🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Pontiac Model: Sunfire Year: 1996 Codes Platform Code: J-body Vin Code: 1GC 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Coupe/Sedan Target Audience: Younger buyers, budget-conscious consumers Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier Key Features Design Philosophy: Sporty styling for its segment, affordability Interior Design: Driver-centric dashboard, practical seating arrangements Value Proposition: Offering a stylish and relatively peppy compact car at an attractive price point. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Trim Levels Covered: All trims including Base, GT, SE, and Convertible (if applicable) Page Count Estimated Pages: Approx. 150-200 pages (typical for a 1996 owner's manual) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Electronic (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine operation, fluid checks, basic maintenance Chassis: Braking system, steering system, suspension system operation Electrical: Lighting systems, instrument cluster, warning indicators, basic fuse identification Comfort Convenience: HVAC controls, power windows, door locks, audio system operation Safety Security: Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraint systems, anti-theft features Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Checking and topping up fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement guidance Troubleshooting: Interpretation of dashboard warning lights, basic on-road troubleshooting tips Operation: Starting and driving, parking brake, gear selection, fuel door release Technical Depth Depth: Focuses on user operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Portable Document Format (PDF) Searchable Text: Likely contains searchable text for easy navigation of topics Print Quality Reproducibility: High resolution for clear reading and printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: LD9 Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder Displacement: 2.4 Liters (2398 cc) Valve Mechanism: DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves Bore X Stroke: Approx. 90.0 mm x 94.0 mm Performance Horsepower: 150 hp @ 5600 rpm (estimated, may vary slightly) Torque: 155 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (estimated, may vary slightly) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum) Engine Management ECM Type: GM P400 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (often standard on lower trims or optional) Features Automatic Features: Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron-III (or equivalent) Manual Transmission Fluid: GM Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 174.5 inches (Coupe) / 179.5 inches (Sedan) Width: Approx. 67.5 inches Height: Approx. 53.7 inches (Coupe) / 55.1 inches (Sedan) Wheelbase: Approx. 101.3 inches Front Track: Approx. 57.7 inches Rear Track: Approx. 57.5 inches Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 12.3 cubic feet (Coupe) / 13.7 cubic feet (Sedan) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2700 - 2900 lbs (depending on body style and equipment) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 3800 lbs Wheels Tires Standard Tire Size: P185/70R14 (Base/SE), P195/60R15 (GT) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5 x 100 mm Wheel Size: 14 x 5.5J (Base/SE), 15 x 6J (GT) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: 4/5 Stars (1996 data may be limited or estimates) NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger: 4/5 Stars (1996 data may be limited or estimates) IIHS Crash Test Ratings: Not extensively rated by IIHS for this specific model year, but generally considered average for its class and era. Active Features ABS: Optional on SE/GT, standard on some higher trims/packages Traction Control: Rarely available on this model year Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags Seatbelts: Three-point active front seat belts, three-point rear seat belts Child Seat Anchors: LATCH system not standard; seat belt mounting for child seats 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player Speaker Configuration: Typically 4 or 6 speakers Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional on most trims Connectivity Aux Input: Not available from factory; aftermarket solutions may exist Climate Control HVAC System: Manual heating and air conditioning controls 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil) Engine Coolant Change: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years Spark Plug Replacement: Approx. 100,000 miles (with platinum-tipped spark plugs) Drive Belt Inspection: Every 15,000 miles Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter (LD9 engine) Engine Oil Viscosity: 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions), 10W-30 (acceptable in warmer climates) Coolant Type: GM P/N 10528474 (Blue) or equivalent Dex-Cool compatible antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Engine Mounts: Can wear prematurely, leading to vibration and clunking noises Intake Manifold Gasket: Potential for coolant leaks on the LD9 engine Power Steering Pump: Can develop leaks or whine Window Regulators: Prone to failure, especially on coupes Headliner...