🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Impala

Model Years Covered:

1994, 1995, 1996

Platform:

GM W-Body (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Chevrolet Impala owners seeking to maintain or repair their vehicles.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level technical information in an accessible digital format, enabling users to perform repairs with confidence and reduce reliance on professional mechanics.

Documentation Quality:

Factory-level detail, step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications.

Format Advantage:

Single, easy-to-use PDF manual eliminating the need to search multiple sources; printable pages for convenient use in the workshop.

Illustrations Diagrams:

Rich with illustrations, diagrams, and step-by-step visual guides for clarity in repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Maintenance, Repair, Diagnosis

Scope:

All Models, All Repairs A-Z

Diagnostic Tools:

Details procedures for using diagnostic tools (OBD-I and early OBD-II for 1996) for troubleshooting.

Specifications Detail:

Includes torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and electrical resistance values.

Estimated Page Count:

High (Exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Factory Equivalent)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

Digital Features:

Printable pages, zoomable images, searchable text (implied by PDF format)

Download Speed:

Fast Download

Accessibility:

Easy-to-use, with no need to flip through multiple physical books.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (all aspects), Fuel System, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case, Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle

Chassis:

Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake Systems, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering

Body & Interior:

Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Locks, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seats, Engine Hood/Doors, Exterior & Interior Trim

Electrical:

Complete Electrical System, Wiring Schematics, Multiplex/CAN Communication

Powertrain Control:

Engine Control Module (ECM) operation and diagnosis.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic troubleshooting and diagnosis for all components and systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Regular maintenance schedules and procedures.

Repair Procedures:

Complete step-by-step repair instructions for all vehicle systems.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.

Component Replacement:

Detailed guides for replacing individual components like alternators, starters, fuel pumps, brake calipers, etc.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, equivalent to dealership technician manuals.

Information Type:

Vehicle-specific, not generic information.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free online)

Printability:

Fully printable pages.

Image Scalability:

Images can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Operating Systems:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.4L (3400 SFI V6) and 3.8L (3800 Series I V6, including Supercharged option for Police/Performance models)

3.4L V6 Horsepower (Estimated):

160 hp @ 4700 rpm

3.4L V6 Torque (Estimated):

205 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

3.8L V6 Horsepower (Estimated):

170 hp @ 4800 rpm

3.8L V6 Torque (Estimated):

220 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

3.8L Supercharged V6 Horsepower (Estimated):

205 hp @ 4400 rpm

3.8L Supercharged V6 Torque (Estimated):

255 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

3.4L V6:

L32

3.8L V6:

L36

3.8L Supercharged V6:

L67

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (4T60-E)

Optional Transmission:

None offered on civilian models; potentially specific transmissions for fleet/police variants.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronic control, overdrive, torque converter lock-up.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

107.5 inches (2730.5 mm)

Overall Length:

198.9 inches (5052.1 mm)

Overall Width:

72.1 inches (1831.3 mm)

Overall Height:

54.5 inches (1384.3 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3400-3700 lbs (1542-1678 kg), varies by engine and equipment.

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 101 cu ft

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 16 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA frontal crash test ratings for this era are generally good for their time. Specific ratings for 1994-1996 models should be consulted from NHTSA archives, but expect 4-star or 5-star for frontal impact.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard on some trims.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger airbags, front and rear crumple zones, reinforced passenger cage.

Seat Belt System:

Front 3-point active seat belts with pretensioners, rear lap and shoulder belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim; electronic cruise control system.

Traction Control:

Available on some models, particularly those with the 3.8L Supercharged engine.

Multiplex Communication:

Features multiplexed electrical systems, indicating early forms of shared data networks for various vehicle functions, covered in the manual's electrical schematics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact OLM calibration if present).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type; platinum or iridium plugs can last up to 100,000 miles, while conventional plugs may require replacement every 30,000 miles. (Consult manual for specific recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or as per severe duty recommendations. (Consult manual for specific interval and fluid type).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on visual inspection.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years for conventional coolant, potentially longer for extended-life coolants. (Verify with manual).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-30 viscosity recommended for most conditions. (Always verify with manual).

Coolant Type:

Dex-Cool (GM P/N 12378530) or equivalent orange extended-life coolant, pre-diluted. (Verify with manual, as early models might have used different specifications).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (GM P/N 12378515) or equivalent ATF. (Always verify with manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent power steering fluid.

Common Issues:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (particularly on the 3800 V6), window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, power steering pump leaks, OBD-I/OBD-II diagnostic challenges.

Specific Impala Ss Issues:

Suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), brake rotor warping, rear spoiler delamination (if equipped with factory spoiler).

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Heritage:

The Impala nameplate has a long and storied history with Chevrolet, dating back to its iconic status in the 1960s as a full-size performance and luxury coupe.

Third Generation W Body:

The 1994-1996 Impala SS was a revived performance icon based on the GM W-body platform, sharing its chassis with models like the Chevrolet Lumina, Pontiac Grand Prix, and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. It was distinguished by its sleek, pillarless coupe styling and potent V8 engine (initially planned, but the 3800 V6 was used for this generation) and performance-tuned suspension.

Impala Ss Distinctiveness:

The Impala SS variant of this generation was specifically designed as a sportier, more aggressive model with unique badging, a de-chromed appearance, and a stiffer suspension compared to its Lumina counterpart.

Production Period:

1994-1996 (Impala SS specific revival of the nameplate for this generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Oshawa Car Assembly, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Reviews:

The 1994-1996 Impala SS was generally well-received for its styling, comfortable ride, and V6 power. It was seen as a spiritual successor to previous performance Impalas and a strong performer within its class.