Market Position:
Flagship luxury sedan from Buick for the late 1990s, competing with other large American and European luxury cars.
Competitive Analysis:
Positioned as a comfortable, quiet, and spacious boulevard cruiser, offering a plush ride and premium features for its era, often compared to models like the Lincoln Continental, Cadillac DeVille, and Chrysler LHS.
Key Features:
Emphasis on ride comfort, quiet interior, and a smooth powertrain. Known for its distinctive styling and upscale interior appointments.
User Experience:
Designed for ease of use with step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and illustrations, allowing users to print only necessary pages.
Coverage Areas:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Model Coverage:
Covers all variants of the 1998 Buick Park Avenue, including potential trim differences that affect service procedures.
Page Count:
Not specified, but implied to be comprehensive for all repairs.
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Type Clarification:
Factory-level, not generic.
Compatibility:
Windows Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac. Requires Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust/Cooling, Lube, Ignition/Starting/Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission (if applicable), Transfer Propeller Shaft (if applicable), Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle/Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brakes, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), 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.
Wiring Schematics:
Included, crucial for electrical system diagnostics and repair.
Body And Trim:
Covers exterior body panels, interior trim, and associated hardware for removal and installation.
Exhaust System:
Information on exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and pipes.
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step instructions for maintenance, servicing, diagnosis, and repair. Includes troubleshooting guides, repair procedures, component replacement, and adjustments.
Diagnostics Procedures:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including powertrain, chassis, and electrical components, often referencing OBD-II codes.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for critical fasteners across all systems.
Technical Depth:
Factory-level detail, comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complex diagnostic and repair procedures.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Extensive use of diagrams and illustrations to visually guide repair and maintenance tasks.
Searchability:
PDF format allows for text searching of technical information.
Speed Download:
Indicates a digitally delivered product with fast download capability.
Print Quality:
Printable, with option to blow up images and print enlarged copies.
Binding Type:
Digital (No physical binding)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital, printable pages can be printed on any paper type).
Primary Engine:
3.8L (3800 Series II) V6 Supercharged (L67) and Naturally Aspirated (L36)
Engine Family:
GM 3800 Series II V6
Performance L36:
205 horsepower @ 5200 rpm, 230 lb-ft torque @ 3200 rpm
Performance L67:
240 horsepower @ 5200 rpm, 280 lb-ft torque @ 3600 rpm
Fuel System:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Engine Control Module Type:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module) with OBD-II diagnostics.
Curb Weight L36:
Approximately 3,600 - 3,750 lbs
Curb Weight L67:
Approximately 3,750 - 3,900 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate for exact GVWR.
Seating Capacity:
5 passengers
NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for 1998 in current available archives.
NHTSA Passenger Frontal Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for 1998 in current available archives.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) (often standard on supercharged models or optional).
Cruise Control:
Standard on many trims, electronically controlled.
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact door beams, energy-absorbing steering column.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Infotainment Features:
Available premium audio systems, CD player, cassette player, analog or digital climate control displays.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional Driver Information Center (DIC) with trip computer and vehicle status messages, steering wheel mounted controls.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio systems and internal vehicle diagnostics. No external connectivity like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or as indicated by oil life monitor (if equipped). Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs: 100,000 miles (platinum tipped).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 3.8L V6: 5W-30 (API SG or higher)
Coolant Specification:
Dex-Cool (orange) extended-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Dexron III (ATF)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Common Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (due to plastic design), power steering pump leaks, coolant leaks, window regulator failures, alternator failures, head gasket issues (less common with Series II 3800).
Suspension Issues:
Worn strut mounts, ball joints, and bushings can contribute to ride quality degradation.
Brand Heritage:
Buick has a long history of producing comfortable, upscale, and reliable vehicles, often associated with a mature demographic and smooth driving experience.
Buick Philosophy:
Buick's 'The New Symbol for Progress' campaign influenced the design and features of models like the Park Avenue in this era.
Model Evolution:
The Park Avenue nameplate has been used by Buick for decades, with this 1998 model representing the third generation, a significant redesign from its predecessors, focusing on modern styling and enhanced technology.
Styling Focus:
The 1998 model emphasized aerodynamic lines and a more refined appearance compared to earlier generations.
Production Years Third Gen:
1997-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Lake Orion, Michigan, USA (GM Assembly Plant)
