Used 1997 Buick Riviera Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1997 Riviera, so we've included reviews for other years of the Riviera since its last redesign.
409,000 miles and still going!!!
thomie8, 06/24/2014
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
29 of 29 people found this review helpful
I bought my 1997 Supercharged Riviera from the original owner with 37,000 miles on it. I commuted 100 miles round trip to work each day for 13 years. I now have 409,000 miles on it. Parts replaced included 3 water pumps, 2 alternators, a starter, entire brake system (minus master cylinder...thats still original). The CD player went to I had a cheap one installed. One set of tires (Cooper) I got 105,000 miles out of. Had the front wheel bearing assemblies replaced at 250,000 and just had the drivers front wheel bearing replaced. Still the original exhaust system. It has some annoying oil leaks that I really don't care about. Original paint job is my only complaint. Wore off in a few places.
Riviera - last of the personal coupes?
Dave, 06/07/2009
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
We have had many unique cars... great '91 Regal GS (450K), wonderful '93 Park Avenue (500K) never a drop of oil or any engine work with either now '97 Riviera same good quality. Wheel bearings on all 3 Buicks have been a bane. Riviera has developed unpredictable starting problem... no action on turning key - nothing. Happens once in a while, let sit for few minutes and then it will start. Cannot find problem. Not starter nor solenoid. Ignition or neutral safety lock? Various mechanics have looked into this to no avail. Does anybody else have this experience?
1997 Buick Riviera for sale near you
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- Coupe 2DMSRP: $7,950121 mi away
- 1997 Buick RivieraMSRP: $12,5001,112 mi away
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Bought My Dream Riviera New in 1996
lovemyriviera, 01/24/2012
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
I drove my 1996 Buick Riviera out of the showroom and could drive it back there today to sell as a new car, it still looks that fantastic! I've taken excellent care of this car and it's only been the dealership for all maintenance. It was my daily driver for 10 years with 112,000 km (70,000 miles) now. Only had 2 problems: 1. there's been an electronic bug in the tape player; GM has acknowledged the problem but no fix, since it only happens one-in-awhile I live with it; 2. I recently had to replace the ABS Pressure Modulator Valve which cost $50 for the part and $75 for labor. Otherwise, the car has been a dream and it still turns a lot of heads!
Awesome ride by Buick.
Rodd, 08/31/2010
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I bought a nice 96 Riviera that is Supercharged for $400! It has been sitting for three years due to driver's sudden death. It was a very sad story. I bought a $144 battery and put under the seat. It started right up and ran great! No knocks but it had a great big brake line leak. I drove it the 20 miles home with no brakes! It was a comfortable ride and man the power was awesome! The buttery leather seats and carpet and still like new! It is like riding the the space shuttle cockpit! Tires and brakes were just replaced! Engine and tranny are superb! I have it at the shop now to replace the brake lines and I am looking for a hood and fender as it hit a deer just before it was parked
My Modern Buick
Z Man, 12/17/2008
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
This being by far my newest Buick I must say with 191,000 its an amazing machine! Light blue exterior and dark blue leather its incredible. Comfortable to drive, powerful in any situation, and with 28-29 miles a gallon on highway its just what I need! I owned 2 58's and 2 59's and my 97 Buick and I will say that Buick has held on to quality a lot better then most other auto companies! Way to go Buick!
1997 Buick Riviera 2 Dr STD Sprchgd Coup
Gr8engineer, 08/08/2010
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
I bought this car, brand new, right off the show room floor. We added a Wood View, dash and council kit. This car, with all the options, and additions, equaled the same model Cadillac, for $7000 dollars less. Those years of Cadillac had nothing but problems, this car had almost none. Had to replace water pump.
Best since '69 225 Electra
lovethatriv, 06/25/2008
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
This car is always a pleasure, even in the worst of circumstances. It has taken deep water on the road a few times with no problem. Once, when it did lose power, it maneouvred beautifully, and safely to the parking lane - no panic! However, at 11 years old, I get only 15-17 miles a gallon, but the performance and resulting safety are well worth it.
