🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

GMC

Model:

Sonoma

Year:

1996

Generation Code:

Second Generation (S-10 based)

Generation Years:

1994-1997

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Vehicle Owners, DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians

Advantage:

Direct replacement for dealership-used manuals, offering vehicle-specific, comprehensive repair information

Convenience:

Single, easy-to-use PDF manual; print only needed pages; no more greasy, torn paper manuals

Efficiency:

Saves time by providing all necessary information in one place; facilitates efficient repair process

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Models and All Repairs A-Z

Specificity:

Vehicle Specific (Not Generic)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies (Factory Manuals are typically extensive, often 1000+ pages)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Accessibility Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (Free Online)

Compatibility:

Windows Vista (32 & 64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000; Mac compatible

Download Speed:

Speed Download (Indicates efficient file delivery)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension

Chassis:

Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering

Body & Electrical:

Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/ CAN Communication

Repair Procedures:

Complete Step-by-Step Instructions for Diagnosis, Maintenance, Service, and Repair

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic Procedures for All Systems

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance Procedures

Troubleshooting Guides:

Includes diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting steps for various issues.

Depth Of Information:

Factory Highly Detailed

Illustrations And Diagrams:

Diagrams, Illustrations, Wiring Schematics

Technical Data:

Specifications (including Fuel Service Specifications)

Wiring Schematics Detail:

Detailed and specific wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

All pages are printable

Enhancement:

Images can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF - No physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - No physical paper)

Searchability:

Implied by PDF format, allowing for text search (if OCRed)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1:

2.2L 4-Cylinder (RPO L44)

Engine Options 2:

4.3L V6 (RPO L35, Vortec)

Horsepower 2.2L:

Approximately 118 hp

Torque 2.2L:

Approximately 130 lb-ft

Horsepower 4.3L:

Approximately 160-170 hp (depending on specific L35 variant)

Torque 4.3L:

Approximately 230-240 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery 2.2L:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Delivery 4.3L:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) - Vortec design

4 Cylinder Code:

RPO L44

V6 Code:

RPO L35 (Vortec)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (NV1500 or similar)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

Transfer Case:

Available with 2WD or 4WD (with transfer case)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab

Bed Lengths:

Short Bed (approx. 6.2 ft), Long Bed (approx. 7.4 ft)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,000 - 3,800 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

N/A (Ratings not consistently available for this era/model in current databases)

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard

Seatbelts:

Front seat belts with shoulder belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on many models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily analog systems. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specifications).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended at 30,000-60,000 miles, especially for automatic transmissions (refer to manual for exact specifications).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 for the 4.3L V6; 5W-30 for the 2.2L 4-cylinder (refer to manual for precise specification).

Coolant Type:

GM 'Blue' or Dex-Cool compatible coolant (ethylene glycol based) is generally recommended for this era, but specific manual confirmation is advised.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid (ATF)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity and rating)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III ATF

Common Complaints 1:

Rear main seal leaks on V6 engines.

Common Complaints 2:

Suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to vehicle weight and usage.

Common Complaints 3:

Catalytic converter issues, especially on higher mileage vehicles.

Common Complaints 4:

Power window regulator failures (if equipped).

📚 Vehicle History

Gmc Legacy:

GMC has a long history of producing trucks and commercial vehicles, known for durability and capability.

Sonoma Positioning:

The Sonoma was GMC's compact pickup truck, positioned as a slightly more upscale or work-oriented alternative to its Chevrolet S-10 counterpart.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily assembled in North America (e.g., Shreveport, Louisiana; Moraine, Ohio)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While specific 'Truck of the Year' awards for the 1996 Sonoma are not prominently documented, the platform shared with the Chevrolet S-10 often received positive reviews for its utility and refinement for its class at the time.