🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Reatta

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

P-Body

Vin Code:

7

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Personal Luxury Sports Coupe

Target Audience:

Discerning buyers seeking a stylish, performance-oriented coupe with a focus on comfort and technology.

Key Competitors:

Ford Thunderbird, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Chrysler LeBaron coupe.

Design Philosophy:

Sleek, aerodynamic styling with a focus on advanced technology and driver comfort, distinguishing it from more traditional GM offerings.

Unique Selling Points:

Front-wheel-drive platform, sophisticated independent suspension, optional technology-focused features, and distinctive styling.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (as typical for factory service manuals covering all systems A-Z)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Engine control system, fuel service specifications, emission control, intake/exhaust/cooling, lube, ignition, starting, charging

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer/propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axle, suspension

Brakes Steering:

Brake control, brake system, parking brake, steering column, power steering

Electrical Electronics:

Electrical system, multiplex/CAN communication, cruise control, engine immobilizer, meter/audio/visual, horn, door locks, instrument panel

Comfort Convenience:

Air conditioning, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, wiper & washer, windshield/glass/mirror, exterior & interior trim, seats, engine hood/door

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, general upkeep

Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting charts, symptom analysis

Repair Rebuild:

Complete step-by-step repair and overhaul instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, performance data

Depth:

Factory-level detail, including wiring schematics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and component-level repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online)

Printability:

All pages are printable; ability to blow-up images and print enlarged copies.

Binding:

Digital (PDF)

Digital Paper:

N/A (Digital file)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

3.8L (3800cc) Naturally Aspirated V6

Engine Code:

L27 (early designation likely, specific code for '89 may vary, refer to manual for exact code)

Bore X Stroke:

3.80 in x 3.40 in (96.5 mm x 86.4 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque:

210 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI) / Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, premium may offer slight benefits)

Cooling Capacity:

Approx. 11.0 US quarts (10.4 liters)

Oil Capacity:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (4T60)

Transmission Type:

None for 1989 model year.

Transmission Control:

Electronic control with powertrain control module (PCM).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron II Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 US quarts (7.1 liters) for overhaul.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

193.9 inches (4925 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

53.3 inches (1354 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.0 inches (2642 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,400 - 3,500 lbs (1542 - 1588 kg) depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult vehicle placard or manual.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 13.5 cubic feet (382 liters).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1989:

Specific NHTSA ratings for the 1989 Reatta are not readily available in a consolidated format. The manual will detail specific safety system designs and testing procedures.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option.

Traction Control:

Traction control was not a common feature for this model year and vehicle segment.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts; driver and passenger lap/shoulder belts.

Structure:

Designed with a focus on occupant protection through body structure engineering.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Delco ETR AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound system and seek/scan tuning.

Climate Control:

Optional automatic climate control with digital display.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system, electronically controlled.

Multiplex System:

Features a multiplex communication system for certain functions, contributing to simplified wiring harnesses. The manual details its operation and troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for precise mileage based on driving conditions).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or as recommended by the manual based on service history and driving.

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs, or as specified in the manual.

Coolant Type:

GM Type 1 or Type 2 Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

Electrical System Reliability:

Known for potential electrical gremlins and sensor issues, common for vehicles of this era with complex electronics. The manual is crucial for diagnosing these.

Suspension Components:

Wear on control arm bushings and ball joints, especially with higher mileage. Struts and shocks may also require replacement.

Automatic Transmission:

The 4T60 transmission can be robust, but overdue fluid changes or abuse can lead to premature wear in torque converter clutch or solenoid issues. The manual provides diagnostic flowcharts.

Engine Performance Issues:

While the 3800 V6 is generally reliable, issues like clogged fuel injectors, vacuum leaks, or ignition system component failures can affect performance. The manual details troubleshooting for these.

Oil Filter Example:

AC-Delco PF2 OR Fram PH8A equivalent (verify with manual or parts supplier based on specific engine variant).

Air Filter Example:

AC-Delco A303C OR Fram CA3049 equivalent (verify with manual or parts supplier).

📚 Vehicle History

Buick Legacy:

Buick has a long-standing reputation for building comfortable, well-appointed, and reliable vehicles, often targeting an upscale market.

Reatta Conception:

Developed from the earlier Buick Wildcat concept. Positioned as a halo car for Buick, emphasizing style and a personal luxury driving experience.

Production Years:

1988-1991

Manufacturing Plant:

Lansing Craft Centre, Lansing, Michigan, USA.

Production Volume 1989:

Approximately 2,600 units produced for the 1989 model year, making it a relatively low-volume, collectible vehicle.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Buick Reatta was not typically featured on Car and Driver's 10Best list, which often focused on more performance-oriented imports and domestic sports cars. Its appeal was more in personal luxury and styling.

Automotive Journalism Reviews:

Received mixed reviews, praised for its styling, interior comfort, and smooth V6 engine, but criticized for its performance relative to its sporty aspirations and price point.