Market Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Economy Car
Target Demographic:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, urban commuters
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Chevrolet Aveo (later models), Ford Fiesta, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, simple mechanicals, decent fuel economy
Design Origin:
Designed by Italian design house Italdesign Giugiaro, giving it a more sophisticated European appearance than many contemporaries.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (mechanical components)
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensors, wiring diagrams
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox assembly, gear selection, drivelines, universal joints, CV joints
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, hydraulic control, torque converter, shift control, diagnostics
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods), rear suspension (torsion beam, trailing arms, dampers), wheel bearings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on spec), brake hydraulics, ABS system components, parking brake
Steering:
Steering gear, steering column, power steering system (hydraulic pump, lines, rack/box)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting (headlamps, tail lamps, interior), wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits
Body Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, trim components, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, component testing procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head gasket replacement, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/master cylinder repair, starter/alternator replacement, fuel injector service, AC system evacuation/recharge
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, electrical circuit testing, mechanical component diagnosis
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for fasteners, component clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, alignment angles
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and bodywork repairs.
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, capacity ~2.0L)
Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:
Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF) (capacity ~6.0L for overhaul)
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated
Euroncap Rating:
Not extensively tested or rated prominently in major markets; generally considered basic for its era.
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Rarely equipped, not a common feature.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (standard on most models, though early base trims might lack passenger airbag).
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts (or lap belts in center rear depending on market)
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX points may be present on some models, though not universally standardized across all markets for 1999.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific grade).
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on type (standard copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Typically 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years. The Lanos uses an interference engine, so belt failure will cause severe damage. **This is a critical maintenance item covered in detail.**
Engine Oil Grade:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate and specific manufacturer recommendation)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water). Specific color or type may vary, consult manual for approved types (e.g., Asian pink/red coolant might be suitable).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), minor electrical gremlins (e.g., dashboard lights, window motors), radiator leaks, clutch wear, occasional alternator or starter issues. Some reports of rust in specific climates.
Oem Part Numbers:
The manual will contain specific OEM part numbers for all components, facilitating accurate part sourcing.
Parent Company:
Daewoo Motor Co., Ltd. (South Korea)
Brand Status:
Daewoo Motors ceased operations as an independent entity after acquisition by General Motors in 2002. The Lanos was later rebadged and sold as Chevrolet Aveo in many markets.
Predecessor:
Daewoo Nexia (a rebadged Opel Kadett E)
Successor:
Daewoo/Chevrolet Kalos (later rebadged as Chevrolet Aveo/Sonic)
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform and many mechanical components with the Opel Corsa B and related GM vehicles, contributing to its relatively competent engineering.
Production Years:
1997-2002 (as Daewoo Lanos); continued production under different brands (e.g., ZAZ Sens in Ukraine) for several years thereafter.
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (main plant), also assembled in other countries like Poland and Ukraine.
