1996 Buick Riviera

Introduction:

The 1996 Buick Riviera is a luxury coupe that was offered with a choice of two engines: a 3.8-liter V6 or a 3.8-liter supercharged V6. The V6 produces 205 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, while the supercharged V6 produces 240 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 1996 Buick Riviera praise its stylish design, comfortable interior, and powerful engines. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior.

Engine

• 3.8L V6

  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold gasket, loss of coolant, overheating engine
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve cover gasket leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket, burning oil smell
    • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

• 3.8L Supercharged V6

  • Supercharger bearing failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining or grinding noise from the supercharger, decreased engine performance
    • Solution: Replace supercharger bearing
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or slipping when shifting gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Faulty headlights * Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working or flickering, melted headlight housing * Solution: Replace headlights or headlight housing * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 * Recalls: NHTSA Campaign 97V106000
• Power window failure * Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working or intermittent operation * Solution: Replace power window motor or switch * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Trunk lid rust * Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the trunk lid, especially on the lower edge * Solution: Repair or replace trunk lid * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 * Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking * Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard * Solution: Replace dashboard * Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 * Recalls: None Found

Summary:

Overall, the 1996 Buick Riviera is a reliable and comfortable luxury coupe with a few potential issues. The most severe and expensive issue is transmission slipping, which can cost up to $2,500 to repair. Other issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure and faulty headlights, are less severe and less expensive to fix. Overall, the 1996 Buick Riviera is a good choice for buyers who are looking for a stylish and comfortable luxury coupe.