Engine Code

DAEWOO A14NET engine (2008-2013) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Daewoo A14NET is a 1,399 cc, inline-four gasoline engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It was developed as part of the GM Small Gasoline Engine (SGE) family in collaboration with Opel and used across compact models. Featuring DOHC, 16-valve architecture and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it delivers 71 kW (97 PS) with 128 Nm of torque. Variable valve timing (VVT) enhances low-end responsiveness and fuel efficiency.

Fitted to models such as the Daewoo Matiz Creative, Chevrolet Spark, and Holden Barina Spark, the A14NET was engineered for urban economy and ease of driving in stop-start conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen feedback control, allowing Euro 4 compliance across all production years. Its lightweight design and compact footprint optimized front-end packaging and improved fuel economy in city environments.

One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in GM Korea Service Bulletin KSB-08-1401, is linked to inadequate oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. From 2010, revised tensioner and guide rail components were implemented, reducing failure incidence.

Daewoo Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

A14NET Technical Specifications

The Daewoo A14NET is a 1,399 cc inline-four gasoline engine engineered for compact city cars (2008–2013). It combines multi-point fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive urban performance and efficient fuel use. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances drivability with economy in lightweight platforms.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,399 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 95 RON)
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke74.0 mm × 81.4 mm
Power output71 kW (97 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque128 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio10.3:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemChain-driven (front-mounted; tensioner wear-prone)
Oil typeSAE 5W-30 (API SL/CF)
Dry weight98 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides predictable low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting API SL/CF standards is essential for maintaining tensioner lubrication and longevity. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce oil starvation at the upper chain guide. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of low-sulfur petrol meeting EN 228 is recommended. Post-2010 models feature upgraded tensioners; pre-2010 units should have the revised guide rail installed per GM Korea SIB KSB-08-1401. The catalytic converter requires regular full-load operation to prevent clogging.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 API SL/CF specification (Daewoo SIB KSB-08-1401). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2008–2013) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Daewoo TIS Doc. G14680).

Primary Sources

Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G14680, G15142, KSB-08-1401

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

A14NET Compatible Models

The Daewoo A14NET was used across Daewoo's Matiz platform with transverse mounting and shared with GM subsidiaries globally. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Matiz Creative and revised ECU mapping in Holden Barina Spark-and from 2010 the facelifted models adopted updated timing components, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Daewoo
Years:
2008-2013
Models:
Matiz Creative
Variants:
1.4 LS, 1.4 LT
View Source
Daewoo Group PT-2020
Make:
Chevrolet
Years:
2009-2013
Models:
Spark
Variants:
1.4 LS, 1.4 LT
View Source
Chevrolet EPC #C-456
Make:
Holden
Years:
2010-2013
Models:
Barina Spark
Variants:
1.4 LS, 1.4 LT
View Source
Holden TIS Doc. H-7890
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS G14890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('4' for 1.4L SGE). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from A14XEL: A14NET uses a DOHC 16-valve head with VVT, while A14XEL is SOHC 8-valve. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2010 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Daewoo SIB KSB-08-1401).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Daewoo TIS Doc. G14890

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS G14890).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2010: Silver valve cover with black cam cover
  • Post-2010: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Daewoo SIB KSB-08-1401

Timing Components:

Timing kits for pre-2010 A14NET models are not compatible with post-2010 revisions due to tensioner and guide rail updates per OEM documentation.
Tensioner Upgrade

Issue:

Early A14NET engines experienced timing chain tensioner wear due to restricted oil flow during cold starts.

Evidence:

Daewoo SIB KSB-08-1401

Recommendation:

Install updated tensioner and guide rail per GM Korea SIB KSB-08-1401.

Common Reliability Issues - DAEWOO A14NET

The A14NET's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal GM Korea quality reports from 2011 indicated a notable share of pre-2010 engines requiring repair before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to catalyst degradation in frequently short-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

Timing chain tensioner wear or failure
Symptoms: Rattle at startup, especially cold; check engine light, cam timing codes, oil with metal particles.
Cause: Front-mounted chain with early-design tensioner susceptible to wear due to inadequate oil delivery during cold starts and extended oil intervals.
Fix: Install the latest OEM-specified tensioner and guide rail per service bulletin; verify cam timing and oil pressure after repair.
Throttle body carbon buildup
Symptoms: Idle fluctuation, hesitation on acceleration, reduced throttle response, DTCs related to throttle position.
Cause: Oil vapour from PCV system mixing with intake air, forming deposits on throttle bore and plate over time.
Fix: Clean throttle body with approved solvent; reset adaptation values via diagnostic tool per OEM procedure.
Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white residue around housing, low coolant warning.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing; design vulnerability to thermal cycling fatigue.
Fix: Replace housing with updated metal-reinforced unit; inspect thermostat and gasket condition during service.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, loss of power, illuminated check engine light with misfire codes.
Cause: Coil pack insulation breakdown due to heat exposure and vibration; common after 80,000 km.
Fix: Replace failed coil with OEM-specified unit; inspect spark plugs and wiring for secondary damage.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (2008-2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about DAEWOO A14NET

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO A14NET.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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