Market Position:
Full-size luxury sedan, positioned as a comfortable and refined front-wheel-drive alternative to traditional rear-wheel-drive models.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other large American sedans like the Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Lincoln Town Car, and Chrysler LHS, as well as import luxury sedans.
Key Features:
Spacious interior, quiet ride, V6 engine, optional supercharged V6 (later years), distinct styling for its era.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Climate Control (HVAC), Electrical System, Body and Chassis, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Cooling System
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component replacement, assembly/disassembly, wiring diagrams, specifications
Technical Depth:
Factory-level repair and maintenance information suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting trees for various systems.
Body And Interior Coverage:
Door mechanisms, locks, handles, glass, trim, seats, interior panels, carpeting, headliner, body panel alignment, rust repair basics.
Electrical System Coverage:
Complete wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuse box locations and functions, lighting systems, power accessories, starter, alternator, battery, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.
Climate Control Coverage:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (R134a), compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, actuators, control panel, heater core, AC system charging.
Wheels And Tires Coverage:
Tire pressure specifications, wheel alignment procedures, wheel bearing replacement, tire wear analysis.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,700 - 3,900 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4,900 - 5,100 lbs
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 115mm
Standard Wheel Size:
15 inches
Standard Tire Size:
P215/70R15
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (1996 model year data for similar vehicles)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (1996 model year data for similar vehicles)
Passive Features:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact protection (in doors), rear seat shoulder belts.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard, Traction Control System (TCS) optional or standard on certain trims.
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, power antenna, steering wheel mounted audio controls (on some trims).
Display Type:
Analog gauges, climate control displays, radio display.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional Traction Control System (TCS).
Connectivity Options:
None (analog systems, no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (orange) extended life antifreeze/coolant or equivalent (GM specification 1825M).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Common Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (3800 V6), power steering pump leaks, suspension component wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), HVAC blend door actuator failure, window regulator issues, occasional electrical gremlins.
Engine Oil Capacity With Filter:
4.5 quarts (4.3 Liters)
Cooling System Capacity:
Approximately 14.0 quarts (13.2 Liters)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 quarts (3.8 Liters) for dry fill, 10.5 quarts (9.9 Liters) for total capacity.
Oil Filter Part Number:
AC Delco PF2 (example, verify specific part number)
Air Filter Part Number:
AC Delco A1359C (example, verify specific part number)
Scheduled Maintenance:
Covers all factory-recommended maintenance schedules for mileage and time-based services, including tune-ups, fluid changes, and component inspections.
Brand Heritage:
Buick has a long-standing reputation for comfortable, quiet, and well-appointed vehicles, often targeting a more mature demographic.
Model Evolution:
The 1996 Park Avenue is part of the second generation (1991-1996), which transitioned the model to a front-wheel-drive platform and introduced more modern styling and technology.
Production Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1991-1996 (Second Generation)
