Market Position:
The Daihatsu Materia was positioned as a compact, versatile, and stylish urban vehicle, often appealing to younger demographics and those seeking a practical yet distinctive mode of transportation.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed in the supermini and small MPV segment against vehicles like the Fiat 500, Mini Cooper, and certain models from Nissan, Toyota, and Honda, offering a unique blend of practicality and unconventional styling.
Key Features:
Distinctive 'boxy' or 'mini-MPV' styling, spacious interior for its size, flexible seating arrangements, and typically fuel-efficient engines.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual provides professional-grade repair and maintenance information, enabling owners and technicians to perform a wide range of tasks, from routine servicing to complex repairs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the Daihatsu Materia.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Manual and Automatic), Clutch System, Drive Shaft, Differential Case Assy, Brake System, Steering System, Suspension System (Front and Rear), Wheels and Tires, Body Repair, Electrical System, HVAC, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Wiper and Washer System, Lighting System, Security System, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting
Procedures Included:
Complete disassembly and reassembly, routine maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component repair, overhaul procedures, electrical wiring repairs, bodywork, safety system checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, clutch adjustments, brake servicing, suspension component replacement, steering system repairs, engine tune-ups, emission control system servicing, air conditioning servicing, interior and exterior trim removal/installation
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed illustrations, step-by-step instructions, diagnostic charts, and wiring diagrams.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed troubleshooting guides, fault code diagnosis (if applicable to the OBD-II system of the era), and diagnostic flowcharts for various systems.
Wiring Diagrams Coverage:
Comprehensive and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, essential for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults.
Body And Chassis Covered:
Includes procedures for body repair, panel removal/installation, chassis component replacement, and alignment specifications.
Suspension And Steering Coverage:
Front and Rear Suspension Systems, Steering System, Power Steering, Steering Column, Wheel alignment procedures, and component replacement.
Brake System Coverage:
Brake Master Cylinder, Brake Booster, Brake Pedal, Brake Fluid, Brake Actuator, Brake System diagnostics, and component overhaul.
HVAC Coverage:
Heater Radiator Assy, cooling system components related to HVAC, and potentially basic diagnostics for the climate control system.
Interior Trim Coverage:
Procedures for removing and installing interior components such as the Instrument Panel, Seat belts, Seat belts, Combination Meter, and interior trim panels.
Exterior Trim Coverage:
Removal and installation of exterior components like Roof Headlining, Side Mudguard, Exterior Mirrors, and other body moldings.
Primary Engine Options:
The M401, M402, and M412 series typically featured Daihatsu's K3-VE 1.3L inline-4 DOHC engine, and in some markets, the 3SZ-VE 1.5L inline-4 DOHC engine. Specific engine codes like K3-VE (1.3L) and 3SZ-VE (1.5L) are likely detailed.
Estimated Performance:
1.3L (K3-VE): Approximately 87-90 hp and 105-110 Nm torque. 1.5L (3SZ-VE): Approximately 100-109 hp and 130-140 Nm torque. The manual will provide precise figures and performance data.
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection.
Emission Controls:
The manual details systems such as Charcoal Canister, SFI (Sequential Fuel Injection) System, and other emission-related components.
Key Engine Components Covered:
Cylinder Head Assy, Cylinder Head, Cylinder Block Assy, Camshaft, Valve Clearance, Oil Pump, Oil Filter, Thermostat, Water Pump Assy, Radiator Assy, Pulleys, Drive Belts
Engine Management System:
Details on the Engine Control System, including sensor inputs (Camshaft Position Sensor, Knock Sensor), actuators, and electronic control unit (ECU) related procedures.
Standard Transmission:
Likely a 5-speed Manual Transaxle System.
Optional Transmission:
Likely a 4-speed Automatic Transmission (torque converter).
