Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan/coupe, focused on comfort and practicality for families and individuals.
Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Dodge Intrepid, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima.
Features:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, V6 engine options, front-wheel drive.
Coverage Scope:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (detailed coverage implies several hundred pages)
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, drivetrain (FWD), differential.
Chassis:
Brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc depending on trim), steering system, suspension system (front MacPherson strut, rear independent), wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system, starting system, instrument panel, body control modules, power windows, power locks, audio system, climate control.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, body exterior, underbody coatings.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, tire rotation.
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), brake pad/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (e.g., ball joints, tie rods), exhaust system repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation (for OBD-I/OBD-II systems if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting.
Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper overhaul.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and diagnostics.
Engine Type:
3.8L (231 cu in) V6 OHV
Bore X Stroke:
3.80 in x 3.40 in (96.5 mm x 86.4 mm)
Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)
Engine Code:
L32 (Supercharged)
Engine Type:
3.8L (231 cu in) Supercharged V6 OHV
Horsepower:
240 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (based on similar GM vehicles of the era)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (based on similar GM vehicles of the era)
ABS:
Standard on most models, check specific trim
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point, rear 3-point and lap belts
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, premium sound system available on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, especially with the supercharged engine.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II compliant (16-pin connector) for 1996 models.
Oil Change Interval:
3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific mileage/conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (if using platinum or iridium plugs)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III ATF (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based (e.g., Dex-Cool or green traditional)
Engine Problems:
Head gasket leaks on 3.1L V6 (less common on 3.8L), intake manifold gasket leaks (3.1L), occasional starter solenoid issues.
Transmission Problems:
Overheating, worn torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid, and general wear on the 4T60-E transmission.
Electrical Problems:
Faulty body control modules (BCM), power window regulators, and intermittent dash light issues.
Suspension Problems:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts leading to noise and alignment issues.
Brand Context:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM), has a long history of producing American sedans and family vehicles.
Model Lineage:
The Lumina was part of GM's successful W-body platform, which also underpinned vehicles like the Pontiac Grand Prix, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, and Buick Regal. The second generation (1995-2001) featured a more rounded styling and improved aerodynamics.
Production Location:
Oshawa Car Assembly, Ontario, Canada
