🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Chevy SSR

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

GMT305 (shared with TrailBlazer, Rainier, Envoy, etc.)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Niche, lifestyle-oriented pickup truck with a distinctive retro-modern styling, targeting a segment seeking a unique and performance-oriented personal vehicle rather than a traditional work truck.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against custom trucks, niche sports cars, and premium convertibles. Lacked direct competitors due to its unique configuration. Key differentiators included its retractable hardtop roof and V8 engine options.

Key Features:

Retractable hardtop convertible roof, rear-wheel-drive platform, powerful V8 engines, distinctive styling, rear-opening tailgate, available in two distinct trim levels (base and luxury).

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Mechanical, Electrical, Body, Chassis, Powertrain, HVAC, Safety Systems

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for a complete factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, possibly image-based)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, fuel & emissions, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting & charging, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust, chassis electrical, HVAC, body & paint, interior, restraints, diagnostics & troubleshooting

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled inspections, component removal/installation, diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, specifications, torque values, rebuild procedures, fluid capacities, special tool requirements, alignment procedures

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Searchable text and high-resolution images)

Print Quality:

High resolution, clear diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.2L Vortec I6 (Atlas)

Engine Displacement Liters:

4.2

Engine Code:

LL8

Engine Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24-valve

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Aluminum

Horsepower I6:

270 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque I6 Lbft:

285 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm

Optional Engine:

5.3L Vortec V8 (LM7)

Optional Engine Displacement Liters:

5.3

Optional Engine Code:

LM7

Horsepower V8:

300 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque V8 Lbft:

315 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Technology:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)

Fuel System:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Notes:

The Vortec 4200 (LL8) and Vortec 5300 (LM7) are well-regarded for their durability and power delivery. Engine management is handled by the GM PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (4L60-E)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Manual (M32 - rare, primarily for early 2004 production, but manual availability for 2005 is limited and typically not advertised as standard).

Transmission Features:

Electronic overdrive, torque converter lock-up, sport mode programming.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III or Dexron-VI compatible fluid (refer to manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 11.5 US quarts (10.9 liters) for a complete refill.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

192.4 inches (4887 mm)

Overall Width:

77.0 inches (1956 mm)

Overall Height:

66.2 inches (1681 mm)

Wheelbase:

117.5 inches (2985 mm)

Front Track:

65.2 inches (1656 mm)

Rear Track:

66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Bed Length:

45.1 inches (1146 mm)

Bed Width At Wheelwells:

36.2 inches (919 mm)

Bed Width At Top:

58.1 inches (1476 mm)

Curb Weight I6:

4,778 lbs (2,167 kg)

Curb Weight V8:

4,839 lbs (2,195 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

6,393 lbs (2,900 kg)

Towing Capacity:

5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)

Payload Capacity:

1,100 lbs (499 kg) approx.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-Star (for 2004 model year, likely consistent for 2005)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-Star (for 2004 model year, likely consistent for 2005)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Acceptable (for 2004 model year, likely consistent for 2005)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS)

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, available seatbelt load limiters

Chassis Safety Features:

Integrated body-frame structure for improved rigidity and crash protection.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound system, optional in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Display:

Digital clock, basic display for radio and climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, rear park assist (optional on some trims).

Connectivity Options:

OnStar communications system (subscription-based, may be deactivated).

Convenience Features:

Power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, heated power mirrors, automatic climate control (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil, consult manual for conventional).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement I6:

Platinum tipped plugs typically good for 100,000 miles. Consult manual for specific type and interval.

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Platinum tipped plugs typically good for 100,000 miles. Consult manual for specific type and interval.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SM or higher, GM dexos1 approved)

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter change for 4.2L I6; 7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters) with filter change for 5.3L V8.

Coolant Specification:

GM P/N 12346993 (Orange, Long Life)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

GM P/N 12345284 (Dexron VI compatible)

Known Issues:

Rear differential pinion seal leaks, occasional coolant leaks from water pump or thermostat housing, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, convertible top mechanism electrical faults, potential for exhaust manifold cracks on V8 engines.

Body Issues:

Paint chipping (especially on front fascia and hood), door panel fitment issues, potential for water leaks around the convertible top seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing trucks and performance vehicles, known for their V8 engines and robust engineering.

Model Evolution:

The SSR (Super Sport Roadster) was a limited-production specialty vehicle designed to evoke the spirit of post-war American sports cars and hot rods, with a unique retractable hardtop and pickup bed combination. It was first shown as a concept in 2000 and production began in 2003 for the 2004 model year.

Production Years:

2004-2006

Manufacturing Location:

Lansing, Michigan, USA (Lansing Craft Center)

Production Notes:

The SSR was produced in limited numbers each year, contributing to its collectible status. 2005 saw the introduction of the more powerful 5.3L V8 as an option.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not a primary award winner, the SSR was recognized for its unique styling and concept. It appeared on many 'coolest cars' lists during its production run.

Ratings:

Consumer satisfaction varied, with some praising its unique design and performance, while others critiqued its practicality and price point.