🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Spark

Year:

2016-2018

Chassis Codes:

M400

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact/City Car

Target Audience:

Urban commuters, first-time car buyers, budget-conscious consumers seeking fuel efficiency and practicality.

Key Competitors:

Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, Mitsubishi Mirage, Nissan Versa, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris.

Spark Advantages:

Agile handling, compact size for city maneuverability, competitive pricing, available technology features (e.g., touchscreen infotainment), good fuel economy.

Design:

Distinctive styling, relatively spacious interior for its class, hatchback versatility.

Powertrain:

Efficient 1.4L ECOTEC engine, choice of manual or automatic transmission, focus on fuel efficiency.

Technology:

Available Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration (on select trims/configurations), rearview camera.

Safety Features:

Standard airbags, available advanced safety features like Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning (depending on trim and options).

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All 2016, 2017, 2018 Chevrolet Spark models, including LS, 1LT, 2LT, ACTIV trims.

Engine Coverage:

1.4L LUV ECOTEC I4 (Gasoline)

Transmission Coverage:

M1R (Manual Transmission), AO6 (Automatic Transmission - 4-Speed Electronic).

Total Pages:

Estimated 3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals for multiple model years).

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) - Searchable, Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valvetrain, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system (drive belt, tensioner, water pump), exhaust system (manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers).

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharger (if applicable), engine diagnostics (OBD-II), powertrain control module (PCM).

Transmission:

Manual transmission (M1R) repair, clutch system, automatic transmission (AO6) overhaul, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM), fluid specifications and refill procedures.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive axles, CV joints, wheel bearings, differential (integrated with transmission).

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum or disc/disc), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor and pad replacement.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam axle, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, steering column, steering rack and pinion, tie rod ends, power steering fluid (if applicable, though typically electric).

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, grounds, lighting system (headlamps, taillamps, interior), horn, wipers, power windows, mirrors.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, latches, hinges, interior trim, seats, dashboard, headliner, HVAC system (climate control, heater core, AC system), door seals, weatherstripping.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, occupant classification system, ABS, stability control (ESC/StabiliTrak), traction control.

Infotainment And Electronics:

Infotainment system (MyLink), radio, speakers, Bluetooth, USB ports, instrument cluster, warning lights, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and fill, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid changes, drive belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation and balancing.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Symptom-based diagnostics, code reading and interpretation (OBD-II), component testing, electrical circuit diagnostics, fuel system pressure testing, ignition system analysis.

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation for all major systems, engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, strut replacement, steering rack replacement, alternator replacement, starter replacement, body panel repair, HVAC component replacement.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.

Specifications And Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic data, alignment angles, dimensional data.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to information.

Printability:

Printable pages for in-garage use.

Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

LUV

Engine Type:

DOHC Inline 4-Cylinder

Displacement:

1.4 Liters (1399 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

73.4 mm x 80.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.4:1

Horsepower Hp:

98 hp @ 6200 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

94 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Redline Rpm:

Approximately 6500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (Minimum)

ECM Type:

GM Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (M1R)

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (AO6)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in the manual; typically designed for fuel efficiency.

Automatic Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in the manual; geared towards urban driving and fuel economy.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III/VI or equivalent manual transmission fluid (check specific GM P/N in manual).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) - GM P/N 88863799 or equivalent.

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate, diaphragm-spring clutch (for manual transmission).

📐 Dimensions

Length In:

143.1 inches

Width In:

64.1 inches

Height In:

59.1 inches

Wheelbase In:

94.1 inches

Ground Clearance In:

Approximately 5.3 inches

Passenger Volume Cu Ft:

Approximately 84.7 cu ft

Front Headroom In:

Approximately 39.7 inches

Rear Headroom In:

Approximately 37.7 inches

Cargo Volume Cu Ft Behind Rear Seat:

Approximately 11.1 cu ft

Cargo Volume Cu Ft With Rear Seat Folded:

Approximately 24.7 cu ft

Curb Weight Lbs:

Approximately 2370-2450 lbs (depending on transmission and trim)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

Typically around 3130-3197 lbs

Wheel Size:

15-inch (standard), 16-inch (optional/ACTIV)

Tire Size Standard:

185/55R15

Tire Size Optional:

195/55R16 (for ACTIV trim)

Bolt Pattern:

4x100 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET 39-45 (typical for 15-inch wheels)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

4-Star (for 2017 model, review specific year ratings for accuracy)

IIHS Ratings:

Good (for most tests, check specific year for Top Safety Pick status if applicable)

Stability Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS) - GM's StabiliTrak.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Rearview Camera:

Standard on all models for 2016-2018.

