1985 Buick Riviera wont start

Asked by Guru9J3YFK May 18, 2023 at 12:56 PM about the 1985 Buick Riviera Convertible RWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I just got a 1985 Buick Riviera which looks real good from outside and inside.
Car will crank but won't start. It has been sitting in the garage not being driven.
Can someone help?

3 Answers

40,015

If it sat for more than 6 months then the fuel tank/lines/filter should probably be cleaned out , 85 was transition years going from carburetor to someones idea of TBI , check for spark , You could probably dump a little gas down the throttle and see if it will fire up . It sat there for a reason

1 people found this helpful.
157,615

Check for fuel, spark, and compression. In that order. Spray a little starting fluid down the throttle body or carburetor. If it runs for a few seconds on that you have a fuel problem. If it won't run on the starting fluid check for spark. If you have spark and fuel (the starting fluid) but it still won't run it's time to do a compression test. If all cylinders test very low or zero it's jumped timing or the valves are stuck open from sitting. Hope that helps! Jim

2 people found this helpful.
19,495

ignition module in steering column and /or starter relay may be out.

1 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

Riviera

Looking for a Used Riviera in your area?

CarGurus has 2 nationwide Riviera listings and the tools to find you a great deal.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Alvin Stokes
    Reputation
    1,960
  • #2
    Chris Kelley
    Reputation
    930
  • #3
    Jason Gee
    Reputation
    590
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used BMW 7 Series
9 Great Deals out of 119 listings starting at $5,995
Used Buick Regal
5 Great Deals out of 37 listings starting at $5,600
Used Dodge Charger
38 Great Deals out of 645 listings starting at $4,888
Used Chevrolet Corvette
29 Great Deals out of 1,060 listings starting at $15,871
Used Chevrolet Camaro
16 Great Deals out of 307 listings starting at $10,500
Used Ford Mustang
65 Great Deals out of 1,259 listings starting at $4,995
Used Porsche 911
12 Great Deals out of 322 listings starting at $21,888

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.