The BUICK ROADMASTER, a full-size American land yacht. The Roadmaster offered a smooth, comfortable ride and considerable interior space, appealing to those prioritizing comfort and a classic American motoring experience. Given their age and relative rarity in NZ, proactive servicing and addressing potential maintenance issues early is paramount.
• Suspension wear (bushings, shocks).
• Brake system issues.
• Electrical problems (power windows, door locks).
• Cooling system maintenance (hoses, radiator).
• Transmission Service (common on higher KM vehicles).
• Check for rust in critical structural areas (sills, chassis rails).
• Ensure all lights are functioning correctly.
• Suspension and steering components must be free of excessive play.
• Brakes must be effective and balanced, with good pedal feel.
• Tyre condition and tread depth are crucial.
Powering the ROADMASTER typically was a large V8 engine, offering effortless cruising. The Roadmaster's considerable size and weight mean that suspension, brakes, and tyres are typically where maintenance is focussed. Parts availability could be an issue due to its small numbers imported to NZ. Rust is less of an issue on models built in the 90's but is still an important check. Electrical gremlins, common in older cars with many gadgets, may also surface.