Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Value Proposition:
Affordable, rugged, and practical SUV offering good off-road capability for its class.
Key Competitors:
Renault Captur, Nissan Qashqai (though Duster is generally more basic and rugged), Skoda Yeti, Ford EcoSport.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on robustness, simplicity, and utility over luxury or advanced technology.
Target Audience:
Value-conscious buyers, those seeking a no-frills, durable vehicle for everyday use and light off-roading.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, emissions control
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (e.g., JR5, TL4), Automatic transmission (if applicable, less common in 2014 Duster), Transfer case (4WD models), Driveshafts, Differentials, Clutch system
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, Rear suspension, Steering system, Wheel alignment, Hubs and bearings, Brakes (front/rear discs/drums), ABS, EBD, ESC
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, Charging system (alternator, starter), Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), Fuses and relays, Wiring diagrams, Body control modules, Instrument cluster, Power windows, Central locking, Audio system, Air conditioning controls
Body Interior:
Body panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior trim, Seats, Airbags, Restraint systems, Glass and seals
Maintenance:
Routine service (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Scheduled maintenance intervals, Inspections
Repair:
Component removal and installation, Engine rebuild procedures, Transmission overhaul, Suspension and steering component replacement, Brake system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and repair, Bodywork repairs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Error code interpretations
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, Fluid capacities and types, Electrical specifications, Component tolerances
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Code Petrol:
K4M (1.6L 16V) or H4M (1.6L 16V) or F4P (2.0L 16V)
Engine Code Diesel:
K9K (1.5L dCi)
1.6L 16V (K4M) Horsepower:
Approximately 105 PS (103 hp / 77 kW) at 5750 rpm
1.6L 16V (K4M) Torque:
Approximately 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) at 3750 rpm
1.5L Dci (K9K) Horsepower:
Approximately 90 PS (89 hp / 66 kW) at 4000 rpm
1.5L Dci (K9K) Torque:
Approximately 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) at 1750 rpm
Fuel Delivery Petrol:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Diesel:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi)
Layout:
Inline 4-cylinder
Transmission Type Petrol 1.6:
5-speed Manual (JR5)
Transmission Type Diesel 1.5:
5-speed Manual (JR5)
Transmission Type Petrol 2.0:
4-speed Automatic (DP0/AL4) or 6-speed Manual (TL4 - for 4WD models)
Transmission Type Diesel 1.5 4Wd:
6-speed Manual (TL4 - for 4WD models)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD/4WD)
Length:
Approx. 4,315 mm (169.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,822 mm (71.7 in) (excluding mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1,625 mm (64.0 in) (unladen)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,673 mm (105.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,250 kg - 1,450 kg (2,756 - 3,197 lbs) depending on engine and drivetrain
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Varies by model, typically around 1,800 kg - 2,000 kg
Luggage Capacity:
Approx. 475 liters (16.8 cu ft) (rear seats up) / Up to 1,570 liters (55.4 cu ft) (rear seats folded)
Euro Ncap Rating:
3 Stars (original model), improved with later updates. Specific 2014 rating varies by equipment.
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) often available on higher trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 1 year, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 km (18,600 miles) or 2 years.
Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:
Recommended every 60,000 km (37,200 miles).
Engine Oil Petrol 1.6:
ACEA A3/B4 or A5/B5, API SN or higher, SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 (check manual for exact specs and viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Diesel 1.5:
ACEA C3 or C4, API CF or higher, SAE 5W-30 (Low SAPS oil).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Renault Type D) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Transmission Oil Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 (e.g., Renault Tranself NFP).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension components (bushings, ball joints), brake pads/discs due to its rugged nature.
Diesel Specific:
Potential DPF issues with short-journey use (for models equipped with DPF), glow plug issues.
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional reports of minor electrical issues (e.g., power window regulators, dashboard warning lights) which this manual would help diagnose.
Brand Focus:
Dacia, a Romanian manufacturer now part of the Renault Group, is known for producing affordable and robust vehicles.
Launch Year:
Duster was first launched in 2010.
2014 Update:
The 2014 model year represents the Phase 2 update for the first generation Duster, featuring minor styling tweaks (e.g., revised grille, new wheel designs) and some interior updates. Engine options remained largely the same.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Pitesti, Romania; also assembled in other Renault-Nissan Alliance plants globally (e.g., Russia, Colombia, India).