Market Position:
The Chevrolet Sonic is a subcompact car that competes in a highly competitive segment known for fuel efficiency, affordability, and practicality. This manual targets owners and independent repair shops looking to maintain and repair this vehicle.
Key Features:
Enables DIY repairs to save money, provides step-by-step instructions with pictures, offers comprehensive coverage of all systems and procedures, and is easily accessible on multiple devices.
Audience:
DIY car owners, amateur mechanics, and professional repair shops.
Coverage Areas:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types for the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic.
Page Count:
Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, electrical system, starting and charging, body electrical, climate control, brakes, steering, suspension, driveline, transmission (manual and automatic), wheels and tires, body and frame, interior components, exterior components, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting, and wiring diagrams.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, repairs, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component removal and installation, adjustments, specifications, testing procedures, and special tools.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Extensive troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-based diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for electrical components and circuits.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Transmission Overhaul:
Step-by-step guides for automatic and manual transmission inspection, repair, and overhaul.
Suspension And Steering:
Procedures for alignment, component replacement (struts, ball joints, tie rods), and steering system diagnostics.
Brake System:
Detailed instructions for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, hydraulic system bleeding, and ABS component testing.
Panel Replacement:
Guidance on removing and installing body panels, doors, fenders, and interior trim components.
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Searchable text for easy navigation and information retrieval.
Print Quality:
High-resolution, printable pages with clear diagrams and illustrations.
Computer Requirements:
Compatible with all PC and MAC computers, tablets, and mobile phones. Requires Adobe Reader (free download).
Illustrations:
High-quality illustrations, diagrams, and photographs to clarify procedures.
Step By Step:
Each procedure is broken down into easy-to-follow, numbered steps.
Primary Engine 1:
1.8L DOHC 4-cylinder Ecotec Engine
Primary Engine 2:
1.4L DOHC Turbocharged 4-cylinder Ecotec Engine
Horsepower 1.8L:
Approx. 138 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque 1.8L:
Approx. 125 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Horsepower 1.4L Turbo:
Approx. 138 hp @ 4900 rpm
Torque 1.4L Turbo:
Approx. 148 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-Port Injection (MPI) for 1.8L, Direct Injection (DI) for 1.4L Turbo.
Engine Code Identification
Engine Code Format:
VIN specific; common codes include LUV (1.4L Turbo) and LUW (1.8L).
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (M16/M22 for 1.8L)
Optional Transmission:
6-Speed Automatic (6T40)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:
Approx. 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) dry fill for 6T40.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GM Manual Transmission Fluid (GMW3078) or equivalent.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 99.4 inches (2525 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 159.7 inches (4056 mm) for Hatchback; 160.1 inches (4067 mm) for Sedan
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700-2900 lbs (1225-1315 kg) depending on configuration
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 19.7 cu ft (558 L) with rear seats up
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Approx. 13.7 cu ft (388 L)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Typically 4 or 5 stars (varies by year and specific test)
Airbags:
Standard: Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags. Available: Knee airbags.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Infotainment System:
Available MyLink infotainment system with touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports.
Audio System:
Optional premium audio systems with varying speaker counts.
Parking Assistance:
Available rear park assist sensors.
Phone Integration:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, available smartphone integration with MyLink.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed or typically every 45,000 miles (72,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect/replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement 1.8L:
Replace approximately every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tip plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement 1.4L Turbo:
Replace approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with specified plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 1.8L:
Approx. 4.7 quarts (4.4 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 1.4L Turbo:
Approx. 4.7 quarts (4.4 liters)
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346290 (or equivalent) Dex-Cool, OAT (Orange) Extended Life Coolant
Common Issues:
Potential issues include coolant leaks (water pump, thermostat housing), turbocharger issues (1.4L), ignition coil failures, and some electrical system glitches. Manual provides detailed diagnosis for these.
Brand Heritage:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing reliable and accessible vehicles, often targeting the mainstream consumer market.
Generation Sonic:
The 2015 Sonic is part of the first generation (introduced in 2012) and received a mid-cycle refresh for the 2017 model year. The 2015 model represents the pre-refresh iteration.
Manufacturing Location:
Lake Orion Assembly, Michigan, USA; also GM de Mexico, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, Mexico.
