🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Daihatsu

Model:

Charade

Product Code:

DAI-CHA-87ON

👋 Introduction

Historical Positioning:

The Daihatsu Charade was positioned as an economical, fuel-efficient subcompact car, often competing with models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Starlet, and Suzuki Swift in various global markets.

Competitors From 1987 Onwards:

Key competitors included the Toyota Starlet, Honda Civic (early models), Suzuki Swift/Cultus, Nissan March/Micra, and various European small cars like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo.

Defining Characteristics:

Known for its compact size, practical interior, fuel efficiency, and often peppy performance for its class, especially with the introduction of turbo-charged variants.

Value Proposition:

This manual provides comprehensive coverage essential for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing Daihatsu Charade models, offering significant cost savings compared to dealership servicing.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Generations Covered:

Covers all Daihatsu Charade models from 1987 onwards, encompassing multiple generations and significant updates.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific model year and engine, typically exceeding 500 pages for comprehensive coverage.

Typical Content Sections:

Includes sections on engine mechanicals, engine performance, maintenance, engine lubrication & cooling, fuel systems, exhaust systems, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, driveshafts, suspension, steering, brakes, body electrical, HVAC, and troubleshooting.

Type:

Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF likely, but specific format not guaranteed from description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, component testing, and repair for gasoline and diesel engines (depending on market/year), including fuel injection, ignition, and emissions control systems.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Coverage for manual and automatic transmissions, clutch systems, drive axles, differentials, and transfer cases (if applicable).

Brakes And Suspension:

In-depth information on hydraulic brake systems, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, steering system, front and rear suspension components, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical And Electronics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, testing procedures for lighting, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, and ECU troubleshooting.

Body And Chassis:

Details on body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, underbody protection, and chassis diagnostics.

Fuel And Exhaust Systems:

Covers fuel tanks, lines, pumps, filters, injectors, exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and emission control components.

Cooling System:

Details on radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, hoses, and coolant specifications and procedures.

HVAC System:

Includes service and repair for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including refrigerant handling (where applicable).

Routine Maintenance:

Step-by-step guides for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and belt inspections.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic fault finding charts and procedures for common and uncommon issues, including diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretations.

Component Repair Rebuild:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for major mechanical and electrical components.

Specification Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic readings, and component tolerances.

Engine Rebuild Procedures:

Step-by-step guides for engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly, including piston rings, bearings, cylinder heads, and valve trains.

Transmission Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for the complete overhaul of both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch pack replacement, valve body service, and gear inspection.

Body Repair Techniques:

Information on dent repair, panel replacement, welding procedures, and sealant application for bodywork.

Diagnostic Tree Development:

Systematic troubleshooting flowcharts to help diagnose faults quickly and efficiently.

Depth:

Professional-level technical information suitable for DIY mechanics and independent repair shops, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Tools Requirements:

While some repairs can be done with basic tools, advanced diagnostics may suggest or require specific scan tools, multimeters, and pressure gauges as outlined in the manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF; includes searchable text and high-resolution diagrams where applicable.

Searchability:

Designed to be easily navigable with a searchable PDF format, allowing users to quickly locate specific repair procedures or specifications.

Diagram Quality:

Expect clear, detailed diagrams, schematics, and illustrations essential for accurate repair.

Diagram Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and schematics ensuring clarity for electrical tracing and mechanical component identification.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Digital Accessibility:

Accessible on multiple devices with PDF reader software. Easy to print specific pages as needed.

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Digital Content:

Rich with technical illustrations, exploded views, and diagnostic flowcharts.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Common Engines Post 1987:

Various inline-3 and inline-4 cylinder gasoline engines, often in the 1.0L to 1.6L displacement range. Diesel variants were also available in certain markets. Specific engine codes vary by generation and market (e.g., CB series, EJ series).

Typical Horsepower Range:

Generally ranged from 50 hp to over 100 hp, with turbo models offering higher output. Exact figures depend on the specific engine and market.

Injection Type:

Early models might feature carburetors, but post-1987 models predominantly utilized multi-point fuel injection (MPI) systems for improved efficiency and emissions.

Common Engine Codes Examples:

Examples may include 3-cylinder ED-series (e.g., ED-FE) or 4-cylinder HD-series (e.g., HD-E) gasoline engines, and potentially DL-series diesel engines in specific markets. The manual will list exact codes.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Standard transmission was typically a 5-speed manual. Some early models may have offered a 4-speed manual.

Automatic Transmission:

An optional automatic transmission, usually a 3-speed or 4-speed unit, was available on many models.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard. Some performance or niche variants might have offered all-wheel drive (AWD).

