🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Reatta

Year:

1988-1991

Generation:

First Generation

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Niche luxury personal coupe aimed at competing with European imports and other domestic luxury offerings.

Target Audience:

Buyers seeking a stylish, American-made personal luxury coupe with a focus on comfort and unique styling.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles like the Ford Thunderbird, Chevrolet Corvette (in terms of sportiness), and higher-trim models from brands like Oldsmobile and Cadillac.

Key Features:

Two-seater convertible and coupe, front-wheel drive, sophisticated styling, extensive standard equipment, focus on comfort and luxury.

Body Styles:

Coupe and Convertible

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Page Count:

Not Specified (Implies Comprehensive Content)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac.

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/Can Communication, and much more.

Electrical Diagrams:

Includes wiring schematics.

Body And Chassis:

Includes repair and maintenance for exterior and interior panels, doors, hood, glass, and mirrors.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step instructions, diagnostics, maintenance, service, repair, troubleshooting, component installation, removal, adjustment.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Included for various systems and components.

Diagnostics:

Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, ABS, and other electronic systems.

Technical Depth:

Factory High Detail, Vehicle Specific (Exact same manual used by dealership technicians), Complete Repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (inherent to PDF format)

Print Quality:

High Resolution, Printable Pages, Enlargable Images

Illustrations:

Detailed diagrams and illustrations for all procedures.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF), No Physical Binding

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

3.4L (204 cu in)

Engine Configuration:

V6 (3.4L Twin-Spark)

Engine Code:

L27 (3.8L - used in early models before 3.4L became prominent, manual should cover both if applicable)

Engine Code Primary:

3.4L Twin-Spark V6 (VIN '3')

Valve Train:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder per bank.

Horsepower:

Approx. 160-170 hp (depending on specific year/tune)

Torque:

Approx. 200-205 lb-ft (depending on specific year/tune)

Fuel System:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Type:

N/A (Automatic was standard)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled automatic transmission for smooth shifting and fuel efficiency.

Transmission Model:

GM THM-3T40

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.7 inches

Width:

Approx. 70.2 inches

Height:

Approx. 51.2 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,500 - 3,700 lbs (depending on body style and options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult manual for specific GVWR.

Seating Capacity:

2

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Generally considered safe for its era; specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings from that period are often unavailable or limited.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard on most models.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger airbags, safety cage construction, front and rear crumple zones.

Seat Belts:

Three-point retractable front seat belts.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column for enhanced safety.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound systems, digital climate control, power driver's seat memory.

Display Type:

Analog gauges with digital climate control display.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, cruise control, power windows, power locks, power mirrors.

Headlights:

Halogen headlights, automatic headlamp control (optional).

Connectivity:

Limited by era; primarily analog systems. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Consult manual for specific intervals, typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months.

Timing Belt Or Chain:

The 3.4L V6 utilizes a timing chain, which generally does not require periodic replacement like a belt.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Consult manual for specific mileage/time intervals; likely around 30,000-60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

Consult manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-30), API service classification SF or higher.

Coolant Type:

GM Type 1 or Type 2 coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, typically green or orange).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.

Known Issues:

Potential issues include sensor failures, electrical gremlins (especially related to convertible tops or power accessories), climate control system issues, and early wear on suspension components. The 3.4L engine could be prone to intake manifold gasket leaks.

Common Repairs:

Climate control blower motor, power antenna, suspension bushings, and ABS sensor replacement are common tasks covered.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

N/A for this era; manual will detail recommended tire pressures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing upscale and comfortable American automobiles, often positioned as a bridge between mainstream Chevrolet and luxury Cadillac.

Model Evolution:

The Reatta was a departure for Buick, designed as a sporty, two-seater personal luxury car. It was built by Indiana-based Cars and Concepts, a specialized automotive subcontractor, to GM's specifications. It shared its platform with the front-wheel-drive GM E platform.

Design Inspiration:

Designed as a sophisticated, modern personal luxury sports coupe, a move away from traditional large sedans for Buick.

Production Years:

1988-1991

Manufacturing Location:

Lansing, Michigan (assembly) and Brighton, Michigan (by Cars and Concepts).

Production Numbers:

Relatively low production numbers contributed to its exclusivity but also made it less common in the aftermarket.