Model Years Covered:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Segment:
Compact SUV / Kei car derivative
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, owners seeking in-depth vehicle knowledge
Key Competitors:
Suzuki Vitara, Toyota RAV4 (early models), Honda CR-V (early models)
Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, factory-level repair information for a capable and often overlooked compact SUV
Uniqueness:
Covers the unique Japanese Kei car origins and the wider global variant specifications
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, and repair for all engine variants
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch service, drivetrain components
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems, steering gear, power steering, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front/rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS operation and diagnosis, parking brake
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter, charging system, lighting, ignition, fuel injection, ECUs
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, corrosion protection, chassis components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, evaporative emissions control
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan operation
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Rebuilding:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, electrical component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Engine Code Common:
J102E (1.3L), J102G (1.3L), K3-VE (1.3L VVT-i), HE-EG (1.5L)
Displacement 1.3L:
1298 cc
Displacement 1.5L:
1495 cc
Horsepower 1.3L:
Approx. 80-85 HP
Horsepower 1.5L:
Approx. 90-95 HP
Torque 1.3L:
Approx. 105-110 Nm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve (variable valve timing on later 1.3L)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Drivetrain:
Part-time 4WD (selectable) and Full-time 4WD variants
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check specific manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II/III or equivalent (check specific manual for exact spec)
Safety Standards:
Meets prevailing safety standards for its era (specific ANCAP/Euro NCAP ratings may exist but are often low for this class/era)
ABS:
Available on higher trims and later models
Traction Control:
Rarely fitted on this generation
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard on later models, optional on early)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with CD player or cassette player (market dependent)
Gauges:
Standard instrument cluster with tachometer (on some trims)
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trim levels
Connectivity Options:
Limited; typically analog systems, no integrated Bluetooth or USB for this era
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to specific owner's manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical component, typically 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years (verify for specific engine)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 Liters (check manual for specific engine)
Engine Oil Specification:
10W-30 or 5W-30 API SG or higher (check manual for specific grade)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (typically pink or red)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, clutch wear (manual), starter motor issues, rust on chassis components, early ABS sensor failures
Typical Repairs:
Water pump, thermostat, exhaust system components, CV joints
Daihatsu Focus:
Daihatsu's specialization in compact and light commercial vehicles, known for reliability and affordability
Launch Era:
Introduced in 1997 as a successor to smaller Daihatsu 4x4s
Kei Car Roots:
Developed from Daihatsu's Kei car platform, offering compact dimensions and efficiency
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Osaka)
Production Period:
1997 - 2005 (J100 Series)
Category Recognition:
Praised for its compact size, maneuverability, and off-road capability relative to its segment, especially in markets where it was popular.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable when properly maintained; key to follow the service schedule, especially for the timing belt.
