The Buick Riviera, spanning model years 1979 to 1985, exemplified Buick’s commitment to luxury and innovation in the personal luxury car segment. During this era, the vehicle incorporated a variety of essential electrical components, including the fuse box and relays, which played critical roles in managing its intricate electrical systems.
The fuse box in the Buick Riviera 1979-1985 contained multiple fuses designed to protect electrical circuits from overloads and short circuits. These fuses safeguarded components such as headlights, taillights, power windows, and the heating/air conditioning system. Understanding the location and function of each fuse is crucial for diagnosing and resolving electrical issues efficiently.
Relays in the Buick Riviera 1979-1985 acted as electrically operated switches, controlling the flow of electricity to specific components. These relays were vital for systems such as the starter motor, fuel pump, and cooling fans, ensuring reliable operation and optimal performance. Proper functioning of relays is important for maintaining the vehicle’s functionality and overall reliability.
In addition to these components, the Buick Riviera of this era likely featured advanced electrical technologies for its time, including digital dashboard displays, electronic climate control, power-adjustable seats, and premium audio systems. These amenities relied on a robust electrical infrastructure to enhance comfort, convenience, and driving pleasure.
(1979-1985) Buick Riviera fuse box and relay with Diagram
WARNING
- Never replace a fuse with one that has a higher amperage rating.
- A fuse with a too-high amperage could damage the electrical part and cause a fire.
- On no account should fuses be repaired (e.g. patched up with tin foil or wire) as this may cause serious damage elsewhere in the electrical circuit or cause a fire.
- If a fuse blows repeatedly, do not keep replacing it. Instead, have the cause for the repeated short circuit or overload tracked and fixed.
- Terminal and harness assignments for individual connectors will vary depending on vehicle equipment level, model, and market.
Buick Riviera 1979-1985 fuse assignment
Year of production: 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Fuse box diagram
| Fuse No. | Amps | Protected Component |
| 1 | 5A | Instrument illumination, headlight warning and electronic air conditioning |
| 2 | 20A | Electric choke |
| 3 | 5A | Instrument illumination, headlight warning |
| 4 | 30A | Circuit breaker: Power windows and roof, fuel cap lock release |
| 5 | — | — |
| 6 | 25A | Heater, air conditioning, trunk lid release, radio capacitor |
| 7 | 10A | Electronic Control Module |
| 8 | 10A | Diesel engine fuse |
| 9 | 25A | Windshield wiper and washer |
| 10 | 20A | Stop and hazard lights |
| 11 | 20A | Seat belt light and buzzer, trunk ajar, C-4 system or turbo controller, heated back light relay, map and fuel economy lights, instrument gauges and indicator lights |
| 12 | 20A | Tail, side markers, parking, cornering and license lights, clock radio |
| 13 | 10A | Radio, cruise control |
| 14 | 30A | Circuit breaker: Power seats, door locks, heated rear window feed |
| 15 | 20A | Turn signals and back-up lights, automatic door lock and idle stop relay |
| 16 | 20A | Cigar lighter, glove box light, speed and key warning buzzer, power antenna, clock radio, clock, pulse wiper, air conditioning |
| 17 | 20A | Dome and sail panel lights, trunk light, reading light, vanity light, headlight on warning, automatic door locks and rear cigar lighter |
| 18 | — | — |
| 19 | 20A | Automatic level control compression |
| 19 | 20A | Electric choke |
| Circuit Breaker: Headlight Circuit — A thermo circuit breaker is incorporated in the headlight switch assembly to protect headlight circuits. Windshield Wiper — Integral with windshield wiper motor. | ||
Conclusion
For owners and enthusiasts of classic Buick Riviera models from 1979 to 1985, understanding the fuse box and relay systems is crucial for vehicle maintenance and restoration. Regular inspection and maintenance of these components helped ensure the vehicle’s longevity and reliability, preserving its historical significance and continuing to showcase Buick’s commitment to luxury and innovation in automotive design.
