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.

Production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,399 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 71 kW (97 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; tensioner wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SL/CF) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
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.
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).
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
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.
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).
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.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (2008-2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO A14NET.
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