1991 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 1991 Buick Riviera problems
Common Problems with the Buick Riviera 1991
- Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue
A common problem with the Buick Riviera 1991 is the Check Engine Light turning on due to a loose or missing gas cap. This issue can be resolved by ensuring the gas cap is properly tightened after refueling.
- Oil Leaks From Intake and Valve Covers
Another common problem with the Buick Riviera 1991 is oil leaks from the intake and valve covers. This issue can be caused by worn-out gaskets or seals, which can lead to oil leaks and reduced engine performance. To address this issue, the gaskets or seals may need to be replaced.
- High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid
The high pressure power steering hose in the Buick Riviera 1991 can leak fluid, which can lead to reduced power steering performance and potential damage to the power steering system. This issue can be resolved by replacing the leaking hose.
- Instrument Cluster Not Coming On
Some Buick Riviera 1991 owners have reported issues with the instrument cluster not coming on most of the time. This issue can be intermittent and may be caused by electrical problems with the instrument panel cluster (IPC) or the body control module (BCM). Replacing the IPC and BCM may not necessarily fix the issue, and further diagnosis may be required.
- Power Window Motor Failure
The power window motors in the Buick Riviera 1991 can fail, which can lead to difficulty operating the windows. This issue can be caused by worn-out motors or electrical problems with the window regulator system. Replacing the faulty motor or regulator can resolve this issue.
- Fuel Pump Failure
The fuel pump in the Buick Riviera 1991 can fail, which can lead to difficulty starting the car or reduced engine performance. This issue can be caused by worn-out fuel pumps or electrical problems with the fuel system. Replacing the faulty fuel pump can resolve this issue.
- Ignition Coil Failure
The ignition coils in the Buick Riviera 1991 can fail, which can lead to difficulty starting the car or reduced engine performance. This issue can be caused by worn-out ignition coils or electrical problems with the ignition system. Replacing the faulty ignition coil can resolve this issue.
- Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
The air conditioning compressor in the Buick Riviera 1991 can fail, which can lead to difficulty cooling the car. This issue can be caused by worn-out compressors or electrical problems with the air conditioning system. Replacing the faulty compressor can resolve this issue.
- Transmission Failure
The transmission in the Buick Riviera 1991 can fail, which can lead to difficulty shifting gears or reduced driving performance. This issue can be caused by worn-out transmission components or electrical problems with the transmission system. Replacing the faulty transmission or repairing the transmission system can resolve this issue.
- Power Steering Rack and Pinion Failure
The power steering rack and pinion in the Buick Riviera 1991 can fail, which can lead to difficulty steering the car. This issue can be caused by worn-out rack and pinion components or electrical problems with the power steering system. Replacing the faulty rack and pinion or repairing the power steering system can resolve this issue.
These are some of the common problems with the Buick Riviera 1991 based on complaints from owners of this car. It is important to note that not all cars of this make and model will experience these issues, and some may experience different problems altogether. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent or address many of these issues.
What engine is in a 1991 Buick Riviera?
Used 1991 Buick Riviera - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 3.8 L |
| Cylinders | V6 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 170 hp @ 4,800 rpm |
How much is a 1990 Buick Riviera worth?
The value of a used 1990 Buick Riviera ranges from $1,509 to $6,696, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What was the last year Buick Riviera was made?
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.
How fast can a Buick Riviera go?
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) |
What engine is in a 1991 Buick Riviera?
Used 1991 Buick Riviera - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 3.8 L |
| Cylinders | V6 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 170 hp @ 4,800 rpm |
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.
How much is a 1990 Buick Riviera worth?
