1996 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 1996 Buick Riviera problems
The 1996 Buick Riviera, a luxury car with a supercharged engine, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue: Another common problem in the 1996 Buick Riviera is the check engine light coming on due to a loose or missing gas cap. This can be easily resolved by ensuring the gas cap is properly tightened or replaced if it's missing or damaged.
- Oil Leaks from Intake and Valve Covers: Some owners have reported oil leaks from the intake and valve covers in their 1996 Buick Riviera. These leaks can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid: The high pressure power steering hose in the 1996 Buick Riviera can leak fluid, which can lead to a loss of power steering assist and make the car difficult to maneuver.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported transmission issues in their 1996 Buick Riviera, such as the car hunting between gears, particularly when driving uphill. This can be caused by a problem with the transmission or the transmission fluid level. It's recommended to check the transmission fluid level and replace it if necessary.
- Battery Issues: Some owners have reported battery issues in their 1996 Buick Riviera, such as the car dying while driving. This can be caused by a weak or dead battery, which should be replaced promptly to avoid further issues.
- Sunroof Leaks: Some owners have reported sunroof leaks in their 1996 Buick Riviera. These leaks can lead to water damage in the car's interior and should be addressed promptly.
In general, the 1996 Buick Riviera has been known to have several common problems, particularly with the ignition coils, check engine light, oil leaks, power steering hose, transmission, battery, and sunroof. It's recommended to have the car inspected by a mechanic before purchasing, particularly if it has high mileage or has been sitting for a while.
What year was the last Buick Riviera made?
1994
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) |
Why won't my Buick Riviera start?
The most common reasons a Buick Riviera won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
How much is a Buick Riviera?
A: The average price of a Buick Riviera is $31,837.
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.
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 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.
Why won't my Buick Riviera start?
The most common reasons a Buick Riviera won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
1996 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Fuel system problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Buick Riviera vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Buick Riviera
The NHTSA has received 55 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Buick Riviera. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Buick Riviera vehicles.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-22
- VIN: 1G4GD2218T4
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I SMELLED GAS. I OPENED THE HOOD, REMOVED THE ENGINE COVER & FUEL WAS SPRAYING FROM THE PLASTIC FUEL LINE, THE SIZE OF A PINHOLE. I CONTACTED THE DEALER TO ORDER A NEW FUEL LINE AND WAS TOLD THE FUEL LINE PART #25648136 IS DISCONTINUED, AS SOON AS I FIND ONE LEFT SOMEWHERE, I WILL BE TAKING TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP FOR REPAIR. THERE ARE NO RECALLS LISTED ON THIS? A DANGEROUS SITUATION. I WENT INTO VARIOUS AUTO FORUMS ON THE INTERNET & NOTICED THAT SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE WERE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. A PINHOLE LEAK IN THE PLASTIC FUEL LINE. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME I HAVE REPLACED THIS LINE IN THE 4 YEARS I HAVE OWNED THIS CAR WITH 60000 MILES BETWEEN THE LAST TIME THIS HAPPENED AND NOW. GM NEEDS TO OFFER A REDESIGNED REPLACEMENT PART THAT DOESN'T LEAK. *TR
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-02
- VIN: 1G4GD2213T4
