Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics, engine management systems (ECM/PCM)
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Transmission:
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Automatic transmission service and repair (e.g., 4T80-E), hydraulic controls, electronic controls, torque converter, fluid and filter changes, internal component overhaul
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Drivetrain:
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Front-wheel drive axles, CV joints, differential, driveshaft, wheel bearings
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Suspension:
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Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (control arms, springs, shock absorbers), air suspension system (if equipped), wheel alignment procedures
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Brakes:
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Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, parking brake, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures
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Steering:
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Power steering system, steering column, steering rack/gearbox, power steering fluid
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Electrical:
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Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, power seats, instrument cluster, body control modules (BCM), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
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HVAC:
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Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, climate control module diagnostics
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Body:
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Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement, weatherstripping
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Chassis:
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Frame, subframes, mounting points
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Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
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OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) codes and troubleshooting procedures
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake pad replacement
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Diagnostics:
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Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems and symptoms
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Repair:
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Detailed instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation
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Rebuild:
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Engine and transmission overhaul procedures (where applicable)
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Installation:
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Replacement of major components and systems
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures
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Detail Level:
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Includes torque specifications, electrical schematics, diagnostic trouble tree charts, and component tolerances.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil.
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Transmission Fluid Change:
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Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on driving conditions and fluid condition.
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Coolant Flush:
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Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles (48,000 to 80,000 km) or 2-4 years.
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Spark Plugs:
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Refer to manual; typically around 100,000 miles for modern platinum or iridium plugs.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil:
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SAE 3.8L V6: SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Synthetic Blend. Consult manual for specific viscosity index.
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Coolant:
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GM P/N 12346290 (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool (extended life) coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
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Power Steering Fluid:
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GM P/N 12345679 or equivalent Dexron III/VI ATF
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Brake Fluid:
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DOT 3
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Known Issues
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Lower Intake Manifold Gaskets:
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Leaking gaskets, especially on the L36 3800 Series II, can lead to coolant leaks or internal coolant contamination.
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Power Steering Pump:
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Premature failure of the power steering pump or leaks from hoses is common.
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Window Regulators:
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Plastic components in power window regulators can fail, leading to windows not operating.
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Fuel Pump:
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Anecdotal reports of fuel pump failures over time.
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Air Suspension:
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If equipped with optional air suspension, compressor, air springs, or lines can fail, leading to 'sagging'.
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