📐 Dimensions

Typical Length:

Approximately 3,700 mm to 3,900 mm, depending on the generation and specific body style (e.g., 3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback).

Wheelbase Range:

Typically around 2,300 mm to 2,400 mm, contributing to its compact footprint.

Seating Capacity:

Typically seats 4-5 occupants, with a focus on compact practicality.

Trunk Volume Estimated:

Limited due to its subcompact nature, but rear seats were often foldable to expand cargo space.

Curb Weight Range:

Generally between 750 kg and 950 kg, depending on engine, transmission, and trim level.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

GVWR varies by model and configuration, but generally designed for urban and light suburban use, typically in the range of 1,200 - 1,400 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Safety ratings varied significantly by region and testing methodology during the production period. Early models generally had fewer safety features compared to later generations.

Common Active Safety:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available on later models. Standard features included disc front brakes and drum rear brakes.

Common Passive Safety:

Seat belts were standard. Airbags were introduced on higher trim levels or later generations. Crumple zones and reinforced passenger cabins were incorporated into body design.

💡 Technology Features

Factory Audio Systems:

Early models featured basic AM/FM radios with cassette players. Later models may have offered CD players, and improved speaker systems.

ABS Availability:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on higher trim levels or introduced in later generations of the Charade.

Early Connectivity:

Primarily focused on basic vehicle functions; no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or smartphone integration were standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Typical:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Manual will specify for each engine.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Crucial for many Charade engines. Intervals vary significantly, often between 40,000 to 60,000 miles (64,000 to 96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Manual will confirm specific interval and part numbers.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Recommended replacement intervals can range from 30,000 to 60,000 miles depending on the type of spark plug (copper, platinum, iridium). Manual will specify.

Engine Oil Type:

Commonly API SG/SH or higher, with viscosity grades like 5W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50 depending on climate. Manual will provide precise API classification and viscosity for each engine. Example: 5W-30 API SG.

Coolant Type:

Typically a silicate-free or hybrid organic acid technology (HOAT) coolant. A 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water is standard. Manual will specify the exact type and capacity. Example: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 gear oil for manual transmissions, often 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual will specify exact API rating and viscosity. Example: API GL-4 SAE 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Dexron II/III or equivalent ATF fluid. Manual will confirm the precise fluid type and capacity for specific automatic transmission models. Example: Dexron III ATF.

Brake Fluid Type:

Typically DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify the exact standard and capacity. Example: DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

If equipped with power steering, it would use a specific type of power steering fluid or ATF. Manual will provide specifications. Example: Dexron II/III ATF or specific power steering fluid.

Common Wear And Tear:

Typical issues for cars of this era include worn suspension bushings, aging rubber hoses and seals, potential carburetor or fuel injection system issues, exhaust leaks, and electrical component failures (e.g., alternator, starter motor).

Engine Specific Concerns:

Depending on the engine, potential issues might include oil consumption, head gasket leaks, or issues related to the ignition or fuel delivery systems. Turbocharged models may have specific needs related to turbocharger maintenance.

Transmission Issues:

Wear in manual gearboxes (synchros, bearings) or automatic transmission solenoid/clutch pack issues can occur with high mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Daihatsu Focus:

Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history of producing small, economical, and reliable vehicles, with a strong focus on microcars and compacts, particularly for the Japanese market.

Generations Post 1987:

The Charade saw several generations and significant redesigns from 1987 onwards, evolving from its boxy early designs to more aerodynamic and modern styling. Notable generations include the G100 (1987-1994), G200 (1994-2000), and later models rebadged or based on Toyota platforms (e.g., Charade G70/G71 in some markets).

Design Shifts:

The Charade has undergone significant aesthetic and engineering changes across its generations, adapting to evolving automotive design trends and customer expectations.

Key Production Years:

The Charade model line spanned several decades, with the period covered by this manual being from 1987 until the model's discontinuation or rebranding in various markets, roughly into the early 2000s. Production locations were primarily Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Fuel Efficiency Awards:

The Charade was often recognized in its segment for its strong fuel economy ratings, contributing to its popularity as an economical commuter vehicle.

Consumer Reports Historical Mentions:

While specific awards are not detailed in the product description, models of this type were generally reviewed for their value, reliability (though sometimes variable by generation), and running costs. The manual would provide data to maintain these aspects.

Emission Standards Compliance:

The manual will detail the emission control systems and specifications required to meet the relevant emissions standards of the markets for which the specific model was intended.