🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

C4

Vin Code Engine:

8th digit for engine variant

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Chevrolet Corvette (C4 generation) in 1990 represented a significant evolution in American sports car performance and design, bridging the gap between raw power and more refined handling. It competed with European sports cars and established itself as an American icon.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Porsche 944, BMW M3 (E30), and other performance-oriented coupes of the era. The Corvette offered a unique blend of V8 power and accessible performance.

Features:

The 1990 model featured updated styling cues, improved interior ergonomics, and continued focus on performance. It was a rear-wheel-drive, front-engine sports car with a fiberglass composite body.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service Repair

Pages:

Extensive, detailed

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (e.g., PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, diagnosis, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (injection), exhaust system.

Transmission:

Automatic and Manual transmission repair, overhaul, diagnosis, fluids, and torque converter.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axles, CV joints, clutch (for manual).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, steering linkage.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic components, ABS system, brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting system, power windows, mirrors, seats, horn, interior electronics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Body Interior:

Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, seats, dashboard, door panels, carpeting.

Body Exterior:

Bodywork, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, weatherstripping, paint codes (typically not detailed in service manuals).

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, compressor, evaporator, condenser.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

Emission Control:

Emission control systems, catalytic converter, EGR system, PCV system.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components and systems.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures.

Diagnostics:

Fault finding, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing.

Calibration Adjustment:

Alignment procedures, idle speed adjustments, timing adjustments (if applicable).

Specification Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Quality:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Downloadable Format)

Paper:

N/A (Downloadable Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Displacement:

5.7 L (350 cubic inches)

Engine Code:

L98 (Standard)

Horsepower:

245 hp @ 4400 rpm (L98)

Torque:

345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (L98)

Engine Variant:

ZR-1 Model: 5.7L LT5 V8, DOHC, 32-valve (375 hp)

Injection Type:

Bosch Tuned Port Injection (TPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)

Oil Capacity:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter (refer to manual for exact capacity)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 13 US quarts (12.3 liters) (refer to manual for exact capacity)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (700R4 / 4L60)

Type:

6-Speed Manual (ZF S6-40)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (Automatic), Manual Transmission Fluid (Manual - consult manual for spec)

Torque Converter Stall Speed:

Varies by application, important for performance tuning.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

178.3 inches (4529 mm)

Width:

71.3 inches (1811 mm)

Height:

46.4 inches (1179 mm)

Wheelbase:

96.2 inches (2443 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3200-3400 lbs (1451-1542 kg), varies by option

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult manual for specific GVWR

Cargo Volume Rear:

Approx. 15.0 cubic feet (rear compartment)

Cargo Volume Front:

Approx. 3.4 cubic feet (front compartment)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

Era-specific safety ratings; refer to NHTSA/IIHS data for the period if available. The C4 Corvette featured a focus on chassis rigidity.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners.

Rollover Protection:

Integrated roll bar structure behind seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim and options.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control with electronic displays.

Cruise Control:

Standard feature.

Instrumentation:

Digital dashboard with LCD readouts for speed, RPM, fuel, oil pressure, coolant temp, etc. (prone to failure in early models). Analog gauges for some functions.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on in-car entertainment and basic vehicle functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (consult manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, consult manual for manual transmission intervals.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendation.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for exact specification and viscosity based on ambient temperature).

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid (P/N 1050001) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3.

Common Problems:

Early C4 models can experience issues with the Digital Dashboard, HVAC system (blend doors), fuel pressure regulator, and sometimes valve guide sealing (smoking on startup). The L98 engine's restrictive iron heads can limit top-end power compared to later aluminum heads.

Common Problems Zr1:

ZR-1 specific issues can involve the LT5 engine's complex design, including potential for Lotus-engineered engine components and specific maintenance requirements.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

The Chevrolet Corvette, America's Sports Car, has a rich history dating back to 1953, evolving through distinct generations, each pushing the boundaries of performance and style.

C4 Generation Start:

The C4 generation debuted for the 1984 model year, representing a significant departure from the C3 with a completely new chassis, exterior, and interior design.

C4 Mid Cycle Updates:

The 1990 model year saw several key updates, including the introduction of the high-performance ZR-1 variant and a revised interior with improved ergonomics and materials.

Production Location:

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA

Production Years C4:

1984-1996

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

Corvette has historically received numerous awards from automotive publications for performance and design. Specific awards for the 1990 model would be documented in automotive history resources.

Performance Ratings:

Widely recognized for its performance capabilities, acceleration, and handling within its class.

Manufacturing Certifications:

N/A for the vehicle itself as an award.