Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Key Competitors Circa 1996:
Suzuki Vitara, Jeep Wrangler, Toyota RAV4 (early models), Land Rover Defender (smaller variants)
Vehicle Purpose:
Lightweight, capable off-road vehicle with a focus on affordability and utility.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform professional-level maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs.
General Maintenance:
Included
Troubleshooting:
Included
Engine Service Repair:
Included
Transmission Service Repair:
Included
Wiring Diagrams:
Included
Electrical System:
Included
Periodic Lubrication:
Included
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Included
Emission System:
Included
Heater Air Conditioning:
Included
Engine Control System:
Included
Restraint System:
Included
Differential Drive:
Included
Repair Procedures:
Detailed substeps, numbered instructions, step-by-step guidance
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive diagnostic information
Maintenance Procedures:
Included
Disassembly Assembly:
Included
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Included
Depth:
Professional-level, covering all diagnostic, repair, and maintenance aspects as used by local service/repair shops.
Engine Code:
G16A (most common for 1996)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1589 cc (1.6 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approx. 93-97 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on market and specific tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 100-105 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm (depending on market and specific tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Length:
Approx. 3,905 mm (153.7 inches) for Soft Top / 3,915 mm (154.1 inches) for Hard Top
Width:
Approx. 1,690 mm (66.5 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1,730 mm (68.1 inches) for Hard Top / 1,690 mm (66.5 inches) for Soft Top
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,300 mm (90.6 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,150 - 1,250 kg (2,535 - 2,756 lbs) depending on body style and transmission
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific ratings not widely available for this model year and region.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes. ABS often optional or standard on higher trims.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear seat belts (depending on rear seat configuration).
Airbags:
Driver airbag generally standard, passenger airbag optional or not available on all trims.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on higher trims. Speaker count typically 2 or 4.
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional feature or standard on higher trim levels.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by 1996 standards. May include power windows/locks on higher trims. No integrated Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, consult manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for standard plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30 or 10W-40 is common), API service classification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a green or pink formulation. Consult manual for specific type and mixture ratio.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, 75W-90 is a common specification. Capacity approx. 2.5-3.0 liters.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Capacity approx. 4.5-5.0 liters. Consult manual for specific type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (manual transmission), exhaust system corrosion, suspension bushings, radiator leaks.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional issues with window regulators, central locking (if equipped), and dashboard warning lights can occur.
Brand Focus:
Daihatsu is known for producing compact and specialized vehicles, often with an emphasis on durability and value.
Predecessor:
Daihatsu Rocky (F70/F80 Series)
Generation Timeline:
First generation (F300) launched in 1989, with facelifts and updates occurring throughout its production run, including the 1996 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily)
Production Period:
1989 - 2002