1988 Buick Riviera problems
The Buick Riviera is a personal luxury car that was marketed by Buick from 1963 to 1999, with the exception of the 1994 model year.
As General Motors' first entry into the personal luxury car market segment, the Riviera was highly praised by automotive journalists upon its high-profile debut. It was a ground-up design on a new GM E platform debuting for the 1963 model year and was also Buick's first unique Riviera model.
Unlike its subsequent GM E platform stablemates, the Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado, the Riviera was initially a front engine/rear-wheel drive platform, switching to front-wheel drive starting with the 1979 model year.
While the early models stayed close to their original form, eight subsequent generations varied substantially in size and styling. A total of 1,127,261 Rivieras were produced.
The Riviera name was resurrected for two concept cars that were displayed at auto shows in 2007 and in 2013.
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Common 1988 Buick Riviera problems
The 1988 Buick Riviera is known for a few common problems based on complaints from owners.
- Electrical Issues: The 1988 Buick Riviera features a high-tech digital dash and touch screen, which can be prone to electrical issues. For example, one owner reported that the digital dash and touch screen of their 1988 Buick Reatta (which shares many components with the Riviera) were not working, despite having good fuses and connections. This issue can be difficult to diagnose and repair, as it may require specialized knowledge and equipment.
- Interior Moisture and Mold: Another common problem with the 1988 Buick Riviera is moisture buildup and mold growth in the interior. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including leaks in the car's seals or HVAC system, high humidity levels, or condensation from the air conditioning system. In addition to being unpleasant and potentially unhealthy, this issue can also damage the car's interior materials and electronics.
- Suspension and Steering Issues: Some owners of the 1988 Buick Riviera have reported issues with the car's suspension and steering systems. These can include problems with the power steering system, such as leaks or failures, as well as issues with the car's suspension components, such as worn-out bushings or shocks. These issues can affect the car's handling and ride quality, and may require significant repairs or replacement of parts.
- Engine and Transmission Issues: While the 3.8-liter pushrod Buick V6 engine in the 1988 Buick Riviera is generally reliable, some owners have reported issues with the car's transmission. These can include problems with the transmission shifting or engaging, as well as issues with the car's torque converter or other transmission components. These issues can affect the car's performance and fuel efficiency, and may require significant repairs or replacement of parts.
In summary, the 1988 Buick Riviera is known for a few common problems, including front cradle rust through, electrical issues, interior moisture and mold, suspension and steering issues, and engine and transmission problems. While these issues can be significant and potentially expensive to repair, they are not uncommon for a car of this age and type.
Is a Buick Riviera a classic?
The Buick Riviera is a personal luxury car that was marketed by Buick from 1963 to 1999, with the exception of the 1994 model year. As General Motors' first entry into the personal luxury car market segment, the Riviera was highly praised by automotive journalists upon its high-profile debut.
What engine did the Buick Riviera have?
Engines and Transmissions
For 1963, the Riviera was offered only with a 401 CID Nailhead V8 engine with standard dual exhaust. It produced 325 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. The 401 engine was coupled with a three-speed Twin Turbine Dynaflow automatic transmission and could reach 60 MPH in 8.5 seconds.
Is the Riviera a muscle car?
With its European-influenced styling, however, as far as muscle cars go, its beauty ultimately overpowered its beast. The Buick Riviera may not go down in history as a highly regarded muscle car—but it will be highly regarded, period.
What engine is in a 1989 Buick Riviera?
Mechanically, the model had the 3800 V-6, cast iron head and block, bore and stroke 3.80 X 3.40. Compression ratio was 8:51; brake horsepower: 165 @ 4800 rpm; torque 210 lb. ft.
Is Buick Riviera a luxury car?
The Buick Riviera is a personal luxury car that was marketed by Buick from 1963 to 1999, with the exception of the 1994 model year.
What engine is in a 1989 Buick Riviera?
Mechanically, the model had the 3800 V-6, cast iron head and block, bore and stroke 3.80 X 3.40. Compression ratio was 8:51; brake horsepower: 165 @ 4800 rpm; torque 210 lb. ft.
How fast is a Buick Riviera?
Performance
| 30 - 70 mph | 8.7 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 90 mph | 18.8 s |
| 0 - 100 mph | 24.5 s |
| 1/4 mile | 16.5 s @ 79.5 mph |
| Top speed | 190 kph (118 mph) |
Was the Buick Riviera front-wheel drive?
Unlike its subsequent GM E platform stablemates, the Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado, the Riviera was initially a standard front engine/rear-wheel drive platform, only becoming front wheel drive starting in 1979 as part of a sweeping move in that direction by the American automobile industry.
1988 Buick Riviera car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Riviera problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Buick Riviera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Buick Riviera complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Buick Riviera.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-21
- VIN: 1G4EZ11C8JU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I WAS CHNAGING MY OWN OIL WHEN I NOTICED A PART OF THE UNIBODY SUB-FRAME NEAR THE STEERING CONTROL ARM WAS ALMOST COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH. I HAD IT INSPECTED BY A PROFESSIONAL FABRICATOR WHO TOLD ME THAT IT WAS AN ORIGINAL DEFECT, THAT IT WAS NOT PROPERLY POWDER COATED OR ANOTHER TYPE OF FACTORY CONTAMINATION BECAUSE IT IS THE ONLY SPOT ON THE CAR SHOWING SIGNIFICANT RUST. THERE IS ONE OTHER 1988 BUICK RIVIERA IN TOWN AND JUST RECENTLY THERE CAR FAILED IN EXACTLY THE SAME SPOT. COINCIDENCE DOES NOT SEEM LIKELY. ARE THERE OTHER ACCIDENTS OR HIGHWAY DEATHS THAT HAVE BEN REPORTED FOR THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL YEAR AS MINE.THANK YOU FOR YOR TIME AND CONSIDERATION REGARDING THIS MATTER. PLEASE ADVISE WITH INFORMATION THAT YOU FIND.*AK
1988 Buick Riviera recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1988 Buick Riviera.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Buick Riviera problems:
1988 Riviera problems: new to Buick Please help - Buick Riviera ...
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Oct 16, 2008 ... I have a 1988 Buick Reatta the service engine soo light came on then on the CRT the response came up Engine Control - Answered by a verified ...
Buick Riviera 1988 > with CRT and Ignition-problems. - Buick Reatta ...
Dec 11, 2014 ... [h=2]Black(blank) CRT-issue> Buick Riviera 1988 T-type (Silver Anniversary)[Hello from Finland. I have two faults with my car.
1987 Buick Riviera: instrument cluster..electrical problem..same thing
Jan 9, 2007 ... ... buick dealer here is far from helpfull,an from what I've experience this is common problem with 86-87 riviera's. Auto Mechanic: RD. Verified ...
Buick Riviera Problems and Complaints - 31 Issues
Car Won't Start Because of Anti-Theft System That Uses Raised-Chip Key · The Trunk Lid Won't Close Due to Trunk Pull Down Switch Failure · Stalling Due to Mass ...
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