Positioning:
Premium personal luxury coupe targeting affluent buyers seeking comfort, style, and performance.
Competitors:
Ford Thunderbird, Chrysler LHS, Mercury Cougar.
Unique Selling Points:
Supercharged engine option, sophisticated styling, front-wheel-drive platform, emphasis on quiet and comfortable ride.
Digital Benefit:
More convenient, accessible, and potentially less expensive than older printed manuals, offering instant access and searchability.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component testing, and specifications for the 3.8L V6 Supercharged engine.
Drivetrain:
Service and repair of the transmission (4T80-E), differential, axles, and drive shafts.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system inspection, repair, component replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Diagnosis and repair of front and rear suspension components, including struts, springs, control arms, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, including pump, lines, rack and pinion, and alignment procedures.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems, including lighting, instruments, and power accessories.
HVAC:
Diagnosis and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.
Body:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, door mechanisms, and exterior trim.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic strategies, including on-board diagnostics (OBD-II) interpretation, sensor testing, and circuit analysis.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data.
Depth:
Professional-level repair and diagnostic information suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory materials, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital Download)
Paper:
Not applicable (Digital Download)
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with PC, laptop, smartphone, and tablet via web browser.
Subscription Period:
1 Year of access, with discounts for renewal.
Engine Type:
3.8L (3800 Series II) V6 Supercharged
Horsepower:
240 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Induction Type:
Sequential Fuel Injection with Eaton M62 Supercharger
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Engine Control Module (ECM) with OBD-II diagnostics
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic overdrive
Transmission Model:
4T80-E
Features:
Electronically controlled, front-wheel drive transaxle with torque converter clutch.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 10.0 quarts (9.5 liters) for a fluid change and filter replacement.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger
NHTSA Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 1999 models in all configurations.
Traction Control:
Available
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts
Audio System:
Optional premium audio systems with cassette and CD players, amplifier, and steering wheel controls.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Onboard Diagnostics:
OBD-II compliant system for emissions and engine diagnostics.
Climate Control:
Available automatic climate control with digital display.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles under normal conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace every 100,000 miles (platinum-tipped plugs).
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher, Dexos approved for newer vehicles but not applicable here).
Coolant Type:
GM Dex-Cool (Orange) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid
Supercharger Coupler:
The rubber coupler on the supercharger drive can degrade over time, leading to noise and potential performance issues. Replacement is often required.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Early versions of the 3800 engine (though less common on Series II L67 by 1999) could experience intake manifold gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Automatic Transmission:
While generally robust, the 4T80-E can develop issues related to solenoid packs or valve body wear. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Window Regulators:
Some owners report issues with power window regulators failing.
Heritage Focus:
Buick's heritage is rooted in providing comfortable, refined, and well-appointed vehicles with a focus on a smooth and quiet ride.
Riviera Heritage:
The Riviera has a long history dating back to the 1960s, known for its distinctive styling and personal luxury image. The eighth generation (1995-1999) marked a shift to a more aerodynamic, contemporary design, moving away from some of the more flamboyant styling cues of earlier models.
Production Years:
1995-1999 (Eighth Generation)
Manufacturing Plant:
Newark, Delaware, USA
