Segment:
Subcompact hatchback, primarily focused on urban mobility and fuel efficiency.
Competitors:
Key competitors include Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto, Toyota Aygo, Volkswagen Fox, and Fiat 500, depending on the market.
Highlight:
Compact size for maneuverability, fuel-efficient powertrain, affordable pricing, and a surprisingly spacious interior for its class.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (if applicable for the market), clutch, drive shafts, axles, differential.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, EBD), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instruments and gauges, horn, wipers and washers, power accessories, body control module (BCM), multiplex communication.
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, airbags and safety restraint systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, battery service.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagnosis, component testing.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system overhauls, calibration, adjustments, sealing and gasketing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Vehicle-specific, factory-level detail for technicians. Includes detailed diagrams, wiring schematics, and step-by-step repair procedures.
๐ Manual Specifications
Digital Quality:
Searchable text, high-resolution diagrams, printable pages.
Print Option:
Printable pages suitable for professional use.
Physical Format Consideration:
If printed, typically bound for durability in a workshop environment.
Physical Format Consideration:
If printed, usually on durable, coated paper to withstand workshop conditions.
Completeness Level:
Comprehensive, factory-quality coverage for all systems and repairs, mirroring dealer technician resources.
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Engine Code:
B10XER (typically)
Engine Type:
Inline 3-cylinder, DOHC, 12-valve
Displacement:
1.0 Liters (995 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 70-75 PS (51-55 kW) at 6400 rpm (market dependent)
Torque:
Approximately 93-95 Nm (69-70 lb-ft) at 4800 rpm (market dependent)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 73.4 mm x 77.4 mm (typical for this engine family)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 10.5:1 (typical)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
Optional 5-Speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) or 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (market dependent)
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch
Manual Fluid Spec:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-85, specific GM P/N likely available in manual)
Length:
Approx. 3495 mm (137.6 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1595 mm (62.8 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1520 mm (59.8 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2375 mm (93.5 inches)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 2300 liters (81.2 cubic feet)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 170 liters (6.0 cubic feet)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 630 liters (22.3 cubic feet)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 850 - 950 kg (1874 - 2094 lbs) depending on equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by market, but typically around 1300-1400 kg
Euro Ncap Rating:
Received a 3-star safety rating in Euro NCAP crash tests (for earlier versions, specific 2010 rating may vary by test protocol).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) may be standard or optional depending on market.
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger) are standard. Side airbags and curtain airbags may be optional depending on trim and market.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats; 3-point seatbelts for rear seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchorage points in rear seats.
System Features:
Base models typically feature a basic AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Higher trims might offer USB connectivity or Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Features:
Limited driver assistance features for this model year. Focus is on core safety and functional systems. Parking sensors or rearview cameras were not common.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input is common. Bluetooth might be available on higher trims. OnStar services were likely optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil recommended.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum or Iridium spark plugs typically have intervals of 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km).
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (refer to manual for precise GM specification, e.g., dexos1โข or equivalent).
Coolant:
GM Dex-Coolยฎ or equivalent OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific type).
Power Steering Fluid:
Not applicable for electric power steering (EPS) systems common in this model.
Common Complaints:
Potential for minor oil leaks from gaskets, occasional issues with the electric power steering system, and early generation infotainment glitches (though 2010 models are basic).
Vibrations:
Some owners report noticeable engine vibration at idle due to the 3-cylinder configuration, which is normal but can be exacerbated by worn engine mounts.
Manufacturer:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM).
Generation:
This is the first generation of the global Chevrolet Spark, succeeding the Daewoo Matiz platform.
Production Period:
The M300 platform (including the 2010 model) was produced from 2009/2010 onwards.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea by GM Daewoo (now GM Korea), with assembly in other global locations.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Industry Awards:
While not a recipient of major 'Car of the Year' awards, the Spark often received commendations for its value, fuel economy, and suitability as an affordable city car in various publications.
Fuel Economy:
EPA estimated MPG figures are generally very good, often in the range of 35-40 MPG highway and 28-32 MPG city, making it a leader in its class for fuel efficiency.