🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Rainier

Model Years:

2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

Body Style:

Mid-size SUV

Generation:

First Generation

Platform:

GMT360 (shared with Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, Oldsmobile Bravada, Saab 9-7X, Isuzu Ascender)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Buick Rainier was positioned as a premium, mid-size SUV within General Motors' lineup, offering a more refined and upscale alternative to its Chevrolet and GMC counterparts. It catered to buyers seeking comfort, capability, and a touch of luxury.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota 4Runner. The Rainier's shared platform with other GM SUVs meant it offered similar mechanical underpinnings but differentiated itself through Buick's specific styling, interior appointments, and ride quality tuning.

Key Features:

Standard V8 engine availability (5.3L Vortec V8), optional air suspension for enhanced ride comfort, available premium interior materials, and a relatively quiet cabin compared to some competitors. It leveraged the robust GMT360 platform known for its durability.

Target Audience:

Owners of 2004-2007 Buick Rainier seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as professional automotive technicians servicing these vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All mechanical, electrical, body, and chassis systems for Buick Rainier 2004-2007 models with 4.2L and 5.3L engines.

Page Count:

5000+

Manual Type:

Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (printable from CD or copyable to hard drive)

Digital Features:

Ability to read and print pages directly from the CD or copy the entire manual to a computer's hard drive for convenient access. Searchable text functionality is implied for PDF format.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Air Suspension, Antilock Brakes (ABS), Automatic Transmission, Body Front End, Body Rear End, Bumpers, Cruise Control, Disc Brakes, Doors, Drive Axles, Engine Control (4.2L and 5.3L), Engine Cooling, Engine Exhaust, Engine Electrical, Engine Mechanical (4.2L/5.3L), Entertainment Systems, Exterior Trim, Front Suspension, Horns, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Hydraulic Brakes, Instrument Panel, Gages and Console, Interior Trim, Keyless Entry, Lighting Systems, Navigation Systems, Park Brake, Power Steering, Propeller Shaft, Rear Drive Axle, Rear Suspension, Restraints (Airbags/Seatbelts), Roof, Seats, Shift Lock Control, Stationary Windows, Steering Wheel and Column, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Trouble Code Diagnostics, Wheel Drive Shafts, Wiper and Washer Systems, Wiring Diagrams.

Procedures Included:

Detailed repair instructions, step-by-step diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, troubleshooting guides, routine maintenance tasks, specifications, and technical data for all covered systems.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive coverage equivalent to factory service manuals used by dealerships and independent workshops. Includes detailed illustrations, photos, and diagrams for complex procedures, advanced diagnostics, and complete rebuilds of major components.

Troubleshooting Coverage:

Extensive troubleshooting guides with flowcharts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and component testing procedures for all major systems.

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, lighting, engine control, ABS, HVAC, and interior electronics.

Body And Chassis Coverage:

Detailed sections on body panels, bumpers, doors, roof, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, and associated hardware. Includes information on chassis components, frame repair, and suspension tuning.

Engine Diagnostics Coverage:

Detailed procedures for diagnosing engine performance issues, emissions control systems, fuel delivery, ignition systems, and engine mechanical faults. Includes specific diagnostic flowcharts for common problems.

Transmission Diagnostics Coverage:

Includes diagnosis of automatic transmission shifting issues, electronic control module (TCM) troubleshooting, hydraulic circuit testing, and clutch pack inspection procedures.

Brake Diagnostics Coverage:

Covers diagnosis of ABS system faults, hydraulic brake system issues, park brake operation, and disc brake component servicing.

HVAC Diagnostics Coverage:

Detailed troubleshooting for air conditioning and heating systems, including refrigerant handling, component testing (compressor, evaporator, heater core), and control system diagnostics.

Electrical Diagnostics Coverage:

In-depth coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including starting and charging systems, lighting, accessories, instrument cluster, and body control modules, supported by comprehensive wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High Resolution Illustrations, Photos, and Diagrams

Binding Type:

Digital (CD-ROM)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Computer Compatibility:

Compatible with all Windows and Mac computers (Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, etc.) and can be viewed on Tablets and Phones.

Bit Architecture:

32-bit and 64-bit compatible

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.2L Vortec Inline-6 (LL8)

4.2L Vortec Ll8 Specs:

Horsepower: 275 hp @ 6000 rpm, Torque: 275 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm, Bore x Stroke: 3.74 in x 3.62 in, Compression Ratio: 10.0:1, Valve Train: DOHC 4 valves per cylinder.

