🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Buick Model: Riviera Year: 1998 Generation Generation Code: Eighth Generation (G-Body platform adaptation) Codes Chassis Code: GM G-Platform (front-wheel drive) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: A premium personal luxury coupe, the 1998 Riviera represented Buick's offering in a segment that was evolving towards larger, more comfortable vehicles. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1998: Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Cadillac Eldorado (depending on trim/price point). Key Features Distinctive Attributes: Known for its distinctive styling, powerful V6 engine, and comfortable, well-appointed interior. The '98 model continued the Riviera's legacy of combining performance with luxury. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: All models and all repairs A-Z Specificity: Vehicle Specific (Exact same manual used by dealership technicians) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Refer to actual document for precise count, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals. Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Delivery Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain Systems: Engine, Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission Clutch, Manual Transmission (if applicable), Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension Chassis And Body Systems: Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior Electrical And Electronic Systems: Electrical, Multiplex/ CAN Communication Procedures Included Diagnostic Procedures: System diagnosis, fault code interpretation, troubleshooting guides Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication Repair Procedures: Complete step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components Adjustment And Calibration: Component adjustments, system calibration (e.g., throttle body, sensors) Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Factory-level detail, including schematics, illustrations, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Print Quality Printability: All pages printable, with ability to blow up images and print enlarged copies. Binding Type Binding For Downloaded File: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type For Printed Manual: N/A (Digital PDF - user dependent) Software Requirements Required Software: Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (or equivalent extraction software) Compatibility Operating Systems: Windows Vista (32 and 64-bit), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type 1998: 3.8L (231 CID) Supercharged V6 (L67) or Naturally Aspirated V6 (L36) Performance Horsepower L67: Approximately 240 hp @ 4400 rpm Torque L67: Approximately 280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Horsepower L36: Approximately 205 hp @ 5000 rpm Torque L36: Approximately 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (91+ for optimal performance with supercharged model). Cooling System Coolant Type: GM Delco-Remy (Dex-Cool) Orange Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed automatic overdrive (4T65-E) Optional Optional Transmission: N/A (Only automatic was offered) Features Transmission Features: Electronically controlled, with a lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency. Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron-III (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 203.4 inches Width: Approx. 74.4 inches Height: Approx. 54.5 inches Wheelbase: Approx. 110.8 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,600 - 3,800 lbs (depending on configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: Not readily available for specific model year/trim, but GM vehicles of this era generally aimed for 4-star frontal impact. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels. Traction Control: Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags. Seatbelts: Front and rear three-point seatbelts. Child Seat Anchors: Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system not standard, but provisions for child seats exist. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Premium sound system available. Climate Control: Manual or automatic climate control with air conditioning. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. Connectivity Factory Communication Systems: Limited to basic vehicle diagnostics and control modules; no integrated smartphone connectivity or Bluetooth. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Engine Air Filter Replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles). Spark Plug Replacement: Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium recommended). Transmission Fluid Change Interval: Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per severe driving conditions. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: API SG/SH certified, SAE 5W-30 viscosity (check owner's manual for exact recommendation). Coolant Capacity: Approximately 10-12 quarts (with heater core). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Wear Items: Intake manifold gaskets (leaks), fuel injectors, EGR valve, power steering pump, wheel bearings, alternator. Supercharger Specific Issues: Supercharger clutch/pulley assembly wear, potential for oil leaks from supercharger snout...
A premium personal luxury coupe, the 1998 Riviera represented Buick's offering in a segment that was evolving towards larger, more comfortable vehicles.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 1998:
Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Cadillac Eldorado (depending on trim/price point).
Key Features
Distinctive Attributes:
Known for its distinctive styling, powerful V6 engine, and comfortable, well-appointed interior. The '98 model continued the Riviera's legacy of combining performance with luxury.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Specificity:
Vehicle Specific (Exact same manual used by dealership technicians)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Refer to actual document for precise count, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals.
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Delivery Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain Systems:
Engine, Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission Clutch, Manual Transmission (if applicable), Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension
Supercharger clutch/pulley assembly wear, potential for oil leaks from supercharger snout seal.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, electrical connections and grounds can sometimes cause intermittent issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Buick Heritage:
Buick has a long history of producing comfortable, stylish, and well-built vehicles, often positioned as an upscale brand within General Motors.
Model Evolution
Riviera Lineage:
The Riviera nameplate has been used by Buick for several generations, evolving from a large personal luxury coupe to a sportier, more performance-oriented model, and then adapting to front-wheel drive platforms.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.
Production Years For 8Th Gen:
1995-1999
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Awards:
While specific awards for the 1998 model year are not widely publicized, the Riviera platform historically received recognition for its styling and luxury appointments. The supercharged V6 was a popular and well-regarded engine for its era.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.