Chassis Codes:
L500S, L501S, L502S, L510S, L512S, L550S, L560S
Engine Codes:
EF-EL, EF-SE, EF-DE, EF-JL, EF-VG, JB-JL, EJ-DE, EJ-VE
Positioning:
The Daihatsu Charade L500 series, launched in 1994, was a subcompact hatchback known for its fuel efficiency, compact size, and practicality, primarily targeting urban commuters and budget-conscious buyers. It competed with vehicles like the Suzuki Cultus/Swift, Honda City, and Mitsubishi Minica.
Competitors:
Suzuki Cultus/Swift, Honda City, Mitsubishi Minica, Nissan March/Micra, Toyota Starlet.
Features:
Compact dimensions for city driving, economical engines, available 4WD in some variants, diverse trim levels offering varying features and performance.
Trim Levels:
Centro, CX, CG, TS, TR, CL, CR, TX, CX Limited, CG Limited, TR Limited, GTXX, GTi, Turbo, Aero Downhill, Aura
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 1000+
Type:
Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition system, emission control, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drive shafts, differentials, axles, 4WD system (if applicable)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU), ignition, starting system, charging system, lighting system, instruments, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, audio system, air conditioning controls
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, glass, sunroof (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, brake pad inspection/replacement, tire rotation
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams for electrical systems, component testing procedures
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific tools required for various repair and maintenance tasks
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.
Engine Options:
Inline-3 and Inline-4 naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines.
Ef El:
659cc, 3-cylinder, SOHC, ~55-60 PS
Ef De:
659cc, 3-cylinder, DOHC, Turbocharged, Intercooled, ~64 PS
Ej Ve:
989cc, 4-cylinder, DOHC, VVT-i, ~70-75 PS
Jb Jl:
659cc, 4-cylinder, DOHC, Turbocharged, ~70-80 PS (GTXX)
System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 km or 4-5 years, depending on engine and operating conditions. Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
Type:
3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)
4Wd Availability:
Available on select models with both MT and AT, often referred to as '4WD' or '4-Wheel Drive'.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90. Check manual for specific Daihatsu fluid P/N.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II/III compatible ATF. Check manual for specific Daihatsu fluid P/N.
Jncsa Crash Safety:
Achieved good ratings in Japanese New Car Assessment Program (JNCAP) crash tests for its era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or as an option.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some performance-oriented models (e.g., GTXX Turbo).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags available on select models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Features:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player or CD player depending on trim and options. Digital clock.
Features:
Limited to available ABS and Traction Control System on higher trims. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) typical of modern vehicles.
Features:
None in the modern sense. Basic auxiliary input for audio devices might be present on later models or aftermarket installations.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months. Use high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 km or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 km depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium). Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km. Use a compatible ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH/SJ, ILSAC GF-2/GF-3. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Capacity: Approx. 3.0 - 3.5 liters with filter change, check manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Ensure to use fresh, unopened fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III compatible ATF or specified power steering fluid. Check manual.
Engine:
Timing belt wear, oil leaks, potential for head gasket issues on high-mileage engines, carbon build-up in turbocharged engines.
Transmission:
Wear in synchros on manual transmissions, occasional solenoid issues in automatic transmissions.
Electrical:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, issues with instrument cluster, aging wiring harness components, alternator and starter motor wear.
Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings leading to knocking noises and poor handling. Power steering pump leaks.
Heritage Summary:
Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history of producing small, economical, and reliable vehicles, specializing in Kei cars and compact segments.
Previous Generation:
L200 series (1986-1994), which established the Charade's reputation for affordability and efficiency.
Next Generation:
Later Charade models (G200 series onwards) continued to evolve with design and technology, but the L500 represents a distinct era.
Production Period:
1994 - 2000
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Notable Awards:
While not a recipient of major international awards, the Charade line was consistently recognized in Japan for its value, fuel efficiency, and reliability in the compact car segment.
Fuel Economy:
Highly rated for fuel economy, making it a popular choice for economical transportation. Specific MPG figures vary by engine and drivetrain, but generally excellent for its class and era.
Certification Standards:
Meets Japanese domestic market (JDM) safety and emissions standards for the period.
