The Daewoo H15S is a 1,495 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2011. It was developed as a compact, fuel-efficient powerplant for Daewoo's small car lineup, featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16-valve configuration. In standard tune, it delivered 75 kW (102 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 134 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm.
Fitted primarily to the Daewoo Matiz (M150) and Chevrolet Spark (first generation), the H15S was engineered for urban commuting and economical daily driving. Its lightweight design and low-friction internals contributed to strong fuel efficiency, while meeting Euro 3 emissions standards through precise fuel metering and catalytic converter integration. Later models (2008–2011) received minor ECU recalibrations to improve idle stability and cold-start performance.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or breakage if not addressed during scheduled maintenance. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin M150-07-015, is typically associated with extended service intervals or use of non-OEM replacement parts. In 2008, Daewoo introduced a revised tensioner design with improved spring loading and damping to enhance reliability.
Daewoo
Production years 2003–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2011 models comply with Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Daewoo H15S is a 1,495 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for city hatchbacks (2003–2011). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver responsive low-end performance and economy. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 standards, it balances urban drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,495 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 82.6 mm | |
| Power output | 75 kW (102 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2011) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replaced every 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SL/CF) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting API SL/CF standards is essential for maintaining hydraulic lifter function and reducing camshaft wear. Extended idling or short-trip driving can lead to carbon buildup on intake valves, affecting idle quality. Use of fuel with detergent additives is recommended to maintain injector cleanliness. Post-2008 models benefit from a revised tensioner design; pre-2008 units should be inspected for wear per Daewoo SIB M150-07-015. Catalytic converter longevity depends on correct air-fuel mixture and use of unleaded petrol only.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 (API SL/CF) specification (Daewoo SIB M150-03-010). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 and A5/B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 4 compliance confirmed for 2006–2011 units in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (Daewoo TIS Doc. B13570).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B13570, M150-03-010, M150-05-022, M150-07-015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Daewoo H15S was used across Daewoo's M150 platform with transverse mounting and later adopted by Chevrolet for global microcar applications. This engine received model-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Matiz and revised ECU mappings in Spark variants-and from 2008 the facelifted Matiz II included updated emissions controls, 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 transmission bellhousing (Daewoo TIS B13620). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for H15S series). Pre-2008 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-2008 units use black valve covers with smooth finish. Critical differentiation from H14S: H15S has larger bore (76.0 mm vs 75.0 mm) and distinct intake manifold shape. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for pre-2008 models are incompatible with post-2008 revisions due to tensioner redesign (Daewoo SIB M150-07-015).
The H15S's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 2009 indicated a notable share of pre-2008 engines suffering belt slippage before 90,000 km, while VCA records show increased catalytic converter failures in vehicles with neglected maintenance. Extended idling and infrequent oil changes increase tensioner and lifter wear, making service interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (2005–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO H15S.
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