Historical Positioning:
The Daihatsu Charade was positioned as a subcompact or city car, offering an economical and practical transportation solution. Competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Starlet, and Suzuki Swift.
Strengths Weaknesses:
Strengths: Fuel efficiency, affordability, compact size for urban maneuverability. Weaknesses: Often perceived as less refined or powerful than some competitors, limited dealer network in certain regions.
Design Philosophy:
Focus on lightweight construction, efficient powertrain, and functional design for everyday use.
Notable Variants:
Included hatchback, sedan, and sometimes convertible body styles. Performance variants (e.g., GTti) were notable for their spirited driving dynamics.
Primary Coverage Years:
Not specified, implies a range based on model availability. Typical for this model would cover late 1980s to early 2000s generations.
Geographic Coverage:
Likely Global (English language suggests primary markets like North America, Europe, Australia, Asia).
Estimated Page Count:
300-800 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals).
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), Fuel system (carburetor/injection), Ignition system, Exhaust system, Engine management (ECU/sensors).
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual/automatic), Clutch, Driveshifts/Axles, Differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear), Steering system, Brake system (hydraulic, ABS if applicable), Wheels and Tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, Lighting system, Starting and Charging system, Gauges and Instruments, HVAC electrical components, Audio system wiring.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, Interior trim removal/installation, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC ducting.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Tune-ups, Belt adjustments, Fluid level checks and changes.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuild, Brake caliper replacement, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based fault finding.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) system interpretation (if applicable to the era), sensor testing, actuator testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and component diagrams.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchable:
Yes, likely text-searchable PDF.
Printability:
High quality, designed for clear printing of text and diagrams.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format). If printed, would typically be coil-bound or perfect-bound for workshop use.
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format). If printed, would typically be high-grade paper suitable for a workshop environment.
Engine Family Examples:
Daihatsu CB, ED, EJ, G13A, G16A series.
Displacement Range:
Typically 993cc to 1.6L (1590cc). Specific manual coverage depends on year/generation.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 50 HP to 120+ HP (for performance variants like GTti).
Torque Range:
Approximately 70 Nm to 130+ Nm.
Fuel Delivery Types:
Carburetor (early models), Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) (later models).
Ignition System Type:
Distributor-based ignition, Electronic Ignition (EI) systems.
Block Material:
Typically cast iron or aluminum alloy block.
Cylinder Head Material:
Typically aluminum alloy.
Transmission Type Standard:
Manual transmission (e.g., 5-speed).
Transmission Type Optional:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 3-speed or 4-speed).
Drive Layout:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), with some generations offering All-wheel drive (AWD) as an option.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, viscosity 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual for specific model).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or Dexron III equivalent (verify with manual for specific model).
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, 2-door convertible (less common).
Typical Length:
Approx. 3.7 - 4.0 meters.
Typical Width:
Approx. 1.6 meters.
Typical Height:
Approx. 1.3 - 1.4 meters.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 750 kg - 950 kg.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration, typically around 1200-1400 kg.
Historical Safety Ratings:
Likely minimal official ratings from modern bodies due to age. Early models would have basic safety features.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes. Optional ABS on some later or higher-trim models.
Suspension Stability:
MacPherson strut front suspension, Torsion beam or Coil spring rear suspension (depending on generation).
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point seatbelts, rear lap or 3-point seatbelts (depending on year/region).
Airbags:
Driver airbag often standard or optional on later models. Passenger airbag uncommon on early generations.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell, crumple zones (design dependent on generation).
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on later models. Limited to analogue systems.
Display Type:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (if equipped), fuel, and temperature. Basic LCD or LED indicators.
Advanced Features:
Very limited by modern standards. ABS on some models, power steering generally standard on later models. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist etc.
Connectivity Options:
None. Vehicles of this era pre-date widespread automotive connectivity. May have cigarette lighter power outlet for accessories.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 40,000 km or as needed based on inspection (refer to manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 - 80,000 km depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium) (refer to manual).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Typically every 80,000 - 100,000 km or 5-7 years, as failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Refer to manual for exact interval and procedure.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or higher (verify with manual for specific engine and climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Green or OAT type depending on year. Refer to manual for specific color/specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual).
Engine Management Common:
Carburetor issues (gumming, adjustment), fuel pump failures, ignition coil or distributor problems on older models.
Transmission Common:
Clutch wear, synchromesh issues in manual transmissions, occasional automatic transmission solenoid problems.
Chassis Common:
Wear in suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends due to age and mileage. Rust on body panels and subframes in corrosive climates.
Electrical Common:
Corroded ground points, alternator issues, starter motor problems, dashboard warning light malfunctions.
Daihatsu Positioning:
Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history of producing small, efficient, and reliable vehicles, often focusing on affordability and practicality.
Generations:
The Charade has gone through several generations, starting in the late 1970s and evolving significantly in design, technology, and powertrain options through the 1980s and 1990s.
Key Evolutionary Points:
Transition from carbureted engines to fuel injection, introduction of more aerodynamic designs, expansion of engine sizes, and upgrades to safety and interior features across generations.
Production Period:
The Daihatsu Charade was produced from 1977 to 2000, when it was succeeded by the Daihatsu Sirion (in most markets).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with potential production or assembly in other regions depending on the specific generation and market.
Historical Accolades:
While specific awards might be scarce, the Charade was often recognized for its value, fuel economy, and reliability as an affordable compact car, particularly within its segment.
Fuel Efficiency Ratings:
Consistently praised for excellent fuel economy, often being a class leader in its respective years.