Never had a better vehicle
jrwjr61, 10/19/2009
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
I puchased my 1996 Riviera in 1998 and still own it today. I stopped driving it full time in 2005. It currently has 164,000 on the odometer. It had 39,000 miles on it at purchase I averaged about 19,000 miles a year when using it as an everyday driver. I couldn't see trading or selling this car for the "book value" when it is still in fantastic mechanical and cosmetic shape. I now take to car shows and believe it or not a lot of people don't even recognize the car as a GM or Buick. They haven't made the Riviera since 1999 so there just isn't that many left driving around. I have trophyed in numerous shows and will probably never get rid of this car.
Excellent value
dave8697, 11/11/2005
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
Bought with 88,000 miles on it, paid $1500 over private party value at time. Have put 45,000 miles on it in 19 months. Has every option. Gets 28.5 mpg. Has great acceleration and is quiet inside. Work needed at purchase: slow leak in tire, tiny oil cooler line leak (caused by sitting and which went away first week I had it), cd player ocassionally skips. Done so far: top off supercharger oil once, 2 new tires, air filter, Broken since I bought it:absolutely nothing. Still has orig. spark plugs. I drive 47 miles each way to work, and it smooths the road and quiets the trucks I pass. I planned on $600 a year in repairs and 23 mpg when I bought it, so I'm very happy because repairs are zero.
Buick Riviera Longtime Owner
mkdeloach, 11/16/2004
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I owned and drove my Buick Riviera from 1996 thru 2004 and never had any major problems from it whatsoever. My complaints would be 3. After 3 years of owning it, the front hood paint began to peel/rust and though it should have been under warranty, GM wouldn't do anything about it. 2nd thing was the heated seat quit working after 2nd winter, it was $500 to repair so I didn't fix it. 3rd thing was the CD player had a problem. Those 3 things aside, I only had to do the regular maintenance (tuning, belt changes, oil, etc.) and I drove it 164000 miles and believe I could still drive it another 100000 but moved to city and need smaller car. Awesome car! I would buy another, if it were smaller!
Above the trend
turtleman, 06/11/2007
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Got it used with 150k miles - now at 160. It is an excellent car overall. Great power, utility, and exquisite design, in and out. The inside is just pure class and comfort with out the techno junk. Still looks great as far as paint and finish very solid chassis and drivetrain. Easy and effective to modify if your looking to improve performance. Not unreasonably expensive to buy.
Last sharp-looking Buick
LarryMit, 07/18/2005
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I finally got my Riviera since lusting after the 1963 model when it came out. This is the best looking American car since 1963 and the last good-looking one. If only Buick would make another Riviera like this, I'd consider buying another Buick. Oh, well!
Smooth Ride
kjlong, 12/10/2012
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I got this car from a family of 9 so it was pretty rough when I got it. It needed several fixes and replacements before it was back in decent condition. It served me well while I commuted during college, never left me on the side of the road, and has always provided the luxury that has been associated with Buick vehicles. I am currently pushing 18k miles and it has definitely seen better days but I am overall very pleased with this car. The interior is decent besides a missing piece of leather on the console, scratches and dings on the dashboard and steering wheel controls, and a couple of damaged fan covers: these issues were present when I bought it. I love the ride!
Awesome
lisa m, 09/15/2007
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
Great car. I have had this car since 1997. I have driven to date 233,335. Amazing huh? Very roomy and reliable.
My Grandma's Car
OptiClaw, 12/02/2008
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Bought my grandparent's Riviera a couple months ago. They bought it new in '97 and it only had 70K miles in '08. For $3000, that's a great deal. Seats are super comfortable, stereo's nice, decent power and MPG. Steering is light as a feather. Gas gauge doesn't register correctly below half tank, but with over 300 miles per tank, that's not too big a deal. Definitely not a sports car, but it's a major upgrade from my old '93 Mazda 626.
Fast, smooth, unique.
