🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Cavalier Year: 1996 Product Type: Service and Repair Manual 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car Target Demographic: Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, commuters. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Escort, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Dodge Neon. Key Features Vehicle Philosophy: Affordable, reliable transportation with a focus on practicality and fuel efficiency. Appeal: Wide availability, common parts, and a relatively simple mechanical design for ease of maintenance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models & All Repairs A-Z Specificity: Vehicle Specific (Not Generic) Target Audience: Dealership Technicians, DIY Mechanics Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500-2000 Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed Book 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine variants, including diagnostics, timing, and lubrication systems. Engine Variants Covered: 2.2L DOHC L4 (V6 replacement), 2.4L DOHC DOHC L4 (GT/Z34 models), 3.1L OHV V6 (optional). Fuel System: Fuel injection systems (CPI, MPFI), fuel pumps, pressure regulators, injectors, and emissions controls. Transmission: Manual (Getrag 282) and Automatic (4T40-E) transmissions: overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, and shift control systems. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive system, CV axles, half-shafts, differential, and wheel bearings. Suspension: Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam or independent suspension (depending on model): alignment, component replacement, shocks, springs, and bushings. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, tie rods, and steering column components. Brakes: Front disc brakes (Vented/Solid depending on model), rear drum or disc brakes, ABS system (Bosch 2S or Teves Mk. 2): component replacement, bleeding, diagnostics, and parking brake. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system (coil packs, plugs), lighting, horn, wipers, and power accessories. Climate Control: HVAC system: A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, heater core, and control modules. Body And Frame: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, bumpers, doors, windows, and glass replacement. Chassis Electrical: Instrument cluster, diagnostic port (OBD-II), sensors, relays, fuses, and wiring diagrams. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, and inspections. Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and brake system repairs. Troubleshooting: Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and common problem identification for all vehicle systems. Diagnostics: OBD-II code interpretation, specific diagnostic tests for various components, and advanced diagnostic strategies. Specifications: Torque specifications for fasteners, alignment specifications, fluid capacities, and wear limits. Technical Depth Depth: Complete rebuild procedures, in-depth component diagnostics, and detailed electrical schematics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Physical Book Print Quality Quality: High-resolution print on durable paper, with clear diagrams and illustrations. Binding Type Binding: Staple-bound or perfect bound, designed for workshop use. Paper Type Paper: Matte finish paper to reduce glare in shop environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Code: LD9 Engine 1 Description: 2.4L DOHC L4 (Twin Cam) Engine 1 Displacement: 2398 cc Engine 1 Horsepower: 150 hp @ 5600 rpm Engine 1 Torque: 155 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Optional Engine Engine 2 Code: L36 Engine 2 Description: 3.1L OHV V6 Engine 2 Displacement: 3135 cc Engine 2 Horsepower: 160 hp @ 5200 rpm Engine 2 Torque: 185 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for 2.4L, Sequential Central Port Injection (SCPI) for 3.1L V6. Fuel Type: Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 Octane) Engine Maintenance Spark Plugs: ACDelco Iridium Part Number: 41-990 or equivalent Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter for 2.4L; 4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) for 3.1L. Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 API Certified 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type 1: Getrag 282 5-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type 2: 4T40-E 4-Speed Automatic Features Automatic Transmission Features: Electronic control, lock-up torque converter. Maintenance Manual Transmission Fluid Type: GM Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid or DEXRON-III Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: DEXRON-III (or DEXRON-VI) Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity: 6.0 US Quarts (5.7 Liters) for initial fill (consult manual for exact capacity based on torque converter drain). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 101.3 inches (2573 mm) Length: 174.5 inches (4432 mm) Width: 67.5 inches (1715 mm) Height: 53.8 inches (1367 mm) Coupe / 54.3 inches (1380 mm) Sedan Weights Curb Weight Min: 2700 lbs (1225 kg) approx. Curb Weight Max: 3000 lbs (1361 kg) approx. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Side Impact Rating: 4 stars (1996 model year, frontal impact for driver - consult specific test data) NHTSA Passenger Side Impact Rating: 4 stars (1996 model year, frontal impact for passenger - consult specific test data) Active Features ABS: Optional (Bosch 2S or Teves Mk. 2 systems) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger front airbags Seatbelts: Front: 3-point retractable with pretensioners; Rear: 3-point retractable (outboard), lap belt (center). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level (e.g., 4-speaker standard,...
