Vehicle Class:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Individuals and small businesses seeking a versatile, compact utility vehicle for work and recreation.
Primary Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Dodge Dakota, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody/Frontier.
Practicality:
Renowned for its ruggedness and practicality in a smaller, more maneuverable package than full-size trucks.
Engine Options:
Offered a range of reliable and fuel-efficient 4-cylinder and V6 engines.
Trim Levels Covered:
All 1998 GMC Sonoma trim levels (e.g., SL, SLS, SLE, GT).
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 200-250 pages (typical for this era's owner manuals).
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
Printed Booklet (original equipment).
Powertrain Controls:
Engine operation, ignition system overview, fuel system basics, emission controls.
Chassis Systems:
Braking system operation, steering system overview, suspension components.
Electrical Systems:
Lighting system, instrument panel and controls, audio system, basic electrical component identification.
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC system, power windows/locks, interior features, seating adjustments.
Regular Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic care instructions.
Driving Operations:
Starting and operating the vehicle, gear selection, parking, towing information.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, changing a flat tire, operating hazard lights, safe breakdown procedures.
Maintenance Scheduling:
Recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections based on mileage and time.
Dashboard Indicators:
Explanation of warning lights and their meaning.
Fuse And Bulb Replacement:
Basic guidance on locating and replacing fuses and common exterior/interior bulbs.
Depth Of Coverage:
Owner-level operational and basic maintenance information. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions.
Troubleshooting Scope:
Basic troubleshooting for common driver-solvable issues (e.g., battery dead, tire flat, overheating).
File Format For Digital:
N/A (Original is printed, but digital copies would typically be PDF).
Print Quality:
Standard factory print quality, clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
Stapled or glued spine, designed for dashboard storage.
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock to withstand regular use.
Base Engine:
2.2L (134 cu in) L420 I4
Base Engine Horsepower:
118 hp @ 4800 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
130 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
V6 Engine Horsepower:
156 hp @ 4400 rpm (Vortec 4300)
V6 Engine Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (Vortec 4300)
Optional Engine 1:
2.2L (134 cu in) L420 I4 (later versions may have slightly different output)
Optional Engine 2:
4.3L (262 cu in) Vortec 4300 V6
Fuel Injection:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Regular Octane (87 AKI)
Base Engine Code:
L420 (2.2L SOHC I4)
V6 Engine Code:
Vortec 4300 (4.3L OHV V6)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:
Likely 4-star (typical for vehicles of this era, though specific tests may vary).
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Rating:
Likely 4-star (typical for vehicles of this era).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard on rear wheels, optional or standard on all four depending on trim and options.
Daytime Running Lights:
Typically optional or standard depending on trim and region.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts, two-point lap belts for rear occupants (if applicable).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ rated oil. Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 recommended for most operating temperatures (refer to manual for precise chart).
Coolant Type:
GM Type 1 or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, typically green).
Engine Oil Capacity 4Cyl:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter (2.2L I4).
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter (4.3L V6).
Common Issues I4 Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, occasional ignition coil failures, EGR valve issues.
Common Issues V6 Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (common on Vortec V6s), oil pressure sensor issues, spider injection system issues (less common on '98 models, more on later ones).
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, power steering pump leaks.
Common Issues Electrical:
Instrument cluster gauge failures, blower motor resistor failure, window regulator issues.
Gmc Truck Legacy:
GMC has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, often positioned as a premium or professional-grade offering from General Motors.
Sonoma Introduction:
The Sonoma nameplate was introduced for the 1991 model year, replacing the GMC S-15 pickup. It shared its platform and many components with the Chevrolet S-10.
Second Generation Update:
The 1998 model year marked the introduction of the second generation of the Sonoma (and S-10), featuring a completely redesigned exterior and interior, including a more aerodynamic and rounded styling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Assembly plants included Shreveport, Louisiana; Linden, New Jersey; and Moraine, Ohio.