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: COULD NOT GET FIRST INCIDENT DATE ENTERED. THIS IS CURRENT TIME STARTED IN 2013. HAVE HAD REPAIRED 5 TIMES AND NEEDS AGAIN. WHEN DRIVING ON FREEWAY ABOVE 60 MILES PER HOUR AND HAVE TO BRAKE HEAVILY IT WILL START TO SHAKE AND SHIMMY STEERING COLUMN FIXED 2 TIMES THIS YEAR, AS IT LOOSENS UP AND YOU CAN MOVE IT UP TO TWO INCHES BACK AND FORTH. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-20
- VIN: 1G4GD2215T4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 BUICK RIVIERA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER REFUELING THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS A STRONG GASOLINE ODOR. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS FRACTURED FROM EXCESSIVE CORROSION CAUSING FUEL TO LEAK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,000. UPDATED 8//1/14*CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE TANK WAS PLASTIC WITH A METAL RING BONDED TO THE TANK, WITH A METAL LOCK RING THAT HELD THE FUEL PUMP IN PLACE. BOTH METAL RINGS WERE COMPLETELY RUSTED, TO THE POINT THEY WERE CRUMBLING AND FLAKING. UPDATED 08/26/14
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-07
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 BUICK RIVIERA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO PUT THE SEAT BELT ON BUT IT FAILED TO CONNECT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION BUT THEY DID NOT PROVIDE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE, JUST THE REPLACEMENT PART NUMBER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND THEY STATED THAT THE PART WAS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-18
- VIN: 1G4GD2213T4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT FAILURE: THE SEAT BELT FASTENER(CLASP/HOOK) ON MY 1996 BUICK RIVIERA VIN # [XXX] HAS FAILED. INSERTION OF THE MALE END OF THE BELT INTO THE FEMALE FASTENER FAILS TO RESULT IN THE UNIT LOCKING. BUICK STATES THEY HAVE NO RECALL ON THIS ISSUE OR ANY RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR IT. THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT BELT (LEFT SIDE, I.E. BEHIND DRIVER) FAILS TO RETRACT THE BELT OR SNUG IT UP AFTER THE BELT IS FASTENED. THIS RESULTS IN MORE THAN A FOOT OF SLACK BELT AND THUS AFFORDS LITTLE PROTECTION TO A PASSENGER IN THE EVENT OF ACCIDENT. ALTHOUGH THERE IS A BUICK RECALL ON PRECISELY THIS PROBLEM FOR THIS MAKE AND MODEL CAR (GM 00023, DATED 15 NOVEMBER 2000, IN RESPONSE TO A 28 FEBRUARY 2000 NHTSA RECALL ORDER, NUMBER 00V057000) BUICK TELLS ME IT DOES NOT COVER MY VEHICLES VIN NUMBER AND IS ALSO NOT THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR. SINCE BOTH ISSUES CLEARLY INVOLVE SAFETY ISSUES, I THOUGHT THE NHTSA WOULD BE INTERESTED. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G4GD2219T4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 BUICK RIVIERA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH THE ENGINE STARTED HESITATING. HE PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, AND NOTICED AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE CENTER. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED . THE CAUSE OF FAILURE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED AT THIS TIME. ALTHOUGH HE EXPERIENCED AN IDENTICAL FAILURE, HE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS EXCLUDED FROM RECALL CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 96V116000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL) . THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 140,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-19
- VIN: 1G4GD2213T4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING I NOTICED A SMELL OF GAS. I STOPPED & WAS AT A TRUCK STOP. I CHECKED UNDER THE GAS TANK VEHICLE & SPOTTED NO GAS DRIPPING FROM THE TANK. THEN I WENT AROUND TO FRONT OF THE VEHICLE & SAW NO GAS LEAKING. THEN SEVERAL DAYS LATER, I DROVE TO FRESNO, PARKED THE CAR & TOLD MY DAUGHTER THAT I SMELLED GAS. I OPENED THE HOOD, REMOVED THE ENGINE COVER & FUEL WAS SPRAYING FROM THE PLASTIC FUEL LINE, THE SIZE OF A PINHOLE. I PLACED SOME TAPE ON IT & DROVE IT HOME. I CONTACTED THE DEALER & ORDERED A NEW FUEL LINE. I WILL BE TAKING INTO THE BUICK DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. THERE ARE NO RECALLS LISTED ON THIS???? A DANGEROUS SITUATION. I WENT INTO VARIOUS AUTO FORUMS ON THE INTERNET & NOTICED THAT SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE WERE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. A PINHOLE LEAK IN THE PLASTIC FUEL LINE. THIS BEING ON THE 1995 - 1999 BUICK RIVIERA'S ( 3.8 L ) V6. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-05
