Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Kei SUV
Target Audience:
Individuals seeking a reliable, compact, and capable off-road vehicle
Competitors 1997-1999:
Suzuki Vitara, Toyota RAV4 (first generation), Mitsubishi Pajero Mini
Off Road Capability:
Body-on-frame construction, available 4WD system
Compact Size:
Maneuverable in urban environments and off-road trails
Versatility:
Suitable for daily commuting and light off-roading
Cost Effectiveness:
Inexpensive way to maintain and repair the vehicle
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, and repair procedures
Transmission:
Service, repair, and adjustment for both manual and automatic transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive system (transfer case, differentials, driveshafts)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage, components
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc/drum brake components, ABS (if equipped), parking brake
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, accessories
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, injection system, fuel tank, fuel pump
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, hoses
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and service
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete vehicle disassembly and reassembly guidance
Adjustments:
Engine tuning, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, suspension alignment
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds
User Level:
Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and experienced professional mechanics
Documentation Style:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions
Engine Code Typical:
EF-DE, EF-JM (specific to J100 generation, may vary slightly)
Engine Type:
Inline 3-cylinder, naturally aspirated or turbocharged (depending on market/variant)
Displacement:
Approximately 659 cc (Kei car regulations in Japan) or 1.3L (larger variants)
Horsepower Typical:
Around 50-70 hp (naturally aspirated), potentially higher for turbocharged versions
Torque Typical:
Approximately 58-70 lb-ft (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Crash Test Results:
Limited availability of specific ratings for this model year/region. Early SUVs often had less stringent testing protocols.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may be available on higher trims
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag typically standard, passenger airbag optional or unavailable on base models.
Seatbelts:
Standard seatbelt systems, potential for pretensioners depending on market
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, consult manual for specific recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for EF-series engines; typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Consult manual for exact viscosity and capacity.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent. Consult manual for exact specification and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Timing Belt Wear:
Critical maintenance item; inspect and replace proactively to avoid catastrophic engine failure.
Rust Corrosion:
As with many vehicles of this era, particularly those used in areas with road salt, rust and corrosion on the chassis and body panels can be a concern.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, leading to noise and handling issues.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals can develop leaks.
Daihatsu History:
Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history of producing small, economical, and reliable vehicles, particularly known for its Kei cars in Japan.
Terios Introduction:
The Daihatsu Terios (J100) was first introduced in 1997 as a compact SUV, designed to offer practicality and off-road capability in a small package.
J100 Design:
The J100 generation featured a distinctive boxy design, short wheelbase, and ladder frame chassis, emphasizing its rugged utility.
Production Period:
1997-2006 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with production and assembly in other regions under various badges (e.g., Toyota Cami).
