Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery (EFI), exhaust system.
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (ECU, sensors, actuators), emissions control systems (EGR, O2 sensors), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), on-board diagnostics (OBD-I).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox assembly, gear selection, shift linkages, overhaul procedures, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, hydraulic control system, shift control, overhaul procedures, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) layout, driveshafts, CV joints, differential (integrated with transaxle).
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (Multi-link beam axle for GV, independent for GE), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses), steering column, linkage, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes (depending on trim/market), hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (where equipped), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, washers.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention, corrosion control.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser), heating system, blower motor, climate controls, cabin filter replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, testing of electrical components, sensor readings, common problems and solutions.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, radiator replacement, steering rack replacement.
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including component locations and wire routing.
Specifications Torques:
Engine torque specifications, suspension bolt torques, wheel lug nut torque, and other critical tightening specifications.
Wheel Alignment:
Front and rear wheel alignment specifications (camber, caster, toe) for various models and configurations.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Designed for professional technicians, but accessible to experienced DIY mechanics.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed procedures for diagnosing engine performance, electrical faults, and mechanical issues using common diagnostic tools and techniques of the era.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain repairs, though most procedures can be accomplished with standard automotive tools.
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm) (GE Sedan/Coupe), 104.3 inches (2649 mm) (GV Wagon)
Length:
Varies by body style and market, approximately 180-185 inches (4572-4699 mm)
Width:
Varies by body style and market, approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Varies by body style and market, approximately 54.5-56.0 inches (1384-1422 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2800-3300 lbs (1270-1500 kg) depending on engine and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly provided in product info, but typically around 4000-4300 lbs.
Trunk Capacity:
Varies by body style, typically around 14-15 cubic feet for sedans.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km), depending on coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Automatic: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as specified by dealer.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for standard spark plugs; platinum or iridium plugs (if applicable) would have longer intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: The FS-DE and KF-ZE engines use timing belts. Replacement is typically recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years, as failure can cause catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on climate. Refer to manual for precise grades.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter change for 2.0L; slightly more for 2.5L V6.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II/III or equivalent ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III or equivalent ATF or specified power steering fluid.
Common Engine Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket. Potential for distributor issues. Ignition coil failure can cause misfires. Timing belt service is critical.
Common Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission shifting issues or delays. Manual clutch wear. CV joint boot failure leading to joint wear.
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, and strut mounts can lead to noise and poor handling. Rear multi-link components can also wear.
Common Electrical Issues:
Degradation of wiring harnesses, particularly around the engine bay. Alternator and starter motor wear. Power window motor failures.
Common Corrosion Issues:
Rust can be a significant issue on older vehicles, particularly in the rocker panels, wheel wells, and rear quarter panels, especially in rust-belt regions.
Common HVAC Issues:
AC system leaks, blower motor resistor failure, and clogged heater cores.