- VIN: 1G4GD22K7T4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL SMELL WHEN TANK IS FULL. REMOVED ACCESS COVER FOR FUEL PUMP MODULE FOUND WELL FOR MODULE FILLED WITH DIRT OVER TOP OF MODULE. CLEAN OUT DIRT FOUND METAL RING TO HOLD MODULE IN ROTTED OFF TANK THERE WAS NOTHING HOLDING FUEL PUMP MODULE IN TANK IF CAR ROLLED OVER. FUEL CAN RUN OUT LOOKS LIKE A BAD HAZARD. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-01
- VIN: 1G4GD22KXT4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 BUICK RIVIERA. THE CONTACT IS EXPERIENCING A FUEL AND A WATER LEAK. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FUEL INJECTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 150,000. UPDATED 04-08-08 *BF
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-03
- VIN: 1G4GD2219T4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS AN ODOR OF FUEL IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE SHROUD OFF OF THE ENGINE AND DETERMINED THE PLASTIC FUEL LINE HAD A HOLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP, WHERE THE FUEL LINE WAS REPLACED WITH A HIGH PRESSURE HOSE. UPDATED 3/22/2006 - THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE DRIVING AND THAT WHEN THE CONSUMER OPEN THE HOOD AND SAY THE MIST OF FUEL BEING SPRAYED ONTO THE HOT ENGINE. THE RUBBER FUEL LINE WAS REPLACED WITH A HIGH PRESSURE RUBBER LINE AT AND INDEPENDENT SHOP. *NM
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-21
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER'S VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM AS STATED IN NHTSA RECALL 00V057000. PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE REAR SHOULDER BELT(S) DO NOT RETRACT. A RETAINER COULD SEPARATE FROM A REAR SEAT SHOULDER BELT RETRACTOR WHICH RESULTS IN THE RETRACTOR RETURN SPRING BECOMING DISENGAGED. DEALER INDICATED TO THE CONSUMER THAT RECALL APPLIED ONLY FOR THE YEAR 1995 .*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-12
- VIN: 1G4GD22K7T4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS' SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE WILL NOT LATCH AND MUST BE REPLACED. *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-16
- VIN: 1G4GD2210T4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ELECTRICAL (?)--THE ENGINE DIES WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THE ENGINE WILL NOT RESTART WHEN SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL WHILE STILL ROLLING BUT DOES RESTART WHEN THE BRAKE IS APPLIED! THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVEN TIMES DURING THE PAST 9 MONTHS AND IS HAPPENING WITH MORE FREQUENCY--4 TIMES THIS MONTH! THE BUICK SERVICE DEPT. HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO RECREATE THE PROBLEM AND CANNOT DETERMINE THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM. *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4GD2210T4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-09
- VIN: 1G4GD2210T4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAVE A BUICK RIVERA 1996, AND THE AIR BAG ON THE DRIVER SIDE HAS EXPLODED ONCE, AND NOW THE LIGHT IS ON AGAIN. THERE IS A LEAK OF WATER IN THE BACK SEAT ON THE FLOOR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE, AND NOW THE AIR BAG LIGHT, THE TRACTION LIGHT ARE ONE AGAIN. I KNOW THERE WERE BUICK'S RECALLED BECAUSE OF DRIVER SIDE AIRBAGS EXPLODING, HOWEVER, WHEN I CALLED GM THEY SAID NOT ON THE RIVERA. NOW, ALL OF THESE ARE BUICK CARS, AND I AM HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THIS. THIS HAS PUT MY LIFE AND THAT OF MY PASSANGERS IN DANGER, BECAUSE IF THAT AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE, WE WOULD HAVE BEEN KILLED OR BADLY HURT. I WOULD LIKE SOMETHING DONE ABOUT THIS. IT HAS CAUSED ME CONSTANT MENTAL STRESS JUST WORRYING ABOUT THIS THING DEPLOYING AGAIN. PLEASE HELP ME. I AM A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS WOMAN AND I AM 41 YEARS OF AGE. I WOULD LIKE GENERAL MOTORS TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM ON MY CAR. PLEASE CONTACT ME.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRACTION LIGHT STAYS ON WITH CAUSE UNKNOWN. THE OWNER WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP THAT HE PROBABLY RAN THROUGH SOME WATER. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS.*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-11
