🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Avalanche

Year:

2008

Generation Name:

Second Generation (GMT900)

Generation Start Year:

2007

Generation End Year:

2013

Platform Code:

GMT900

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Full-size SUV/light-duty pickup truck hybrid (Sport Utility Truck - SUT) offering versatility and capability.

Competitive Set:

Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra

Key Features:

Midgate system for configurable cargo bed length, integrated bedliner, 4-wheel independent suspension, durable Duramax diesel option (in certain markets/years).

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Body, Chassis, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Digital Format, comprehensive coverage)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download (Digital Software)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine diagnostics

Transmission Drivetrain Systems:

Automatic transmission (4L60-E, 4L70-E), transfer case, driveshafts, axles, differentials, CV joints, powertrain control modules (PCM)

Suspension Steering Systems:

Front and rear suspension (independent front, coil springs rear), shock absorbers, struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, power steering system, steering column

Brake Systems:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic system, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake

Electrical Body Systems:

Body control module (BCM), lighting, instruments and gauges, power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, climate control, interior and exterior lighting, wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, charging system, starting system

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics, and repair.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil change, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), coolant flush and refill, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, tire rotation, battery maintenance, wiper blade replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine component repair/replacement, transmission overhaul/replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering component replacement, HVAC system diagnosis/repair, electrical component troubleshooting/replacement, body panel repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic scan tool usage, component testing procedures

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Detailed, system-specific wiring schematics for all major electrical components and circuits.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners across all mechanical systems.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic trees and wiring schematics

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and text suitable for printing

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

5.3L V8 Vortec (LH6), 6.0L V8 Vortec (L76, L96), 6.2L V8 Vortec (L92)

5.3L V8 Hp Torque:

Approx. 315 hp @ 5200 rpm, 335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (L76 variant for 2008)

6.0L V8 Hp Torque:

Approx. 366 hp @ 5400 rpm, 376 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (L96 variant for 2008)

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane)

5.3L V8 Lh6 Code:

LH6 (Active Fuel Management)

6.0L V8 L76 Code:

L76 (Active Fuel Management, DoD)

6.2L V8 L92 Code:

L92 (No Active Fuel Management, higher performance)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4L60-E or 4L70-E)

Optional Transmission:

Not Applicable (4-speed automatic was standard across most configurations)

Transmission Features:

Driver Shift Control, Tow/Haul Mode

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

130.0 inches

Overall Length:

224.5 inches

Overall Width:

79.8 inches

Overall Height:

77.0 inches

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 120 cu. ft.

Cargo Volume Midgate Closed:

Approx. 6.7 cu. ft. (behind 3rd row)

Cargo Volume Midgate Open:

Approx. 50.3 cu. ft. (behind 2nd row, with Midgate open)

Curb Weight Approx:

5,700 - 6,200 lbs (depending on configuration)

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to 9,700 lbs (with appropriate equipment and engine)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (as per NHTSA for 2008 models)

Active Safety Features:

StabiliTrak (Electronic Stability Control), ABS, Traction Control, available OnStar

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, head curtain side-impact airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Available touch-screen navigation system, premium audio systems (Bose), satellite radio (XM), Bluetooth connectivity (optional).

Driver Assistance Features:

Rear parking assist (optional), backup camera (optional).

Connectivity Features:

OnStar in-vehicle safety and communication system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, or as indicated by the Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS)

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or as needed based on wear

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V8:

Approximately 100,000 miles (depending on plug type)

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (Dexos approved for later models, consult manual for specific 2008 specs)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.0 quarts (5.7 L) for 5.3L V8, 7.0 quarts (6.6 L) for 6.0L/6.2L V8

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 or equivalent (Orange, long-life)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Issues:

Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifter/camshaft wear, transmission solenoid issues, HVAC blend door actuator failures, interior rattles/squeaks, potential for oil consumption in high-mileage engines.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Context:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing trucks, SUVs, and versatile vehicles known for their durability and utility.

First Generation Year:

2002

Second Generation Introduction:

2007 (GMT900 platform)

Manufacturing Location:

Janesville, Wisconsin, USA (ceased in 2009); Silao, Mexico (for later models)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Award:

Awarded for its innovative Midgate design in its first generation.

Edmunds Ratings:

Typically rated well for utility, comfort, and versatility by automotive review sites like Edmunds.