Market Position:
The Daewoo Sens was positioned as an affordable, practical compact car, aiming to compete with established models in its segment by offering a balance of features and value.
Target Audience:
Value-conscious buyers seeking reliable transportation, small families, and individuals looking for an economical compact car.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Escort, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Volkswagen Golf, and Honda Civic during its production run. The Sens offered a European-influenced design and often a competitive price point.
Key Features:
Spacious interior for its class, straightforward mechanicals, comfortable ride, and a focus on practicality. Post-GM acquisition, it benefited from some integration into GM's global platforms, potentially influencing its later development.
Coverage Areas:
All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, and maintenance for Daewoo Sens 1997-2002 models.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Manual Detail Level:
Detailed repair procedures, component identification, wiring diagrams, diagnostic codes, and specifications.
Systems Covered:
Engine (mechanical and electronic), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Drivetrain (transmission, clutch, driveshafts), Suspension System, Steering System, Brake System (hydraulic, ABS), Electrical System (wiring diagrams, components), Climate Control System (HVAC), Body Electrical, Lighting, Safety Systems (SRS), Bodywork, Interior Trim, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting.
Bodywork Covered:
Exterior panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window systems, bumper assemblies, interior trim panels, seat removal, dashboard components.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Component Removal and Installation, Component Repair and Overhaul, Diagnostic Testing, Troubleshooting Faults, Electrical System Repair, Engine Tuning, Suspension Alignment, Brake Bleeding, Air Conditioning Servicing, Body Panel Repair, Interior Component Replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code reading and interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing, circuit testing, troubleshooting common malfunctions.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance tasks to advanced diagnostic and repair procedures. Includes detailed specifications, exploded views, torque values, and diagnostic flowcharts suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Primary Engine:
1.5L (1498cc) DOHC Inline-4 (likely based on GM's T-engine family, possibly derived from Opel technology).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90-100 PS (66-74 kW) depending on specific market and tuning.
Torque Range:
Approximately 130-140 Nm (96-103 lb-ft) depending on specific market and tuning.
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Estimated 50 liters (13.2 US gallons).
Engine Code:
Likely 'T15SF' or similar designation within the Daewoo/GM T-engine family.
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS - or Distributor-based)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors (O2), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR - depending on market)
Engine Layout:
Inline-4 cylinder, transversely mounted.
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with engine-driven water pump and thermostatic control.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Dry Single Plate Clutch
Automatic Transmission Details:
Likely a GM sourced automatic, possibly related to the 4Txx series.
Length:
Approximately 4320 mm (169.1 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1700 mm (66.9 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1430 mm (56.3 inches)
Front Track:
Approximately 1440 mm
Rear Track:
Approximately 1430 mm
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1100-1200 kg (2425-2645 lbs) depending on trim and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Estimated 1600-1700 kg (3527-3748 lbs)
Max Payload Capacity:
Estimated 400-450 kg (880-990 lbs)
Trunk Capacity:
Estimated 400-450 liters (14.1-15.9 cubic feet)
Safety Ratings:
Varies by market; typically did not achieve top safety ratings by modern standards. Likely comparable to other vehicles of its era in its segment.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - often optional, Power Assisted Steering (PAS).
Parking Brake:
Mechanical handbrake (cable actuated).
Passive Features:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard on some trims, optional on others), Front Seatbelt Pretensioners, Crumple Zones.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or CD player. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. May include power steering and ABS (often optional).
Connectivity Options:
None integrated. Aftermarket solutions for phone connectivity and audio streaming are available.
Climate Control System:
Manual HVAC system (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) with rotary controls. Refrigerant type likely R134a.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 miles (48,000 - 64,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for iridium or platinum.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Crucial: Every 60,000 - 80,000 miles (96,000 - 128,000 km) or 5-7 years, as failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40 or 5W-40 (depending on climate). Check manual for exact recommendation.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. GM Dex-Cool or equivalent long-life coolant may be suitable.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or specific power steering fluid as recommended by Daewoo.
Known Issues:
Potential for oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), ignition system component failure (coils, plugs), minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension components (bushings, ball joints), and rust in certain climates. Timing belt maintenance is critical.
Brand Heritage:
Daewoo Motors was a South Korean automobile manufacturer established in 1982. It was known for producing vehicles often based on licensed platforms from other manufacturers before being acquired by General Motors in 2002.
Model Evolution:
The Daewoo Sens was introduced in 1997, succeeding the Daewoo Cielo. It shared its platform with the Opel/Vauxhall Astra G and was essentially a rebadged version, benefiting from Opel's engineering and design.
Platform Sharing:
Directly based on the Opel Astra G platform, indicating shared chassis, body structure, and powertrain components. This provides a strong foundation for reliable service information.
Production Period:
1997-2002 (as Daewoo Sens). The underlying platform continued under GM Daewoo and later Chevrolet.
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (primary), with potential assembly in other regions for specific markets.
