Segment:
Subcompact hatchback
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, urban commuters
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Starlet, Nissan Sunny/Datsun Cherry, Mazda Familia
Design Philosophy:
Compact, fuel-efficient, practical, and affordable urban transport
Engine Type:
Small displacement, inline-3 or inline-4 cylinder engines (Type CB typically inline-3)
Handling Characteristics:
Lightweight, nimble, and responsive for city driving
Engine Mechanical:
Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of engine components (pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, cylinder head, block)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (assembly, adjustment, troubleshooting), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan
Ignition System:
Distributor, spark plugs, ignition coils, timing adjustment
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, lubrication checks
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, muffler, catalytic converter (if applicable for the region)
Transmission Manual:
Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the manual transmission (gearbox, clutch operation)
Drivetrain:
Drive shafts, CV joints, differential (if integrated or separate)
Suspension Front:
MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckle
Suspension Rear:
Leaf springs or coil springs, shock absorbers, trailing arms, bushings
Steering System:
Steering column, steering rack/box, tie rod ends, power steering (if equipped)
Brake System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical), master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, carpets, HVAC controls
HVAC System:
Heater core, blower motor, air conditioning (if equipped), ducting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting charts, common problems and their solutions
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step procedures for removing and reinstalling major components and sub-assemblies
Repair Rebuild:
Instructions for repairing worn or damaged parts, including specifications for machining or replacement
Adjustments:
Torque specifications, alignment procedures, valve clearance adjustments, ignition timing settings
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail for mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Detail Level:
Includes specifications for tolerances, clearances, torque values, and material specifications
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or 3 months (typical for the era)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km
Coolant Flush:
Every 24 months or 40,000 km
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG Grade, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 - 3.0 Liters (with filter)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:
Approx. 1.7 - 2.0 Liters
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Engine Wear:
Potential for oil consumption due to worn piston rings and valve stem seals on high-mileage engines.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetor jets can become clogged, leading to rough idling, poor acceleration, or starting problems. Diaphragms can also deteriorate.
Electrical Corrosion:
Corrosion in connectors and wiring harnesses, particularly in humid climates, can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings (control arms, sway bar) can degrade over time, leading to noise and poor handling.
Rust:
As with many cars of this era, rust can be a significant issue, particularly in the lower body panels, wheel wells, and chassis components.