Segment:
Subcompact Hatchback / Sedan
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, urban commuters
Key Competitors:
Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Versa, Hyundai Accent
Vehicle Emphasis:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, maneuverability, practical cargo space (hatchback)
Purpose:
To educate owners on vehicle operation, maintenance, and safety, maximizing ownership experience and longevity.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmission operation, fluid checks
Chassis:
Steering, suspension, braking system operation, wheel and tire care
Electrical:
Lighting systems, instrument panel and indicators, audio system, power features (windows, locks), battery care
Body And Interior:
Seating and restraints, climate control, interior features, exterior features (doors, hood, trunk)
Safety And Security:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems, anti-theft system, emergency procedures
Operation:
Starting and driving, parking, fuel filling, using comfort and convenience features
Maintenance:
Basic checks (oil, coolant, tire pressure), fluid level checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement
Troubleshooting:
Understanding warning lights and messages, basic diagnostic indicators
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance, operation guidance, basic troubleshooting, safety information
Engine Code:
Z14XEP (for 1.4L), Z16XER (for 1.6L - common in later models, but 1.4L is typical for '04 NA)
Displacement:
1.4 Liters (1399 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC
Horsepower:
Approx. 94 hp @ 6000 rpm (1.4L engine)
Torque:
Approx. 96 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (1.4L engine)
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Catalytic Converter:
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Operation:
Clutch pedal, shift lever operation
Automatic Operation:
Selectable gears (P, R, N, D, 2, 1)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent) - Check manual for specific GM P/N
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (typically 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Length:
Approx. 158.3 inches (Hatchback), 168.1 inches (Sedan)
Width:
Approx. 66.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 58.5 inches (Hatchback), 57.3 inches (Sedan)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 97.6 inches
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 11.4 cu ft (seats up), 26.8 cu ft (seats down)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2300-2500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3500-3600 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
4 Stars (for 2004 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2004 model)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (for 2004 model)
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on others (check specific vehicle)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this model year
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger. Side airbags optional on some trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners (front seats), three-point seat belts (rear seats)
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM/CD player with 4 speakers standard. Optional premium sound system.
Connectivity:
Auxiliary input jack (on some models), potentially an early USB port on later production runs or aftermarket additions.
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trims
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning and heating standard. Optional automatic climate control on some higher trims.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights with manual or automatic leveling (depending on trim)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic oil, or 3,000 miles / 3 months with conventional oil. Check manual for specific recommendation.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type - iridium recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Dexos approved (check manual for exact GM specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346290 (Orange) or equivalent Extended Life Coolant (OAT)
Common Complaints:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, premature wear of suspension components (bushings, ball joints), occasional electrical gremlins, potential for HVAC blower motor issues, rough idle due to carbon buildup on intake valves.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check for oil leaks, inspect suspension for play, keep intake system clean for optimal performance.
Manufacturer Origin:
United States (Chevrolet Division of General Motors)
Generation:
First Generation (T200 platform, 2002-2008)
Platform Origin:
Based on the Daewoo Lacetti platform (GM acquired Daewoo)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (primarily), Mexico, and other GM assembly plants.
Market Launch Usa:
2004 Model Year
Safety Recognition:
Received 4-star frontal and side crash test ratings from NHTSA for 2004 model year.
Fuel Economy Epa Estimated City:
Approx. 24-28 MPG (depending on transmission and engine)
Fuel Economy Epa Estimated Highway:
Approx. 31-35 MPG (depending on transmission and engine)
