1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Buick Park Avenue
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1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue ▼
- Price Range: $2,600 - $15,000
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Passenger room
- Cargo room
- Steering/handling (Ultra)
Cons
- Steering/handling (base suspension)
- Fuel economy (supercharged V6)
Vehicle Highlights
Redesigned for 1997, Buick's "flagship" front-drive luxury sedan faced such rivals as the Infiniti I30, Lexus EX 300, and Oldsmobile Aurora. Wheelbase grew by three inches, overall length by about an inch. Weight also went up, by some 250 pounds. Styling was strictly evolutionary. Two models went on sale: a base Park Avenue and the plusher Park Avenue Ultra. Each carried a 3.8-liter V6 engine, but the one in the Ultra was supercharged to deliver 240 horsepower. The base V6 was rated at a more modest 205 horsepower. Both were teamed with a revised 4-speed automatic transmission, whose new electronic torque converter clutch was designed to produce smoother shifts. A redesigned interior featured unique seats that anchored both the lap and shoulder belts to the seat itself. The belts moved with the seats, to improve comfort for very tall or very short drivers. Buick's Personal Choice system, standard in Park Avenue, included a remote entry transmitter that could automatically adjust the driver's seat, outside mirrors, automatic door locks, lighting, and other accessories to either of two settings. This year, it added sound and climate adjustments, retained accessory power, and daytime running lights. A newly optional head-up display projected speedometer and other gauge readings onto the windshield. Also joining the option list: rain-sensing wipers and a dust filter for the automatic climate-control system.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Buick Park Avenue Ultra Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 62 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue.
Year to Year Changes
1998 Buick Park Avenue:
Park Avenue sedan gained some enhanced safety and convenience features for 1998. Dual airbags got reduced inflation power to deploy with less force (but still meet federal safety standards). A new passenger-side mirror, standard on Ultra and optional on the base model, tilted downward when reverse gear was engaged. Buick dealers could now install GM's OnStar communications system. That system linked the car by satellite and cellular telephone to a 24-hour GM center from which advisors could provide directions and travel advice, and also notify local authorities during an emergency situation.
1999 Buick Park Avenue:
Changes were modest for '99, including the addition of "Elite Walnut" interior trim to the Park Avenue Ultra, and availability of a tire-pressure monitor gauge. The tire-monitor was standard on the Ultra edition.
2000 Buick Park Avenue:
Front side airbags went into both 2000 models. GM's StabiliTrak system became standard on the Ultra and optional on the base Park Avenue. Designed to sense an impending skid in a turn and apply the brakes to an individual wheel, to keep the car on its intended course. Both models also gained child-seat anchors on the rear package shelf.
2001 Buick Park Avenue:
Ultrasonic rear parking assist was a new option for 2001, while leather upholstery and an interior memory system became standard on base models.
2002 Buick Park Avenue:
Steering-wheel radio and climate controls became standard on both models for 2002.
2003 Buick Park Avenue:
Ultra gets three chrome-plated "VentiPorts" on each front fender. Associated with Buick since 1949 and last seen in the 1980s, these design icons also increase engine-compartment airflow, Buick says. Other retro additions to Ultra are a "waterfall" grille, tri-shield Buick insignia, and chrome exhaust tips.
2004 Buick Park Avenue:
No significant changes were made in '04.
2005 Buick Park Avenue:
In '05, Park Avenue gets revisions to grille and taillamps, and the base model gains the front-fender "portholes" previously reserved for the top-line Park Avenue Ultra. Buick says 2005 is the final model year for Park Avenue.
Our road test for the 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Performance is satisfying in basic form--sufficient for most situations--but especially impressive when the engine is supercharged. Acceleration in an Ultra feels much like a small V8, so it makes a strong showing against the 6-cylinder competition. Helped by the automatic transmission's subtle and alert shifting, both models distribute ample, seamless power over a wide range of engine speeds. A base Park Avenue averaged 19.8 mpg using regular-grade fuel, helped by some highway time. Another base model averaged 19.5 mpg with a more even driving mix. Standard steering and suspension settings favor low-effort comfort. Unfortunately, this produces steering that's too light at freeway speeds, as well as floaty body motions over undulating surfaces. The Ultra's suspension is markedly stiffer--possibly too much so for some luxury-car buyers. A Gran Touring suspension setup has been optional on both models. That unit does a fine job of soaking up bumps with little jarring, while maintaining a flat, stable ride. It also quells undue body lean and front-end plowing through corners. Part of that package is magnetic variable-effort steering, which responds quickly with good straightline stability, but feels a bit numb. Braking power feels strong. Simulated emergency stops can produce pronounced nosedive, but with no loss of stability or control. The Ultra, in particular, does a great job of muffling wind, road, and engine noises. Roomy and comfortable, Park Avenue promises space for adults to relax. Head and leg room are abundant. Six-passenger capacity is a bonus, though everyone will be sitting shoulder-to-shoulder when the car is filled. Seats are comfortable, but not sufficiently contoured to give occupants good lateral support when the road turns twisty. Front lap and shoulder belts are anchored to the seat itself, so they move right along with the seats, fore and aft. Belts are handy to grab and always seem to fit just right. Gauges and switches are generous in size, easy to read and operate. A simple dashboard pull-knob operates the headlights. If a secondhand Park Avenue is equipped with OnStar, the buyer will have to pay a monthly service fee to make use of the system. Park Avenues that were test driven when new demonstrated good fit and finish, inside and out. One Ultra driven in subfreezing weather, however, emitted creaks from its suspension when crossing speed bumps or entering driveways.
