🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Park Avenue

Year:

1991

Market Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium full-size sedan positioned as a comfortable and luxurious American offering from Buick.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other American luxury sedans such as Lincoln Continental and Cadillac DeVille, as well as some import luxury sedans of the era.

Key Features:

Spacious interior, quiet ride, emphasis on comfort and smooth operation, V6 and V8 engine options.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types

Manual Scope:

This is a comprehensive repair and service manual, not an owner's manual or parts catalog.

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

Delivery:

Instant Email Delivery

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension System, Steering System, Brake System, ABS System, Body Electrical System, HVAC System, Interior Systems, Exterior Systems, Emission Control System

Specific Electrical Systems Covered:

Instrument Cluster, Lighting (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Power Mirror System, Power Seat Motors and Switches, Radio/Audio System, Climate Control Module.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal/installation, rust repair guidance, structural components, door/window/trunk seals.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures, Component Replacement, Assembly and Disassembly, Wiring Diagrams, Torque Specifications, Fluid Specifications, Lubrication, Adjustments, Special Tools

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Includes diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using OBD-I diagnostic codes and potential use of specialized GM scan tools of the era.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive A-Z Repair and Service Procedures with Step-by-Step Instructions and Pictures

Component Level Detail:

Detailed procedures for the removal, installation, and overhaul of major and minor components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Adobe PDF

Compatibility:

All PC & MAC Computers, Tablets, Mobile Phones

Printability:

Printable by Page, Chapter, or Entire Manual

Searchability:

Likely Searchable Text within PDF (depending on OCR quality of original source)

Required Software:

Adobe Reader (Free Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3800 Series I V6

Engine Code Primary:

3.8L (3800 cc) VIN '1' or '2' (Naturally Aspirated)

Horsepower Primary:

165-170 hp @ 4400-4800 rpm (depending on specific tune)

Torque Primary:

210-225 lb-ft @ 2400-3200 rpm (depending on specific tune)

Optional Engine:

3.8L Series I Supercharged V6 (Park Avenue Ultra)

Engine Code Optional:

3.8L (3800 cc) VIN '2' (Supercharged)

Horsepower Optional:

205 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque Optional:

275 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Emission Controls:

Catalytic Converter, EGR System, PCV System, Oxygen Sensors

Ignition System Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or traditional distributor depending on specific engine variant and build date.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Code Standard:

4T60-E

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, overdrive gears.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Transmission Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios are detailed within the manual for both 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th gears, and Reverse.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 206.7 inches

Width:

Approx. 74.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 55.0 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 110.8 inches

Front Track:

Approx. 61.1 inches

Rear Track:

Approx. 59.8 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3600-3900 lbs (depending on equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, consult specific vehicle VIN for exact rating.

🛡️ Safety Features

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Seat Belts with Pretensioners, Crumple Zones, Side-Impact Door Beams.

Seat Type:

Front bucket seats or 50/50 split front bench seat, rear bench seat. Often equipped with lumbar support and adjustable headrests.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on most models, Traction Control System (TCS) - Available on some models, especially with supercharged engine.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, Optional Compact Disc (CD) Player, Seek/Scan Tuning, Auto-Reverse Cassette, Premium Speaker Systems available.

Climate Control:

Automatic Climate Control (ACC) available, providing temperature and mode control, Recirculation Mode, and Air Conditioning.

Driver Convenience Features:

Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Power Seats, Cruise Control, Tilt Steering Wheel, Remote Keyless Entry (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for precise recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles (check manual for specifics).

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles for traditional green coolant; longer intervals for extended life coolants (if compatible).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (green type commonly specified for this era).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

GM Type A Suffix A or Dexron-III ATF.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 Disc Brake Fluid

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 12.0-14.0 quarts (Varies by engine and radiator size).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter) for 3800 V6.

Known Issues Engine:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (3800 V6), lifter noise, occasional head gasket issues on early 3800s (less common on 1991 models).

Known Issues Transmission:

Failure of the torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid or the transmission control module (TCM) on the 4T60-E can cause slipping or inability to shift.

Known Issues Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts due to age and mileage.

Known Issues Electrical:

Issues with power windows, door locks, climate control panel failure, and sensor failures (e.g., MAP sensor, TPS sensor).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Buick has a long-standing history in the American automotive market, known for producing comfortable, quiet, and well-equipped vehicles, often targeting a more mature demographic.

Model Evolution:

The Park Avenue nameplate has been used by Buick since the 1970s, evolving through various generations. The 1991 model represents the second generation of the modern Park Avenue, sharing its platform with the Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight and Pontiac Bonneville.

Production Platform:

GM H-Body Platform (also known as the GM L-Body or Lumina Platform)

Production Location:

General Motors Assembly Plants in North America (e.g., Lansing, Michigan)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1991 model year are not widely documented, the 3800 V6 engine itself was a recipient of Ward's 10 Best Engines list in later years, highlighting its durability and refinement.