The value of a used 1990 Buick Riviera ranges from $1,509 to $6,696, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
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) |
1991 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Seat belts problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Buick Riviera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1991 Buick Riviera complaints
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Buick Riviera.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1196-11-01
- VIN: 1G4EZ13L1MU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SEATBELT IN THE FRONT DOES NOT PULL OUT. WHEN IT RAINS OR SNOWS THE BRAKE CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO HAVE EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. DEALER NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. TS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-06-01
- VIN: ADD
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING BRAKE UNDER NORMAL BRAKING SITUATIONS THERE IS EXTENDED BRAKING DISTANCE. FRONT ROTORS HAVE BEEN REPLACED 3 TIMES, AND CALIPERS ONCE. PLEASE ADD FURTHER DEATAILS.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4EZ13L4MU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: IN HOT WEATHER, ENGINE OVERHEATS AND SOMETIMES WILL NOT RESTART AFTER SHUTOFF, CONSUMER HAS TO LET IT SET A FEW MINUTES BEFORE IT WILL START, THERMOSTAT HAS BEEN REPLACED, RADIATOR HAS BEEN CLEANED, ENGINE HAS BEEN SERVICED, AND ANTI FREEZE HAS BEEN CHANGED, HOWEVER ENGINE CONTINUES TO OVERHEAT. *SLC
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4EZ13L4MU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, TACKOMETER FAILED, CRUISE CONTROL FAILED, AND VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION, CONSUMER HAD TRANSMISSION CHECKED. *SLC
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4EZ13L4MU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, TACKOMETER FAILED, CRUISE CONTROL FAILED, AND VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION, CONSUMER HAD TRANSMISSION CHECKED. *SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-20
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE DRIVER CAN'T DETERMINE HOW FAST VEHICLE IS TRAVELING AND HOW MUCH FUEL IS IN THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE SPEEDOMETER DOESN'T WORK AT ALL. CONTACTED THE DEALER, BUT REFUSED TO FIX THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THEY SAID THE VEHICLE ISN'T UNDER WARRANTY. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-28
- VIN: 1G4EZ13L9MU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN BRAKES WERE APPLIED THE CAR DID NOT STOP AT ALL. BUICK STATES THE BOOSTER HAD BEEN MODIFIED TO IMPROVE BRAKES. HOWEVER, DEALER STATES THE BOOSTER IS A SAFETY HAZARD. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-30
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SEAT BELT SHOULDER HARNESS FAILED TO RESTRAIN OCCUPANT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-30
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, RESULTING IN INJURIES THAT INCLUDED CONTUSIONS.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-30
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DURING COLLISION, NO DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG AND THE SHOULDER HARNESS FAILED, RESULTING IN INJURIES.
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4EZ13L4MU
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: PARKING BRAKE IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4EZ13LXMU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE VACUUM IS NOT WORKING EARLY IN MORNING. TT
1991 Buick Riviera recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1991 Buick Riviera.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING
- Summary: THE FRONT OUTER SHOULDER BELT WEB SEW STOP CAN BECOME STUCK IN THE RETRACTOR. THE BELT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO PULL OUT OF THE RETRACTOR AND SOME OCCUPANTS MAY NOT BE ABLE TO FASTEN THE BELT.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN PREVENT A PERSON FROM USING THEIR RESTRAINT SYSTEM RESULTING IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSTALL A WEBBING STOP BUTTON IF THE CUSTOMER REQUESTS REPAIR.
Positive 1991 Buick Riviera car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Buick Riviera problems:
1991 Buick Riviera Problems and Complaints - 19 Issues
Problem with your 1991 Buick Riviera? Our list of 19 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1991 Buick Riviera.
Buick Riviera 1991 and the 1993 Suspensions different ride - Buick ...
May 23, 2002 ... Buick Riviera 1991 and the 1993 Suspensions different ride ... problems?
I read somewhere , that the ... common spring loaded popoff valves.
Q&A: Troubleshooting Dash to Panel Error in 1990 Buick Riviera
Apr 8, 2012 ... This is a common problem that is usually caused by one of three things: A bad connection at the dash, a bad key switch, or a bad dash unit. when ...
Buick Riviera Problems and Complaints - 31 Issues
Top Buick Riviera Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue · Oil Leaks From Intake and Valve Covers · High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid.
93 Riviera Minor Issues - Buick Riviera - Antique Automobile Club of ...
Apr 29, 2019 ... Are there any common culprits? Also, according to the build sheet, this car came with remote entry, but I have no remote for it. Could Buick get ...
Other years of Buick Riviera
Are you having problems with your 1991 Buick Riviera?
Fred Mohr 2024-10-17
The tape player broke about a month after I bought it, but overall my first car served me very well as a high schooler. I never had any major problems with it. After 5 years, I finally sold it because I was moving and didn't take care of it cosmetically. Despite being over 20 years old, I am still so proud that my first car took care of me.
Oswaldo Bruen 2024-06-11
I am thrilled with this vintage car. It runs perfectly and is incredibly reliable.
Andre Feil 2024-04-10
Just wanted to share that I recently purchased a 1990 Riviera from a lovely couple in Mitchell, Indiana. The car has been garaged and has only 104,000 miles on it, so the body is in immaculate condition. I'm really impressed with the engine and how comfortable the vehicle is. The best part? I got it for under $3,000! It looks and drives just as well as a newer, more expensive automobile. :)
Uriel Bergnaum 2024-04-07
Wonderful, graceful lines, great, deep dark cranberry red babe magnet. If only I were young enough to handle a babe. 8-)
Alden Reynolds 2024-01-28
I love this car! It's great!