🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Cavalier Year: 1996 Codes Vin Prefix: 1GC 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact Car Target Demographic: Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, small families. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Escort, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra. Key Features Model Strengths: Affordability, fuel efficiency, widely available parts, straightforward mechanics. Manual Purpose: To educate the owner on the safe and proper operation, maintenance, and features of their 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Owner's Manual Language: English Format: Printed Booklet Page Count Approximate Page Count: 150-200 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Operation, fluid checks, basic maintenance, troubleshooting common indicators. Transmission Systems: Operation, fluid level checks, basic care. Brakes And Suspension: Parking brake operation, ABS indicator awareness, tire pressure, basic suspension component identification. Electrical And Lighting: Fuse box location and identification, bulb replacement instructions, dashboard indicator lights explanation, wiper and washer operation. Comfort And Convenience: Climate control operation (HVAC), seat adjustment, interior light controls, door lock operation, power window/mirror operation. Safety Features: Seat belt usage and adjustment, airbag system explanation, child restraint system installation guidance. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid; tire inflation; windshield wiper blade replacement. Troubleshooting Guidance: Explanation of dashboard warning lights, basic steps for minor issues (e.g., jump-starting a dead battery). Emergency Procedures: Instructions for flat tire changes, jump starting, and basic accident procedures. Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Designed for the end-user; focuses on operation, basic checks, and user-level maintenance, not in-depth mechanical repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Physical Printed Booklet Print Quality Print Quality: Standard automotive manual printing, black and white text with some diagrams. Binding Type Binding Type: Stapled or perfect bound Paper Type Paper Type: Standard uncoated paper ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: L43 (2.2L OHV) Engine Displacement: 2.2 Liters / 2198 cc Engine Configuration: Inline 4-Cylinder Valvetrain: Overhead Valve (OHV) with 2 valves per cylinder Bore X Stroke: 92.0 mm x 82.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.3:1 Performance Horsepower Rating: 115 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque Rating: 130 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type Recommendation: Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane Engine Options Optional Engine: 2.4L DOHC I4 (LD9) - approximately 150 hp (often found in Z24 models) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-Speed Manual Optional Optional Transmission: 3-Speed Automatic (Hydra-Matic 125C) Features Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron III (ATF) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 101.4 inches (2576 mm) Length: 174.5 inches (4432 mm) Width: 67.5 inches (1715 mm) Height: 53.1 inches (1349 mm) (Coupe) Ground Clearance: Approx. 5.0 inches (127 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg), depending on body style and options. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 13.0 - 15.0 cubic feet (368 - 425 L), varies by body style. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: Likely 3 or 4 stars (based on era standards, no specific 1996 data readily available for this model). NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: Likely 3 or 4 stars (based on era standards, no specific 1996 data readily available for this model). Active Features ABS: Available (typically on higher trims or as an option). Passive Features Airbags: Driver's side airbag standard; Passenger airbag often optional or standard on higher trims. Seat Belts: Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear lap belts (three-point rear belts may be optional/varied by body style). Child Seat Anchors: LATCH system not standard; relies on seat belt routing for child seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio Options: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker System: Typically 4 speakers (door and rear deck). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option or on higher trim levels. Anti Lock Brakes: Optional, as noted in safety features. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not available. Bluetooth: Not available. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (check manual for specifics). Tire Rotation Interval: Every 5,000-7,500 miles. Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000-60,000 miles or as per manual, especially for automatic transmissions under severe use. Coolant Change: Every 30,000-50,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions. Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change (2.2L). Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based coolant (green color). Power Steering Fluid: Dexron III (ATF) or specified power steering fluid. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Brake pads/rotors, suspension components (ball joints, tie rods), exhaust system, oxygen sensors, ignition components (spark plugs, wires). Engine Issues: Oil leaks, gasket failures (intake manifold, valve cover), occasional head gasket issues on higher mileage examples. Transmission Issues: Automatic transmission solenoids can fail, manual clutch wear. Electrical Issues: Window regulator failures, blower motor...