🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Hummer

Model:

H2

Year:

2008

Product Name:

2008 Hummer H2 Owner's Manual

Vin Model Year Decoder:

8th digit indicates engine type for H2

Model Codes:

H2

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Hummer H2 was positioned as an ultra-large, premium, off-road-capable SUV, emphasizing presence, power, and ruggedness. It catered to a niche market seeking a commanding vehicle with a distinctive, imposing style.

Competitors:

Competitors included other large luxury SUVs such as the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and potentially specialized off-road vehicles from other brands, though the H2 occupied a unique space due to its styling and brand heritage.

Distinctive Styling:

The H2 is immediately recognizable for its aggressive, military-inspired styling, prominent grille, and substantial road presence.

Off Road Capability:

Despite its luxury appointments, the H2 retained significant off-road capability, including a robust chassis, advanced four-wheel-drive system, and generous ground clearance.

Interior Space:

Offers a spacious interior with ample room for passengers and cargo, reflecting its large SUV footprint.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive owner's manual for the 2008 Hummer H2.

Trim Levels Covered:

All 2008 Hummer H2 trim levels.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 250-300 pages (typical for this era and vehicle type).

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, exhaust system.

Drivetrain:

Transmission operation (automatic), transfer case operation (4WD), driveline components.

Chassis:

Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Lighting system (exterior/interior), dashboard indicators, horn, wipers, electrical accessories, battery, charging system.

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate control (HVAC), power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, audio system, security system, remote keyless entry.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt operation, child seat installation, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).

Operation:

Starting and driving the vehicle, parking, towing recommendations, off-road driving tips.

Maintenance:

Routine checks (oil, coolant, tires), fluid level checks, tire pressure monitoring, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Interpretation of dashboard warning lights, basic troubleshooting for common issues.

Emergency:

Jumper starting, changing a flat tire, emergency procedures.

Depth:

Designed for the vehicle owner, focusing on safe operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Availability:

While this is a printed manual, digital PDF versions are often available for this model year.

Print Quality:

Standard automotive manual print quality, durable paper for regular use.

Binding:

Stapled or perfect bound paperback.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock, often with glossy pages for diagrams and photos.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Vortec 6.2L V8 SFI

Engine Displacement:

6.2 Liters (376 cubic inches)

Horsepower:

393 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

415 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Bore X Stroke:

4.06 in x 3.62 in (103 mm x 92 mm)

Compression Ratio:

10.8:1

Valve Train:

Overhead Valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Model:

4L60-E (GM Hydramatic)

Optional Transmissions:

None offered for 2008 H2.

Transfer Case:

2-speed electronically controlled full-time 4WD with locking center differential.

Gear Ratios Approximate:

1st: 3.06, 2nd: 1.63, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.70. Low Range: 2.62

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

203.5 inches

Width:

81.5 inches

Height:

79.2 inches

Wheelbase:

129.6 inches

Ground Clearance:

10.0 inches (unladen)

Approach Angle:

46 degrees

Departure Angle:

38 degrees

Breakover Angle:

23 degrees

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

92.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

40.8 cubic feet

Curb Weight:

Approx. 6,900 - 7,000 lbs

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

8,600 lbs

Towing Capacity:

7,000 lbs (with proper equipment)

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 1,600 - 1,700 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

3 out of 5 stars (for 2006 model, indicative for 2008)

ABS:

Yes, 4-wheel anti-lock braking system.

Traction Control:

Yes, Traction Control System (TCS).

Electronic Stability Control:

Yes, StabiliTrak (may vary by specific build).

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, front pretensioners.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Yes, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Bose premium audio system with AM/FM stereo, CD player, and auxiliary input. Some models may have optional DVD/navigation systems.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear passenger controls.

Parking Assist:

Rear parking assist sensors may be optional or standard on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by 2008 standards. Primarily focused on audio inputs. OnStar system was an available feature for telematics and emergency services.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000 miles or annually.

Coolant Flush Replacement:

Initial replacement at 5 years or 150,000 miles, then every 2-5 years or 100,000 miles thereafter (depending on coolant type).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect at 45,000 miles, change if fluid is discolored or degraded. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (GM dexos1 Gen 2 or equivalent recommended).

Engine Oil Capacity:

7 quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

GM/ACDelco 50/50 mix of deionized water and Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron-VI ATF or GM Power Steering Fluid.

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

GM Autotrac II Transfer Case Fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, catalytic converters (especially on earlier models), fuel pumps, power steering pumps, and HVAC blower motors can be common wear items due to the vehicle's weight and age.

Electronic Glitches:

Some owners report occasional minor electrical gremlins, often related to sensors or body control modules, common in GM vehicles of this era.

Fuel Economy:

While not a 'problem' per se, the H2 is known for its significant fuel consumption, averaging 10-12 MPG combined. Regular checks of tire pressure and proper engine maintenance can help optimize this.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Hummer originated from AM General's High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), commonly known as the Humvee.

H2 Introduction:

The Hummer H2 was introduced for the 2003 model year, expanding the brand's reach beyond the military-style H1 into a more consumer-friendly, albeit still very large, SUV.

H2 Generations:

The 2003-2009 H2 represents the first and only generation of the H2. 2008 saw the introduction of the more powerful 6.2L V8 engine.

Manufacturer:

General Motors (under the Hummer brand).

Assembly Location:

Mishawaka, Indiana, USA.

Production Years:

2003-2009

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Awards:

While specific awards are scarce for consumer SUVs of this nature, the H2's design and capability were often highlighted in off-road focused publications and comparisons for its segment.

Kbb Consumer Ratings:

Consumer reviews often praised its presence and off-road capability but noted its poor fuel economy, large size, and higher maintenance costs.