Market Position:
The 1990 Daihatsu Charade was positioned as a compact, fuel-efficient subcompact car, popular in many global markets for its affordability, reliability, and practicality as a city car and small family vehicle.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Starlet, Suzuki Swift/Cultus, Nissan March/Micra, and Ford Festiva in the subcompact segment. Known for its distinctive styling (especially the later models) and often a value proposition.
Key Features:
Compact dimensions, economical engines, front-wheel drive, hatchback body style, front independent suspension, rear torsion beam or independent suspension depending on variant.
Engine Layout:
Inline 3-cylinder or 4-cylinder, typically transversely mounted.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical/Ignition, Fuel System, Emission Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Intake/Exhaust Systems, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain/Driveshafts, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear, Hydraulic/ABS), Body Electrical, Lighting, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Chassis & Frame, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve timing, lubrication system overhaul, cooling system overhaul, fuel injection system diagnostics and repair.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system (coil, distributor, plugs), starter motor, alternator, battery, sensors (e.g., TPS, MAP, Crank/Cam position), ECU troubleshooting and testing.
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear independent suspension (e.g., multi-link, depending on variant) or torsion beam axle, steering rack/box, power steering system components.
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system diagnosis and repair (if equipped).
Body Electrical Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, dashboard warning lights, wiper system, horn, power windows, power locks (if equipped), fuse box locations and descriptions, wiring harness diagrams for all circuits.
Clutch Transmission:
Manual clutch system (diaphragm spring, release bearing), manual gearbox overhaul, automatic transmission hydraulic control, torque converter, gear selection mechanisms.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs), Component Removal & Installation, Adjustment Procedures, Diagnostic Tests, Troubleshooting Faults, Overhaul Procedures, Repair Techniques, Wiring Harness Repair, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities & Specifications.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms (e.g., no-start, poor performance, electrical faults).
Torque Specifications:
Exact torque values for critical fasteners (e.g., cylinder head bolts, main bearing caps, wheel nuts).
Diagnostic Tests:
Procedures for testing sensors, actuators, fuel pressure, ignition timing, compression testing.
Wheel Alignment Specifications:
Front and rear wheel alignment angles (camber, caster, toe), steering alignment.
Body And Chassis Repair:
Procedures for panel replacement, rust repair considerations, chassis component tightening, jacking points.
Technical Depth:
In-depth, professional-level coverage suitable for mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagrams, step-by-step instructions, specifications, and troubleshooting trees.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, measurement, and reassembly of all internal components.
Transmission Rebuild Procedures:
Complete overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including gear sets, synchronizers, clutch packs, valve bodies.
Wiring Diagrams Completeness:
Color-coded or detailed black-and-white wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including component locations and connector pinouts.
Primary Engine Options:
1.0L (CB Series - e.g., CB42, CB60), 1.3L (CB Series - e.g., CB70, CB80, CB90), 1.3L Turbo (CB90).
Engine Codes Examples:
CB42 (1.0L), CB60 (1.0L), CB70 (1.3L), CB80 (1.3L), CB90 (1.3L/Turbo). Note: Specific engine codes can vary by market and trim.
1.0L Engine Power:
Approx. 50-60 PS (37-44 kW)
1.3L Engine Power:
Approx. 68-85 PS (50-63 kW)
1.3L Turbo Engine Power:
Approx. 100-115 PS (74-85 kW)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (early models/variants) or Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for later/higher trims and turbocharged variants.
Emission Control Systems:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), secondary air injection (depending on market regulations).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped with power steering).
Common Issues:
Carburetor tuning issues, occasional oil leaks (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), wear on suspension components (bushings, ball joints), aging electrical connectors, possible rust in certain climates, timing belt replacement critical (interference engine on some variants).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km) or 5-7 years, consult manual for exact interval and interference engine status.