🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Pontiac Model: Bonneville Year: 1996 Codes Vin Prefix: 1G4 (for models built in North America) Generation Chassis Code: H-Body (Fourth Generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Full-size luxury sedan Brand Perception: Pontiac positioned as a performance-oriented division of GM, offering a blend of comfort and style Competitive Analysis Direct Competitors: Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Caprice, Buick LeSabre, Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight Key Features Design Philosophy: Sleek, aerodynamic styling with a comfortable and spacious interior Powertrain Options: Emphasis on V6 and V8 engine options for strong performance Comfort Amenities: Focus on ride quality, quiet cabin, and available luxury features 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive owner's information for the 1996 Pontiac Bonneville Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 200-250 pages (typical for this era/model) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Electronic (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Instrument Panel: Gauges, warning lights, indicator lamps and their meanings Controls: Steering wheel, pedals, shifter, climate control, lighting, wipers Convenience Features: Power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, cruise control, sound system, keyless entry (if equipped) Safety Systems: Seat belts, airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS) operation Driver Information Center: Operation of the Driver Information Center (DIC) for trip data, fuel economy, and system alerts Climate Control: Operation of automatic climate control and manual HVAC systems Audio System: Radio, cassette, CD player (if equipped) operation and features Lighting Controls: Headlamps, parking lamps, fog lamps, interior lighting Wipers Washers: Operation of front and rear wipers and washer systems Security System: Factory alarm system operation (if equipped) Tire And Wheel: Information on tire inflation pressures and basic wheel care Fuel Information: Recommended fuel type and octane rating Towing: Guidance on towing with the Bonneville (if applicable to owner's manual scope) Procedures Included Starting The Engine: Proper engine starting and warm-up procedures Driving Techniques: Tips for efficient and safe driving Refueling: Correct procedure for refueling the vehicle Checking Fluids: Instructions for checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid Changing Tires: Basic procedure for changing a flat tire (jack points, lug nut torque) Jump Starting: Steps for safely jump-starting the battery Wiper Blade Replacement: Guidance on replacing wiper blades Fuse Replacement: Locating and replacing blown fuses Bulb Replacement: Basic instructions for replacing exterior and interior light bulbs Park Assist: Operation of parking assist features (if equipped) Technical Depth Depth Level: Owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting Diagnostic Scope: Information on interpreting warning lights and system indicators; not in-depth diagnostic codes Repair Scope: Limited to basic user-replaceable items; does not cover complex mechanical or electrical repairs 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF Print Quality Readability: High resolution, suitable for printing on standard office printers Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF) Compatibility Os Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux Searchability Text Search: Likely searchable text, enabling quick information retrieval ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: L36 (3800 Series I V6) Displacement: 3.8 Liters (231 cu. in.) Configuration: Overhead Valve (OHV), V6 Horsepower: 205 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque: 230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code: L32 (3800 Series I Supercharged V6 - LSS trim) Displacement: 3.8 Liters (231 cu. in.) Configuration: Overhead Valve (OHV), Supercharged V6 Horsepower: 240 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline Emission Control: Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Model: 4T60-E Optional Transmission Type: N/A (Automatic was standard across all engines) Features Shift Modes: Normal and Sport modes Torque Converter Lock-Up: Yes, for improved fuel economy at cruising speeds 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 203.5 inches Width: 73.1 inches Height: 56.3 inches Wheelbase: 110.8 inches Interior Seating Capacity: 5 Passengers Front Headroom: 39.7 inches Front Legroom: 42.5 inches Rear Headroom: 37.9 inches Rear Legroom: 37.2 inches Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 17.2 cubic feet Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3450 - 3750 lbs (depending on trim and options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4750 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: 4 Stars (1996 Model Year Assessment) NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger: 4 Stars (1996 Model Year Assessment) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional on some models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags Seat Belts: Three-point front and rear seat belts, front shoulder belt height adjusters Child Seat Anchors: Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) not standard on this model year 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio Options: AM/FM stereo with cassette, optional CD player, premium sound system options Display: Analog gauges, Driver Information Center (DIC) with digital readouts Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion Connectivity Phone Integration: No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity (aftermarket solutions possible) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change...
Approx. 3450 - 3750 lbs (depending on trim and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4750 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1996 Model Year Assessment)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1996 Model Year Assessment)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts, front shoulder belt height adjusters
Child Seat Anchors:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) not standard on this model year
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo with cassette, optional CD player, premium sound system options
Display:
Analog gauges, Driver Information Center (DIC) with digital readouts
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity (aftermarket solutions possible)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (using extended-life iridium or platinum plugs recommended for this era's engines)
Coolant Flush:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (using Dex-Cool or equivalent for aluminum engines)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 - 100,000 miles, or as per specific service schedule. Inspect condition of fluid.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or SH or SJ)
Coolant:
GM P/N 12345490 (Dex-Cool) or equivalent Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant, 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
GM P/N 89021177 (Dexron-VI compatible) or equivalent
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (for 4T60-E)
Known Issues
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Common issue on 3800 V6 engines; leaks can develop leading to coolant loss or misfires.
Heater Core Leaks:
Can occur in older vehicles, leading to coolant smell inside the cabin and foggy windows.
Transmission Control Module:
Potential issues with the electronic control module affecting shifting performance.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can fail over time.
Alternator:
Early failure is not uncommon for alternators on these vehicles.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac, a division of General Motors, was known for its performance-oriented vehicles and distinctive styling.
Model Evolution
Fourth Generation:
The 1996 Bonneville is part of the fourth generation (1992-1999), which saw significant updates in styling and technology compared to its predecessors.
1996 Updates:
While major redesigns occurred in earlier years of this generation, 1996 models often featured refinements in powertrain calibration, features, and minor styling tweaks.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Fairfax Assembly Plant, Kansas City, Kansas, USA and Oshawa Car Assembly, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Production Years:
1992-1999 (Fourth Generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Segment Popularity:
The Bonneville was a strong seller in the full-size sedan segment for many years, appealing to buyers seeking comfort and value.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Historical:
While specific 1996 ratings vary, the Bonneville generally offered a comfortable ride and good performance, with some noted reliability concerns in specific areas.
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