Vehicle Segment:
City car / Subcompact car
Target Demographic:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, urban commuters.
Key Competitors:
Daewoo Matiz (predecessor), Hyundai Getz, Kia Rio, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Yaris (in some markets).
Competitive Advantage:
Compact size, fuel efficiency, affordability, maneuverability in urban environments.
Design Philosophy:
Maximizing interior space within a very small footprint, emphasis on practicality and efficiency.
Availability:
Sold globally under various Chevrolet and Daewoo badges, indicating broad market appeal.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of engine components (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing system).
Engine Management System:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems, sensor data, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms, hydraulic controls, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain And Axles:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, drive shafts, differential operation, and related maintenance.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, bleeding procedures, and diagnostics.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications, and troubleshooting.
Steering:
Power steering system (if equipped), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and related components.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system components, and bodywork repair.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling (if applicable), blower motor, heater core, evaporator.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and precautions, seat belt mechanisms.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules, oil change intervals, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant service.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, using symptom-based approaches and diagnostic tools.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and repair.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Methods for diagnosing electrical and mechanical issues, including proper use of scan tools and test equipment.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical measurements for proper assembly and repair.
Component Identification:
Clear identification of all major vehicle components.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic strategies and troubleshooting trees for complex issues.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for major component overhauls (e.g., engine, transmission).
Length:
Approx. 3495 mm (137.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1495 mm (58.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1405 mm (55.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2375 mm (93.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 750-850 kg (1650-1870 lbs) depending on specification
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by market, typically around 1200-1300 kg
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 150-200 Liters (Varies by seat configuration)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 700-850 Liters (with rear seats folded)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 km (4,600-6,200 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on engine and usage).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-37,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 40,000-50,000 km (24,000-30,000 miles) or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ/SL, ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific engine and climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 - 3.5 Liters (3.4 - 3.7 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., Dex-Cool or similar, consult manual for specific GM/GM-Asia specification)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to vibration.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
May become noisy or fail prematurely, particularly in vehicles exposed to harsh conditions.
Ignition Coils And Wires:
Can fail, causing misfires and rough running.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and leaks can occur, especially in humid climates.
Fuel Efficiency:
Regular maintenance, proper tire inflation, and smooth driving habits are key to maximizing the Spark's inherent fuel economy.
Parent Company Evolution:
The Spark platform originated from Daewoo, which was acquired by General Motors. This manual covers the period when GM managed the Daewoo brand and its products under the Chevrolet name in many markets.
Predecessor:
Daewoo Matiz
Generation Development:
This generation (M100/M150/M200/M250) represents the initial design and subsequent minor updates of the Daewoo Matiz, which was then rebadged and marketed as the Chevrolet Spark in many countries.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (Daewoo/GM Korea), with potential assembly in other regions depending on market distribution.
Production Years For This Generation:
1998 (as Daewoo Matiz) through 2005.