Positioning:
The 1996 Buick Riviera was positioned as a personal luxury coupe, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology for its era, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable grand tourer.
Competitors:
Competed against other large personal luxury coupes and entry-level luxury sedans such as the Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, Chrysler LeBaron coupe, and potentially models from Cadillac and Lincoln.
Distinguishing Features:
Distinctive styling, powerful supercharged V6 engine option, comfortable and spacious interior, advanced features for the time, and a focus on a smooth, quiet ride.
Powertrain:
Engine (3.8L V6 Supercharged), Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Auto Transmission (4T65-E)
Chassis:
Mechanical, Transfer/Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering
Body & Electrical:
Air Condition, Suppl. Restraint System (Airbags), 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
Body And Trim:
Exterior and Interior trim, door panels, headliner, upholstery, body panel repair and alignment, glass and mirror replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for all major systems, including troubleshooting guides for common and intermittent faults, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II as applicable).
Repair Procedures:
Complete removal, installation, and overhaul procedures for all vehicle components, from minor adjustments to major component replacements.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, component inspections, and lubrication points.
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including engine controls, lighting, audio, power accessories, and safety systems.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, including specifications, tolerances, torques, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring schematics, and component identification.
File Format Compatibility:
Windows Vista (32/64-bit), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac compatible.
Printability:
All pages are printable, with the ability to blow up images and print enlarged copies.
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - No physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Engine Code:
L67 (3.8L Supercharged V6)
Horsepower:
240 hp @ 4800 rpm (for L67 Supercharged)
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (for L67 Supercharged)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI) with Eaton M90 supercharger
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (Orange silicate-free) or equivalent antifreeze/water mixture (50/50).
Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges)
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Spark Plug Type:
AC Delco Rapidfire Platinum or equivalent (e.g., NGK Platinum/Iridium). Specific part number: AC Delco 41-850, 41-990 or equivalent.
Bore And Stroke:
3.80 inches x 3.40 inches (96.5 mm x 86.4 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (for L67 Supercharged)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic
Optional Transmission:
None offered for 1996 model year on Riviera with L67 engine.
Transmission Model:
4T65-E
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (Mercon is NOT a suitable substitute).
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) for a fluid and filter change.
Gear Ratios 4T65E:
First: 2.92:1, Second: 1.57:1, Third: 1.00:1, Fourth: 0.75:1, Reverse: 2.36:1 (Final Drive Ratio: 3.06:1)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4-Star
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4-Star
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models.
Airbags:
Standard driver and passenger front airbags.
Seat Belts:
Front seat shoulder belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts.
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems with cassette and CD player, steering wheel controls available on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards; primarily analog systems. No integrated Bluetooth or USB.
Multiplex System:
The manual covers the Multiplex/CAN Communication systems, indicating advanced electrical integration for its time.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil is recommended for optimal protection.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 3-4 years, depending on driving conditions. Inspect fluid condition regularly.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III/Mercon ATF (refer to manual for confirmation).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid
Common Problems:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (common on 3800 V6), fuel pump issues, ABS sensor failures, dashboard delamination, power window regulator failures, occasional transmission solenoid issues.
Supercharger Maintenance:
Supercharger oil may require occasional checks or replacement as specified in the manual; some users opt for performance upgrades.
Oil Filter Part Number:
AC Delco PF2 (or equivalent like Fram PH373 or Bosch 3400)
Air Filter Part Number:
AC Delco A2096C (or equivalent like Fram CA3528)
Cabin Air Filter:
Not typically equipped on this model. If equipped with aftermarket, consult manufacturer.
Heritage:
Buick has a long history of producing large, comfortable, and luxurious American automobiles, often positioned as a bridge between Chevrolet and Cadillac.
Riviera Evolution 1990S:
The 1996 Riviera represents the final iteration of the sixth-generation Riviera (1986-1999), characterized by its aerodynamic styling and the prominent availability of the supercharged 3800 Series II V6 engine, a significant upgrade from previous iterations.
Production Location:
Lake Orion Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1996 Model Year
Performance Awards:
The 3800 Series II Supercharged engine was highly regarded for its blend of power and efficiency, earning praise in automotive reviews of the era.
Consumer Reports Historical:
Consumer Reports reviews of this era often highlighted the Riviera's comfortable ride and powerful engine, but also noted some reliability concerns in specific areas.
