Vehicle Segment:
Personal Luxury Coupe
Brand Perception:
Buick positioned as a premium, comfortable, and stylish American automobile
Key Competitors 1997:
Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, Chevrolet Monte Carlo (though Riviera often aimed slightly higher)
Manual Advantage:
Vehicle-specific, factory-level documentation for accurate and efficient repairs, replacing generic information
Convenience Features:
Searchable PDF, printable pages, zoomable diagrams, digital storage eliminates physical wear and tear
Engine Systems:
Engine, Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging
Drivetrain Systems:
Auto Transmission Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel
Chassis Systems:
Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering
Electrical And Electronics:
Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control
Comfort And Convenience:
Air Condition, Suppl. Restraint System (Airbags), Seat Belt, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based diagnosis
Repair Procedures:
Complete step-by-step instructions for all major repairs, component disassembly and reassembly
Component Replacement:
Replacement of engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension components, interior/exterior parts, electrical modules
Technical Depth:
Factory level detail, including wiring schematics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), torque specifications, and component tolerances
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating Driver:
4/5 Stars (for 1997 models with dual airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating Passenger:
4/5 Stars (for 1997 models with dual airbags)
Anti Lock Brakes ABS:
Standard
Traction Control:
Available (often tied to higher trims or optional packages)
Airbags:
Standard Dual Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point, Rear 3-point
Child Seat Anchors:
Rear Seat LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) - introduced in later models, likely present in 1997.
Audio System:
Optional Bose premium sound system, AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player.
Climate Control:
Optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with digital display.
Multiplex Communication:
GM's Multiplex System for controlling various functions, a precursor to CAN bus in some applications.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine oil type and conditions)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
GM Type II extended life coolant (typically orange or pink)
Common Issues Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (on earlier 3800 engines, less common on Series II but still possible), occasional accessory drive belt noise.
Common Issues Transmission:
Transmission fluid leaks, electronic control issues (less common with the 4T60-E compared to earlier versions).
Common Issues Electrical:
Power window motors, central locking actuators, and dimmer switch issues can occur with age.
Buick Heritage:
Buick has a long history in the automotive industry, known for comfort, quietness, and luxury features.
Riviera Heritage:
The Riviera has a storied past as Buick's flagship personal luxury coupe, known for its distinctive styling and technological advancements across its generations.
Production Years G Body:
1986-1999
Manufacturing Location:
Hamtramck, Michigan, USA
