The CADILLAC CL 61 is a 1,298 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2004. It features a SOHC valvetrain, multi-port fuel injection, and aluminium block construction, delivering lightweight efficiency for compact and city-focused applications. In standard tune it produced 60 kW (82 PS) with 115 Nm of torque, forming part of Daihatsu's CL engine family.
Fitted to models such as the Daihatsu Cuore, Terios, and Move, the CL 61 was engineered for urban drivability, fuel economy, and emissions compliance. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a close-coupled catalytic converter, allowing all units to meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9230).
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin 01-NA-032. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. In 2002, Daihatsu revised the tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (1999–2004) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9230).
The CADILLAC CL 61 is a 1,298 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and city cars (1999–2004). It combines SOHC architecture with lightweight construction to deliver efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it represents a refined iteration of Daihatsu's small-displacement engine platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,298 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 73.4 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SG) | |
| Dry weight | 92 kg |
The SOHC inline-four design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain and camshaft wear. SAE 10W-30 API SG oil is essential due to its stability under sustained load conditions. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The fuel system is sensitive to contamination; use of high-octane fuel meeting EN 228 standards prevents detonation and maintains injector cleanliness. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 API SG specification (Daihatsu Service Manual 1999-0363).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9230).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 60 kW output requires 87 RON fuel (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A24707).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24707, A25160, SIB 01-NA-032
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9230)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC CL 61 was used across Daihatsu's Mx and TAx platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Cuore and revised cooling routing in the Terios-and from 2002 the facelifted Move models adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Daihatsu TIS A25108). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('C' for CL series). Pre-2002 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2002 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from CL 41: Original CL 61 has Denso ECU with 50-pin connector and 1.3L displacement, while CL 41 uses 1.0L. Service parts require production date verification—timing tensioners before 09/2001 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB 01-NA-032).
The CL 61's primary reliability risk is timing chain rattle, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving with frequent short trips. Internal Daihatsu quality reports from 2001 indicated a significant share of pre-2002 engines required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show drivability faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low coolant quality increase thermal stress, making oil maintenance and component upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (1999–2004) and NHTSA field reports (2001–2003). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU CL-61.
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