Segment:
Subcompact hatchback/sedan, positioned as an affordable and practical entry-level vehicle in the Chevrolet lineup.
Target Audience:
First-time car buyers, budget-conscious consumers, those seeking economical transportation.
Competitors:
Ford Festiva, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Excel.
Design:
Practical hatchback and sedan body styles, fuel-efficient engines, straightforward mechanicals.
Value Proposition:
Affordability, low running costs, ease of maintenance, reliability for its class.
Engine:
Complete engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul, cooling system, fuel system (carbureted and early EFI), ignition system, lubrication system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (e.g., 5-speed) and Automatic transmission (e.g., 3-speed) repair, adjustment, fluid service, component replacement.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive axles, CV joints, differential service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, springs, bushings, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack/box, tie rods, steering column, alignment.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, calipers, pads, shoes, parking brake.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power windows, locks.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hoods, trunks, glass, interior trim, upholstery, body repair techniques, collision repair basics.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system service, refrigerant handling (vintage), blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor.
Exhaust:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, exhaust pipes, hangers.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues, electrical fault finding.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) for early systems (if applicable), specific diagnostic tests for sensors and actuators, fuel pressure testing, compression testing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, performance data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, enabling precise diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1.5 Liters (1498 cc) and potentially a 1.6 Liter (1588 cc) variant.
Bore X Stroke:
Typically around 75.0 mm x 84.5 mm for the 1.5L.
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 8.5:1 to 9.0:1
Horsepower:
Approximately 70-75 HP (SAE Gross) for the 1.5L.
Torque:
Approximately 80-85 lb-ft (SAE Gross) for the 1.5L.
Fuel Delivery:
Early models likely featured a carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Keihin). Later models may have introduced basic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, typically with an octane rating of 87.
Cooling Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system.
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 3.5 - 4.0 quarts (3.3 - 3.8 liters) with filter change.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Recommended replacement every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 4-5 years, crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission.
Transmission Type:
3-speed automatic transmission.
Automatic Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary, but typically a simple 3-speed planetary gearset design for its era.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent) recommended. Check manual for exact specification.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Check manual for exact specification.
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door sedan.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 95.7 inches (2430 mm).
Length:
Varies by body style, e.g., hatchback around 156 inches (3960 mm), sedan around 166 inches (4216 mm).
Width:
Around 64.4 inches (1635 mm).
Height:
Around 53.5 inches (1360 mm) for hatchback, slightly more for sedan.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,000 - 2,200 lbs (907 - 998 kg) depending on body style and transmission.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 3,000 - 3,200 lbs (1360 - 1450 kg).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100 mm (4-lug).
Standard Tire Size:
Commonly 175/70R13 or 185/60R14.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SF or SG classification. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, check owner's manual for temperature ranges.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Check manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Rust/corrosion (especially in northern climates), worn suspension bushings, aging rubber hoses and seals, carburetor issues (stalling, poor idling), early fuel injection system glitches, potential for distributor/ignition problems.
Reliability Notes:
Generally considered reliable for its age and price point, but requires diligent maintenance due to its vintage status.
