Segment:
Full-size pickup truck/SUV hybrid (Sport Utility Truck - SUT).
Competitors:
Ford F-150 SuperCrew, Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab, Toyota Tundra Double Cab, Cadillac Escalade EXT.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Innovative Midgate (pass-through between cabin and bed), versatile cargo bed, robust heavy-duty capability of the 2500 series, towing and hauling prowess.
Primary Coverage:
2004 Chevrolet Avalanche 2500
Secondary Coverage:
Mechanically similar components on other GMT800 platform vehicles (e.g., Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe) where applicable, though specific body and features may differ.
Estimated Pages:
Thousands (comprehensive digital format)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
PDF Download (digital access)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions, exhaust, transmission (automatic), transfer case (4WD models), driveline components (axles, driveshafts, CV joints).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (ABS, hydraulic, parking brake), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, wipers, horns, body control modules, chassis control modules, powertrain control modules (PCM).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, operation, and repair.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, tailgate, Midgate, bumpers, glass, seats, restraints (airbags, seatbelts).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspection procedures.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical testing procedures, component testing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, pressure readings.
Depth:
Comprehensive: covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repairs.
Engine Code:
LM7 (common for 5.3L V8), L59 (for E85 compatible 5.3L V8), LQ4 (common for 6.0L V8), LQ9 (performance 6.0L V8)
Displacement:
Typically 5.3L (323 cu in) or 6.0L (366 cu in) V8 Vortec engines.
Horsepower 5 3L:
Approx. 295 hp @ 5200 rpm (LM7/L59)
Torque 5 3L:
Approx. 335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (LM7/L59)
Horsepower 6 0L:
Approx. 300 hp @ 4400 rpm (LQ4), Approx. 325 hp @ 5200 rpm (LQ9)
Torque 6 0L:
Approx. 370 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (LQ4), Approx. 370 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (LQ9)
Fuel Injection:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), Returnless Fuel System.
Configuration:
Vortec V8, Overhead Valve (OHV), Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Cylinder Heads.
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (4L65E for 5.3L, 4L80E for 6.0L).
Optional Transmission:
N/A (4-speed automatic was standard for 2500 model).
Transmission Features:
Electronic transmission control, Tow/Haul mode, Engine braking capability.
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Full-Time All-Wheel Drive (StabiliTrak, Autotrac 4WD).
Length:
Approx. 227.5 inches
Width:
Approx. 79.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 75.9 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 143.5 inches
Curb Weight:
Approx. 5,800 - 6,200 lbs (varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 8,600 lbs
Bed Length With Midgate Closed:
Approx. 50.6 inches
Bed Length With Midgate Open:
Approx. 97.1 inches
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger (for model year 2004)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-Star Front Passenger, 4-Star Rear Passenger (for model year 2004)
Traction Control:
Available StabiliTrak (integrated with ABS/TCS)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, available side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts for all occupants, integrated head restraints.
Audio System:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Bose premium sound system, steering wheel mounted audio controls.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Onstar:
Available OnStar in-vehicle safety and communication system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to owner's manual for precise recommendations).
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years for Dex-Cool coolant.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended for better performance and protection).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6 quarts (323 cu in 5.3L), Approx. 7 quarts (366 cu in 6.0L).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or Dexron-VI if available and compatible) Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346993 (Orange) or equivalent (Dex-Cool compatible Extended Life).
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, catalytic converters, fuel pump modules, ABS sensors, transmission cooler lines.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some Vortec V8 engines can exhibit increased oil consumption over time, especially if not maintained with quality oil and filters.
Transmission Slipping:
The 4L60E/4L65E transmission can develop slipping issues if fluid is not maintained or if subjected to heavy towing without proper cooling.
Chevrolet Truck Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century. The Avalanche built upon this by integrating truck utility with SUV comfort.
First Generation Launch:
The Chevrolet Avalanche was introduced for the 2002 model year, based on the GMT800 platform shared with the Chevrolet Silverado pickup and Chevrolet Suburban/Tahoe SUVs.
Production Location:
Silao, Guanajuato, Mexico (Primary manufacturing plant for GMT800 SUVs and Avalanche).
Production Years:
First Generation: 2002-2006.
Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:
While the Avalanche itself didn't win Truck of the Year in 2004, the GMT800 platform it was based on was highly regarded, and sibling models often received accolades.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Variable; early models sometimes had mixed reliability ratings, particularly concerning electronics and certain drivetrain components. The 2500 series generally offered better mechanical robustness.