Transmission Features Covered:
Manual Transaxle Assy, Manual Transaxle Oil, Torque Converter Clutch, Transmission Control Cable, Transmission Valve Body, Transmission Revolution Sensor, Shift & Select Lever Shaft, Park/Neutral Position Switch
Transaxle Component Coverage:
Input Shaft Assy, Output Shaft Assy, Shift Lock System, and other internal components of the Manual Transaxle Assy.
Exterior Dimensions:
Specific dimensions (length, width, height) will vary by model year and configuration but generally fall within the compact car segment, emphasizing a tall, boxy profile for interior space. Exact figures will be in the manual.
Interior Space Focus:
The Materia is known for maximizing interior space within its compact footprint, featuring flexible seating and an airy cabin. The manual will detail interior component removal and reinstallation.
Curb Weight:
Curb weights typically range from approximately 1050kg to 1150kg depending on engine and transmission. Specific weight data will be found in the manual.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
GVWR figures will be detailed in the manual for load capacity.
Safety Ratings:
Safety ratings would have varied by market and testing body (e.g., Euro NCAP). The manual covers SRS components, indicating a focus on occupant safety.
Active Safety Features Covered:
Brake System, Skid Control Sensor, Yaw Rate Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) components (if equipped), Brake Actuator.
Passive Safety Features Covered:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Air Bag System (Passenger Air Bag Assy, Side Air Bag Sensor Assy, Center Air Bag Sensor Assy), Seat Belt Warning System, Seat Belt, Seat Belt Pretensioners.
Lighting Safety:
Lighting System coverage includes Headlights, Tail Lights, Center Stop Lamp Assy, Combination Lamps, and exterior lighting for visibility and signaling.
Infotainment Systems Covered:
The manual will cover the installation, removal, and basic troubleshooting of factory-installed audio systems (Radio Receiver Assy) and associated wiring, as well as the Combination Meter.
Driver Assistance Features Covered:
Features like ABS, traction control (if equipped), and stability control (if equipped) are detailed under the Brake System and Skid Control Sensor sections.
Connectivity Features:
Basic connectivity would typically involve audio system connections and potential wiring for accessories. The manual covers relevant wiring harness repairs.
Electrical System Coverage:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including starter system, charging system, ignition system, lighting system, power windows, power mirrors, and diagnostic procedures for electrical faults with detailed wiring diagrams.
Lighting Component Coverage:
Coverage for Center Stop Lamp Assy, Side Turn Signal Lamp Assy, and general lighting system maintenance and repair.
Service Intervals:
The manual provides detailed recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, brake fluid, coolant, and other critical maintenance items. Typical intervals for oil changes are 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Specification:
Likely API SG, SH, SJ, SL, or higher, with viscosity grades such as 0W-20, 5W-30, or 10W-30 depending on climate. The manual will specify exact grades and capacities.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Daihatsu coolant types or equivalents will be listed.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. The manual will confirm the exact specification.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Manual transmission oil: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90. Automatic transmission fluid: Dexron III or equivalent. Specific capacities and types will be detailed.
Common Issues Addressed:
The manual will cover common issues for the Materia series, which may include minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension components due to urban driving, clutch wear, and potential issues with the cooling system or emissions control components if not maintained.
Parts Reference:
While not a parts catalog, the manual provides part names and assembly details crucial for identifying and sourcing correct replacement components.
Lubrication System Coverage:
Detailed information on the Lubrication System, including oil capacities, filter part numbers, and recommended lubricant types for the engine and transmission.
Brand Heritage:
Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history of producing small, reliable, and often quirky vehicles known for their practicality and value.
Model Evolution:
The Materia (also known as the Sirion in some markets for previous generations, and the Boon Luminas) was part of Daihatsu's strategy to offer compact cars with distinctive styling. The M401/M402/M412 series represents a specific generation characterized by its urban-friendly design.
Production Locations:
Daihatsu vehicles are primarily manufactured in Japan. The Materia would have followed this practice.
Sales Positioning:
Targeted niche markets for its unique design and practicality, often performing well in specific urban environments or regions where compact and fuel-efficient cars are prioritized.
