Market Segment:
Compact hatchback, economy car, urban utility vehicle.
Target Audience:
Young drivers, urban dwellers, budget-conscious consumers, DIY enthusiasts.
Key Competitors 2005:
Honda Fit (Japan), Nissan Cube, Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, Ford Focus.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Distinctive boxy styling, surprisingly spacious interior for its size, fuel efficiency, affordability, Toyota reliability reputation.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance guidance for a wide range of tasks, enabling cost savings on labor.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, emissions control.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensors, actuators.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, differential service, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission fluid change and level check, internal component diagnostics, valve body testing, torque converter service (where applicable for this generation).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, CV joints, differential service.
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shock absorbers, coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion), steering column, tie rods, steering wheel removal and installation.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (pads, rotors), rear drum brakes (shoes, drums), brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedures, parking brake system.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, body control module (BCM) functions, power windows, locks, mirrors.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser), heater core, blower motor, climate control unit, cabin air filter replacement.
Body And Trim:
Exterior panels, interior trim components, door panel removal, bumper removal, weatherstripping, glass replacement.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, component testing.
Repair:
Component replacement, system adjustments, system overhauls.
Installation:
Component installation (e.g., suspension parts, brake components), accessory installation guidance.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, alignment angles.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, troubleshooting, component repair, and system diagnostics from a professional technician's perspective.
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed automatic overdrive (ECT)
Transmission Type Opt:
5-speed manual transmission
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Toyota ATF WS (World Standard) or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 quarts (2.8 liters) for drain and refill
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.3 quarts (2.2 liters)
Length:
161.4 inches (4100 mm)
Width:
66.7 inches (1695 mm)
Height:
61.6 inches (1565 mm)
Wheelbase:
97.2 inches (2470 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.1 inches (130 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 91.1 cubic feet (2579 liters)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 17.1 cubic feet (484 liters)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approx. 37.7 cubic feet (1068 liters)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 2425 lbs (1100 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 2490 lbs (1130 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 3530 lbs (1600 kg)
NHTSA Front Driver Side:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Passenger Side:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Driver Seat:
4-Star
NHTSA Side Rear Seat:
4-Star
IIHS Front Small Overlap Crashtest:
Good (for its class at the time, though testing protocols evolved)
IIHS Side Impact Crashtest:
Good (for its class at the time)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
E Brake:
Rear drum parking brake
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Iridium-tipped plugs).
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Check at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), replace as needed (under normal driving conditions, Toyota often lists it as 'lifetime' but periodic checks/changes are recommended).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Power Steering Fluid:
Toyota Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON II/III
Common Complaints Early Models:
Occasional oil consumption (especially on higher mileage units), minor interior rattles, potential for worn suspension bushings over time.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing chain driven (no periodic replacement required, but monitor for noise).