Segment:
City car / Subcompact car.
Target Demographic:
Urban commuters, first-time car buyers, budget-conscious consumers seeking economical transportation.
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Atos, Kia Pride (later models), Fiat Seicento, Volkswagen Polo, Ford Ka, Peugeot 106, Renault Twingo.
Design Philosophy:
Compact dimensions, fuel efficiency, affordability, maneuverability in urban environments.
Initial Impact:
Provided a distinctly European-styled alternative in its segment, known for its quirky and distinctive 'frog-eye' styling.
Value Proposition:
Offered a low purchase price and low running costs, making it an attractive option for emerging markets and budget buyers.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, disassembly/assembly for all engine variants, including timing belt replacement, cooling system service, lubrication system checks, and emissions control systems.
Transmission:
Coverage for both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch replacement, gearshift linkage adjustment, transmission fluid changes, and internal component repair.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system diagnostics, including brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system troubleshooting (if equipped).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms, bushings), wheel alignment procedures, steering rack and power steering system repair.
Electrical:
Comprehensive electrical diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator), ignition system, lighting systems, body control modules, instrument cluster diagnostics, and fuse/relay identification.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing, fuel injector cleaning and replacement, fuel pressure regulator diagnostics, and emissions evaporative control systems.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair and replacement, door mechanism adjustments, interior trim removal/installation, chassis component inspection and repair.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, heater core replacement, blower motor service, and climate control panel troubleshooting.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics, seatbelt inspection and replacement, and SRS module troubleshooting.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed oil change intervals, filter replacement schedules (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, and other preventative maintenance tasks.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for component removal, installation, and repair for virtually all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Codes:
Explanation and interpretation of OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) trouble codes, and specific Daewoo proprietary codes.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair and diagnostic procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures utilizing scan tools and multimeter readings, with detailed explanations of sensor data and system operation.
Engine Rebuild:
Full engine disassembly, inspection, measurement of critical clearances, and reassembly procedures with torque specifications.
Transmission Rebuild:
Detailed steps for automatic and manual transmission overhaul, including seal replacement, gear inspection, and valve body diagnostics.
Wiring Diagrams:
High-quality, detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, color-coded for ease of tracing.
Engine Family:
F8CV (often referred to as the 'Little King' engine).
Displacement Liters:
0.8 L (796 cc)
Cylinders:
3-cylinder, inline
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower Ps:
Approx. 50-52 PS (metric horsepower) at 5500-6000 RPM.
Torque Nm:
Approx. 71-72 Nm (52-53 lb-ft) at 4000-4600 RPM.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS).
Cooling System:
Water-cooled, pressurized system.
Length Mm:
Approx. 3495 mm (137.6 inches).
Width Mm:
Approx. 1595 mm (62.8 inches).
Height Mm:
Approx. 1485 mm (58.5 inches).
Wheelbase Mm:
Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 inches).
Cargo Volume Liters:
Approx. 155 liters (with rear seats up), expandable significantly with seats folded.
Curb Weight Kg:
Approx. 750-800 kg (depending on trim and transmission).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
Varies by market, typically around 1200-1300 kg.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Poor to Fair (early models received low ratings due to structural limitations of small cars of that era). Typically 1 to 2 stars.
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on higher trims in later years.
Electronic Stability Control:
Generally not available on models within this period.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard on most models; passenger airbag optional or standard on higher trims in later years.
Seatbelts:
Front seat pretensioners and load limiters, standard three-point rear seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell, with crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy (though limited by size).
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard. CD players became optional on higher trims. Speaker count typically 2 or 4.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional or on higher trims), fuel gauge, and temperature gauge. Warning lights for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Generally not available on models within this period.
Parking Sensors:
Rarely offered, typically an aftermarket addition.
Bluetooth Integration:
Not available; aftermarket solutions required.
Usb Ports:
Not available.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every engine oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 recommended (check owner's manual for specific climate conditions).
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
Approx. 3.2 liters (with filter).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. GM DEX-COOL compatible or equivalent.
Coolant Capacity Liters:
Approx. 5.5 liters.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt failure: Due to its critical nature and the interference engine design, timely replacement is paramount to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
Common Problem 2:
Rear wheel hub bearing wear: Can lead to noise and vibration, requiring replacement of the hub assembly.
Common Problem 3:
Oil leaks: Common from valve cover gasket and crankshaft seals due to age and material degradation.
Common Problem 4:
Exhaust system corrosion: Particularly the muffler and catalytic converter, due to environmental conditions and material limitations.
Common Problem 5:
Door lock actuators and window regulators: Can fail due to wear and tear on the small, light-duty components.
Daewoo Motors Context:
Daewoo Motors was a South Korean automobile manufacturer, part of the Daewoo Group. It aimed to compete in global markets with affordable and stylish vehicles.
Daewoo Matiz Development:
Originally developed by Daewoo as a successor to the Tico. Design was influenced by a Giugiaro Italdesign concept.
Platform Versions:
The M100 platform was the first generation. Subsequent generations (M150, M200) were introduced later and are not covered by this manual.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (Changwon), but also produced under license in other countries like Poland (FSO) and India (Chevrolet Spark by GM India).
Daewoo Liquidation Impact:
Following the collapse of Daewoo Group, Daewoo Motors was acquired by General Motors in 2002. The Matiz was rebadged and sold as the Chevrolet Matiz and later Chevrolet Spark in many markets.