Production Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Generation Name:
First Generation (DA)
Vehicle Class:
Compact/Small Family Car
Key Competitors:
Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Renault Mégane, Peugeot 306, Nissan Almera.
Design Philosophy:
Designed with European tastes in mind, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and affordability.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform comprehensive repairs and maintenance, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and rebuilding procedures for all engine variants.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, emissions control, starting and charging systems.
Transmission Manual:
Service, repair, and overhaul of manual transmissions.
Transmission Automatic:
Service, repair, and overhaul of automatic transmissions (if applicable).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, including CV joints, driveshafts, and differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and alignment.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, including disc brakes, drum brakes (if applicable), ABS, brake fluid, and hydraulic lines.
Electrical System:
Complete coverage of all electrical components, including lighting, accessories, and wiring diagrams.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning and heating systems, including refrigerant and component servicing.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, glass replacement, and seat adjustments.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, and fuel tank servicing.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and pipes.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant, and fan systems.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, and spark plug replacement.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems.
Rebuilding Overhauls:
In-depth procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding and overhauls.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting and repair of electrical faults, including detailed wiring diagrams.
Suspension Alignment:
Information and procedures for wheel alignment and suspension geometry.
Brake System Maintenance:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, and brake fluid bleeding.
Depth:
Extremely high, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete vehicle restoration and professional-level diagnostics.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Engine Code Example:
4G92 (SOHC/DOHC)
Displacement:
1.4 Liters (1398 cc)
Valvetrain:
SOHC 16-valve or DOHC 16-valve
Power Output Approximate:
Around 82-90 PS (60-66 kW)
Engine Code Example:
4G93 (SOHC/DOHC)
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Valvetrain:
SOHC 16-valve or DOHC 16-valve
Power Output Approximate:
Around 90-115 PS (66-85 kW)
Engine Code Example:
4G93 (DOHC GDI)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1834 cc)
Valvetrain:
DOHC 16-valve (GDI - Gasoline Direct Injection in some models)
Power Output Approximate:
Around 118-125 PS (87-92 kW)
Engine Code Example:
4D68
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Fuel System:
Indirect Injection (IDI) Diesel
Power Output Approximate:
Around 70-82 PS (51-60 kW)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for petrol engines, Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for some 1.8L models, Indirect Injection (IDI) for diesel.
Acceleration 0 60Mph Approximate:
10-14 seconds, depending on engine and transmission.
Fuel Economy Combined Approximate:
30-45 MPG (UK) / 25-38 MPG (US), depending on engine and driving conditions.
Service Intervals Engine Oil
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Service Intervals Air Filter
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 km (18,000-36,000 miles), depending on plug type (standard, platinum, iridium).
Service Intervals Timing Belt
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 1.8L GDI and most petrol engines. Typically every 90,000-100,000 km (56,000-62,000 miles) or 5-6 years.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-30 recommended (check manual for specific engine and climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 recommended.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SPII or equivalent ATF fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Premature wear on rear wheel bearings, causing noise.
Exhaust Rust:
Corrosion and rust on exhaust components, particularly in areas with harsh winters.
Suspension Components:
Wear and tear on suspension bushings and ball joints.
Window Regulators:
Failure of electric window regulators.
Evaporative Emission Control System:
Issues with EVAP system components (e.g., charcoal canister, purge valve) leading to check engine lights.