JerryAssburger, 03/11/2022
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used based on my experience with a related GM vehicle, (a 2003 Bonneville). Both are solid cars and their 3800 engines are one of the Automotive World's better designs. The car has great bones and a gorgeous design; the plastic-ish interior much less stunning. Still a reliable car. I plan on it being my last.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Love my Riviera
cindy, 03/02/2009
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased my supercharged Riviera off the show room floor. This is by far the best, most dependable car I have ever owned. I now have 202,232 miles on this vehicle and it still runs like a top. I still get 26 mpg on the highway, and have always changed the oil every 3000 miles. I wish Buick would could back out with this car. Hopefully, I will be able to drive this car for another 100,000 miles.
Best car I've owned and so classy
DiAnna, 10/05/2008
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This indeed a really sleek beautiful, supercharged car. Very nicely built and holds up to about anything. I drive it in excess of 100 miles daily, never a problem
Got to love it
keith, 10/04/2008
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My car so far has given me all the fun and glory I need in driving and being seen driving. I love the shape, style, and I love Buicks. Very fun, sporty, classy, etc. If you are thinking about buying one, dont! Buy two!
220,000 Miles and Still Going
Jayhawkerkid, 08/03/2008
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love my Riviera and if it was still made would buy another. Very few problems, original transmission, and still drives like a dream. I've never owned such a maintenance free car.
Best car I ever owned!
freiselt, 07/31/2003
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car when I took a job that required a lot of travel and wanted a comfortable car for long trips. It has fulfilled that task very well. Reliability has been great. I've only had to replace the water pump, spark plugs, etc. Normal maintenance. Changed oil every 3,000 miles and it has always gotten me around in style and comfort.
Hey GM, bring back this beauty
Harry, 04/11/2007
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Bought this great car in Fla. Flew down and drove it back to Ohio. I've got to tell you I was in the most comfortable seat I have ever been in. I thought I was in a leather recliner. I was amazed by the impressive fuel mileage, 34Hwy. I think I may drive this vehicle till I stop driving. I get a lot of heads turning as the finish is showrom new and the buttery soft leather is a classic. I had to fight the wife for the keys. She hates the 2007 vehicle we just bought. General Motors had a great idea
Enduring Love
LuvMyRivie, 06/20/2010
1996 Buick Riviera 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My Riv is like the most perfect mate who you just know is going to break your heart someday. Our rocky romance was immediate. She was in and out of the shop constantly for the first two years...thank God for GM-Certified warranties! Fast forward 12 years and I'm still as much in love with her as back then. Even more so because for the past 10 years all she has required of me is feeding and the usual changing. I've grown to listen and know her like none beforehand. She might not be the most nimble and quickest of athletes on the asphalt but, she pampers me with an uncompromised ride, comfort, economy, and timeless styling. With 220K+, our days together are numbered and there goes my heart.
Love/Hate Relationship 97 Buick Riviera
holmslice88, 03/12/2014
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
7 of 11 people found this review helpful
I purchased the vehicle with 147,000 miles on it for $3,500 and thought it was the best car ever. I loved the leather interior with the single heated seat(only available on the drivers side.) It was such a smooth ride at first but once I hit 165,000 it wen't downhill. The Transmission blew and had to drop $2,500 unexpectedly to fix it. The door handle broke 3 times on the drivers side, keep in mind that the factory one is around $250. Issues with the crankshaft sensor and suspension happened around 190k miles. I managed to get it up to 220k miles....I'm honestly going to miss the ride and comfort but I am not going to miss the headache.
