🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Buick Model: Park Avenue Year: 1996 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size luxury sedan Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Lincoln Continental, Cadillac DeVille, Chrysler New Yorker, Mercury Grand Marquis. Key Features Platform: GM H-body platform, shared with Chevrolet Impala/Caprice, Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight, Pontiac Bonneville. Luxury Appointments: Focus on comfortable ride, quiet interior, premium materials, advanced features for its time. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Complete Workshop Service Repair Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by specific edition, but typically over 1000 pages for a complete workshop manual of this era. Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust systems. Engine Control: Engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensor data, emission control systems. Transmission: Automatic transmission (e.g., 4T60-E) overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, shift control. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) transaxle, drive shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings. Suspension: Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, tie rods, steering assist. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc), ABS diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic components. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting system, accessory circuits. Body And Chassis: Frame construction, body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, corrosion protection. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement. Interior: Seat systems, dashboard assembly, instrument cluster, airbags, interior trim components. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, tire rotation, spark plug replacement. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation. Repair And Overhaul: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, and reassembly. Electrical Diagnostics: Wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, testing procedures for electrical components and circuits. Specifications And Tolerances: Torque specifications, clearances, wear limits, alignment angles, diagnostic values. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Printability: High-quality, designed for printing individual pages or entire sections. Binding Type Binding Suitability: Downloadable format allows for custom binding or digital access on various devices. Paper Type Digital Medium: Digital delivery via email; no physical paper type. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: L27 (3.8L Supercharged V6) and L36 (3.8L Naturally Aspirated V6) were common. However, the manual likely covers specific engines offered in 1996. Engine Description 1996: 3.8L (231 cu in) Series I L36 V6 (Naturally Aspirated) and potentially the supercharged L27 variant for specific trims. Performance Horsepower L36: Approximately 205 hp @ 4400 rpm Torque L36: Approximately 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Horsepower L27 Supercharged: Approximately 225 hp @ 4400 rpm (if equipped) Torque L27 Supercharged: Approximately 275 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (if equipped) Fuel System Fuel Injection: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Regular 87 octane 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed automatic transaxle (e.g., 4T60-E) Optional Optional Transmission: N/A for 1996 model year, 4-speed automatic was standard across all trims. Features Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approximately 110.5 inches Length: Approximately 207.0 inches Width: Approximately 74.4 inches Height: Approximately 55.5 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3,600 - 3,800 lbs (depending on trim and options) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: 4-star driver, 5-star passenger (for 1995 model year, indicative for 1996). Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags. Seatbelts: Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player, steering wheel audio controls. Climate Control: Automatic climate control (optional on some trims, standard on Ultra) with digital display. Driver Assistance Traction Control: Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models. Connectivity Onstar: OnStar was not standard or widely available in 1996, but early systems may have existed. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for exact guidance). Transmission Fluid Change: Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or as indicated by service history. Consult manual for specific interval and fluid type. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH certified Engine Oil Capacity: Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change (verify in manual). Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron-III (or equivalent GM specification) Coolant Type: GM Goodwrench 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water (typically green ethylene glycol) Known Issues Common Problems General: Intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump leaks, aging suspension bushings, potential for intake manifold coolant crossover leaks (GM 3800 V6 commonality). Common Problems Electrical: Faulty window regulators, malfunctioning climate control panels, issues with power seat motors....