The Buick Riviera spans 1981–1999 with 30 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1995, 1996, 1997 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1984, 1982. It delivers up to 21 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Buick Riviera is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 1999 across multiple generations.
How to read a Buick Riviera VIN — every digit explained
Every Buick Riviera carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Buick and the country it was built in.
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Riviera.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Riviera, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Buick Riviera have?
The Buick Riviera has 30 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–1999. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
1996 Buick Riviera recalls 2
Electrical System:ignition:anti-theft:control Module
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. 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.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF REQUIRED, REPLACE THE MALL MODULE.
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
What's wrong. A BACKFIRE DURING ENGINE STARTING CAN CAUSE BREAKAGE OF THE UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE A NO-START CONDITION AND POSSIBLY AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
Fix. 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.
1995 Buick Riviera recalls 1
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 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.
Risk. IN A CRASH, AN OCCUPANT MAY RECEIVE MORE SEVERE INJURIES IF THERE IS EXCESSIVE SLACK IN THE SHOULDER BELT.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT BOTH REAR SHOULDER BELT RETRACTORS FOR CORRECT FUNCTION AND INSTALL A SPRING COVER RETAINING STRAP TO EACH RETRACTOR. IF A RETRACTOR DOES NOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY, IT WILL BE REPLACED.
1993 Buick Riviera recalls 1
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN PREVENT A PERSON FROM USING THEIR RESTRAINT SYSTEM RESULTING IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. DEALER WILL INSTALL A WEBBING STOP BUTTON IF THE CUSTOMER REQUESTS REPAIR.
1992 Buick Riviera recalls 2
Steering:rack And Pinion
What's wrong. THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT TO STEERING RACK LOWER COUPLING PINCH BOLT MAY BE MISSING.
Risk. IF THIS CONDITION EXISTS AND SHAFT DISENGAGEMENT OCCURS, LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL WILL BE EXPERIENCED BY THE DRIVER WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. INSTALL PINCH BOLT.
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN PREVENT A PERSON FROM USING THEIR RESTRAINT SYSTEM RESULTING IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. DEALER WILL INSTALL A WEBBING STOP BUTTON IF THE CUSTOMER REQUESTS REPAIR.
1991 Buick Riviera recalls 1
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN PREVENT A PERSON FROM USING THEIR RESTRAINT SYSTEM RESULTING IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. DEALER WILL INSTALL A WEBBING STOP BUTTON IF THE CUSTOMER REQUESTS REPAIR.
1990 Buick Riviera recalls 5
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:floor Shift
What's wrong. TRANSAXLE SHIFT CONTROL CABLE MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE FROM THE FLOOR SHIFT CONTROL WITH LOSS OF GEAR INDICATOR REFERENCE AND SHIFT SELECTOR OPERATION.
Risk. DRIVER WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO DETERMINE ACTUAL GEARPOSITION THE TRANSAXLE IS IN, WHICH COULD RESULT IN UNEXPECTED VEHICLE MOVEMENTAND AN ACCIDENT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Fix. INSTALL A TRANSAXLE SHIFT CONTROL CABLE RETAINING CLIP TO PREVENT CABLE DISENGAGEMENT.
Air Bags:frontal
What's wrong. THREADED INFLATOR COMPONENTS MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY WHICH MAY ALLOW COMPONENTS TO SEPARATE WHEN INFLATOR RECEIVES A SIGNAL TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAG.
Risk. INFLATOR COMPONENT SEPARATION ALLOWS HOT COMBUSTION GASESTO ESCAPE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURIES TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Fix. REPLACE AIR BAG MODULES CONTAINING POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE INFLATORS.
Seat Belts:front:retractor
What's wrong. MISALIGNED REAR SEAT SAFETY BELT SHOULDER RETRACTOR ASSEMBLIES COULD CAUSE PENDULUM INTERFERENCE, CAUSING THE BELT TO REMAIN IN LOCKED POSITION OR TO TRAVEL FREELY WITHOUT LOCKING.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A PANIC STOP OR ACCIDENT, IF THE BELT RETRACTOR INERTIA LOCK DOES NOT ENGAGE, THE REAR SEAT OCCUPANT WOULD HAVE AN INCREASED LIKELIHOOD OF INJURY.
Fix. REALIGN REAR SHOULDER BELT RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:brake Fluid Low Warning: Lamp
What's wrong. BRAKE INDICATOR LIGHT MAY NOT LIGHT WHEN IGNITION IS IN THE "ON" POSITION, THE PARKING BRAKE IS APPLIED, AND THE SHIFT SELECTOR IS IN THE PARK OR NEUTRAL GEAR RANGE.
