Segment:
Subcompact/Compact car, often positioned as an affordable and practical option.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Escort, Opel Astra, Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Hyundai Accent in various markets.
Design Philosophy:
Designed with a focus on practicality, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride for its class.
Body Styles:
Available primarily as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback.
Engine Variants:
Typically offered with 1.5L and 1.6L gasoline engines, though regional variations might exist.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication, cooling systems
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox internals, shift mechanism, servicing, repair
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, servicing, repair, torque converter, hydraulics (if applicable to specific models covered)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Steering system, power steering pump, rack and pinion, linkages, column, troubleshooting
Brakes:
Brake system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, drums, parking brake, ABS system (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, horn, wipers, power windows, central locking
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass, chassis components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant, components, servicing
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) information, scan tool usage, sensor testing
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, wear limits, alignment angles
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics)
Audience:
Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code Example:
A15SMS (1.5L SOHC), A16XER (1.6L DOHC, later models/variations)
Displacement 1.5L:
1498 cc
Displacement 1.6L:
1598 cc
Horsepower 1.5L:
~75-85 hp (depending on specific tune and market)
Torque 1.5L:
~120-130 Nm (depending on specific tune and market)
Horsepower 1.6L:
~90-100 hp (depending on specific tune and market)
Torque 1.6L:
~130-140 Nm (depending on specific tune and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, front-mounted, transverse
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) depending on engine variant
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually (if equipped).
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum/iridium recommended for longer life).
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Typically 10W-30 or 5W-30 for gasoline engines, depending on climate.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SL or higher, ACEA A3/B4 recommended.
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., GM Dex-Cool compatible or similar).
Fluid Specifications Transmission
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF.
Fluid Specifications Brakes
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Reliability:
Can experience oil leaks from valve cover gasket, intake manifold gasket. Timing belt replacement is critical to avoid catastrophic engine damage. Some report slight power loss over time.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common due to age and road conditions.
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, faulty window regulators, and intermittent dashboard warning lights can occur.
Rusting:
Prone to rust, especially in wheel arches, sills, and around the fuel filler neck, particularly in regions with harsh winters.
Parent Company:
Daewoo Motor Company (South Korea), later acquired by GM.
Predecessor:
Daewoo Nexia/LeMans (though Lanos was a distinct new platform).
Successor:
Daewoo Nubira (larger model), Daewoo Lacetti (later models evolved from Lanos platform under GM).
Production Years:
1997-2002 (for the specific generation covered by this manual)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea, Poland (FSO), Ukraine (ZAZ), Romania (Rodae), and other licensed assembly plants.
Market Penetration:
Achieved moderate success in Eastern Europe, South America, and certain Asian markets. Less successful in Western Europe and North America compared to established brands.
