Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, emission controls.
Engine Performance:
Diagnosis and repair of engine performance issues, drivability concerns, component testing, troubleshooting charts.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission service, overhaul, component identification, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM), fluid changes, diagnosis.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission service, overhaul, clutch system, gearshift linkage, diagnosis.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) components, drive axles, CV joints, wheel bearings, differential.
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (torsion beam axle, shock absorbers), wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion), steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, diagnosis.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads, rotors), parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis, hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
12-volt battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system, horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, exterior trim, underbody protection, frame alignment, rust repair.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control panel, diagnosis.
Interior:
Dashboard removal, instrument cluster, seats, interior trim panels, airbags, seat belts, audio system, navigation (if equipped).
ECM PCM:
Engine Control Module (ECM) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnosis, programming, wiring diagrams, sensor inputs and outputs.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and repair across all vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon vehicle problems, often with detailed flowcharts.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosing electrical faults.
Diagnostic Charts:
Troubleshooting tables correlating symptoms with potential causes and diagnostic steps.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Detailed technical specifications, measurements, clearances, and torque values for all components.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete system overhauls. Professional technician level detail.
Diagnostic Capability:
In-depth diagnostic procedures for all electronic control units (ECUs) and sensor systems.
Repair Complexity:
Covers all repair procedures, from simple bulb replacements to complex engine rebuilds and bodywork.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic oil (consult manual for specific engine/oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 150,000 miles (240,000 km) or 10 years for Dex-Cool coolant (GM P/N 12346132, coolant type is crucial).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified) for most engines. Consult manual for exact specification and API service category.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron VI (GM P/N 88861123 or 19250866) for 4-speed automatic transmission.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Problems:
Interior trim rattles, occasional electrical gremlins (window regulators, power locks), catalytic converter failure, clutch wear (manual transmission), piston slap in some 2.2L engines.
Ss Specific Issues:
Turbocharger cooling system issues, clutch upgrades may be needed for spirited driving on SS models.