Forward Collision Alert:

Optional (available on higher trims/packages).

Lane Departure Warning:

Optional (available on higher trims/packages).

Airbags:

10 Standard Airbags: Driver and front passenger front airbags, side-impact airbags, knee airbags (driver and passenger), roof rail airbags, front and rear seat side curtain airbags. Also includes occupant sensing system.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats, 3-point seat belts for rear outboard seats, 2-point seat belt for rear center seat.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch color touchscreen (standard on 1LT, 2LT, ACTIV; optional on LS).

Smartphone Integration:

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (standard on 1LT, 2LT, ACTIV; optional on LS).

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability, USB ports, auxiliary input jack, Bluetooth streaming audio.

Advanced Safety Features:

Optional Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning systems for enhanced safety.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking assist sensors available on some trims/packages.

Bluetooth Connectivity:

Standard Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Ports:

One front USB port for device charging and media playback.

Instrument Cluster Display:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, multi-function digital display showing fuel level, odometer, trip meter, outside temperature, and warning lights. Manual includes detailed explanation of all indicators.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Consult manual for severe driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Inspect more frequently in dusty conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months. Inspect more frequently for allergens or debris.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically require replacement around 100,000 miles. Consult manual for specific type and interval.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Initial flush at 5 years or 150,000 miles, then every 3 years or 75,000 miles thereafter.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 45,000 miles or 3 years, whichever comes first. Inspect for contamination or moisture.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Manual: Inspect periodically, fluid replacement not typically scheduled unless symptoms arise. Automatic: Every 45,000 miles or 3 years, depending on driving conditions.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346340 (Dex-Cool) or equivalent orange long-life coolant (OAT).

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 5.3 US quarts (5.0 liters).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins:

Some owners have reported occasional electrical glitches, potentially related to battery connections or grounds. The manual's detailed wiring diagrams are crucial for diagnosis.

Transmission Shifting Issues:

While generally reliable, some instances of rough shifting in the automatic transmission (AO6) have been reported, often addressable with software updates or fluid service as detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil Consumption:

While not widespread, very early models or those with high mileage might exhibit slight oil consumption. Regular checks and the correct oil specification (0W-20 synthetic) are key.

HVAC System Performance:

Occasional reports of reduced AC performance or HVAC blower motor issues. The manual covers troubleshooting for refrigerant levels, compressor, and blower motor operation.

Brake Pad And Rotor Replacement:

Standard wear item, detailed procedures and specifications for replacement are included.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Struts, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items, with detailed replacement guides.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Legacy:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles from economy cars to heavy-duty trucks since 1911.

Spark Introduction:

The Chevrolet Spark was originally launched globally as the Daewoo Matiz/Chevrolet Matiz, later rebranded as the Chevrolet Spark. The M400 generation (2016-2018) represented a significant redesign from the previous M300 generation, introducing a more powerful engine and updated styling.

M400 Generation Features:

The M400 Spark (2016-2018) received a new 1.4L ECOTEC engine, updated exterior and interior design, improved safety features, and enhanced technology, making it more competitive in the subcompact segment.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea by GM Korea.

Production Years:

Model years 2016, 2017, 2018.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Consistently rated well by safety organizations like NHTSA and IIHS for its class. The manual provides the technical basis for understanding these safety systems.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

Highly competitive EPA estimated fuel economy, often exceeding 30 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. Specific ratings available in EPA data; manual can aid in maintaining optimal fuel efficiency.

Emissions Certification:

Certified to meet Federal and California (if applicable) emissions standards for the model years covered. Manual details emission control systems.