Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, home mechanics, independent repair shops
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, vehicle-specific, dealership-level information at a fraction of the cost of official manuals or labor
Ease Of Use:
Single, easy-to-use PDF manual, no need to flip through multiple books
Portability:
Printable pages for use in the workshop or garage
Powertrain Engine:
Engine (General, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust/Cooling, Lube, Ignition/Starting/Charging)
Powertrain Transmission:
Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Clutch
Chassis Suspension:
Axle, Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Steering Column, Power Steering
Brakes:
Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake
Electrical Body:
Electrical, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior Components
Electrical Networking:
Multiplex/CAN Communication
Powertrain Transfer Case:
Transfer Case, Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential (if applicable to specific AWD variants, though Sonic is primarily FWD).
Body Interior Appointments:
Interior trim, seats, airbags, seatbelts, instrument cluster.
Body Exterior Appointments:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, glass, mirrors.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Diagnosis and Troubleshooting for all covered systems
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair Procedures:
Complete Step-by-Step Instructions for virtually all repairs
Component Replacement:
Detailed procedures for replacing individual components within all systems.
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnostics and repairs.
Depth Of Information:
Factory High Detail, Vehicle Specific, Technician Level
Diagrams Illustrations:
Diagrams, Illustrations, Wiring Schematics
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for fasteners, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, electrical system testing procedures.
Printability:
All pages are printable
Digital Features:
Searchable text, zoomable images
Image Resolution:
High resolution for clarity and enlargement
Binding Type:
Digital (N/A)
Paper Type:
Digital (N/A)
Operating Systems:
Windows Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, Mac OS X
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free)
Engine Options Covered:
Likely includes 1.4L Turbo Ecotec (LUJ/LUV) and 1.8L Ecotec (2H0/Z20) gasoline engines, based on common Sonic configurations.
Engine Power Torque:
Detailed specifications for horsepower and torque for each engine variant will be present.
Fuel Delivery:
Information on fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel filter.
Spark Plugs:
Specific spark plug types, gap specifications, and replacement intervals.
Coolant Type:
Specific coolant type and capacity (e.g., Dex-Cool).
Engine Oil Specification:
Detailed engine oil viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 5W-30) and API service classification, with specific part numbers for GM genuine oil.
Emission Systems:
Coverage of catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Standard Transmission Type:
Likely includes a 5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission Type:
Likely includes a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Specific automatic transmission fluid (ATF) type and capacity, e.g., Dexron VI.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Specification for manual transmission fluid and capacity.
NHTSA Safety Ratings:
Likely includes information derived from NHTSA and IIHS crash test data, although direct ratings are not within a service manual's scope, repair procedures related to safety systems are.
Active Safety Systems:
Information on ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Passive Safety Systems:
Detailed repair and diagnostic procedures for Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) components, including airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and control modules.
Infotainment System Coverage:
Includes information on the MyLink infotainment system, its components, and troubleshooting if applicable.
Driver Assistance Features:
Details on systems like cruise control and potentially parking assist sensors if equipped.
Connectivity Options:
Information regarding Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and their associated systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Specific mileage or time intervals for oil and filter changes, often tied to oil life monitoring system.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended intervals for tire rotation for optimal wear.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Intervals for flushing and replacing brake fluid.
Coolant Capacity Type:
Detailed coolant capacity and specification (e.g., GM P/N 89022212 or 10-332).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Specific ATF capacity for automatic transmissions and MTF capacity for manual transmissions.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid specification.
Common Problems Diagnosis:
The manual will contain diagnostic procedures for common Sonic issues, which might include turbocharger issues (if equipped), infotainment system glitches, or potential suspension noises.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Likely provides GM Genuine or equivalent aftermarket oil filter part numbers (e.g., AC Delco PF64 or equivalent).
Air Filter Part Number:
Likely provides GM Genuine or equivalent aftermarket air filter part numbers.