25 yrs & still a beauty
Betsie, 12/04/2018
updated 12/08/2023
1996 Buick Riviera 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car has been my long time friend, as my dad was so happy when I purchased back in 1996. He was a Buick guy forever & his daughter saw the value. My car, Sharkie, never saw a winter and was always my summer fling (love the astro roof). It still runs great with minor set backs. A solid ride with leather seats that I wish had in the house to watch football on >grin<. Now @ 117,000 miles I am considering selling it. If I do, I know my dad would be proud that it was so loved & enjoyed over the years and he would be ok with letting it go out of my garage. Buick made a great product here.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
AWESOME RIV
swede88, 08/28/2009
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great car! I've owned Caddies,Mercedes,Volvos and Vettes & this rates at the top! 31.8 MPG, peppie but refined with beautiful lines! Interior comfort to match Mercedes,sporty luxury as good as the eldoradoes but much better engine. I Love this car!
Pleased as punch
Lilolelady, 08/24/2003
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is our second Riviera. We traded a 2001 LeSabre for it and have not been sorry. Great ride, 30 mpg, quiet, comfortable and handles amazingly well for a front drive full size ride. It's a keeper.
Black Rivi on duces with beat
babystunna55, 10/23/2008
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Cool whip. I like it. Fun to drive and all that. I got some custom things on mine. 22 inch rims. DVD in dash. Two 12 inch subs in the trunk. Love the car
sweet ride
shortdog, 11/09/2002
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Car is great to drive had to replace alternator and battery after i bought it but no other surprises so far steering sounds a little strained when turning wheels at a stop ??
286k and still going strong
Frank, 03/14/2009
1996 Buick Riviera 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great vehicle. Bought used in 1999 with 48k miles. No major problems just normal wear and tear. Just bought new tires with 286k miles. Plan on another 100,000 miles. Riviera is now a family fixture. Will replace with a 98 or 99 Riv when the time comes.
best american luxury car
mike swonger, 05/02/2003
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love this car, it's performance is great. Real comfortable, no problems yet. Everywhere I go I get compliments, and with is great design people mistake it for a brand new car.
THIS CAR ROCKS
Billy-Bob, 02/26/2003
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have over 150000 miles on this car, and it still runs beautiful.. im a traveling salesman, and the company wants to get me a new car, but i dont 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 im home, my 17 yr old boy, loves to drive it. Im going to be keeping this car until it wil cost me to much to get a new one!
Really Decent car
Nick Warhead, 11/24/2008
1996 Buick Riviera 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought the car for $1750 at 164,000 miles. The car still runs great and is reliable. I had to replace the radiator and the upper control rod bushing. It has an oil leak probably coming from the top end. Other then that, the car always starts and drives, and has not given me any trouble. I've had a lot of cars that couldn't get past the 130K mark without blowing up. I feel if taken care of, I could get at 75,000 more miles on this car.
Love this car !
Barbara, 06/04/2009
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I'm currently at 229,900 miles - I too wish Buick still made the Riviera. It is the most trouble-free car I have ever owned. It always starts, runs and rides like a dream. My dealership says they have seen one Riv with 250,000 miles on it - I see one post here with 283,000 miles. The tape player quit at 100,000 miles (remember tapes ?) and the clearcoat on the paint failed in one small place on the fender. Otherwise it looks like a new car !
Buick's best car
Crase, 04/26/2002
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
A great looking car that performs well (with the supercharged 3.8L). It rides a little rough, but corners better then most cars that are the same size. The Riviera has been very reliable, with only minor mechanical problems after over 100,000 miles.
What a car!
96RIV, 02/19/2007
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought it with 63000 miles on it. I put on another 75000 and it's still going strong. I don't know how they put this thing together, but it should be a model for all US brands. This is the lowest maintenance car I ever owned. The car actually stays new! No rattles or squeaks after 138000 miles. I just gave it to my parents to use in Florida in the winter. I'll probably give it to my son in 4 years when he gets his license.
GREAT CAR
BuickDude, 02/22/2003
1997 Buick Riviera 2dr Coupe
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Be sure and get an extended warranty $1800 - intake $320 - alt $180 - antenna $150 - auto trunk release
John's car
Jihn's Riv, 03/31/2002
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car is excellent, like new
over 210000 mile running strong
RCH, 07/29/2009
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car has been as good a car as one could ask for. Things have went wrong but car kept going down the road until I could get it fixed. I always traded cars every two yrs buying 2 yr old cars or less. Feel this car was killed off by buick dealers as no local dealers within 60 miles carried this model new. I had to drive 120 miles to purchase this one. And within two yrs car lost 50% of value. This car has turned more heads than the other 22 cars I previously owned. Gas mileage is very impressive with size of car and supercharger. the car is supposed to use high test gas but this car has never been run on it for over 150000 miles with no change in performance.