Value for the Money
What do you get from a Park Avenue? Mainly, traditional American virtues-- roominess, power, and amenities--at a sensible price. This domestic sedan is definitely worth a close look, though some of its virtues can be found in Buick's LeSabre for less money. In addition, it must be said that Buick's customer satisfaction ratings have not been as high as those of some foreign competitors.
What do you get from a Park Avenue? Mainly, traditional American virtues-- roominess, power, and amenities--at a sensible price. This domestic sedan is definitely worth a close look, though some of its virtues can be found in Buick's LeSabre for less money. In addition, it must be said that Buick's customer satisfaction ratings have not been as high as those of some foreign competitors.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Buick Park Avenue Ultra Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 62 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Buick Park Avenue includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Buick Park Avenue .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Brake noise:
The brakes make grinding, squealing, growling, and other noises, and new brake pads were issued; but new, heftier rotors are also needed. (1997-98)
Coolant leak:
Coolant loss via plastic intake manifold is corrected by installing upgraded manifold and gaskets plus new PCV kit. (1997-04)
Coolant leak:
The 3.8-liter V6 may leak coolant into the engine from the intake manifold. A new gasket kit, revised throttle body nuts, and sealing compound is available. Redesigned manifolds are also available in the aftermarket. (1997-2004)
Engine temperature:
Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)
Fuel odors:
Fuel spurts out of the filler pipe as the tank reaches full. (1997)
Horn:
The horn sounds by itself, especially in cold weather, requiring replacement of the horn pad assembly. (1997)
Keyless entry:
The trunk pops open because the button on the remote is too sensitive and is easily activated while in a purse or pocket. (1997-98)
Oil consumption:
The oil dipstick shows on overfilled level because the original dipstick tube is too short and must be replaced. (1997)
Seatbelts/safety:
Some owners have complained of excessive shoulder belt slack. (1997-98)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $500 |
| Alternator | $265 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $850 |
| Brakes | $365 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $750 |
| Exhaust System | $475 |
| Radiator | $450 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $900 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $325 |
Our price chart for this generation Buick Park Avenue details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 2005 | |||
| Park Avenue | $13,500-14,800 | $12,300-13,500 | $8,000-8,700 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $15,000-16,500 | $13,700-15,000 | $9,500-10,400 |
| 2004 | |||
| Park Avenue | $11,200-12,400 | $10,100-11,200 | $6,000-6,700 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $12,500-13,500 | $11,300-12,200 | $7,100-7,700 |
| 2003 | |||
| Park Avenue | $9,000-10,000 | $8,100-9,000 | $4,700-5,200 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $10,000-11,000 | $9,000-9,900 | $5,200-5,700 |
| 2002 | |||
| Park Avenue | $7,000-8,000 | $6,200-7,100 | $3,300-3,800 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $7,600-8,400 | $6,800-7,600 | $3,800-4,200 |
| 2001 | |||
| Park Avenue | $5,500-6,200 | $4,700-5,300 | $2,300-2,500 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $5,900-6,600 | $5,100-5,700 | $2,500-2,800 |
| 2000 | |||
| Park Avenue | $4,700-5,300 | $3,900-4,500 | $1,800-2,000 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $5,000-5,600 | $4,300-4,800 | $2,000-2,200 |
| 1999 | |||
| Park Avenue | $4,000-4,600 | $3,300-3,800 | $1,300-1,500 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $4,300-4,900 | $3,600-4,100 | $1,500-1,700 |
| 1998 | |||
| Park Avenue | $3,600-4,200 | $2,900-3,400 | $1,000-1,200 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $3,900-4,500 | $3,200-3,700 | $1,200-1,400 |
| 1997 | |||
| Park Avenue | $3,300-3,900 | $2,600-3,100 | $800-1,000 |
| Park Avenue Ultra | $3,600-4,100 | $2,900-3,300 | $1,000-1,100 |
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Buick Park Avenue include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 113.8 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 206.8 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 74.7 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.4 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3740 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 19.1 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.8 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.0 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 41.1 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
A 3.8-liter V6 engine went into base Park Avenue sedans, developing 205 horsepower. Park Avenue Ultras had the same engine size, but in supercharged form for an extra 35 horses. A 4-speed automatic was the only transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Supercharged ohv V6 | 3.8 / 231 | 240 | 280 | 4-speed automatic: 18/27 | 4-speed automatic: 17.5 |
| ohv V6 | 3.8 / 231 | 205 | 220-230 | 4-speed automatic: 19/29 | 4-speed automatic: 19.5 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Buick Park Avenue include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Park Avenue |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1997:
Electronic Brake Control or Brake/Traction-Control module can cause antilock brake system to cycle in non-ABS braking; could increase stopping distance.
1997-98:
Front shoulder belts might twist, becoming jammed in retractor.
1998-99:
Fuel-pressure regulator can leak leading to vehicle backfire and, potentially, a vehicle fire.
1999:
A few cars may have been built with incorrect brake components, and could pull to one side during braking.
1999:
Brake booster to pedal assembly attachment nuts on some cars may be loose.
2000:
Due to internal fluid leakage in some cars, rear brake proportioning, ABS, traction control or stability control may not perform as designed.
2001:
Wiper-system processor is susceptible to voltage transients, which can cause a "latch-up" condition in the system controller rendering the low- and high-speed wiper modes inoperative.
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