Vehicle Class:
Subcompact hatchback/sedan
Target Audience:
Affordable, economical transportation, popular in urban environments and developing markets.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sunny/Datsun Cherry, Mazda Familia.
Design Philosophy:
Compact, fuel-efficient, and practical design with a focus on affordability and reliability.
Powertrain Options:
Small displacement, efficient engines, primarily front-wheel drive configuration.
Engine Mechanics:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine components. Includes specifications for clearances, torque values, and timing.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment and overhaul, fuel pump testing and replacement, fuel line routing and inspection.
Ignition System:
Distributor maintenance, spark plug specifications, coil testing, ignition timing procedures.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump service, coolant specifications and flush procedures.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, and pipe inspection and replacement.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch inspection and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, gear linkage service, transmission fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, and transmission overhaul procedures. Automatic transmission fluid type and capacity.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle and CV joint service, differential maintenance.
Suspension System:
Struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, and ball joint service. Alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Steering rack and linkage inspection, power steering pump and fluid (if applicable) service.
Brake System:
Disc and drum brake inspection, caliper, master cylinder, wheel cylinder service, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor service, wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, lighting system troubleshooting.
Body And Chassis:
Panel removal and installation, door and window mechanisms, trim components, anti-corrosion measures.
HVAC System:
Heater core, blower motor, and air conditioning system (if equipped) service.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and flowcharts for common problems across all major systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed guidance on how to take apart and put back together complex assemblies.
Diagnostic Testing:
Procedures for testing electrical components, sensors, and mechanical systems.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering from basic owner maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic information, including resistance values, voltage readings, and pressure specifications.
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components such as engines, transmissions, and carburetors.
Engine Code Examples:
AB10, AB20
Engine Type:
Inline 3-cylinder, 4-stroke, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
993 cc (1.0 Liter)
Bore X Stroke:
70.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 or 9.2:1 (depending on variant)
Horsepower:
Approx. 40-55 PS (29-40 kW) at 5500-6000 RPM
Torque:
Approx. 70-85 Nm (52-63 lb-ft) at 3000-3500 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Downdraft Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 km (3,100 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,200-9,300 miles) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,400-18,600 miles).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 40,000 km (25,000 miles); Automatic: Every 30,000 km (18,600 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
API SF/SG or equivalent, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity by temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 - 3.5 liters (with filter change).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent.
Carburetor Issues:
Clogged jets, worn throttle shafts, difficult starting/idling due to age and wear.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common on older vehicles, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Wheel wells, rocker panels, and chassis points are vulnerable.
Electrical Gremlins:
Degraded wiring insulation, corroded connectors, and failing grounds can lead to intermittent issues.
Suspension Wear:
Worn bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common due to age and mileage, affecting ride and handling.
Cooling System Leaks:
Aging hoses, radiator seals, and water pump gaskets can develop leaks.
Daihatsu Origins:
Founded in 1907 as Hatsudoki Seizo Co., Ltd., Daihatsu is Japan's oldest passenger car manufacturer, known for small, efficient vehicles.
Charade Introduction:
The first-generation Charade (G10) was introduced in 1977 as Daihatsu's entry into the global subcompact segment, featuring innovative front-wheel drive for its class.
G10 Design:
Penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the G10 featured a distinctive wedge-shaped profile and compact dimensions, making it highly maneuverable and economical.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. Also produced under license or with CKD kits in other countries.
Production Years:
1977-1982 (for the G10 generation)