The Daewoo F14S3 is a 1,349 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2004. It belongs to GM's Family 1 engine series and features a cast-iron block with an aluminium SOHC 8-valve head. Equipped with multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) and distributorless ignition, it delivers 66 kW (90 PS) and 118 Nm of torque, providing reliable urban performance ideal for compact hatchbacks.
Fitted to models such as the Daewoo Matiz, Lanos, and Tico, the F14S3 was engineered for fuel-efficient city driving with an emphasis on low maintenance costs and compact packaging. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen feedback control, allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards across European markets during its production run.
One documented service concern involves premature camshaft lobe wear observed in early F14S3 units, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-1407, is attributed to marginal oil flow to the camshaft in certain production batches. Later revisions incorporated modified oil gallery drilling and improved cam followers to mitigate the risk.
Daewoo
Production years 1999–2001 meet Euro 2 standards; 2002–2004 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Daewoo F14S3 is a 1,349 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact city vehicles (1999–2004). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a SOHC 8-valve layout to deliver dependable low-RPM response and excellent fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 and later Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances simplicity with durability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,349 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 74.4 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1999–2001); Euro 3 (2002–2004) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (80,000 km interval) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, API SL | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides strong low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 80,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent engine damage. Use of API SL-spec oil is essential to maintain cam lobe durability, especially in early-build engines. Extended idling or short-trip driving can accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to fuel pressure; clogged filters may cause lean misfires. Post-2002 models feature revised oil passages; pre-2002 units should follow Daewoo TSB-ENG-1407 for cam wear prevention.
Oil Specs: Requires API SL specification (Daewoo SIB 08 07 02). ACEA A1/B1 oils acceptable as alternative.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1999–2001 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). Euro 3 compliance confirmed for 2002–2004 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D14001, D14110, TSB-ENG-1407
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Daewoo F14S3 was used across Daewoo's T-car and Alpha platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Suzuki in certain export markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Matiz and revised exhaust manifolds in the Lanos-and from 2002 the updated Matiz LCI adopted a secondary air injection system for improved cold-start emissions, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Daewoo TIS D14001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for F14S3). Pre-2002 models have black intake manifolds with round throttle bodies; post-2002 units use grey manifolds with electronic throttle control. Critical differentiation from F10S: F14S3 has larger bore and longer stroke, and the exhaust manifold has four separate runners. Service parts require chassis number verification - timing belts for pre-2002 Matiz are not interchangeable with Lanos due to accessory drive layout (Daewoo SIB 08 07 02).
The F14S3's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban driving. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 2001 indicated a measurable number of pre-2002 engines exhibiting cam wear before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine failure in high-mileage units. Short-trip usage and delayed oil changes increase valvetrain stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1999-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2006). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO F14S3.
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