1997 Buick Riviera

Introduction

The 1997 Buick Riviera is a luxury coupe powered by a single engine option. It came standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Riviera was praised for its stylish design and comfortable interior, but it was criticized for its lack of power and fuel efficiency.

Engine

• 3.8L V6

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold, rough idle, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from water pump, overheating engine
    • Solution: Replace water pump
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic

  • Shift Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or refusing to shift gears
    • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises when turning or braking, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive body roll, bouncing or wallowing motion, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, flickering electronics, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Identify and fix electrical fault or replace battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on or off, intermittent headlight operation
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking, power locks not working
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not rolling up or down, intermittent window operation
  • Solution: Replace window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per switch
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heater not working, temperature not regulating
  • Solution: Replace climate control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Buick Riviera is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues that owners should be aware of. The most serious issues are related to the intake manifold gasket failure and transmission shift solenoid failure, which can both lead to costly repairs. Other issues, such as suspension component failures and electrical gremlins, are more minor but can still be annoying and expensive to fix. Overall, the Riviera is a solid choice for those looking for a stylish and comfortable luxury coupe, but they should be prepared to deal with some potential repairs.