Segment:
Compact Car / Entry-Level Sedan and Coupe.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, and Chevrolet Cavalier.
Selling Points:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, sporty styling (especially coupe variants), and a range of available powertrains for its class.
Coverage:
Operation, maintenance, safety features, basic troubleshooting, controls, convenience items.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 150-200 pages (typical for this era's owner's manuals).
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system basics.
Chassis:
Brake system operation, steering system basics, suspension system overview.
Electrical:
Lighting controls, instrument cluster, dashboard indicators, power accessories, basic fuse identification.
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC controls, seating adjustments, interior trim operation, door locks, power windows, audio system operation.
Safety:
Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraint system installation guidelines.
Driving Controls:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, parking brake operation, driving tips.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning recommendations, fuel recommendations.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic procedures for common minor issues (e.g., flat tire, dead battery).
Depth:
Owner-level information for day-to-day use and basic upkeep. Does not include diagnostic codes, detailed repair procedures, or component-level schematics.
Compatibility:
Readable and printable on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
Resolution:
Designed for clarity and readability when printed from a PDF.
Type:
Digital (PDF) - Not applicable for physical binding.
Type:
Digital (PDF) - Not applicable for physical paper type.
Displacement:
2.4L (2392 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder (I4), DOHC, 16-valve.
Horsepower:
150 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly)
Torque:
155 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly)
Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher.
Base Engine:
2.2L Ecotec (L42), 4-Cylinder, SOHC, 12-valve, ~115 hp. Often found in base models.
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag F23).
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4T40-E).
Automatic Features:
Overdrive gear for fuel efficiency, electronic controls.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF is often spec'd for manual transaxles in this era GM vehicles, check manual for exact spec. (e.g., GM P/N 88902304).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF. (e.g., GM P/N 88902304).
Wheelbase:
101.3 inches (2573 mm).
Length:
174.7 inches (4437 mm) for coupe, 176.5 inches (4483 mm) for sedan.
Width:
67.3 inches (1709 mm).
Height:
53.9 inches (1370 mm) for coupe, 54.2 inches (1377 mm) for sedan.
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 13.0 cubic feet.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2700-2900 lbs (1225-1315 kg), varies by body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically listed in owner's manuals, but generally around 3700-3900 lbs.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3 stars (for 1998 models, typically for coupes).
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some trims.
Traction Control:
Not typically standard; may have been an option on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, with driver's side pretensioner.
Child Restraint:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard, typically uses seat belts for child seat installation.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Limited display capabilities.
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4 speakers (front doors and rear parcel shelf).
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on some trim levels.
Aux Input:
Not available. Aftermarket solutions exist.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights, with manual aiming adjustments.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically rated for 100,000 miles (e.g., AC Delco 41-993).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API Service SG or higher. Capacity: ~4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Coolant:
GM Type I or Type II antifreeze/coolant (or equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: ~6.5-7.0 quarts (6.2-6.6 L).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Issues like engine oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), transmission shifting problems (especially automatic), cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), and exhaust system rust can be common for vehicles of this age and platform. The 2.4L engine could experience intake manifold gasket leaks.
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was known for its performance-oriented and youthful image within General Motors, often offering sportier versions of mainstream models.
Sunfire Lineage:
The Sunfire replaced the Pontiac Sunbird and was part of GM's strategy to differentiate its brands using updated platforms and styling, sharing components with the Chevrolet Cavalier.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily assembled in Lordstown, Ohio, USA, and Ramos Arizpe, Mexico.
Production Years:
1995-2005 (as the Sunfire).
