🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Metro

Year:

1998

Generation:

Third Generation (USDM)

Platform Code:

AG4

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Chevrolet Metro was positioned as an economical and fuel-efficient subcompact car, primarily targeting urban commuters and first-time car buyers looking for affordability and practicality.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other subcompacts of the era such as the Geo (later Chevrolet) Suzuki Swift, Honda Civic (early generations), Toyota Tercel/Echo, Ford Escort, and Nissan Sentra. Its key selling points were its low price, excellent fuel economy, and compact dimensions for easy city driving and parking.

Key Features:

Remarkably good fuel efficiency, compact and maneuverable size, low purchase price, simple mechanicals contributing to easier maintenance for DIY enthusiasts.

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, hobbyists, and owners of the 1998 Chevrolet Metro seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics themselves.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Emissions, Diagnosis, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair Procedures

Page Count:

Estimated thousands of pages in OE equivalent, provided digitally

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download (Digital Access)

Access Duration:

1 Year of access included, with discounts for additional years.

Source Materials:

Licensed OE (Original Equipment) materials from GM/Suzuki, ensuring accuracy and factory-level detail.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (G10A, G13BA), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (30-43LE), Manual Transmission (F5B064), Clutch, Drive Axles, Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam), Steering System (Rack and Pinion), Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Drum), ABS (if equipped), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Gauges, Power Accessories), Climate Control (HVAC), Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Safety Systems (Seat Belts, Airbags - if equipped)

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair/Rebuild, Brake Service (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), Suspension Component Replacement (shocks, struts, bushings), Steering System Repairs, Electrical Diagnosis and Repair, HVAC System Servicing, Body Panel Repair/Replacement, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution, Component Removal and Installation, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Types, Wiring Harness Repair, Emission Control System Service

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance and fluid changes to advanced engine and transmission diagnostics and complete component overhaul. Includes detailed step-by-step repair procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting guides.

Diagnostic Tools:

Covers diagnostic procedures using factory scan tools (e.g., Tech 1, or equivalent for OBD-I/OBD-II on later models), multimeter usage, and basic troubleshooting techniques.

Bodywork Coverage:

Detailed procedures for body panel removal and installation, dent repair, rust prevention and repair, door and window regulator service, bumper repair and replacement.

Electrical Wiring Coverage:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major systems, including power distribution, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, accessories, instrument cluster, and body electrical.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Compatibility:

Compatible with any PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection and a web browser.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.0L (993cc) G10A Inline-3 SOHC

Secondary Engine:

1.3L (1298cc) G13BA Inline-4 SOHC

Horsepower 1.0L:

53 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 1.0L:

57 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Horsepower 1.3L:

70 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 1.3L:

74 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel System 1.0L:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel System 1.3L:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Bore Stroke 1.0L:

68.0 mm x 72.0 mm

Bore Stroke 1.3L:

74.0 mm x 75.5 mm

Compression Ratio 1.0L:

9.5:1

Compression Ratio 1.3L:

9.5:1

Engine Management:

ECU controlled ignition and fuel injection timing

Engine Code 1.0L:

G10A

Engine Code 1.3L:

G13BA

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (F5B064)

Optional:

3-Speed Automatic Transmission (30-43LE)

Features:

Compact and reliable for their class. Automatic transmission featured a lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. Manual transmission offered a lightweight, efficient setup.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

3645 mm (143.5 in)

Exterior Width:

1590 mm (62.6 in)

Exterior Height:

1435 mm (56.5 in)

Wheelbase:

2360 mm (92.9 in)

Curb Weight 1.0L:

Approx. 730 kg (1609 lbs)

Curb Weight 1.3L:

Approx. 760 kg (1675 lbs)

Interior Volume:

Subcompact class, typically around 80-90 cubic feet total passenger volume.

Cargo Volume:

Minimal in hatchback configuration, approximately 10-15 cubic feet behind rear seats, expandable by folding rear seat.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

IIHS crash test results from this era for similar vehicles indicated moderate to poor performance in frontal offset tests. Specific NHTSA ratings for the 1998 Metro are not readily available.

Active Features:

Standard front disc brakes, optional ABS on some trims.

Passive Features:

Driver and passenger airbags (standard on most 1998 models), three-point seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Optional CD player on higher trims. Manual antenna adjustment. Simple analog gauge cluster (speedometer, fuel, temperature).

Driver Assistance:

Limited to optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models. No electronic stability control or traction control systems.

Connectivity:

No built-in Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Communication relies on aftermarket solutions if desired.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Service Intervals Filter Oil:

Replace with every oil change. Part Number: 96021413 (ACDelco)

Service Intervals Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Part Number: 25037273 (ACDelco)

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles. Recommended: NGK BKR5E-11

Service Intervals Coolant:

Flush and replace every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Use Dex-Cool (if compatible with original fill) or equivalent silicate-free coolant.

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 viscosity. Capacity: 3.4 US quarts (3.2 L) with filter for 1.0L, 3.2 US quarts (3.0 L) with filter for 1.3L.

Fluid Specifications Transmission Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: 2.0 US quarts (1.9 L).

Fluid Specifications Transmission Automatic:

Dexron-III (or equivalent ATF). Capacity: 2.5 US quarts (2.4 L) for service fill.

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Known Issues:

Rattles and vibrations from the lightweight body structure, potential for rust in older examples, occasional issues with the exhaust system hangers, starter motor reliability, and interior trim degradation (e.g., door panel clips).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended replacement every 60,000 miles or 5 years. Part Number: 96352100 (ACDelco)

Belt Tensioner Replacement:

Inspect during timing belt service. Replacement recommended if noisy or worn.

Tire Size Standard:

155/80R13

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4 x 100 mm

Wheel Offset:

+45 mm (typical)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history in the automotive industry, known for a wide range of vehicles from trucks to sports cars. The Metro represented GM's entry into the growing subcompact segment, often through badge engineering of Suzuki products.

Model Evolution:

The 1998 Metro is part of the third generation (USDM), which saw a redesign from the previous generation. It was based on the Suzuki Cultus/Cervo. In 1998, GM transitioned the Geo brand to Chevrolet, so models previously sold as Geo Metro were now sold as Chevrolet Metro.

Production:

The Metro was primarily produced by CAMI Automotive in Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada, as a joint venture between General Motors and Suzuki. The 1998 model year falls under the third generation which ran from 1995 to 2001 in North America.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the 1998 Metro itself didn't receive specific major awards, the Geo/Chevrolet Metro lineage was frequently recognized by publications like 'Kiplinger's Personal Finance' and 'Consumer Reports' for its excellent value and fuel economy in its class during its production run.

Ratings:

Often scored well in fuel efficiency tests, placing it among the most economical vehicles available at the time. Reliability ratings varied, with many common issues being relatively inexpensive to address.

Certifications:

Standard emissions certifications for the US market (e.g., EPA compliance). Certified as built to meet GM's manufacturing standards.