1998 Buick Riviera: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 1998 Buick Riviera: 0 recalls, 29 owner complaints and up to 19 mpg combined.
Recalls
No recalls on file for this model year. Still worth a VIN check.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 2 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Steering (7): the most common themes are steering problems (7).
- Brakes (hydraulic) (5): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Engine (4): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Tires (3): the most common themes are tire tread / blowout (2).
The 1998 Buick Riviera has 29 owner complaints, ranking #4 of 9 Riviera model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 33). Complaints peaked in 2001 (7 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 4 years old, at a median of 161,000 miles. Neighboring years: 1997 (43 complaints, 0 recalls), 1999 (6 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.8 L 6-cyl turbo | Automatic 4-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 16 | 25 | 19 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 1998 Buick Riviera.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
FAQ
Does the 1998 Buick Riviera have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 1998 Buick Riviera. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 1998 Buick Riviera problems?
Owners have filed 29 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are steering (7), brakes (hydraulic) (5), engine (4).
What gas mileage does the 1998 Buick Riviera get?
EPA ratings run up to 19 mpg combined (3.8 L, Automatic 4-spd), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 1998 Buick Riviera repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.