Market Niche:
Compact, convertible sports coupe targeting a younger demographic and enthusiasts seeking affordable, fun-to-drive personal transportation.
Key Competitors:
Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC generation), Honda Beat (kei car competitor in Japan), potentially small roadsters from other manufacturers depending on market.
Defining Features:
Unique active retractable hardtop (coupe-convertible design), compact dimensions, fuel-efficient engine, sporty styling, lightweight construction.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management system (ECU/ECM).
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (MT), automatic transmission (AT - if applicable to model), clutch, driveline, differential.
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for this era), parking brake, ABS (if equipped).
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (independent multi-link or torsion beam), wheel alignment.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power mirrors, central locking, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, convertible roof mechanism (Active Retractable Hardtop), exterior trim, glass.
Body Interior:
Seating, dashboard, instrument cluster, interior trim, climate control system, HVAC.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems with step-by-step guidance and symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, scan tool usage, sensor testing.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Code:
JDM Models: EF-DET (Turbocharged I3), JB-DET (Turbocharged I4 - common for L880K). Export Models may have naturally aspirated JB-EL.
Engine Type:
Inline 3-cylinder or Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 12-valve or 16-valve, often turbocharged.
Displacement:
Typically 659cc (JDM kei car regulations) or 1.3L (export models).
Horsepower:
Varies by engine and market. Turbocharged JDM models (JB-DET) often around 64 PS (47 kW) due to kei car regulations, but enthusiast tuning often increases this significantly. Export models may have higher naturally aspirated figures.
Torque:
Varies by engine and market. Turbocharged models offer characteristic low-end torque.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), often with a turbocharger and intercooler.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Petrol)
Length:
Approximately 3,395 mm (JDM Kei car regulations)
Width:
Approximately 1,475 mm (JDM Kei car regulations)
Height:
Approximately 1,245 mm (Roof up)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,275 mm
Curb Weight:
Around 770-830 kg, depending on specification and transmission.
Crash Test Data:
Limited public crash test data available for this specific early generation and market, but generally designed to meet Japanese domestic safety standards for its class.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) may be available on some models/trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags, potentially side airbags on higher trims.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and potentially pop-up roll bars behind the seats for convertible safety.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type. Iridium plugs can last up to 100,000 km. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ or ACEA A2/A3. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30. Consult manual for precise recommendation.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 - 4.0 liters (3.7 - 4.2 US quarts) with filter change. Verify in manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, P-HOAT (Phosphate Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or similar. Typically pink or red coolant. Do not mix coolant types.
Transmission Fluid Mt:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 manual transmission fluid.
Transmission Fluid At:
Dexron III or equivalent Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (bushings, ball joints), clutch wear, turbocharger seals (if turbocharged), convertible roof hydraulic system (potential leaks or motor failure with age).
Engine Specific:
Carbon buildup in turbocharged engines, oil consumption if not maintained diligently, potential for turbocharger failure if neglected.
Daihatsu Legacy:
Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history in producing small, efficient, and practical vehicles, particularly kei cars in Japan. The Copen represents a move into niche sports car segments.
First Generation Launch:
The Daihatsu Copen was first introduced in Japan in June 2002. This manual covers the initial launch model, often referred to as the 'First Generation' or 'L880K'.
Production Locations:
Primarily produced in Japan.
Production Years First Gen:
2002-2012
