Segment:
Compact Car / Small Family Car
Competitive Landscape:
Competed directly with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, and Ford Escort of the same era.
Value Proposition:
Offered a blend of sporty handling, reliability, and affordability, making it a popular choice for younger drivers and budget-conscious buyers.
Body Styles:
Available as a 3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, and 5-door wagon.
Trim Levels:
Base, DX, LX, ES, GT (sport model).
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, valve timing, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), starting system, charging system, sensors, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, manual gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, gear ratios.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, control systems, fluid specifications, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack, fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, mounting hardware.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant handling.
Electrical Body:
Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, fuse box, relays, body control modules.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, trim, body repair and alignment.
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, headliner, door panels, carpets, seat belts, airbags (if applicable).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, timing belt replacement, brake pad replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, error code interpretation (OBD-I), component testing.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and rebuilding of major systems.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams interpretation, circuit testing, component diagnosis using multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical values, engine control parameters.
Depth:
In-depth repair and overhaul procedures suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for interference engines).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for climate specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.7-4.2 US quarts (3.5-4.0 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF.
Common Issues:
Timing belt failure if not replaced at recommended intervals (interference engine), CV joint wear, minor electrical gremlins, exhaust system rust, occasional idle control valve issues.