🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Daewoo

Model:

Sens

Year:

1997

Generation:

First Generation (J100)

Chassis Code:

J100

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Daewoo Sens was positioned as an affordable, compact family sedan. It aimed to offer competitive features and value in a segment dominated by established Japanese and European manufacturers. The 1997 model year represents a key period in Daewoo's global expansion efforts.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Escort, Volkswagen Golf/Jetta, and various Korean rivals. Its selling points often revolved around aggressive pricing and a comprehensive equipment list for its class.

Key Features:

The 1997 Daewoo Sens (J100) offered a practical and functional design, typically equipped with essential features for everyday commuting. Its platform was based on the reputable Pontiac LeMans/Opel Kadett lineage.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Global (with specific considerations for markets where the Sens was sold)

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (likely with potential for other languages depending on original factory release)

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveshafts, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), ABS System, Power Steering, Body Electrical System, Lighting, HVAC System, Restraints System (Airbags), Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications & Tolerances, Torque Specifications, Troubleshooting Charts

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement), component inspection and testing, diagnostic procedures for all major systems, component removal and installation, repair and overhaul of engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, and electrical components, body panel repair, HVAC system servicing, troubleshooting common electrical and mechanical faults

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed schematics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), precise measurements, torque specifications, and step-by-step repair instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, designed for clarity and readability when printed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - user choice)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.5L Inline-4 (GM Family II engine derivative, often SOHC)

Horsepower:

Approximately 75-85 HP (depending on specific engine code and market tuning)

Torque:

Approximately 110-120 Nm (depending on specific engine code and market tuning)

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based ignition (depending on market and specific sub-model)

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric fan

Lubrication System:

Forced lubrication with oil pump and filter

Engine Management:

Electronic Control Module (ECM) controlling fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-4 Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:

Dexron-III (or equivalent ATF) for automatic transmissions

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4200 mm

Width:

Approximately 1680 mm

Height:

Approximately 1400 mm

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2520 mm

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1000-1100 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Likely limited independent safety testing data available for this model year and region. Refer to the manual for specific safety system details.

Active Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Passive Features:

Seat belts (front and rear), collapsible steering column, reinforced passenger safety cell

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (optional or standard depending on market and trim level)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Analog climate controls.

Driver Assistance:

Limited to optional ABS. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) typical of modern vehicles.

Connectivity:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Auxiliary input for external audio devices may be present on some aftermarket head units.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions)

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type, e.g., standard vs. platinum)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years

Engine Oil Viscosity:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Known Issues:

Potential for aging electrical components (switches, sensors), wear on suspension bushings and ball joints, occasional cooling system leaks, and rust formation in certain climates. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures for these.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Refer to manual for specific cross-reference or OEM part number (e.g., Fram PH3506, Purolator L10000, WIX 51515 - verify with manual)

Air Filter Part Number:

Refer to manual for specific cross-reference or OEM part number (e.g., Fram CA2560, WIX 42523 - verify with manual)

Diagnostic Tools:

OBD-I or OBD-II scan tool (depending on market regulations for 1997), multimeter, pressure gauges, vacuum gauge

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Daewoo Motor Company was a South Korean automotive manufacturer founded in 1982. It was known for producing a range of vehicles, often based on licensed General Motors platforms. The brand ceased independent operations and was eventually absorbed by General Motors.

Model Evolution:

The Daewoo Sens (J100) was a significant model for Daewoo, representing their entry into the compact sedan market. It was essentially a rebadged and re-engineered version of the Opel Kadett E/Vauxhall Astra Mk2 and the Pontiac LeMans. It served as a precursor to later Daewoo models.

Production Period:

The J100 platform, upon which the Sens was based, saw production in various forms from the late 1980s through the 1990s. The 1997 model year falls within the prime production period for this generation of Daewoo vehicles.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1997 Daewoo Sens are not widely documented, its value proposition and accessibility contributed to its sales volume in various international markets. The underlying GM platform received general acclaim for its robustness.