Risk. VEHICLES WOULD NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 101AND 105.
Fix. REPLACE THE PROM IN THE BODY COMPUTER MODULE TO PREVENT THIS CONDITION FROM OCCURRING.
Seat Belts:front:webbing
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN PREVENT A PERSON FROM USING THEIR RESTRAINT SYSTEM RESULTING IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. DEALER WILL INSTALL A WEBBING STOP BUTTON IF THE CUSTOMER REQUESTS REPAIR.
1989 Buick Riviera recalls 3
Service Brakes, Air:antilock
What's wrong. ONE OR BOTH ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT MOUNTING BOLTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SEATED AND COULD LOOSEN.
Risk. THIS CONDITION COULD LEAD TO SEPARATION OF THE ABSHYDRAULIC UNIT FROM THE MOUNTING BRACKET AND RESULT IN LOSS OF BRAKE FUNCTIONAND A CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Fix. REPLACE BOTH ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT MOUNTING BOLTS.
Service Brakes, Air:antilock
What's wrong. LEFT FRONT BRAKE PIPE MAY CONTACT THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BRACKET.
Risk. BRAKE LINE COULD WEAR THROUGH CAUSING LOSS OF BRAKEFLUID AND PARTIAL LOSS OF BRAKING CAPABILITY; THIS COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLECRASH.
Fix. REPLACE LEFT FRONT BRAKE PIPE ASSEMBLY.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. 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.
Fix. 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).
1988 Buick Riviera recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. 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.
Fix. 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).
1987 Buick Riviera recalls 2
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:pump
What's wrong. INSUFFICIENT CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE HOSE ASSEMBLY AND THE TRANSMISSION GOVERNOR/SPEED SENSOR CONNECTOR COULD CAUSE ABRASION OF THE HOSE.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN A FLUID LEAK, WITH THE POTENTIAL FORAN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
Fix. REPLACE THE POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE HOSE.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. 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.
Fix. 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).
1986 Buick Riviera recalls 2
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:pump
What's wrong. INSUFFICIENT CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE HOSE ASSEMBLY AND THE TRANSMISSION GOVERNOR/SPEED SENSOR CONNECTOR COULD CAUSE ABRASION OF THE HOSE.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN A FLUID LEAK, WITH THE POTENTIAL FORAN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
Fix. REPLACE THE POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE HOSE.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. 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.
Fix. 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).
1985 Buick Riviera recalls 2
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
Risk. SERVO ROD ASSEMBLY COULD CATCH ON ENGINE COMPONENTS ANDRESULT IN A STUCK THROTTLE WITH POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. INSTALL A NEW BUSHING IN CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. 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.
Fix. 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).
1984 Buick Riviera recalls 2
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
Risk. SERVO ROD ASSEMBLY COULD CATCH ON ENGINE COMPONENTS ANDRESULT IN A STUCK THROTTLE WITH POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. INSTALL A NEW BUSHING IN CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. 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.
Fix. 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).
1983 Buick Riviera recalls 1
Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:motor
What's wrong. DURING WINDSHIELD WIPER OPERATION, THE NOISE SUPPRESION CAPACITOR IN THE WIPER MOTOR RELAY MAY OVERHEAT.
Fix. THE DEALER WILL MODIFY THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR DELAY RELAY BY REMOVING THE NOISE SUPPRESION CAPACITOR. THIS WILL BE DONE FREE OF CHARGE.
1982 Buick Riviera recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
What's wrong. UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT RETAINER IN THE INJECTION PUMP MAY FAIL. THE THROTTLE VALVE COULD STICK, PREVENTING RETURN TO IDLE AND SHUT DOWN OF THE ENGINE BY THE DRIVER.
Fix. DEALER WILL REPLACE THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT ASSEMBLY IN THE INJECTION PUMP AT NO COST TO OWNER.
1981 Buick Riviera recalls 1
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm
What's wrong. THE FRONT LEFT UPPER CONTROL ARM NUTS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SECURELY TIGHTENED. THE NUTS MAY LOOSEN AND COME OFF AND WITH CONTINUED DRIVING THE CONTROL ARM FRONT BOLT MAY WORK ITS WAY OUT OF POSITION OR BECOME DISPLACED.
