🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Daihatsu

Model:

Feroza

Generation:

F300

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

F300

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) / Off-Road Vehicle

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their Daihatsu Feroza.

Competitors 1989:

Suzuki Samurai, Jeep Wrangler, Toyota RAV4 (later in the decade), Land Rover Discovery (larger segment but similar intent).

Vehicle Appeal:

Compact size, robust off-road capability, affordable price point, distinct styling.

Value:

Provides essential technical data and procedures for DIY maintenance and repair, saving significant costs compared to dealership service and enabling informed troubleshooting.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance for the 1989 Daihatsu Feroza (F300).

Secondary Coverage:

Bodywork, chassis, suspension, steering, braking systems, HVAC, and accessories.

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (exact count not specified, but typical for workshop manuals of this era and scope).

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Delivery Format:

PDF on CD

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all Feroza engine variants including timing belts, cooling system, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, and emissions.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission removal, installation, disassembly, inspection, repair, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, transfer case, driveshafts, CV joints, and four-wheel-drive system operation and repair.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications, and troubleshooting.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, and alignment procedures.

Braking:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), hydraulic components, parking brake, ABS (if applicable for specific markets/trims), and bleeding procedures.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories, fuses, relays, and common electrical troubleshooting.

Body:

Panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, and basic body repair guidelines.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, heater core, blower motor, and refrigerant handling.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable), and diagnostic tool usage.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.

Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.

Installation:

Component replacement and installation guidance.

Level:

Comprehensive Professional-Level

Scope:

Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls and complex electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within the PDF, allowing for quick location of specific topics.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Cd Quality:

Quality CD, ensuring data integrity and readability.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Often the 1.6L 4-cylinder SOHC (e.g., 4A-F, 4A-FE variants).

Displacement:

1589 cc (97.0 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

81.0 mm x 77.0 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

Approximately 8.5:1 to 9.5:1 (depending on specific engine variant).

Horsepower:

Around 80-90 hp (SAE Net) at 5000-5500 rpm (typical for 1.6L SOHC).

Torque:

Around 90-100 lb-ft (SAE Net) at 3000-4000 rpm (typical for 1.6L SOHC).

Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Prestone or equivalent 50/50 mix).

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3.5 - 4.0 liters (3.7 - 4.2 US quarts) with filter change.

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain:

Part-time Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) with manual locking front hubs and a selectable 2WD/4WD transfer case.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for exact specification).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3,770 mm (148.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,690 mm (66.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,630 mm (64.2 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,175 mm (85.6 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,100 - 1,250 kg (2,425 - 2,755 lbs) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated, but typically around 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Standard Tire Size:

205/70R15 or 215/75R15 (common options).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

N/A (No standardized crash test data readily available for this model/era from official sources like NHTSA or Euro NCAP).

Brakes:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional ABS not common on 1989 models.

Seat Belts:

Standard front seat belts, possibly lap belts in rear depending on market.

Frame Construction:

Body-on-frame construction, offering inherent robustness.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player (factory original). Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard feature on most 1989 Feroza models and was rare, even as an option.

Traction Control:

Not available.

Usb Bluetooth:

Not available (digital features were not prevalent in automotive design at this time).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace with every oil change.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 10,000 km (6,000 miles), replace as needed or every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).

Spark Plugs:

Inspect every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), replace every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles).

Fuel Filter:

Replace every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles).

Timing Belt:

Replace every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or 4-5 years, as this is an interference engine and belt failure can cause severe damage.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific grade).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or compatible fluid (check manual).

Common Problems:

Rust and corrosion (especially on body panels and chassis), weak clutch hydraulics (master/slave cylinders), aging rubber suspension bushings, potential starter motor issues, and exhaust manifold cracks.

Electrical Quirks:

Failing door lock actuators, intermittent electrical connections, and dashboard warning light issues can be present on older vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Daihatsu Legacy:

Daihatsu, a Japanese automaker, has a long history of producing compact and reliable vehicles, with a particular strength in small cars and off-roaders.

Feroza Origins:

The Feroza (also known as Rocky or Sportrak in some markets) succeeded the Daihatsu Taft and was designed as a compact, capable off-road vehicle, blending the utility of a Jeep with the maneuverability of a small car.

Production Years:

1984-2002 (F300 generation).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Accolades:

While not typically winning major 'Car of the Year' awards, the Feroza was well-regarded in its niche for its robust off-road capabilities relative to its price and size, making it popular in enthusiast circles.

Reliability Perception:

Generally considered reliable for its class and era, with longevity dependent on proper maintenance, especially concerning the timing belt and rust prevention.