Brand Segment:
Subcompact hatchback and sedan, known for affordability and fuel efficiency
Key Competitors:
Suzuki Swift, Mazda 121, Nissan Micra, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Starlet
Target Audience:
First-time car buyers, budget-conscious individuals, those seeking economical urban transport
Distinguishing Attributes:
Compact dimensions, high fuel economy, surprisingly practical interior space for its size, simple mechanicals
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing system (belt/chain), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carburetor/injection), emissions control
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, spark plugs, coils, distributors, timing control, fuel injection control (ECU), sensor diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox assembly, gear selection, overhaul, maintenance, fluid specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, hydraulic control, overhaul, maintenance, fluid specifications (if applicable to covered models)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, CV joints, differentials (transaxle), wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckles, wheel alignment procedures
Steering:
Steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump and system (if equipped), steering column, diagnosis
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or discs), brake fluid, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, brake lines, parking brake system, ABS diagnostics (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Battery, starting system (starter motor, solenoid), charging system (alternator, regulator), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring harnesses, connectors, diagnostic procedures
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, chassis lubrication points, rust prevention
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, ventilation, refrigerant handling, diagnostics (if covered)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (e.g., no-start, poor running, braking issues, electrical faults)
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component repair
Component Replacement:
Removal and installation procedures for nearly all serviceable parts (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter, fuel pump, radiators, master cylinder)
Special Tools:
Identification of and procedures for using specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and body repairs.
Engine Code Examples:
CB series (e.g., CB45, CB71, CB82, CB90), G series (e.g., G10, G12, G13, G16) - varies significantly by generation and market
Displacement Range:
647cc to 1.6L (approx. 0.7L - 1.6L)
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline 3-cylinder, Inline 4-cylinder
Horsepower Range:
30-90 HP (approx. 22-67 kW) - dependent on specific engine and tuning
Torque Range:
40-115 Nm (approx. 30-85 lb-ft) - dependent on specific engine and tuning
Fuel Delivery Early:
Carburetor (e.g., single barrel, downdraft)
Fuel Delivery Later:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI / MPI) - single point or multi-point
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Timing Drive:
Timing Belt (common for 3-cyl and early 4-cyl), Timing Chain (some later 4-cyl)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions)
Engine Oil Filter Replace:
At every oil change
Air Filter Replace:
Every 15,000-30,000 km (9,000-18,000 miles) or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replace:
Every 30,000-60,000 km (18,000-36,000 miles) depending on plug type (standard vs. iridium/platinum)
Timing Belt Replace:
Every 60,000-100,000 km (36,000-60,000 miles) or 4-5 years. CRITICAL to follow as failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or specified power steering fluid (if equipped)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, worn CV joints, alternator/starter motor reliability, fuel pump issues (especially with ethanol blends on older models), minor oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan seals.
Rust Susceptibility:
Prone to rust in wheel arches, rocker panels, and around window seals, especially in regions with road salt. Early models may have less robust rustproofing.
Electrical Quirks:
Can experience issues with aging wiring harnesses, connectors, and grounds leading to intermittent faults in lighting, ignition, or gauges.
Brand Origin:
Japanese manufacturer specializing in small, economical vehicles.
Generations:
Multiple generations spanning from the 1970s to the early 2000s, each with iterative design and engineering improvements. Key generations: G10 (1977-1981), G20 (1981-1986), G40/G50 (1986-1990), G60 (1990-1994), G70 (1994-2000), M100/M101 (1997-2001 - sharing platform with Corsa/Tercel)
Engine Progression:
Shift from carbureted 2-valve engines to fuel-injected multi-valve engines, often with increased displacement and power.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan; also produced under license in other countries.
Key Facelifts Redesigns:
Significant redesigns between generations; often minor cosmetic updates and powertrain refinements within generations.