Market Segment:
Subcompact / Compact Car
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Aveo (rebadged Lanos in some markets), Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Nissan Sunny, Toyota Corolla (lower trims).
Design Philosophy:
Designed as an affordable, practical, and modern compact car for global markets, developed by Daewoo Motor Company (later acquired by GM).
Body Styles:
Available in Sedan, Hatchback (3-door and 5-door).
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed engine overhaul, component testing, timing belt replacement, piston/ring inspection, cylinder head service.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), starting system, charging system, ECU diagnostics, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox disassembly, gear selection mechanism, bearing replacement, shift linkage adjustment.
Transmission Automatic:
ATF specifications, torque converter, valve body operation, gear sets, hydraulic controls, electronic diagnostics.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component identification, shock absorber replacement, spring installation, control arm bushings, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Brake fluid specifications, disc brake overhaul (calipers, pads, rotors), drum brake service, parking brake adjustment, ABS system diagnostics.
Steering:
Power steering system (fluid, pump, rack and pinion), steering column, tie rod ends, wheel alignment.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, rust prevention, chassis component repair.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heating system, blower motor, climate control panel.
Electrical And Accessories:
Lighting systems, power windows, central locking, horn, wipers, dashboard instruments, fuse/relay identification.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, spark plug service.
Troubleshooting:
System diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretations.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, bodywork repairs.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing specific parts like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, etc.
Diagnostic Testing:
Procedures for testing sensors, actuators, relays, and electrical circuits using multimeters and scan tools.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for all major electrical components.
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for all critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.5 Liters (1498 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 90-95 PS (66-70 kW) at 5500-6000 RPM
Torque:
Approx. 130-135 Nm (96-99 lb-ft) at 3400-4000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON)
Other Engine Options:
1.6L DOHC (A16DMS) also available in some markets, producing ~105-109 PS.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Dexron III or equivalent (Manual)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III / MERCON (Automatic)
Euro Ncap Rating:
3 Stars (early models, may vary)
ABS:
Available as an option on most trims.
Traction Control:
Generally not available on this model.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags standard on most models, side airbags were rare.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts (outboard), 2-point center rear seatbelt.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH points are typically not standard on this generation.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 6-12 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 80,000 miles (96,000 - 128,000 km) or 4-5 years. Crucial due to interference engine design.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH rated. Consult manual for specific viscosity based on climate.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Color may vary by manufacturer, but usually green or blue. Check for GM proprietary coolants if available.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, front suspension bushings, exhaust system components, radiator and cooling fan failures, power window regulators.
Engine Management:
Occasional issues with idle control valve (IAC), oxygen sensors, and ignition coil packs.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring harness degradation in older vehicles, intermittent dashboard warning lights, issues with door lock actuators.
