1988 Buick Reatta Owners Manual

The 1988 Buick Reatta is a two-seater luxury sports coupe featuring front-wheel drive, a 3.8L V6 engine with 165 horsepower, four-speed automatic transmission, electronic touchscreen control center, anti-lock brakes, and distinctive styling. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Controls 3. Instrument Panel 4. Electronic Control Center 5. Driving Instructions 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fluid Specifications 8. Tire Information 9. Emergency Procedures 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 3.8L V6 engine, front-wheel drive, electronic touchscreen, anti-lock brakes, power windows/locks, air conditioning, and premium sound system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.8L V6 with 165 horsepower
Transmission	4-speed automatic with overdrive
Brakes	4-wheel disc with anti-lock system
Control Center	Electronic touchscreen display
Seating	2-passenger leather interior
Steering	Power rack-and-pinion
Suspension	4-wheel independent
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with cassette
Climate Control	Automatic temperature control

Vehicle Controls

Familiarize yourself with all controls before driving.

Ignition: Insert key and turn to start position
Transmission: Select P, R, N, D, 2, 1 positions
Parking brake: Apply before parking on inclines
Headlights: Rotate knob on left side of dash
Wipers: Control on right stalk

WARNING! Always fasten seat belts. Never leave children unattended in vehicle.

Instrument Panel

Monitor all gauges while driving for proper operation.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph
Tachometer: Engine RPM display
Fuel gauge: Monitor fuel level regularly
Temperature gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning lights: Check engine, brake, oil pressure

CAUTION! If any warning light illuminates, stop vehicle and investigate immediately.

Electronic Control Center

Touchscreen Display: Controls climate, audio, and vehicle systems
Climate Control: Set desired temperature automatically
Audio System: AM/FM radio with cassette player
Trip Computer: Displays fuel economy, range, and trip information
Diagnostic Mode: Access vehicle system status
Maintenance Reminders: Service interval notifications
Personal Settings: Customize display and audio preferences

Driving Instructions

Start engine with transmission in Park or Neutral.

Fasten seat belts and adjust mirrors
Start engine and allow to idle briefly
Select drive range and release parking brake
Accelerate smoothly and brake gradually
Use overdrive for highway fuel economy

Tip: Allow engine to warm up in cold weather before driving.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Oil change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Filter replacement: Air filter every 15,000 miles
Tire rotation: Every 6,000 miles
Brake inspection: Every 10,000 miles
Coolant flush: Every 30,000 miles
Spark plugs: Every 30,000 miles
Transmission service: Every 50,000 miles

WARNING! Follow maintenance schedule to prevent costly repairs.

Fluid Specifications

Use only recommended fluids for optimal performance.

Fluid	Specification	Capacity
Engine Oil	10W-30	5 quarts
Coolant	Ethylene glycol	12 quarts
Transmission	Dexron II	7 quarts
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed
Power Steering	Power steering fluid	1 pint

Tire Information

Proper tire maintenance ensures safety and fuel economy.

Check pressure monthly when tires are cold
Recommended pressure: 30 PSI all around
Rotate tires every 6,000 miles
Replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32"
Use P215/65R15 size tires only

CAUTION! Never mix different tire types or sizes.

Emergency Procedures

Know emergency procedures before they are needed.

Flat Tire: Use jack and spare tire in trunk
Dead Battery: Jump start using proper procedure
Overheating: Turn off A/C and turn on heater
Brake Failure: Use parking brake gradually
Accident: Turn on hazard lights and call for help

Warranty Information

Basic warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles. Powertrain: 36 months/36,000 miles. Rust perforation: 36 months/unlimited miles. See dealer for complete warranty details and limitations.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition	Check battery connections; ensure transmission in Park
Overheating	Coolant level/thermostat	Check coolant level; inspect radiator and hoses
Poor fuel economy	Tires/tune-up	Check tire pressure; replace air filter; tune-up
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Have brakes inspected and rotors resurfaced
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test battery and charging system

Service: Contact authorized Buick dealer for all repairs and maintenance.

Customer Assistance: 1-800-521-7300