🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Pontiac Model: Firebird Year: 1996 Codes Platform Code: F-body 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Sport Compact/Performance Coupe Usp: Performance-oriented, rear-wheel-drive sports car with a distinctive design Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Toyota Supra (lower trims) Key Features Design Philosophy: Aerodynamic styling, sporty interior, accessible performance Target Audience: Enthusiasts seeking a stylish and engaging driving experience 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Features Secondary Coverage: Instrument Cluster, Climate, Entertainment, Driver Controls, Security, Seating, Safety Restraints, Driving Techniques, Cleaning, Basic Maintenance, Specifications Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 100-150 (typical for factory owner's manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain Basic: Engine compartment overview, engine oil, battery, fuel information, air filter(s), refill capacities, lubricant specifications Chassis Basic: Brake system basic operation, steering system basic operation (as relevant to driver operation) Electrical Basic: Instrument cluster functionality, lighting controls, basic entertainment system operation, locks and security features Comfort Convenience: Climate controls, seating adjustment, safety restraints, driver controls, door locks, accessory operation Procedures Included Maintenance Owner: Checking engine oil level, checking coolant level, checking tire pressure, jump-starting the battery, changing wiper blades, basic cleaning procedures Troubleshooting Basic: Warning lights interpretation, fuse identification and replacement (basic) Driving Techniques: Proper operation of vehicle controls, parking, starting and stopping, fuel economy considerations Technical Depth Depth: Owner-level understanding and operation, basic maintenance, safety information. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic information typically found in service manuals. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Software Requirement: PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader) Print Quality Quality: Digital reproduction of original factory manual, quality dependent on original source scan Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: Not Applicable (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Option 1 Description: 3.8L V6 (L36) Engine Option 1 Displacement: 3791 cc Engine Option 1 Configuration: Naturally Aspirated V6 Engine Option 1 Horsepower: 205 hp @ 5200 rpm Engine Option 1 Torque: 230 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm Engine Option 2 Engine Option 2 Description: 5.7L V8 (LT1) Engine Option 2 Displacement: 5733 cc Engine Option 2 Configuration: Naturally Aspirated V8 (Pushrod) Engine Option 2 Horsepower: 285 hp @ 5000 rpm Engine Option 2 Torque: 325 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm Performance Engine Monitoring: On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI) Fuel Information Recommended Fuel: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (V6); Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (V8 LT1) 🔧 Transmission Standard V6 Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic (4L60-E) Optional V6 Optional Transmission: 5-Speed Manual (MM5) V8 Transmission: 6-Speed Manual (D44/M6) V8 Optional Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic (4L60-E) Features Transmission Fluid Spec: Dexron III (GM P/N 12378515 or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 197.8 inches Width: 74.1 inches Height: 53.4 inches Wheelbase: 101.0 inches Weights Curb Weight V6 Auto: ~3375 lbs Curb Weight V8 Manual: ~3470 lbs Cargo Trunk Capacity: 11.1 cubic feet 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver: 4 stars (1996 models) NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger: 4 stars (1996 models) IIHS Frontal Offset: Good (for vehicles of its era) Active Features Braking System: Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (ABS standard on V8 models, optional on V6) Traction Control: Available on V8 models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Airbags Seat Belts: Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, lap and shoulder belts for rear passengers Anti Theft: Factory alarm system, immobilizer (on some models) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, Optional CD Player Speaker Configuration: Typically 6-speaker system (2 front dash, 2 front door, 2 rear parcel shelf) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on all models Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not available from factory 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Engine Oil Change: Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used) Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection Spark Plug Replacement: V6: ~100,000 miles; V8: ~30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type) Fluid Specifications Engine Coolant: GM P/N 10527410 or equivalent (Orange color, 50/50 mix of Dex-Cool and distilled water recommended by some, but original spec likely traditional green ethylene glycol) Power Steering Fluid: Dexron III (GM P/N 12378515 or equivalent) Brake Fluid: DOT 3 Engine Oil Capacity V6: 4.5 quarts (with filter) Engine Oil Capacity V8: 4.5 quarts (with filter) Known Issues Common V6 Issues: Intake manifold gasket leaks, optispark distributor failure (on LT1 V8), fuel pump issues, oil pressure sending unit failures. Common V8 Issues: Optispark ignition system failures (water ingress), rear main seal leaks, camshaft position sensor issues. General Issues: Window regulator failures, climate control blend door actuator issues, aging plastic components, suspension wear. Part Numbers Oil Filter Example V6: AC-Delco PF2 (or equivalent like Wix 51042) Oil Filter Example V8: AC-Delco...