Segment:
Subcompact Hatchback/Sedan
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, enthusiasts seeking economical and reliable transportation
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Mirage, Ford Festiva
Engine Options:
Fuel-efficient 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder engines, some turbocharged variants available
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan
Performance Variant:
Charade GTi models offered enhanced performance with turbocharging and sportier tuning
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection systems (EFI), carburetion (where applicable), ignition systems, emissions control systems
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, torque specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, hydraulic control, valve body, torque converter, gear ratios, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, drive shafts, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, tie rods, alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic circuits, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC system, body sealing
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement
Engine Repairs:
Cylinder head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve stem seal replacement, timing belt/chain service
Transmission Repairs:
Clutch replacement, seal replacement, transmission fluid and filter changes, internal component repair
Brake System Repairs:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake line replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Using multimeters, diagnosing charging system faults, troubleshooting starting issues, repairing wiring harness damage
Wheel Alignment:
Caster, camber, toe adjustment procedures and specifications
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling (if applicable), blower motor replacement, heater core service
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic tune-ups to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all major systems
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners
Diagnostic Codes:
OBD-I trouble codes and diagnostic procedures (for applicable models/systems)
Length Range:
Approx. 3,700 mm - 3,950 mm
Width Range:
Approx. 1,550 mm - 1,650 mm
Height Range:
Approx. 1,350 mm - 1,450 mm
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 750 kg - 950 kg
Wheelbase Range:
Approx. 2,300 mm - 2,430 mm
Track Width Range:
Approx. 1,330 mm - 1,360 mm (Front/Rear)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 km (depending on plug type and engine).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial service, typically 80,000 - 100,000 km or 5-7 years. Consult manual for specific interval and component replacement (tensioner, water pump).
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG grade, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for exact viscosity).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific OE specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90). Automatic: Dexron II or equivalent.
Engine Wear:
Oil consumption and piston ring wear can occur in high-mileage engines. Timing belt failure is catastrophic.
Electrical Reliability:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults. Alternator and starter motor common wear items.
Corrosion:
Rust and corrosion, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and around the engine bay, are common issues due to age and environmental exposure.
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can lead to noisy suspension and imprecise handling.
Timing Belt Kit:
Regular replacement with tensioner and idler pulleys is essential to prevent engine damage.
Carburetor Rebuild:
Carburetors can require cleaning and rebuilding due to age and fuel contamination.
Brand Focus:
Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, specialized in compact and small passenger cars, known for fuel efficiency and affordability.
Third Gen Launch:
Introduced in 1983 (globally), featuring a completely new platform, more aerodynamic styling, and improved technology over its predecessor.
Key Updates:
Introduction of 1.0L and 1.3L engines, later adoption of EFI, availability of GTi performance models, expanded body style options (sedan and hatchback).
Production Period:
1983-1993
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other global locations.
