🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Daihatsu

Model:

Feroza

Model Code:

F300

Engine Variant Covered:

HD Engine

Market Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle

👋 Introduction

Era:

Produced during the late 1980s and 1990s, the Feroza competed in the burgeoning compact SUV market.

Target Audience:

Appealed to buyers seeking an affordable, capable, and rugged small 4x4 for light off-roading, utility, and everyday use.

Key Competitors:

Suzuki Samurai/Jimny, Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero (smaller variants), Toyota RAV4 (early models, though more car-like), Nissan Terrano/Pathfinder (smaller variants).

Body Styles:

Available in soft-top convertible and hard-top (wagon) configurations.

Drivetrain:

Part-time four-wheel drive system with selectable 2WD and 4WD modes, often including low-range gearing for serious off-road capability.

Chassis:

Body-on-frame construction, providing ruggedness and durability for off-road use and towing.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF, though not explicitly stated, common for workshop manuals)

Page Count:

Estimated 500-800 pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual covering engine, chassis, and electrical systems)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the HD engine (including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system).

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emissions control systems, engine sensors, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting procedures.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (MT) service, clutch system, gearbox disassembly, assembly, and adjustment. (Note: Automatic transmission coverage may be separate or included if applicable to HD engine variants).

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel drive (4WD) system operation, transfer case, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, and wheel hubs.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., independent front suspension, solid rear axle), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (if equipped), steering gear, tie rods, steering column, and steering wheel removal/installation.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), hydraulic system components (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), parking brake, and ABS system (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, and component testing.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, frame, and chassis components.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, diagnosis, and service.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and general inspections. Includes recommended service intervals.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting trees, and fault code interpretation.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic information, including wiring diagrams, sensor specifications, and testing procedures for electrical and mechanical systems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, clearances, tolerances, and diagnostic values.

Scope:

Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.

Detail Level:

Detailed illustrations, diagrams, exploded views, and step-by-step instructions suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (Portable Document Format) for ease of distribution and searchability. May also be available as physical print.

Searchability:

Expected to be searchable if a digital PDF with OCR (Optical Character Recognition).

Printability:

High potential for printing individual sections or the entire manual for hands-on workshop use.

Illustrations:

Typically high-quality line drawings, schematics, and exploded views.

Physical Binding:

If printed, likely a spiral-bound or comb-bound format for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Physical Paper:

If printed, typically on durable, semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

HD Series (specifically likely 1.6L or 1.3L variants)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), naturally aspirated gasoline engine.

Displacement:

Commonly 1598 cc (1.6 Liters) for the HD-C and HD-G variants. Some markets might have had a 1298 cc (1.3 Liter) variant.

Horsepower:

Typically around 70-90 PS (approx. 69-89 bhp) depending on exact variant and market tuning.

Torque:

Around 110-130 Nm (approx. 81-96 lb-ft) at specified RPM range.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection (MPI) for most later models, some earlier models might have had carbureted variants, but the 'HD engine' designation strongly suggests EFI.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per regional standards, typically 91 RON or higher recommended).

Ignition System:

Distributor-less ignition system (DIS) or distributor with electronic control unit (ECU) management.

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system depending on market regulations.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (MT).

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) might have been available on certain Feroza models or in specific markets.

4Wd System:

Part-time 4WD system with manual or electronic engagement. Includes 2WD High, 4WD High, and 4WD Low (4LLc) modes, often operated via a separate transfer case lever.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Specific part numbers from Daihatsu are required for exact fill.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (if AT equipped).

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate diaphragm spring type clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3,870 - 3,905 mm (depending on front/rear bumper configurations).

Width:

Approx. 1,570 - 1,600 mm.

Height:

Approx. 1,620 - 1,650 mm (hardtop), slightly less for soft-top.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,235 mm.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,100 - 1,250 kg (depending on body style and equipment).

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Varies, typically around 1,600 - 1,700 kg.

Towing Capacity:

Consult local regulations and vehicle specifications; generally limited for vehicles of this size and class.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Specific independent crash test ratings (e.g., Euro NCAP, NHTSA) are scarce for this model as it predates widespread mandatory testing of this segment. Australian ANCAP might have some data for exported models.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on higher trims or later models.

4Wd System:

The robust 4WD system itself can be considered a safety feature for maintaining traction in adverse conditions.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts in the front, lap belts in the rear. Some later models may have featured pre-tensioners.

Body Structure:

Body-on-frame construction, while offering ruggedness, typically offers less crumple zone protection than modern unibody SUVs.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was an option on later models, passenger airbags were very rare or non-existent.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Later models may have featured CD players. Speaker count typically 2 or 4.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC system with fan speed and temperature controls. Air conditioning was an option.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some higher trim levels or later models.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Unlikely to have factory-equipped USB or Bluetooth connectivity; aftermarket solutions are common for modern audio integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first. Use of high-quality synthetic oil (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) is recommended for longevity.

Oil Filter Replacement:

At every engine oil change. Daihatsu Part Number: 90915-YZZE1 (or equivalent).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000 km or as needed based on driving conditions. Daihatsu Part Number: 17801-87101 (or equivalent).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 40,000 km. Recommended spark plugs: NGK BKR5E-11 or equivalent.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 40,000 km or 2 years. Use a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol coolant and distilled water (e.g., Daihatsu Genuine Long Life Coolant).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 60,000 km. Automatic: Every 40,000 km.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.2 - 3.5 liters (including filter), consult manual for exact specification.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 5.0 - 5.5 liters, consult manual for exact specification.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or III (if equipped with power steering).

Engine Performance:

Occasional issues with fuel injectors clogging or sensors failing, leading to rough idle or poor performance.

Rust:

As with many vehicles of this era, rust can be a significant concern, particularly in the chassis, wheel arches, and sills, especially in regions with harsh winters or coastal environments.

Suspension Wear:

Bushing wear in suspension components and control arms is common due to age and off-road use, leading to clunks or poor handling.

Transfer Case Leaks:

Seals in the transfer case and differentials can degrade over time, leading to fluid leaks.

Electrical Gremlins:

Age-related issues like corroded grounds, failing relays, and intermittent electrical connections can affect various systems.

📚 Vehicle History

Daihatsu Specialization:

Daihatsu has a long history of producing small, reliable, and often specialized vehicles, particularly kei cars and compact off-roaders.

Predecessors:

The Feroza succeeded the Daihatsu Rocky (F50/F70 series), another capable compact 4x4, though the Feroza adopted a more modern styling and some chassis refinements.

Generations:

The Feroza (F300) represents the second generation of Daihatsu's compact SUV line, produced from approximately 1989 to 2002.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan. Also produced under license or rebadged in other markets.

Production Years:

1989-2002 (approximate lifespan).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Popularity:

While not winning specific major awards, the Feroza was a popular and well-regarded compact SUV in its segment for its affordability and off-road capability, contributing to Daihatsu's reputation in this niche.