Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Competitors:
Chevrolet S-10, Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Dodge Dakota
Vehicle Type:
Compact Pickup Truck
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab, Crew Cab (depending on market/options)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Driver Passenger Safety:
Seat Belts, SRS Airbag System, Child Protection (Child Seats, LATCH System)
Instruments Controls:
Indicators, Gauges, Information Display, Dashboard Layout, Steering Column Controls
Features:
Climate Control System, Audio System, Steering Wheel Controls, Security System, Cruise Control
Before Driving:
Fuel Recommendations, Vehicle Break-in Procedures, Cargo Loading and Distribution Guidelines
Driving:
Engine Operation, Transmission Operation (Automatic and Manual, depending on configuration)
Maintenance:
Maintenance Minder System, Fluid Level Checks, Minor Service Procedures, Vehicle Storage
Unexpected Situations:
Flat Tire Procedures, Dead Battery Jump Starting, Overheating Diagnosis, Fuse Identification and Replacement
Technical Information:
Vehicle Specifications, Tire Information (Sizes, Pressures), Emissions Control Systems
Customer Relations:
Warranty Information, Customer Assistance Contacts
Index:
Comprehensive Index for easy navigation
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 200-250 pages (typical for this model year and content)
Powertrain:
Engine operation and basic care, transmission engagement and operation
Chassis:
Braking system overview, steering system, suspension basics, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrument panel indicators, fuse box locations and functions, battery maintenance
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control system operation, audio system functions, power windows/locks, cruise control
Safety Security:
Seat belt usage and adjustments, SRS airbag system explanation, child restraint system installation, vehicle security features
Basic Maintenance:
Checking and topping off fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement instructions
Troubleshooting Minor:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, diagnosing common issues like overheating, jump starting a dead battery
Emergency Response:
Changing a flat tire, safe vehicle operation in adverse conditions, what to do in case of an accident
Depth:
Designed for the owner, focusing on operation, basic maintenance, and emergency procedures. Does not include detailed diagnostic or repair procedures typical of a service manual.
Short Bed:
Approx. 72.5 inches
Long Bed:
Approx. 78.7 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111.5 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 122.5 inches
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,500 - 4,200 lbs (depending on configuration)
Max Payload Capacity:
Up to approx. 1,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to approx. 5,000 lbs (depending on configuration and trailering package)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Generally good for its class and era, refer to specific NHTSA reports for exact ratings.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels or four wheels, depending on configuration.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS)
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, lap belts for rear passengers in extended cabs.
Latch System:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system in rear seating positions for applicable configurations.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended by GM for extended intervals).
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Typically 100,000 miles for Ecotec I4 and Vortec V6 with extended-life plugs.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic motor oil meeting GM specification GM6094M
Coolant:
GM DEX-COOL (Orange) 50/50 coolant/water mixture
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for 4L60-E. Refer to manual for manual transmission fluid type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III ATF
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, brake pads/rotors due to truck usage. Differential seals may leak on some models.
Powertrain Issues:
Ecotec engines can be prone to oil consumption if not maintained properly. Vortec V6 generally reliable but can develop intake manifold gasket leaks over time.
Gm Truck Legacy:
GMC, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing trucks, emphasizing professional-grade performance and durability.
Second Generation:
The 2004 model is part of the second generation of the GMC Sonoma (based on the GMT355 platform), which debuted for the 2004 model year, offering updated styling and features compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily assembled in the United States at GM facilities.
