1987 Buick Riviera Oil Type & Capacity: 5W-40 (4.0 quarts)
The 1987 Buick Riviera takes 5W-40 motor oil — 4.0 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
5W-40 — 4.0 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base — 3.8L Eng | SAE 5W-40 (Below -20Deg.F to 60Deg.F), 10W-30 (Preferred) (0Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 15W-40 (10Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 30 (40Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F) | 4.00 QTS. | — | — |
| T-Type — 3.8L Eng | SAE 5W-40 (Below -20Deg.F to 60Deg.F), 10W-30 (Preferred) (0Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 15W-40 (10Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 30 (40Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F) | 4.00 QTS. | — | — |
More factory specs & repair guides for your Riviera
🛞 1987 Buick Riviera Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 1987 Buick Riviera Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 1987 Buick Riviera Light Bulb Sizes →📖 1987 Buick Riviera Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
12.0 quarts (11.35 L) — 50/50 mixture of Ethylene Glycol Base Antifreeze and water. GM Specification 1825-M.
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 1987 Buick Riviera take?
The 1987 Buick Riviera takes 5W-40 motor oil (SAE 5W-40 (Below -20Deg.F to 60Deg.F), 10W-30 (Preferred) (0Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 15W-40 (10Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F), 30 (40Deg.F to Above 100Deg.F)), per the factory service manual.
What is the oil capacity of a 1987 Buick Riviera?
The 1987 Buick Riviera oil capacity is 4.0 quarts with a filter change.
How often should I change the oil in my 1987 Buick Riviera?
Most 1987 Buick Riviera owners follow a 5,000–7,500 mile interval with conventional oil, or up to 10,000 miles with full synthetic. Always check the oil life monitor if equipped, and consult your owner's manual — Buick recommends intervals based on driving conditions, not just mileage.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 1987 Buick Riviera?
Yes. 5W-40 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 1987 Buick Riviera. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.