The Daewoo F10S is a 999 cc, inline-three petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2003. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with 12 valves and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 42 kW (57 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 84 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm. This engine was engineered for entry-level city cars, emphasizing compact packaging, low weight, and fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the Daewoo Matiz (M100) and Daewoo Tico, the F10S was designed for urban commuting and first-time drivers in European and Asian markets. Emissions compliance meets Euro 2 standards through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, making it suitable for light-duty applications under moderate environmental regulations of the late 1990s.
One documented service concern involves premature camshaft belt failure due to tensioner degradation, highlighted in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin DB-ENG-001 (1999). Inadequate maintenance intervals or use of non-OEM belts can lead to slippage or fracture. From 2000 onward, revised tensioner materials and specified 60,000 km replacement intervals were introduced to improve reliability in high-temperature operating conditions.
Daewoo
Production years 1998–2000 meet Euro 2 standards; 2001–2003 models comply with Euro 3 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Daewoo F10S is a 999 cc inline-three petrol engine engineered for micro and city cars (1998–2003). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver economical performance and compact packaging. Designed to meet Euro 2 and later Euro 3 standards, it balances low-cost ownership with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 70.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 42 kW (57 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 84 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-2001); Euro 3 (2001–2003, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt (interference type) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SH/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 88 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable, low-stress performance ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage due to interference design. Use of OEM-spec or equivalent belts and tensioners is critical. Fuel quality (minimum 95 RON) ensures knock resistance and longevity of the catalytic converter. Engine mounts degrade over time, especially in high-vibration environments; inspection every 40,000 km is advised. Post-2000 models benefit from revised tensioner materials; pre-2000 units should follow DB-ENG-001 upgrade path. Emissions system longevity depends on regular O2 sensor checks and avoiding short-trip driving.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 meeting API SH/CD (Daewoo Owner's Manual Rev. 1.2). ACEA A1/B1 acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to pre-2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456). Euro 3 compliance from 2001 varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting 95 RON minimum (Daewoo TIS F10-5501).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F10-5501, DB-ENG-001, DB-FI-001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Daewoo F10S was used across Daewoo's M100 platform with transverse mounting and later adapted for the Tico platform in smaller hatchbacks. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Tico and revised ECU mapping for automatic variants-and from 2001 the facelifted Matiz introduced improved emissions calibration, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Daewoo TIS F10-5501). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for F10 series). Pre-2000 models have silver valve covers with ribbed design; post-2000 units use black textured covers. Critical differentiation from F8CV: F10S has larger bore and distinct intake manifold shape. Service parts require model year verification - timing kits for pre-2000 engines are not compatible with post-2000 tensioner revisions (Daewoo SIB DB-ENG-001).
The F10S's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected units, with elevated incidence in warm climates and high-idle urban use. Internal Daewoo field reports from 2001 indicated a significant number of pre-2000 engines suffering belt-related damage beyond 60,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows increased catalytic converter failures in short-trip-driven vehicles. Infrequent servicing and low-quality belts increase failure probability, making adherence to replacement intervals and OEM specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1998-2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO F10S.
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