🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Buick

Model:

Reatta

Year:

1990

Platform Code:

GM Epsilon II (shared with Cadillac Allante)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Luxury Personal Luxury Coupe, competing with vehicles like the Ford Thunderbird SC, Chrysler LeBaron Coupe, and Chevrolet Camaro Z28 in its segment.

Key Differentiators:

The Reatta offered a unique blend of American luxury and sporty design, with a focus on hand-built quality and a premium interior, distinguishing it from more mass-market coupes.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform their own repairs, saving significant costs. Features step-by-step instructions and illustrations for ease of use.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All 1990 Buick Reatta models, including all engine, transmission, and trim variants.

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era).

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

All Major Systems:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, drivetrain, transmission (automatic), brakes (ABS), steering, suspension, chassis, body electrical, HVAC, interior trim, body repair, and diagnostics.

Body And Interior:

Detailed procedures for body panel alignment, interior trim removal and installation, convertible top service (if applicable), and accessory components.

Chassis And Suspension:

Detailed coverage of front strut suspension, rear independent suspension, steering system (power-assisted rack and pinion), and wheel bearing replacement.

Repair And Maintenance:

Step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic flowcharts, troubleshooting guides, preventive maintenance schedules, component removal and installation, adjustments, specifications, torque values, and wiring diagrams.

Diagnostics:

Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including engine, transmission, ABS, and body electrical, with specific fault codes and troubleshooting charts.

Level Of Detail:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and skilled DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Compatible with all PC and MAC computers, tablets, and smartphones. Requires Adobe Reader (free download).

Usability:

High-quality digital manual, allowing printing of individual pages or entire chapters. Editable and searchable text for efficient information retrieval.

Searchability:

Searchable PDF format allows for quick access to specific repair information.

Digital Format Benefit:

N/A (Digital download, no physical binding)

Digital Format Benefit:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

3.8L (3800 cc) Naturally Aspirated V6

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque:

210 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)

Engine Code:

L27

Bore X Stroke:

3.79 in x 3.40 in (96.2 mm x 86.4 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Valve Train:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 Valves per Cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Overdrive

Transmission Type Availability:

N/A (Only automatic transmission offered)

Transmission Model:

GM 4T60-E

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

100.5 inches (2553 mm)

Length:

186.2 inches (4730 mm)

Width:

68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Height:

51.2 inches (1300 mm)

Front Track:

58.7 inches (1491 mm)

Rear Track:

58.3 inches (1481 mm)

Curb Weight:

3,245 lbs (1472 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4,100 lbs (1860 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 out of 5 stars (typical for coupes of this era)

Anti Lock Brakes:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium Delco/Bose sound system with AM/FM stereo, cassette, and optional CD player.

Climate Control:

Automatic Climate Control (optional) with digital display.

Cruise Control:

Standard Electronic Cruise Control.

Keyless Entry:

Optional Keyless Entry System.

Information Display:

Digital instrument cluster and message center (optional) providing vehicle status and diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Approximately every 30,000-50,000 miles (refer to manual for specific conditions).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or equivalent)

Coolant Type:

GM Type 1 (Ethylene Glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings, brake components, fuel pump, electronic control modules (ECMs), and convertible top mechanisms (if applicable).

Electrical Component Reliability:

Can be prone to minor electrical gremlins due to complex systems of the era. The manual provides extensive diagnostic trees for these issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Buick Legacy:

Buick has a long history of producing comfortable and stylish personal luxury vehicles.

First Generation:

The Reatta was a distinct model, not directly evolved from previous Buick lines, designed as a dedicated two-seater sports coupe.

Manufacturing Location:

Lansing, Michigan, USA (Hand-built)

Production Years:

1988-1991

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance And Design:

While specific awards for the 1990 model are less publicized than its initial launch, the Reatta was recognized for its unique styling and upscale interior, aiming for a European sports coupe feel.