Disappointed in Buick
Bruce, 01/27/2007
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought as a dealer certified vehicle. Transmission went out in 5 months at 79,000 miles and at 86,000 miles intake, power steering, old pan, and transmission pan all leaks and will cost more to fix than trade value. Car was serviced every 3000 miles
Dream car
Kathleen, 03/06/2009
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this from a man who said it was to expensive to drive. I love it! It has been sitting for a year because of the price of gasoline. Have put a new battery in it and I hope to drive it for awhile now. Have thought about selling it, but just cannot let myself too. Would buy another if Buick made one.
My Riv
duedetroyer, 03/21/2003
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used and have really loved it. Fun to drive, comfortable, handles well except when the tires are flat and you try to get out of the median after being run off the road. But it still went.
1997 BUICK STD-RIVIERA
Tompro, 12/15/2003
1997 Buick Riviera 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Traditonal smooth Buick ride. Reasonable gas mileage & accelateration but definately no speedster.
Best car ever owned
Moto, 11/15/2003
1997 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is a joy to ride and at 6 years old still turns heads. Gas milage is great. Only problem I have had is the Traction control unit went bad and it's rather expensive to fix. Other then that, I still enjoy this car like the day I bought it!
Supercharged Riviera
gmck25004x, 12/31/2011
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for $260 in 2010. It had sat for 3 years. I put a new $150 battery in under the rear seat and drove it home 20 miles with no brakes! I had all 13 brake lines replaced. It needed a hood and fender and lights from a deer collision sometime before I bought it. I drove it to work while I was replacing body parts. I replaced all the engine pulleys and belts and hoses and radiator. The interior is flawless and the exterior is exquisite. It just looks fast! It is one of the fastest cars I have ever owned! I have used it to teach my son to work on cars. o2 sensors give false electronic messages. replaced both...runs better than ever! one hub bearing. 209k miles.
THIS CAR ROCKS
Billy-BOB, 02/26/2003
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have over 150000 miles on this car, and it still runs beautiful.. im a traveling salesman, and the company wants to get me a new car, but i dont 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 im home, my 17 yr old boy, loves to drive it. Im going to be keeping this car until it wil cost me to much to get a new one!
Buy This Car
Mr. Patrick, 12/25/2002
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is one of the most comfortable cars ever made. The ride is smooth and bumps are hardly felt. Power supplied by the 3800 V6 is fast and responsive. The seats are like leather couches that hold and support the body. The car may look long but it can corner well and fuel economy is great. I have a white "Rivi" with chrome wheels and after a fresh waxing and some polish on the rims - this car turns heads!! I am completely satisfied with this GM car.
My Rivi needs help
kshugg, 08/09/2011
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought a 96 Rivi about 3 months ago, from a dealership. Brought along my then-roommate who said he was a mechanic. He declared my car worthy of purchase, and I eagerly bought this car. I have had numerous problems with this car, from the motor mounts breaking to the transmission failing to the car overheating a lot. But I will not give up on this car. I love the supercharged engine and how it growls when I step on the gas pedal. And I have yet to see another Rivi on the road, even tho I am driving this car daily.
good sport luxury car
dfugate, 09/14/2003
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
purchased at 50000 miles now has 97000 mi.still factory crisp and responsive,23 mi gallon on highway and most comfortable,never any problems ,has been most reliable car i ever owned,still in pristine condition with minimal effort,hate they dont produce them anymore.
Awesome !!
John Lane, 02/24/2018
1996 Buick Riviera Supercharged 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the car, my friends keep drooling on it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability