Segment:
Subcompact hatchback/sedan
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, fuel-efficient transportation seekers
Key Competitors 1988:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Plymouth Colt
Value Proposition:
Affordability, fuel economy, simple mechanicals
Manual Advantage:
Provides vehicle-specific, dealership-level technical data, essential for accurate diagnosis and repair, unlike generic aftermarket guides.
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum), wheels, tires
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instruments and gauges, fuse block, wiring diagrams, power windows, power locks (if equipped)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seals, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning - if equipped), exterior trim
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, tune-ups
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis
Repair And Rebuilding:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, and adjustment procedures for all major systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts)
Digital Format:
PDF (if available digitally), typically high-resolution scans of original pages
Print Quality:
High-resolution, clear text and diagrams (assuming a quality scan or original print)
Binding:
Stapled or perfect bound (for printed versions)
Paper Type:
Standard paper stock (for printed versions)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Engine Code Common:
G10A (Suzuki engine variant)
Displacement:
1.0 Liters (993 cc)
Horsepower Net:
Approx. 48-55 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (varies slightly by market and specific tuning)
Torque Net:
Approx. 56-60 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (single barrel or two barrel, depending on specific trim/market)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 U.S. Quarts (3.0 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 (consult manual for specific climate variations)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drive Type:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Fluid Specifications Manual
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent DEXRON-II)
Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 U.S. Quarts (4.5 Liters) for refill
Body Styles:
3-door Hatchback, 4-door Sedan
Wheelbase:
Approx. 94.5 inches (2400 mm)
Length:
Hatchback: Approx. 155.3 inches (3945 mm); Sedan: Approx. 167.7 inches (4260 mm)
Width:
Approx. 61.8 inches (1570 mm)
Height:
Hatchback: Approx. 53.7 inches (1365 mm); Sedan: Approx. 53.5 inches (1360 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1700 - 1900 lbs (770 - 860 kg), depending on body style and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 2600-2800 lbs
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)
Wheel Size Standard:
13 inch steel wheels
Tire Size Standard:
155/80R13 (typical)
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Varies, but significantly more with rear seats folded
NHTSA Crash Test Results 1988:
Data for this specific model year and platform may be limited or unavailable due to the era. Likely performed basic frontal impact testing.
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes. No Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.
Steering:
Manual Rack and Pinion Steering. Power steering not commonly available.
Seat Belts:
Mandatory front seat belts, likely lap and shoulder belts. Rear seat belts (lap belts) may be present.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag was not standard or commonly available in this segment in 1988.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Timing Belt:
Critical component. Replacement typically recommended every 50,000-60,000 miles or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Power Steering Fluid:
Not applicable (manual steering)
Engine:
Carburetor issues (fouling, adjustment), oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), timing belt wear.
Suspension:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends due to age and mileage.
Electrical:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, aging wiring harnesses, alternator and starter motor wear.
Rust:
Common in areas prone to road salt, especially on rocker panels, wheel wells, and floor pans.
Chevrolet Context:
Chevrolet, as GM's volume brand, often offered badge-engineered vehicles from its various divisions and international partners.
Origin:
The Chevrolet Spectrum was a rebadged version of the Suzuki Cultus (also known as Suzuki Swift in many markets) sold in North America through GM's affiliation with Suzuki. It was initially sold under the Geo brand starting in 1989 as the Geo Metro, with the Chevrolet Spectrum nameplate being used for a shorter period.
Production Period Chevrolet:
Approximately 1985-1988 (as Chevrolet Spectrum, before transitioning to Geo Metro)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (by Suzuki)
