The purpose of this thread is to share personal experiences which successfully busted many (MYTHS in PAKISTAN) related to Daihatsu Charade G-11.
Before I should start let me tell you that I am using this car since 2009. Also I would like to clarify that what is written below is purely based on the ground realities and there is no exaggeration or fanboyism. If someone simply hate this car for no reason then it is requested to please simply stop reading.
This thread is not at all written in COMPARISON to any other car.
Lets begin,
1. Mota oil (thick oil) is must:
My car has its factory fitted engine and using 10W-40 grade oil for the last six or seven years without any problem. This grade is even recommended in G-11 manual. Never had overheating, oil reduction, oil leakage, engine noises. I always used an imported brand as local brands lacks in quality. Engine is never happy with 20W-50, sluggish performance with low fuel economy.
2. Direct Radiator Fan is must:
Fan on auto is disastrous, engine will get over heated, gasket will be damaged quickly are the few myths.
Two years back I restored the cooling system to its factory specs which includes proper working fan switches, clean radiator and pipes, good quality coolant like Liqui Moly, rated oem radiator cap with reservoir. Till todate, no issue happened whatsoever. Added advantages are, engine is now allowed to run on the optimum temperature level which reduces engine wear. Longer battery life as little stress during cold engine start.
3. Air-Conditioning failure is a fact:
I personally haven't come across a single G-11 owner who is happy with its air conditioning including myself. I had content myself that I have to bear this or else change the car.
Fortunately a year back I came across a guy who properly restored the system, servicing, stopped leakages, wiring an all. Second year on I am enjoying it without any problem. The most common problems owner faces are engine load and overheating issues with unsatisfactory cooling.
I would also like to clarify that besides the AC related work, engine along-with its cooling system must be in good nick.
With the help of Pakwheelers, I managed to understand the issues and asked the mechanics and electricians to do the following for me,
a. Restored a weak head.
Personally observed that engine head was the primary cause. I had it repaired which included the most important, the surface facing with genuine sized gasket. Here myth says double gasket should be used which is suicidal.
b. Restored the cooling system.
c. Restored the vacuum system with all the vacuum pipes n pumps connection as per the specs.
To prove my words related to AC working, this eid had a trip to Hyderabad with four adults and three minors. Weather was severely harsh commonly known nowadays as heatwave. Window shades were used. It was a 2 hours trip with 10 minutes break in between. During the break once I sprayed water on the condenser.
Back seaters were comfortable, temperature needle remained below half mark, engine remained calm given the performance as always. It was 85- 90 km/hr cruising. Moisture on glass during night trip.
4. 10 km/liter is the max average on Petrol:
I am getting 11.5 - 12.5 in city and 14 - 15 on highways.
5. Power starring reduces engine pick.
May be many might not agree to this point but personally heard many, saying that installing power starring (hydraulic) in G-11 reduces engine's pick. I have been enjoying (hydraulic one) for the last 3 years without any problem. Thankfully its 3 years on and there was no single maintenance required during this period.
So thanks for bearing me I hope you didn't get bored. Healthy criticism and queries are always welcomed.