1985 Buick Riviera Service and Repair Manual

This factory service and repair manual for the 1985 Buick Riviera reflects three overhead-valve engines. A turbocharged 3.8L V6 is the only forced-induction option; the 5.0L V8 runs naturally aspirated on gasoline, and the 5.7L V8 runs on diesel. Buyers chose between coupe and convertible, both with two doors, in Base, Luxury or T-Type trim. For these cars the manual sets out procedures, specifications and wiring diagrams across the engine, fuel, ignition, cooling, transmission, brake, suspension, steering and electrical systems.

Engines covered

• 3.8L V6 (231 cu in) — OHV, turbocharged, gasoline
• 5.0L V8 (307 cu in) — OHV, naturally aspirated, gasoline
• 5.7L V8 (350 cu in) — OHV, naturally aspirated, diesel

Body styles covered

• 2-door coupe
• 2-door convertible

Trims covered

• Base
• Luxury
• T-Type

Known issues on the 1985 Riviera. Owners have lodged two complaints against the 1985 Riviera. Both list engine and engine cooling, 1 also lists the gasoline fuel system, and 2 complaints reported a fire. The one recall for this year involved certain 1985 Riviera vehicles with cruise control and some of the gasoline and diesel engines: a nylon bushing in the servo bail could shift out of position, letting engine speed climb unexpectedly or keeping the engine turning after shutoff, and the servo rod could hang up on the engine and jam the throttle. A replacement bushing was the remedy. The manual gives diagnostics, procedures and torque values for the engine, cooling and fuel systems involved.