Segment:
Compact car, often positioned as an affordable and sporty option.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Appeal:
Sporty styling, affordable ownership, and a range of engine options made it a popular choice for younger buyers and those on a budget.
User Focus:
Designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with step-by-step instructions and detailed diagrams.
Engine:
Detailed coverage for 2.2L OHV, 2.2L DOHC (C22SED/LD2), and 2.4L DOHC (LD9) engines, including diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, and overhaul.
Transmission:
Coverage for Muncie/Getrag 5-speed manual transmissions and 4T40-E/4T45-E automatic transmissions, including troubleshooting, repair, and fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brake systems, ABS diagnostics and repair (if equipped).
Steering Suspension:
Power rack and pinion steering, front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension systems, including alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Complete electrical schematics for all systems, including engine control, body controls, lighting, audio, and instrument panel.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, and refrigerant handling. Heater core and blower system.
Body:
Exterior and interior trim removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and body panel repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspections, and fluid level checks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic code interpretation, sensor testing, and actuator checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Code 1:
2.2L SOHC L4 (C22SED / LD2)
Displacement 1:
2198 cc (134 cu. in.)
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 115 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 1:
Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine Code 2:
2.4L DOHC L4 (LD9)
Displacement 2:
2384 cc (145 cu. in.)
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 150 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2:
Approx. 155 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
ECU:
GM Powertrain Engine Control Module (ECM)
Type Manual:
5-speed Manual (Muncie/Getrag)
Type Automatic:
4-speed Automatic (4T40-E / 4T45-E)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GM Manual Transmission Fluid (GMMTF) or API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact:
4/5 Stars (1996 models tested)
NHTSA Passenger Frontal Impact:
4/5 Stars (1996 models tested)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front: Three-point automatic locking retractors. Rear: Lap belts (center), three-point belts (outboard).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player, optional premium sound systems.
Gauges Instrumentation:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system.
Power Windows Locks:
Available power windows, power door locks, and remote keyless entry on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to owner's manual for specific engine).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs (check specific plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.2L:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Engine Oil Type Recommendation:
API Service SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for climate specifics).
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12347265 (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool compatible coolant.
Common Problem 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
Common Problem 2:
EGR valve clogging leading to rough idle or stalling.
Common Problem 3:
Ignition coil failures or spark plug wire issues.
Common Problem 4:
Transmission fluid leaks or shifting issues with automatic transmissions.
Common Problem 5:
Headlight switch failures causing intermittent or non-functional lights.
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was known for its performance-oriented vehicles and distinctive styling, aiming to be the 'excitement division' of GM.
Platform Sharing:
The Sunfire is based on GM's J-body platform, sharing many components with the Chevrolet Cavalier.
Design Philosophy:
Introduced as a replacement for the Pontiac Sunbird, featuring a more modern and aggressive design.
Production Years:
1995-2005 (model years for Sunfire)
Assembly Plants:
Primarily General Motors' Lordstown, Ohio, USA plant.
🏆 Professional Vehicle Manual Information
Comprehensive technical documentation for maintenance, repair, and operation
