
Safety Systems:
Seat belt operation and adjustment, airbag system explanation and precautions, child seat installation guidelines, safety features overview.
Routine Maintenance:
Fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks and adjustment, wiper blade replacement, basic bulb replacement (headlights, taillights), cleaning and appearance care.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, flat tire changing, towing information, warning lights and what they mean, emergency assistance contacts.
Driving Operations:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection (P, R, N, D, OD), parking, driving in various conditions (rain, snow - general advice).
Depth:
Owner-level information, focusing on operation, basic checks, and preventative maintenance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typical of a service manual.
Engine Code:
L36 (3.8L V6 SFI)
Engine Type:
3.8L (3800 Series II) Naturally Aspirated V6
Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended
Coolant Type:
GM Goodwrench 50/50 Coolant (or equivalent Dex-Cool compatible coolant)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
4/5 Stars (Driver), 4/5 Stars (Passenger) - for comparable models of the era
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable (for comparable models of the era)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Supplemental Airbags (SRS)
Seat Belts:
Front: Three-point manual belts with pretensioners; Rear: Three-point belts. Active front seat belts mentioned in some descriptions.
Audio System:
AM/FM Stereo with Cassette and CD Player, often with premium sound system options (e.g., Monsoon).
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (optional) for precise temperature management.
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control system.
Phone Integration:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity; aftermarket solutions would be required.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil recommended).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (for Dex-Cool type coolant)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter, for 3.8L V6
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 10-12 US quarts (for a complete fluid change, depending on torque converter refill).
Common Problems Powertrain:
Upper intake manifold gasket leaks (3800 Series II), occasional transmission shifting issues, fuel pump failures.
Common Problems Chassis Suspension:
Worn front suspension components (struts, bushings), brake wear.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor issues, sensor failures (e.g., MAF, O2).
Buick Legacy:
Buick has a long history of producing comfortable, stylish, and refined vehicles, often associated with American luxury and a smooth ride.
Seventh Generation:
The 1999 Riviera is part of the seventh generation (1995-1999), which featured a distinct coupe design, front-wheel drive, and the popular 3800 Series II V6 engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Lake Orion, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1995-1999 (seventh generation)
3800 Series Ii Engine:
The 3800 Series II V6 engine was a Ward's 10 Best Engines recipient for several years in the 1990s, recognized for its reliability and performance.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by year, but generally considered average to above average for its class in the late 1990s.
