Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine Mechanical:
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Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (CIS-E).
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Engine Management:
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Ignition system, electronic engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring diagrams, sensor functions.
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Transmission Manual:
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Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, drive shafts, differential.
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Transmission Automatic:
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Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP-22) overhaul, hydraulic control, torque converter, valve body, shift solenoids.
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Suspension:
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Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (independent trailing arms/semi-trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, wheel bearings.
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Steering:
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Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, hydraulic pump, steering fluid.
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Brakes:
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Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnostics (if equipped).
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Electrical System:
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12V DC system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring harnesses.
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Body And Interior:
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Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
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Fuel System:
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Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors.
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Procedures Included
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Routine Maintenance:
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Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-ups, belt inspection and replacement.
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Engine Repair:
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Engine rebuild procedures, valve adjustments, head gasket replacement, timing belt/chain replacement, piston and rod installation.
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Transmission Service:
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Transmission fluid and filter changes, clutch replacement, automatic transmission overhaul, repair of common transmission faults.
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Brake Service:
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Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake bleeding, master cylinder replacement, ABS component testing.
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Suspension And Steering Repair:
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Strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack repair.
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Electrical Diagnostics:
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Troubleshooting electrical faults, testing circuits, component replacement (alternator, starter, ignition coil), wiring diagram interpretation.
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Bodywork And Collision Repair:
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Panel alignment, rust repair techniques, door and latch adjustment, glass replacement.
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HVAC Service:
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Refrigerant handling (R12 or R134a depending on region/conversion), compressor replacement, blower motor replacement, heater core service.
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Troubleshooting Guides:
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Diagnostic tables for common symptoms, fault codes (if applicable), and step-by-step troubleshooting sequences.
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Technical Depth
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Depth Level:
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Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics).
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Diagnostic Capability:
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Covers component testing, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic procedures for engine management and ABS systems.
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Precision Details:
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Includes torque specifications, clearances, timing marks, and alignment procedures.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (standard recommendation for the era).
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Air Filter Replacement:
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Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles) or 24 months.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Every 30,000 km (18,600 miles) for standard plugs, potentially longer for platinum plugs if fitted.
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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Every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 4-5 years for gasoline engines (critical maintenance item).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Spec:
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API SF/SG or ACEA A2/A3, Viscosity SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 recommended (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations).
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Coolant Spec:
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Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water for freeze protection and corrosion inhibition.
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Brake Fluid Spec:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
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Known Issues
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Cis E Fuel Injection Quirks:
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Deterioration of fuel distributor seals, air flow meter issues, incorrect mixture settings, vacuum leaks causing rough running.
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Electrical Gremlins:
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Corroded connectors, failing relays (especially fuel pump and starter relays), dashboard warning light issues, aging wiring insulation.
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Cooling System Issues:
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Leaking coolant pipes, radiator leaks, heater core leaks (especially problematic on the passenger side).
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Suspension Wear:
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Worn control arm bushings, strut top mounts, and ball joints leading to imprecise handling and noise.
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Corrosion:
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While galvanised, corrosion can still occur in wheel arches, sills, and around window seals, particularly in areas with heavy road salt use.
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