🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Buick Model: Riviera Year: 1996 Generation Generation Identifier: Eighth Generation (1995-1999) Codes Oem Manual Part Number Approximation: Likely in the 102xxxx or 12xxxx series for 1996 GM products 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Full-size personal luxury coupe. Brand Perception: Buick positioned as a premium, comfortable, and technologically advanced brand within General Motors. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Thunderbird, Chrysler LeBaron Coupe (though Riviera generally more upscale), potentially some European coupes. Key Features Vehicle Highlights: Stylish coupe design, comfortable ride, advanced features for its time, V6 and supercharged V6 options, focus on driver and passenger comfort. Manual Value Proposition Benefit To Owner: Empowers owners to understand their vehicle's functions, perform basic maintenance, and identify potential issues, thereby optimizing ownership experience and vehicle longevity. Cost Effectiveness: Provides essential information at a lower cost than a replacement physical manual, saving owners money. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 1996 Buick Riviera Owner's Manual Secondary Coverage: Vehicle operation, safety features, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical information specific to the 1996 Riviera model. Page Count Estimated Page Count: ~150-200 pages (typical for owner's manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine And Powertrain: Operation, fluid levels, basic maintenance checks. Instrumentation And Controls: Dashboard indicators, warning lights, switch functions, climate control, audio system. Safety Features: Seat belts, airbags (SRS), child seat installation, safety recommendations. Chassis And Suspension: Tire care, wheel alignment checks (basic), brake system overview. Electrical System: Lighting, fuses (identification and replacement), battery maintenance. Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning: Operation of HVAC controls, filter replacement (basic). Body And Trim: Door operation, power windows, locks, mirrors, convertible top operation (if applicable, though not standard on all Rivieras). Procedures Included Pre Driving Checks: Visual inspection, fluid checks, tire pressure. Starting And Driving: Proper engine start, gear selection, driving tips, parking. Emergency Procedures: Breakdown assistance, jump starting, tire changing, caution lights. Appearance And Care: Cleaning, waxing, interior care, protecting finishes. Maintenance Scheduling: Recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, etc. Do It Yourself Tasks: Basic fluid top-offs, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement, fuse checks. Technical Depth Depth: Owner-level understanding and basic maintenance. Focuses on user operation and awareness, not in-depth mechanical or electrical repair. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: Portable Document Format (PDF) Searchability: Likely searchable text if OCR processed correctly. Print Quality Resolution: Depends on original scan/creation, typically good for digital viewing and printing. Binding Type Original Binding: Stapled or perfect bound (physical manual) Paper Type Original Paper: Standard automotive manual paper stock. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: L36 (3.8L V6 naturally aspirated) Engine Type: 3.8L (3800 Series I) V6, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 3.8 Liters (3800 cc) Bore X Stroke: 3.80 in x 3.40 in (96.5 mm x 86.4 mm) Compression Ratio: 8.5:1 Horsepower: 205 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque: 230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Secondary Engine Engine Type: L67 (3.8L V6 Supercharged) - Optional Horsepower: 240 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI) Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane for Supercharged Recommended) Engine Management Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (for some later L36/L67 variations, though '96 typically used waste spark DIS). 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle Transmission Code: 4T60-E (Hydra-Matic) Optional Availability: Not applicable, only automatic offered. Features Gear Ratios: Specific ratios vary, but designed for smooth acceleration and highway cruising. Fluid Type: Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: ~200.7 inches Width: ~74.4 inches Height: ~53.7 inches Wheelbase: ~110.8 inches Interior Seating Capacity: 5 Passengers Weights Curb Weight: ~3500-3800 lbs (depending on engine and options) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash: 4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger) - Based on available data for similar GM vehicles of the era, though specific Riviera '96 ratings may vary. Active Features Braking System: Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Discs, often with ABS. Traction Control: Optional (often linked with ABS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags. Seat Belts: 3-point active-locking retractors for front seats, lap belts for rear center seat, 3-point belts for rear outboard seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, optional CD Player. May feature premium sound systems (e.g., Bose) on higher trims. Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control (ACC) was a significant feature for this era, maintaining set temperatures. Driver Assistance Antilock Brakes: Standard on most models, providing enhanced control during emergency braking. Keyless Entry: Optional remote keyless entry system. Connectivity Original Connectivity: Limited to wired features; no integrated Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations. Tire Rotation: Every 5,000-7,500...