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Introduction
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Market Position
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Market Position:
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The 1995 Buick Riviera represented a segment of the personal luxury coupe market, offering a blend of comfort, style, and V6 power. This manual is essential for owners and independent repair shops looking to maintain and repair this specific generation of a classic American luxury car.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitive Analysis:
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Competed with vehicles like the Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, and to some extent, the Cadillac Eldorado. Its front-wheel-drive platform and V6 powertrain were common themes in this class.
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Key Features
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Key Features:
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Distinctive styling, comfortable interior, and a focus on smooth ride quality. This manual provides the technical foundation to preserve these characteristics.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems
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Systems Covered:
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Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, starting system, charging system, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drive axles, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, hydraulic, parking), wheels and tires, body (structural, exterior, interior), heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical system (wiring diagrams, components), diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
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Procedures
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Procedures Included:
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Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, component removal and installation, major repairs, minor adjustments, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, torque specifications, electrical system testing, and overhaul procedures.
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Depth
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Technical Depth:
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Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult the manual for precise recommendations.
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Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
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Every 30,000-60,000 miles for typical service. Severe service may require more frequent changes. Consult manual for specifics.
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Coolant Change Interval:
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Initial change at 5 years or 100,000 miles (using Dex-Cool or equivalent extended-life coolant), then every 5 years or 50,000 miles thereafter, or as specified.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Specification:
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SAE 5W-30, API Service SG, SH, or SJ rated.
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Coolant Specification:
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GM Specification 1825M, Ethylene Glycol based. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Color may vary (green or orange/red for extended life).
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Brake Fluid Specification:
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DOT 3
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Known Issues
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Common Issues:
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Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on earlier Series I 3800, but Series II also susceptible), power steering leaks, occasional electronic control module (ECM) issues, window regulator failures, exhaust manifold cracks, ABS sensor failures, and typical wear items like suspension components and bearings. The manual will provide diagnostic and repair procedures for these.
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Filters
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Oil Filter Part Number Example:
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AC-Delco PF1218 or equivalent (verify with manual).
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Air Filter Part Number Example:
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AC-Delco A210C or equivalent (verify with manual).
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Tune Up Components
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Spark Plug Recommendation:
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Platinum-tipped spark plugs, typically AC-Delco. Gap specification is crucial and found in the manual. For the 3800 Series II, typically platinum or iridium plugs with a specific gap (e.g., 0.060 inches, but always verify).
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Brand Heritage:
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Buick has a long history of producing comfortable and stylish American automobiles, often positioned as a premium marque within General Motors, known for its smooth ride and quiet cabins.
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Model Evolution
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Model Evolution:
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The Riviera has been a flagship model for Buick since its introduction in the 1960s, evolving through various design philosophies. The 1995 model belongs to the seventh generation (1995-1999), which saw a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic profile and a focus on performance and comfort, adopting the GM W-body platform shared with other GM sedans.
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Production
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Production Years:
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1963-1999 (with gaps). The 1995 model is part of the 1995-1999 generation.
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Manufacturing Location
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Manufacturing Location:
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Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.
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