Positioning:
The 1996 Corvette C4 represented the pinnacle of the C4 generation, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology for its era, making it a desirable performance car for enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Ford Mustang Cobra, Dodge Viper RT/10, Porsche 911 Carrera (993), BMW M3 (E36), Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo.
Performance:
Powerful V8 engines, refined handling, aerodynamic design, available manual transmission for engaging driving experience.
Value Proposition:
This manual provides comprehensive, dealer-level repair information, enabling owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving significant costs and ensuring proper upkeep of a performance vehicle.
Coverage:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types for the 1996 Chevrolet Corvette C4.
Page Count:
Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive GM service manuals of this era, actual number may vary based on digital format).
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (LT4 V8, LT1 V8), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (4-speed automatic 4L60-E, 6-speed manual ZF S6-40).
Chassis:
Suspension (Independent front and rear), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (4-wheel Anti-lock Disc Brakes).
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC Controls, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnostics.
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Convertible Top (if applicable).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common drivability issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0xxx, P1xxx, P2xxx, P3xxx, using scan tools, circuit testing.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul and rebuild, transmission overhaul and repair, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, steering system repairs, electrical component replacement.
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter motor, water pump, fuel pump, radiators, air conditioning components, master cylinder, calipers, sensors, ECUs.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Code:
LT1 (standard), LT4 (optional, Grand Sport and Collector Edition)
Engine Type:
V8, Overhead Valve (OHV), Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Lt1 Horsepower:
300 hp @ 5000 rpm
Lt1 Torque:
335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Lt4 Horsepower:
330 hp @ 5800 rpm
Lt4 Torque:
340 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
ECU Type:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (4L60-E)
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual (ZF S6-40)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, overdrive, torque converter lock-up.
Manual Features:
Close-ratio gearing, performance-oriented clutch.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid (or equivalent high-quality manual transmission fluid)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA under current methodology, but equipped with safety features of its era.
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Disc Brakes
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Integral roll cage structure within the chassis and windshield frame.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD player (optional), power antenna.
Climate Control:
Automatic Digital Climate Control (optional) with dual-zone temperature settings.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
OBD Ii:
Introduced OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliance for improved emissions monitoring and diagnostic capabilities.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or as recommended based on tire wear.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 quarts (with filter) for LT1/LT4.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or SAE 10W-30, meeting GM standard GM6094M.
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 10504065 (Dex-Cool) or equivalent orange ethylene glycol coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Cooling System Leaks:
Common leaks from radiator, water pump seals, and heater core. Regular inspection and coolant level checks are vital.
Optispark Failures:
The Opti-Spark distributor system (especially early versions) is prone to failure due to moisture intrusion, leading to misfires and poor running conditions. Manual provides diagnostic procedures.
Electronics Gremlins:
Like many vehicles of this era, can experience intermittent electrical issues due to aging components, wiring harness fatigue, or ground connections. Comprehensive electrical diagrams are crucial.
Brake Component Wear:
Brake rotors and pads can wear prematurely with spirited driving. The ABS system requires careful bleeding procedures.
Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long-standing legacy in motorsports and performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car for over six decades.
C4 Evolution:
The C4 generation, produced from 1984 to 1996, saw significant advancements in aerodynamics, handling, braking, and engine technology, culminating in the 1996 models with updated styling and increased power.
Production Years:
1984-1996
Manufacturing Location:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
1996 Special Editions:
Grand Sport (GS) and Collector Edition (CE), both featuring the LT4 engine and unique styling cues.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Corvette C4, in various forms throughout its run, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists for performance and value.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While the C4 generation did not win MotorTrend Car of the Year, it was a strong contender and consistently recognized for its performance.
Automotive Journalism Reviews:
Consistently praised for its handling dynamics, braking performance, and the introduction of the LT4 engine in its final year.
