Segment:
City Car / Kei Car (in some markets).
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, urban commuters seeking fuel efficiency and maneuverability.
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Getz, Kia Picanto, Suzuki Alto, Fiat Seicento/500, Peugeot 107/106, Citroën C1, Toyota Aygo, Ford Ka.
Selling Points:
Compact dimensions, fuel efficiency, affordability, surprisingly spacious interior for its size, maneuverability in urban environments.
Design Philosophy:
Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, emphasizing a compact and friendly appearance.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, valve train.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR if applicable), sensors, ECU diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, bearings, seals.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control, cooler system (if applicable for specific variants).
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, front/rear disc/drum brakes, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric, depending on spec), steering rack, tie rods, steering column.
Electrical System:
12V battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating, ventilation, blower motor, controls, refrigerant system servicing.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant checks, brake fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all systems, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for virtually all vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) interpretation, fault code lookup, sensor testing, wiring continuity checks.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for fasteners, engine clearances, suspension alignment parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Guidance on using standard automotive tools and diagnostic equipment (multimeter, scan tool).
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding procedures.
Engine Code:
F8CV (3-cylinder), F10D (4-cylinder).
Engine Type:
Inline 3-cylinder or 4-cylinder, DOHC, 12 valves.
Displacement:
796 cc (F8CV), 995 cc (F10D).
Horsepower F8Cv:
Approx. 52 PS (38 kW; 51 hp) at 6000 rpm.
Torque F8Cv:
Approx. 72 Nm (53 lb-ft) at 4600 rpm.
Horsepower F10D:
Approx. 57 PS (42 kW; 56 hp) at 6000 rpm (early models), later up to 61 PS (45 kW; 60 hp).
Torque F10D:
Approx. 85 Nm (63 lb-ft) at 4600 rpm (early models), later up to 91 Nm (67 lb-ft).
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Petrol).
Emission Standard:
Euro III or equivalent (depending on market).
Length:
Approx. 3495 mm (137.6 in).
Width:
Approx. 1495 mm (58.9 in).
Height:
Approx. 1500 mm (59.1 in).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2340 mm (92.1 in).
Seating Capacity:
4-5 occupants.
Trunk Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 155 liters (5.5 cu ft).
Trunk Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approx. 645 liters (22.8 cu ft).
Curb Weight F8Cv:
Approx. 760-800 kg (1675-1764 lbs).
Curb Weight F10D:
Approx. 810-850 kg (1786-1874 lbs).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1200-1300 kg.
Euro Ncap Rating:
3 Stars (for original Matiz model, later variants may vary; facelifted M150 generally retained similar safety structure).
ABS:
Optional on most models, standard on higher trims or later iterations.
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (often paired with ABS).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard on most models within the 2003-2010 range, check specific trim).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front), three-point (rear).
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage with crumple zones designed for urban impact absorption.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles) or 36 months (use specific type specified in manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles) or 48 months.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 24 months, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate suitability).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent.
Engine:
Timing belt wear (critical to replace per schedule), occasional issues with ignition coils and fuel injectors.
Electrical:
Wiring harness corrosion in humid climates, alternator failure, starter motor issues.
Suspension:
Wear in ball joints, control arm bushings, and front strut mounts due to small wheel size and urban driving.
HVAC:
Leaking refrigerant seals, failing blower motor resistors.
Body:
Corrosion on wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms, especially in regions with road salt.
Daewoo Origin:
South Korean manufacturer, established as part of the Daewoo Group. Later became part of GM Korea.
Original Launch:
The Daewoo Matiz was originally launched in 1998 (M100 generation), designed by Italdesign.
Facelift M150:
The 2003-2010 models represent the M150 generation, which received a significant facelift with updated styling (smoother lines, revised front and rear fascias).
Chevrolet Rebranding:
In many markets, particularly Europe and North America, the Matiz was rebadged and sold as the Chevrolet Matiz, then later as the Chevrolet Spark.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (GM Daewoo Auto & Technology Company), but also licensed production in other countries like Poland, India (as Chevrolet Spark), and Uzbekistan.