Best and worst years for the Buick Riviera
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 18 tracked years, the worst years are 1995, 1996, 1997 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1984, 1982.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 Riviera | — | Best | |
| 1982 Riviera | Suspension | Best | |
| 1983 Riviera | Power Train | Average | |
| 1984 Riviera | — | Best | |
| 1985 Riviera | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1986 Riviera | Electrical System | Average | |
| 1987 Riviera | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1988 Riviera | Structure | Average | |
| 1989 Riviera | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 1990 Riviera | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 1991 Riviera | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 1992 Riviera | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1993 Riviera | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 1995 Riviera | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 1996 Riviera | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 1997 Riviera | Steering | Avoid | |
| 1998 Riviera | Steering | Average | |
| 1999 Riviera | Tires | Average |
What are the most common Buick Riviera problems?
The most-reported Buick Riviera problems are Air (3 reports), Other (5 reports) and Seats (7 reports) — out of 367 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Buick Riviera specifications & dimensions
The 1999 Buick Riviera. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Buick Riviera window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
How the Riviera's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | 207″ | 75″ | 55″ | 113″ | 3,721 lb |
| 1990–1993 | 198″ | 72″ | 54″ | 108″ | 3,419 lb |
| 1987 | 187″ | 72″ | 54″ | 108″ | 3,307 lb |
| 1984 | 207″ | 75″ | 54″ | 114″ | 3,697 lb |
| 1981 | 207″ | 72″ | 54″ | 114″ | 3,677 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Buick Riviera cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Riviera holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 100 cu ft of passenger volume and 18 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Buick Riviera tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Buick Riviera get?
The Buick Riviera returns up to 21 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,950/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 1999 Buick Riviera (3.8L 6-cyl) gets 19 mpg combined and costs about $4,050/yr to fuel, emitting 468 g/mi CO₂ — about $9,250 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 Riviera | 16 | 25 | $4,050 | 468 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1998 Riviera | 16 | 25 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1997 Riviera | 17 | 26 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1996 Riviera | 17 | 27 | $2,950 | 423 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1995 Riviera | 17 | 26 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1993 Riviera | 17 | 25 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1992 Riviera | 16 | 24 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1991 Riviera | 16 | 24 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1990 Riviera | 16 | 25 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1989 Riviera | 17 | 26 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1988 Riviera | 17 | 26 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1987 Riviera | 16 | 25 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1986 Riviera | 17 | 27 | $3,100 | 444 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1985 Riviera | 15 | 22 | $4,550 | 523 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1984 Riviera | 13 | 20 | $4,150 | 592 | — | 3.8L 6-cyl |
The 1985 Buick Riviera (5.7L 8-cyl) gets 21 mpg combined and costs about $3,700/yr to fuel, emitting 485 g/mi CO₂ — about $7,500 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 Riviera | 18 | 26 | $3,700 | 485 | — | 5.7L 8-cyl | |
| 1984 Riviera | 18 | 26 | $3,700 | 485 | — | 5.7L 8-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Riviera stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this Riviera's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Buick Riviera have? Power & range
The Buick Riviera is offered with 2 powertrains — 3.8L 6-cyl, 5.7L 8-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 3.8L · 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | FWD | Premium |
| V8 | 5.7L · 8-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | FWD | Diesel |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Buick Riviera cost to own?
A Buick Riviera tends to depreciate faster than average. A typical example keeps roughly 37% of its value after five years — losing about 63% to depreciation. Check what a used Riviera is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 75% | $22,500 | −$7,500 |
| Year 2 | 63% | $18,900 | −$11,100 |
| Year 3 | 53% | $15,900 | −$14,100 |
| Year 4 | 44% | $13,200 | −$16,800 |
| Year 5 | 37% | $11,100 | −$18,900 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Riviera loses about 63% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $14,750 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Riviera ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Buick Riviera safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Riviera yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Buick Riviera last?
A well-maintained Buick Riviera typically lasts 200,000–250,000 miles. With regular oil, transmission and timing service, most examples comfortably pass the 200,000-mile mark. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Check your Buick Riviera’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Riviera’s VIN free →All Buick Riviera model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Buick Riviera — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1998 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1997 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1996 Riviera | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1995 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1993 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1992 Riviera | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1991 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1990 Riviera | 5 recalls | — | |
| 1989 Riviera | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1988 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1987 Riviera | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1986 Riviera | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1985 Riviera | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1984 Riviera | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1983 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1982 Riviera | 1 recall | — | |
| 1981 Riviera | 1 recall | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Riviera?
By owner-complaint volume, 1995, 1996, 1997 drew the most reports. 1981, 1984, 1982 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Riviera have?
30 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–1999. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the Riviera get?
Up to 21 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Riviera last?
A well-maintained Riviera typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Riviera reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Riviera is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Buick Riviera warranty?
New Buick models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Buick dealer.
Where is the Buick Riviera made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Riviera's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Buick may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Riviera have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.