Segment:
Compact Car / Affordable Sedan & Hatchback
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, practical commuters
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Elantra
Value Proposition:
Reliability, fuel efficiency, practical design, affordability, surprisingly engaging driving dynamics for its class (especially MP3 variant).
Manual Value:
Provides OEM-level technical data crucial for independent repair shops and DIY enthusiasts aiming for factory-correct repairs.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, starting, charging, engine control system (ECM/PCM), turbocharger (if applicable)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission (clutch, gearbox, torque converter, gear shifts, hydraulics, control systems)
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD) system, driveshafts, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), Rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, angle sensor
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, Rear disc or drum brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), parking brake, hydraulic system, specifications
Electrical:
12V battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, HVAC controls, audio system, body control modules (BCM)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, airbags, safety restraints
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, refrigerant, controls, blower motor, compressor
Chassis And Frame:
Frame structure, unibody construction, corrosion protection
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
OBD-II codes, diagnostic procedures, sensor testing
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, belt inspections
Engine Repair:
Head gasket replacement, piston and ring service, valve train adjustments, timing belt/chain service
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, automatic transmission overhaul, fluid and filter changes
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, bleeding brake system, ABS component testing
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Strut and shock replacement, ball joint service, control arm replacement, power steering pump replacement, alignment procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing, starter and alternator testing
Body And Paint:
Panel replacement, door hinge adjustment, interior component removal and installation
Climate Control Service:
AC system recharge, component replacement, heater core service
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for various symptoms
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers use of scan tools, multimeters, and specialized diagnostic equipment.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for 2002 model, specific trim dependent)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2002 model, specific trim dependent)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal:
Good (Good rating for many trims)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models
Traction Control:
Optional on select models
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger front airbags standard
Airbags Side:
Optional side-impact airbags on some higher trims
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic blend recommended), or 5,000 miles with conventional oil.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2. SAE 5W-30 recommended. Consult manual for seasonal variations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 - 4.3 US quarts (with filter change)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (check specific manual)
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade and cause vibration, particularly noticeable at idle or when shifting.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cast iron exhaust manifolds are prone to cracking due to thermal stress.
Oxygen Sensors:
Pre-catalytic converter O2 sensors can fail prematurely, leading to Check Engine Light and poor fuel economy.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise and require replacement, especially on higher mileage vehicles.
Ac Compressor Clutch:
Clutch can fail, preventing AC operation.
Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting:
Can develop rough shifts or slip if fluid is not maintained.
Rust:
Can be an issue in areas with road salt, particularly on rocker panels, wheel wells, and subframes.