Segment:
Subcompact Hatchback
Key Competitors:
Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, Mitsubishi Mirage, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris
Target Audience:
Urban commuters, first-time car buyers, budget-conscious consumers
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, excellent fuel economy, maneuverability, surprisingly spacious interior for its size, and a good list of available features for the segment.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission (including clutch, torque converter, gear selector, internal components, hydraulic control systems)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (power steering, steering column), braking system (ABS, EBD, brake components, hydraulic lines), wheels and tires
Electrical System:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instruments and controls, wipers and washers, power windows and locks, horn, trailer towing wiring
Body And Frame:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags, seat belts, glass and mirrors, noise insulation
HVAC System:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (compressor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant, blower motor, controls)
Infotainment And Electronics:
Audio system, navigation (if equipped), Bluetooth connectivity, driver information center, Body Control Module (BCM)
Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, tire rotation, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), common symptoms and causes, diagnostic procedures for all systems, wiring diagrams, component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, shock absorber/strut replacement, power steering pump replacement, headlamp bulb replacement, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement
Adjustment And Calibration:
Wheel alignment, brake adjustment, parking brake adjustment, throttle position sensor calibration
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for removing, installing, and replacing all major and minor components
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring schematics.
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
6-Speed Automatic (with manual shift mode)
Automatic Features:
Active Select Shift, Hill Start Assist (on some models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent (refer to specific manual section for exact GM part number)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent (refer to specific manual section for exact GM part number)
NHTSA Overall Rating 2016:
4 out of 5 stars (General Motors rating, specific tests may vary)
Traction Control:
Yes, standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Yes, standard
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-curtain airbags, front side-impact airbags (standard)
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners
Rearview Camera:
Available on certain trims
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or 45,000 miles (72,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or 5 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (GM dexos1™ Gen 2 or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.1 quarts (3.9 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12378515 (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool compatible coolant
Common Problems:
Occasional reports of minor electrical gremlins, CVT issues (though 2016 has a 6-speed auto), and potential for premature wear on certain suspension components due to its economy-focused design. Some owners report cabin noise at highway speeds.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
ACDelco PF2232 (verify with vehicle VIN)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
ACDelco A3265C (verify with vehicle VIN)
Manufacturer Heritage:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks to sports cars, known for value and accessibility.
First Generation Spark:
The Spark was initially developed by GM Daewoo and launched globally in various forms before being introduced to the North American market as a Chevrolet.
Second Generation Introduction:
The 2016 model year marked the introduction of the second generation Chevrolet Spark in North America, featuring a significant redesign.
Manufacturing Location:
South Korea (GM Korea facility)