Market Position:
Compact city car, budget-friendly, reliable economy vehicle
Competitive Analysis:
Competed primarily with other small Japanese hatchbacks like the Suzuki Alto and Mitsubishi Minica. Known for its fuel efficiency and maneuverability in urban environments.
Key Features:
Compact dimensions, fuel-efficient engine, affordable maintenance, practical for city driving
Value Proposition:
Saves significant money on shop labor costs ($50-$60 per hour). Empowers owners to perform their own servicing and repairs.
Target Audience:
Daihatsu Cuore L701 2002 owners, DIY mechanics, automotive technicians, and restoration enthusiasts seeking comprehensive repair information.
Systems Covered:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle, Advanced Diagnostics
Procedures Included:
Maintenance, Repair, Rebuild, Refurbish, Restoration, Diagnostics, Tuning, Step-by-step repair procedures, Detailed substeps, Troubleshooting guides, Electrical service procedures, Inspection, Adjustment, Replacement, Overhaul
Technical Depth:
Complete Factory Level (as performed by trained technicians), Advanced Diagnostics, Full Rebuild Capabilities
Diagnostics:
Advanced troubleshooting guide included, covering systematic problem diagnosis for all systems.
Illustrations:
Contains all necessary illustrations, diagrams, drawings, and photos to guide through repair procedures. Includes enlarged insets for detailed part examination.
Instructions Format:
Numbered instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter. Bold figure numbers for easy illustration matching.
Electrical System Detail:
Detailed wiring diagrams, electrical system diagnosis, troubleshooting for starting, charging, lighting, ignition, and accessory circuits. Covers engine control system wiring specifically.
Suspension Steering Components
Suspension Steering Components:
Covers struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, steering rack/box, power steering system (if equipped), wheel alignment specifications, and troubleshooting for noise or handling issues.
Brake System Components:
Detailed procedures for brake pad replacement, brake rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake caliper service, brake line inspection and replacement, parking brake adjustment, and hydraulic system bleeding. Includes brake fluid specifications.
Emission System Coverage:
Covers components related to emission control, such as catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems (if equipped), and evaporative emission control (EVAP) systems. Includes diagnosis of emission-related fault codes.
HVAC Coverage:
Detailed information on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling procedures, compressor diagnosis, evaporator and condenser service, blower motor operation, and cabin air filter replacement.
Primary Engine:
Likely a 3-cylinder or 4-cylinder petrol engine. Common engines for the L700 series include the EF-SE (659cc, DOHC, VVT) or EF-VE (659cc, DOHC, VVT) for naturally aspirated models, and potentially the K3-VE (1.3L) for some export markets. Specific engine details would be within the manual.
Performance:
Typical output for this class of vehicle is in the range of 50-70 horsepower, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Torque figures are modest, suited for city driving.
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection (EFI) - specific system details, components, and diagnostic procedures are covered in the manual.
Engine Variants:
The manual covers all engine variants for the L701 model. Specific engine codes like EF-SE, EF-VE, and potentially others would be detailed with their respective specifications.
Engine Control System:
In-depth coverage of the Engine Control Unit (ECU), sensors (e.g., oxygen sensor, crankshaft position sensor, throttle position sensor), actuators (e.g., fuel injectors, ignition coils), and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). This section is crucial for understanding modern engine management.
Tuning Information:
The manual may contain basic tuning procedures or specifications, such as ignition timing adjustments, fuel mixture settings (if adjustable), and general performance enhancement tips relevant to the factory setup.
Standard:
Likely a 5-speed manual transmission as standard. Other markets may have featured a 4-speed automatic.
Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (common option for increased driver comfort).
Features:
The manual would detail transmission fluid types, capacities, clutch operation, gear selection mechanisms, automatic transmission control units (if applicable), and troubleshooting for shifting issues.
Drive Axles:
Covers front-wheel drive systems, including differentials and axle components. Details include maintenance, inspection, and repair of CV joints and drive shafts.
Exterior:
Compact Kei car dimensions are typical for Japanese domestic market variants, adhering to strict size regulations (e.g., under 3.4m length, 1.48m width). Export models might be slightly larger but still within the subcompact segment. Exact dimensions are model-specific and would be detailed in the manual.
Interior:
Designed for maximum interior space within its compact exterior. Seating for typically four occupants, with a focus on practicality and ease of access. Manual would cover trim removal, seat adjustment mechanisms, and interior component repairs.
Cargo:
Limited but functional cargo space, often with split-folding rear seats to enhance versatility. Manual would cover tailgate operation, cargo area trim, and accessory fitment.
Weights:
Kerb weights are typically very low, contributing to fuel efficiency and maneuverability. Specific figures (e.g., approx. 700-800 kg) would be available in the manual, along with Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) ratings.
Ratings:
Safety ratings would vary by market and testing agency. Early 2000s models in this segment often had basic safety features. The manual would detail airbag system operation, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and structural integrity information.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) might have been an option on higher trims. The manual would cover ABS component diagnostics and calibration.
Passive Features:
Seatbelts (front and rear), front airbags (driver and passenger) would be standard or optional depending on market. The manual covers restraint system diagnostics, airbag sensor locations, and deployment procedures.
Restraint System Detail:
Specific procedures for seat belt inspection and replacement, airbag system diagnostics, clock spring replacement, and airbag module handling. Emphasizes safety precautions when working with SRS components.
Service Intervals:
Typical intervals would be oil changes every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months, air filter replacement every 20,000-30,000 km, spark plug replacement every 40,000-60,000 km, and coolant/brake fluid flushes every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km. The manual provides exact OEM-recommended intervals.
Fluid Specifications:
Engine Oil: API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate), Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron II/III or equivalent, Brake Fluid: DOT 3, Coolant: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water). The manual specifies exact types and capacities for all fluids.
Known Issues:
Common issues in small, older vehicles like the Cuore can include minor oil leaks from seals, occasional electrical gremlins (especially in the lighting or accessory circuits), wear on suspension components due to mileage, and potential exhaust system corrosion. The manual's troubleshooting section is invaluable for addressing these.
Lubrication:
Comprehensive periodic lubrication schedule and specifications for all chassis and driveline components. This includes grease types, application points, and intervals.
Cooling System Maintenance
Cooling System Maintenance:
Covers radiator service, thermostat replacement, water pump inspection and replacement, coolant hose checks, and troubleshooting for overheating or leaks. Includes coolant capacity and type specifications.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Details on fuel filter replacement, fuel pump testing, fuel injector cleaning and testing, fuel pressure checks, and diagnosis of fuel delivery issues. Includes fuel system component diagrams.
Brand Heritage:
Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history of producing small, reliable, and fuel-efficient vehicles, particularly Kei cars in Japan and affordable compacts for export markets. The Cuore is one of its longest-running nameplates.
Model Evolution:
The L701 represents the fifth generation of the Cuore (L700 series). It followed a lineage of front-wheel-drive, small-displacement cars known for their affordability and practicality. This generation saw updates in styling and technology for its era.
Production:
The L700 series was produced from approximately 1998 to 2004. Daihatsu vehicles are manufactured primarily in Japan, though some models may have had assembly in other regions for specific markets.