🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: GMC Model: Suburban Year: 1996 Body Style: Full-size SUV Codes Platform: GMT400 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size, body-on-frame SUV, positioned as a premium, versatile vehicle for families and towing. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Explorer (later Expedition), Chevrolet Tahoe/Blazer, Dodge Ramcharger, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Land Cruiser. Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Spacious interior, robust towing and hauling capability, durable construction, available four-wheel drive. Target Audience Demographics: Families, individuals requiring substantial cargo/passenger capacity, those needing towing for boats, campers, etc. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Owner Operation, Maintenance, and Basic Specifications Secondary Focus: Driver Controls, Safety Systems, Climate, Entertainment Specific Sections Listed: Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting safety defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine compartment, Engine oil, Battery, Fuel information, Air filter(s), Part numbers, Refill capacities, Lubricant specifications, Accessories Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies based on original publication, typically 150-250 pages for this era/vehicle type Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine oil, Fuel information, Air filter(s), Lubricant specifications, Refill capacities Electrical: Battery, Instrument Cluster, Lights, Entertainment Systems Chassis: Locks and Security, Driver Controls, Seating and Safety Restraints Comfort And Convenience: Climate Controls, Seating, Locks, Entertainment Systems Procedures Included Operation: Driver Controls, Seating Adjustments, Climate Control Operation, Entertainment System Usage, Lighting Operation Maintenance: Engine oil checks and changes, Battery maintenance, Air filter replacement (general guidance), Fluid refill capacities Safety: Seat belt usage, Child restraint system installation (general guidance), Reporting safety defects (U.S.) Cleaning: Interior and exterior cleaning recommendations Technical Depth Diagnostics: Basic troubleshooting related to dashboard indicators, no in-depth diagnostic procedures Repair: No repair procedures included; focus is on operation and routine maintenance. Specifications: Refill capacities, Lubricant specifications, Part numbers (for consumables like filters, oil, etc.) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Readability: Requires PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader) Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF, enabling easy content lookup Print Quality Quality From Source: Digitized from original factory manual, quality dependent on original print and scanning process Binding Type Physical Equivalent Binding: Stapled or perfect-bound paperback Paper Type Physical Equivalent Paper: Typically standard paper stock ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Vortec V8 Gasoline Engine Displacement: 5.7L (350 cubic inches) Engine Code: L31 (GM Vortec 350) Horsepower: Approx. 255 hp @ 4600 rpm (for 1996 model year, specific rating may vary slightly) Torque: Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (for 1996 model year, specific rating may vary slightly) Performance Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or HEI (depending on specific build date/options) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) - Vortec Multi-Port Fuel Injection 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Transmission Code: 4L60-E Optional Optional Transmission: None (4L60-E was standard for gasoline engines) Features Overdrive: Yes (4th gear overdrive) Drive Modes: 2WD (RWD), 4WD (selectable or full-time, depending on trim) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approximately 219.5 inches Width: Approximately 77.0 inches Height: Approximately 70.9 inches Wheelbase: Approximately 130.0 inches Cargo Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row: Approx. 144.4 cu ft Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row: Approx. 91.4 cu ft Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 4,600 - 5,000 lbs (varies by drivetrain and options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Approx. 7,000 - 7,200 lbs Towing Capacity: Up to 7,000 lbs (with proper equipment and configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact: Not explicitly available for this specific model year in easily digestible formats, but generally robust for its era. Active Features ABS: Standard on 4-wheel disc brake models, optional/available on others. Traction Control: Optional/available, especially with 4WD systems. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side frontal airbag standard. Passenger airbag often optional or unavailable on base models. Seat Belts: 3-point active belts for front outboard occupants, 2-point belts for center front and rear occupants (lap belts for center rear). Child Seat Anchors: Not standard LATCH system; relies on seat belt securing of child seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level (e.g., 4 or 6 speakers). Climate Control: Manual or optional automatic climate control systems. Rear seat climate control vents were common. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Anti Theft: Factory alarm system optional or standard on higher trims. Keyless entry available. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation). Air Filter Replacement: Recommended every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually, or sooner if driving in dusty conditions. Transmission Fluid Service: Inspect every 30,000 miles, service typically around 60,000-100,000 miles. Consult manual for exact mileage. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API Service SG or SH rated 5W-30 or...
2WD (RWD), 4WD (selectable or full-time, depending on trim)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approximately 219.5 inches
Width:
Approximately 77.0 inches
Height:
Approximately 70.9 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 130.0 inches
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 144.4 cu ft
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 91.4 cu ft
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,600 - 5,000 lbs (varies by drivetrain and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 7,000 - 7,200 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Up to 7,000 lbs (with proper equipment and configuration)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Not explicitly available for this specific model year in easily digestible formats, but generally robust for its era.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on 4-wheel disc brake models, optional/available on others.
Traction Control:
Optional/available, especially with 4WD systems.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side frontal airbag standard. Passenger airbag often optional or unavailable on base models.
Seat Belts:
3-point active belts for front outboard occupants, 2-point belts for center front and rear occupants (lap belts for center rear).
Child Seat Anchors:
Not standard LATCH system; relies on seat belt securing of child seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level (e.g., 4 or 6 speakers).
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control systems. Rear seat climate control vents were common.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Anti Theft:
Factory alarm system optional or standard on higher trims. Keyless entry available.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually, or sooner if driving in dusty conditions.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, service typically around 60,000-100,000 miles. Consult manual for exact mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH rated 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature range).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change for 5.7L V8.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Wheel bearings, front end components (ball joints, tie rods), brake components, catalytic converter, rear main seal leaks, transmission cooler lines.
Powertrain Reliability:
The 5.7L Vortec V8 and 4L60-E transmission are generally robust if properly maintained, but age-related issues can arise.
Part Numbers Coverage
Example Parts Covered:
Engine Oil Filter (e.g., ACDelco PF1218 or equivalent), Air Filter (e.g., ACDelco A267C or equivalent), Wiper Blades, etc.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Gmc Legacy:
GMC, known for its truck and commercial vehicle heritage, often offered more heavy-duty versions or options compared to Chevrolet counterparts. The Suburban nameplate has a long history dating back to the 1930s.
Model Evolution
Generation:
This 1996 model belongs to the GMT400 platform (1992-1999), which introduced significant updates in styling, interior comfort, and powertrain technology.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Janesville, Wisconsin, USA (primary assembly plant for GMT400 SUVs).
Production Years:
GMT400 Suburban production: 1992-1999. 1996 represents a mid-cycle update within this generation.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the 1996 model year are not readily listed, the GMT400 platform and Suburban model were consistently well-regarded for their utility and durability by automotive journalists and consumers alike.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Often rated highly for utility and passenger capacity, though fuel economy was a noted drawback inherent to the class.
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