🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Riviera

Year:

1996

Internal Model Code:

G-body (re-engineered platform for Riviera)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 Buick Riviera was positioned as a personal luxury coupe, a segment that was evolving in the mid-1990s. It aimed to offer comfort, style, and a premium experience for its buyers.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other large personal luxury coupes of the era such as the Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, and potentially some more performance-oriented coupes like the Chevrolet Monte Carlo (in its upscale trims).

Key Features:

The '96 Riviera was known for its distinctive styling, including the 'Torque-Tube' driveline, independent rear suspension, and a focus on a comfortable ride. Optional features like MagnaSteer II (variable-assist steering) and the Concert Sound stereo system were highlights.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Interior Components

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for OE service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download (Digital Access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical and electrical diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, automatic transmission (4T80-E), transaxle, front and rear suspension, steering system, anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control system (TCS), power brake system, electrical distribution, lighting, instrumentation, body control modules, climate control (HVAC), power windows, power locks, seats, audio system, body and chassis repair, diagnostic procedures.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, component removal and installation, disassembly and assembly, diagnostic troubleshooting flowcharts, electrical circuit diagrams, torque specifications, specifications for adjustments, repair procedures for all major systems, wiring harness repair, body panel replacement, interior trim removal and installation.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scanned factory data, designed for clear digital viewing and printing of individual pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Access)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.8L (3800) Series II Supercharged V6 (L67)

Engine Displacement:

3.8 Liters (3791 cc)

Horsepower:

240 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) and Supercharger

Engine Codes:

L67

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Aluminum

Bore X Stroke:

3.80 in x 3.39 in (96.5 mm x 86.1 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle

Optional Transmission:

N/A (This was the standard and only offered transmission for the supercharged model)

Transmission Features:

4T80-E, electronically controlled, front-wheel drive transaxle

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 quarts (9.0 Liters) with converter

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

110.5 inches (2807 mm)

Length:

201.0 inches (5105 mm)

Width:

74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

54.1 inches (1374 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3600-3800 lbs (1633-1724 kg), depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 16.5 cubic feet (467 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Not explicitly rated in modern terms for this year, but general safety features were standard.

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Not explicitly rated in modern terms for this year.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Variable-assist steering (MagnaSteer II - optional)

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear crumple zones, side-impact protection beams, three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Concert Sound II or III) with CD player and cassette tape, analog or digital climate control displays.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional MagnaSteer II (variable effort steering), Traction Control System (TCS).

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No factory connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB as found in modern vehicles)

Lighting Features:

Halogen headlamps, fog lamps (optional), interior courtesy lighting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

Platinum-tipped plugs recommended for 100,000 miles. Check manual for specific part numbers and torque.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified (check manual for specific viscosity and API service classification)

Coolant Type:

GM Dex-Cool (Orange) Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or compatible HOAT type). Check manual for exact specification and mixture ratio.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (common on 3800 Series II), power steering pump leaks, early failure of certain electronic control modules, potential for coolant leaks from the supercharger intercooler (if equipped with that specific setup), door lock actuator failures, and minor electrical gremlins typical of cars of this era.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

AC Delco PF1218 or equivalent (check specific application)

Air Filter Part Number Example:

AC Delco A1310C or equivalent (check specific application)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Buick has a long history in the American automotive market, known for producing comfortable, stylish, and well-appointed vehicles, often targeting a more mature demographic. The Riviera nameplate itself has a storied past, representing Buick's flagship personal luxury coupe for decades.

Model Evolution:

The 1996 Riviera was part of the sixth generation (1995-1999). This generation marked a significant departure from previous Riviera designs, adopting a more aerodynamic and modern aesthetic. It was built on the GM E platform (shared with Oldsmobile Aurora and Cadillac DeVille), which was later replaced by the G platform for this specific iteration of the Riviera.

Production Years:

1995-1999 (Sixth Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Lake Orion, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 3800 Series II V6 engine was a Ward's 10 Best Engines winner in the early 2000s, recognized for its smoothness, power, and durability, which reflects well on its inclusion in the '96 Riviera.

Fuel Economy Rating City:

Approx. 18 MPG

Fuel Economy Rating Highway:

Approx. 26 MPG