Optional Engine:

5.3L Vortec V8 (LM4/LH6)

5.3L Vortec Lm4 Lh6 Specs:

Horsepower: 300 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: 330 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm, Bore x Stroke: 3.78 in x 3.62 in, Compression Ratio: 9.5:1 (LM4) / 9.1:1 (LH6), Valve Train: OHV 2 valves per cylinder, Displacement on Demand (Active Fuel Management) on some LH6 engines.

Fuel System:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Recommended Oil 4.2L:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified (refer to manual for specific API service categories, e.g., SN, SM).

Recommended Oil 5.3L:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified (refer to manual for specific API service categories, e.g., SN, SM). May require Dexos certified oil for newer specifications.

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12378330 or equivalent. Typically a orange/red Dex-Cool compatible extended life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Engine Displacement:

4.2L (256 cu in) and 5.3L (325 cu in)

Fuel Requirement:

Premium Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher) recommended for optimal performance, though 87 octane may be acceptable for normal operation.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4L60-E)

Optional Transmission:

None offered from factory

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III H or Dexron VI (preferred for newer formulations with improved stability).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.7 quarts (9.2 Liters) for refill, approximately 12.2 quarts (11.5 Liters) for overhaul.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

113 inches (2870 mm)

Length:

192.4 inches (4887 mm)

Width:

74.7 inches (1897 mm)

Height:

72.3 inches (1836 mm) (without roof rails)

Curb Weight 4.2L:

Approx. 4,783 lbs (2170 kg)

Curb Weight 5.3L:

Approx. 4,915 lbs (2230 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 6,000 - 6,100 lbs (2722 - 2767 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,400 lbs (2903 kg) with the 5.3L V8 engine and appropriate towing package.

Cargo Volume Behind First Row:

Approx. 76.4 cubic feet (2163 Liters)

Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:

Approx. 40.2 cubic feet (1138 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:

3 Stars (for 2004 model year)

Active Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), available StabiliTrak (GM's electronic stability control system) on some models.

Passive Features:

Dual front airbags, available front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, front and rear crumple zones, reinforced safety cage construction.

Front Brake Type:

Ventilated Disc

Rear Brake Type:

Disc

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy

Standard Tire Size:

P245/65R17 (verify with specific trim/options)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Available premium audio systems, CD player, optional navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and satellite radio capabilities.

Driver Assistance:

Available StabiliTrak (electronic stability control), rear parking assist (Park Assist). Limited availability of advanced driver-assistance systems compared to modern vehicles.

Connectivity:

Available OnStar communication system for emergency services and vehicle diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes (refer to manual).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Consult manual; generally every 50,000-100,000 miles depending on usage and fluid condition. Early manual recommendations may have been shorter.

Engine Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 5 years or 100,000 miles, then every 2 years or 50,000 miles thereafter with extended-life coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

GM P/N 12345852 or equivalent Dexron III H/VI automatic transmission fluid.

Known Issues:

Common issues may include: front suspension component wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), rear main crankshaft seal leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks (on some V8 models), catalytic converter failure, and HVAC blend door actuator failures. Premature wear on certain electronic components can also occur. The air suspension system can be prone to leaks from air springs or compressor failure over time.

Oil Filter Part Number 4.2L:

ACDelco PF1233 (example, verify with VIN)

Oil Filter Part Number 5.3L:

ACDelco PF44 (example, verify with VIN)

Air Filter Part Number:

ACDelco A3111C (example, verify with VIN)

Battery Type:

Group 78 (or similar with high CCA, refer to manual for exact specification)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Buick, a division of General Motors, has a long history dating back to 1899, known for offering comfortable and premium vehicles with a focus on smooth ride quality and refined interiors. It typically occupied the space between Chevrolet and Cadillac.

Model Evolution:

The Buick Rainier was introduced for the 2004 model year as Buick's entry into the mid-size SUV segment, replacing the Oldsmobile Bravada. It was built on the GMT360 platform, shared with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy. The Rainier was distinguished by its unique Buick styling cues, including the waterfall grille, chrome accents, and often more luxurious interior appointments. Production ceased after the 2007 model year when GM discontinued the body-on-frame SUVs and shifted towards unibody crossovers.

Production Location:

Moraine, Ohio, USA (GM Moraine Assembly Plant)

Discontinuation:

The Buick Rainier was discontinued after the 2007 model year. This coincided with GM's phase-out of body-on-frame SUVs like the GMT360 platform.