Fuel injection systems (CPI, MPFI), fuel pumps, pressure regulators, injectors, and emissions controls.
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 282) and Automatic (4T40-E) transmissions: overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, and shift control systems.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV axles, half-shafts, differential, and wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam or independent suspension (depending on model): alignment, component replacement, shocks, springs, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, tie rods, and steering column components.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (Vented/Solid depending on model), rear drum or disc brakes, ABS system (Bosch 2S or Teves Mk. 2): component replacement, bleeding, diagnostics, and parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system (coil packs, plugs), lighting, horn, wipers, and power accessories.
Climate Control:
HVAC system: A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, heater core, and control modules.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, bumpers, doors, windows, and glass replacement.
Chassis Electrical:
Instrument cluster, diagnostic port (OBD-II), sensors, relays, fuses, and wiring diagrams.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, and inspections.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and brake system repairs.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and common problem identification for all vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II code interpretation, specific diagnostic tests for various components, and advanced diagnostic strategies.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, alignment specifications, fluid capacities, and wear limits.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Complete rebuild procedures, in-depth component diagnostics, and detailed electrical schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Physical Book
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution print on durable paper, with clear diagrams and illustrations.
Binding Type
Binding:
Staple-bound or perfect bound, designed for workshop use.
Paper Type
Paper:
Matte finish paper to reduce glare in shop environments.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Code:
LD9
Engine 1 Description:
2.4L DOHC L4 (Twin Cam)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2398 cc
Engine 1 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5600 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
155 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Optional Engine
Engine 2 Code:
L36
Engine 2 Description:
3.1L OHV V6
Engine 2 Displacement:
3135 cc
Engine 2 Horsepower:
160 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
185 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for 2.4L, Sequential Central Port Injection (SCPI) for 3.1L V6.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 Octane)
Engine Maintenance
Spark Plugs:
ACDelco Iridium Part Number: 41-990 or equivalent
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter for 2.4L; 4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) for 3.1L.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type 1:
Getrag 282 5-Speed Manual
Optional
Transmission Type 2:
4T40-E 4-Speed Automatic
Features
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, lock-up torque converter.
Maintenance
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GM Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid or DEXRON-III
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
DEXRON-III (or DEXRON-VI)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
6.0 US Quarts (5.7 Liters) for initial fill (consult manual for exact capacity based on torque converter drain).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
101.3 inches (2573 mm)
Length:
174.5 inches (4432 mm)
Width:
67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Height:
53.8 inches (1367 mm) Coupe / 54.3 inches (1380 mm) Sedan
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
2700 lbs (1225 kg) approx.
Curb Weight Max:
3000 lbs (1361 kg) approx.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Side Impact Rating:
4 stars (1996 model year, frontal impact for driver - consult specific test data)
NHTSA Passenger Side Impact Rating:
4 stars (1996 model year, frontal impact for passenger - consult specific test data)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional (Bosch 2S or Teves Mk. 2 systems)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Front: 3-point retractable with pretensioners; Rear: 3-point retractable (outboard), lap belt (center).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level (e.g., 4-speaker standard, 6-speaker optional).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on most trim levels
Connectivity
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II compliant diagnostic connector located under the dashboard for emissions and powertrain diagnostics.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (automatic); Every 50,000-60,000 miles (manual).
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for iridium plugs (LD9 engine); 30,000-60,000 miles for conventional plugs (V6 engine).
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-III
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 3.1L V6)
Common Issue 2:
Head gasket failures on 2.4L LD9 engine (potential coolant leaks into cylinders)
Common Issue 3:
Premature wear of front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends)
Common Issue 4:
CV joint failures
Common Issue 5:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module) issues, leading to erratic engine performance.
Common Issue 6:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and rear main seal.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
General Motors (GM)
Model Evolution
Generation:
Third Generation (J-body platform)
Platform:
GM J-body platform
Design Updates 1996:
Facelifted model with new front and rear styling, updated interior, and improved safety features including standard airbags.
Production
Production Years:
1997-2005 (Fourth Generation, not covered by this manual)
Manufacturing Location:
Lordstown, Ohio, USA and other GM assembly plants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
The 1996 Cavalier received good frontal impact ratings from the NHTSA, a testament to GM's advancements in passenger safety for the time.
Ratings
Fuel Economy Estimates:
EPA estimates ranged from 24 MPG city / 30 MPG highway for the 2.4L engine to 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway for the 3.1L V6, depending on transmission and configuration.