- VIN: 1G4GD221XT4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ESTIMATED SPEEDS OF 40-45 MPH, BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT AN IMPACT OR RUNNING OVER DEBRIS IN ROAD. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: PLEASE FIL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRACTION LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON, WHICH COULD INDICATE A PROBLEM WITH ENGINE OR BRAKES PER OWNER'S MANUAL. CONTACTED DEALER.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-25
- VIN: 1G4GD2216T4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TRACTION CONTROL INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP. DEALER STATED WHEN TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT WAS ON, THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM WAS NOT WORKING*AK CONSUMER WAS CONCERNED THE ABS LIGHT DID NOT ILLUMINATE TO INDICATE THERE WAS A MALFUNCTION WITH THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM. *TT *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-05
- VIN: 1G4GD22K4T4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MODULATOR AFFECTS ABS AND TRACTION CONTROL, CAN CAUSE WHEEL LOCK-UP AND STEERING PROBLEMS. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-05
- VIN: 1G4GD22K6T4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL# 95V20400 ELECTRIC SYSTEM: ANTI-THEFT DUE TO VIN ALTHOUGH IT DEALT WIT SAME PROBLEM. CAUSE UNKNOWN. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-11
- VIN: 1G4GD221XT4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE IN REVERSE AND APPLYING BRAKES PEDAL DROPPED TO THE FLOORBOARD. OWNER DISCOVERED BRAKE FLUID POURING FROM BRAKE LINE. BRAKE LINE WAS RUSTED, WHICH CAUSED A HOLE IN LINE. DEALER NOT NOTIFIED.*AK *JG
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-09
- VIN: 1G4GD2212T4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WATER PUMP FAILED WITH ONLY 50100 MILES ON THE VEHICLE. VEHICLE HAS BEEN MAINTAINED TO BUICK'S RECOMMENDATIONS.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1G4GD2215T4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-07
- VIN: 1G4GD2213T4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: SINCE PURCHASE OF THIS VEHICLE, IT HAS BEEN IN FOR BRAKES ON FIVE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS, BRAKES SEEM TO WEAR PREMATURELY. *AK
1996 Buick Riviera recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1996 Buick Riviera.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
- Summary: A BACKFIRE DURING ENGINE STARTING CAN CAUSE BREAKAGE OF THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE A NO-START CONDITION AND POSSIBLY AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL UPDATE THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE PROGRAMMING. UNTIL THE CAMPAIGN REPAIR IS MADE, THE VEHICLE HOOD SHOULD BE SHUT WHENEVER STARTING THE VEHICLE TO REDUCE THE CHANCE OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: THESE VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH A MALFUNCTION ALARM, LIGHTING AND LOCKING (MALL) MODULE THAT CAN CONTAIN A DAMAGED CAPACITOR. IF THE CAPACITOR IS DAMAGED, THE "KEY IN THE IGNITION" WARNING CHIME AND THE DRIVER SEAT BELT UNBUCKLED WARNING CHIME AND INDICATOR LAMP MAY NOT WORK. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION" AND FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." IN ADDITION, OTHER CHIME REMINDER FUNCTIONS, INTERIOR LIGHTING CONTROLS, AND POWER DOOR LOCKING FEATURES ARE ALSO AFFECTED.
- Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE; THE DRIVER MAY NOT BE AWARE THAT THE KEY WAS LEFT IN THE IGNITION OR THAT THE SAFETY BELT WAS NOT BUCKLED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF REQUIRED, REPLACE THE MALL MODULE.
