Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Car, Economy segment
Competitors:
Chevrolet Aveo (rebadged Lanos), Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf, Opel Astra, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic
Selling Points:
Affordability, practical design, fuel efficiency, relatively simple mechanicals
Model Years:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door sedan
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission systems, clutch, driveline
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear discs/drums)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, power accessories, body control modules
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, glass, doors, seals, chassis structure
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding for all major systems
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, adjustments
Diagnostics:
OBD-II system diagnostics, sensor testing, ECU troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed specifications and diagnostic flowcharts.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic clutch operation
Automatic Transmission Control:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controlled
Latin Ncap Rating:
Not rated or very low (common for vehicles of this era)
ABS:
Optional on some trims
Traction Control:
Not typically available
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags (optional on some models, standard on later or higher trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX available on some models
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs), 60,000 miles (iridium plugs if fitted)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical maintenance item)
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ, ACEA A3/B3, SAE 10W-40 (or 5W-30 for colder climates)
Engine Oil Capacity 1.5L:
Approx. 3.7 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) recommended, typically red or orange color
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failure, thermostat issues, minor oil leaks, radiator fan motor failure, power steering pump leaks (if equipped), exhaust system corrosion
Electrical Quirks:
Intermittent issues with power windows and central locking due to wiring loom wear
Brand Origin:
South Korean
Facelift Year:
2000 (T150 revision)
Design Basis:
Developed with GM Europe, based on Opel Astra platform
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Vietnam, Colombia
Production Period:
1997-2004 (global production)