Negative 1996 Buick Riviera car reviews
Positive 1996 Buick Riviera car reviews
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I had my Riviera for 6 years and just traded it in for a Cadillac CTS. It only had 69,000 miles on it when I traded it in. I hope I made the right decision, but I have to say that this Riviera was the most reliable and comfortable vehicle I have ever owned. It handled great and had a sporty feel for a big car. If you're thinking about buying one and it's in good shape, don't hesitate!
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This car is incredibly comfortable. The ride is smooth and you hardly feel any bumps. The 3800 V6 engine provides fast and responsive power. The seats are like leather couches that hold and support your body. Although the car may look long, it can corner well and has great fuel economy. I personally have a white 'Rivi' with chrome wheels and after a fresh waxing and some polish on the rims, this car turns heads! Overall, I am completely satisfied with this GM car.
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I purchased this car back in 2010 for a mere $260, but it had been sitting for three years. After installing a new battery for $150, I drove it home without brakes for 20 miles! I had to replace all 13 brake lines, and it also needed a new hood, fender, and lights due to a previous collision with a deer. While replacing the body parts, I also replaced all the engine pulleys, belts, hoses, and radiator. The interior is in impeccable condition, and the exterior is simply stunning. It has a sleek and fast look, and it's one of the fastest cars I've ever owned! I even used it to teach my son how to work on cars. Although the o2 sensors gave false electronic messages, I replaced both and now it runs better than ever! The only other repair I had to make was replacing one hub bearing. With 209k miles, this car is still going strong!
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I have over 150000 miles on this car, and it still runs beautifully. I'm a traveling salesman, and the company wants to get me a new car, but I don't want one. I love this one too much. From the heated leather to the supercharged V6, this car has it all. My sunroof is always open, and the stereo system in this car is great. When I'm home, my 17-year-old boy loves to drive it. I'm going to keep this car until it costs me too much to get a new one!
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It's important to know that I've always had a passion for cars, especially Firebirds and Rivieras. The Riviera, in particular, has been my dream car since I was just 10 years old. I was finally able to purchase my '96 Riv when I turned 39, and I know I'll never part with her. I don't think I could ever stop driving her either. My Riviera and I have a very special bond. I take great care of her, and she takes great care of me. She truly is the car of my dreams - Light Adriatic Blue Metallic with medium blue leather and dash. Absolutely gorgeous!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Buick Riviera problems:
1996 Buick Riviera Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Buick Riviera? Our list of 17 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Buick Riviera.
Reliability of 1995-1999 Supercharged Riviera's? : r/Buick
Jun 8, 2023 ... Reliability of 1995-1999 Supercharged Riviera's? ... Their mileage varies from around 85,000 on a 1996 to 170,000 on a 1997. ... There is a known ...
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2 issues
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Mar 16, 2009 ... The first problem has been happening for about a year. Occasionally when I am driving down the road, the battery light will turn on. Within a ...
Other years of Buick Riviera
Are you having problems with your 1996 Buick Riviera?
Jeff Beier 2024-09-19
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it almost 2 years ago and I was so excited about it! Before buying it, I had it checked out by a mechanic who said it was a great purchase. However, over the past two years, I've had to replace many expensive parts and the fuel mileage isn't great (although my car is supercharged). On the bright side, the car feels very sturdy and safe, which is a great feeling. In my opinion, if you're considering buying this car, I would only recommend it as a collector's item since it's no longer in production. Thanks for listening!
Diego Funk 2024-03-18
I purchased a 96 Rivi from a dealership three months ago, with the help of my then-roommate who claimed to be a mechanic. Unfortunately, I have experienced several issues with the car, including broken motor mounts, a failed transmission, and frequent overheating. Despite these setbacks, I remain committed to this car. I adore the supercharged engine and the satisfying growl it makes when I hit the gas pedal. Additionally, I have yet to encounter another Rivi on the road, even though I drive it daily.