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The Most Common Issues with Daewoo Vehicles

Daewoo, a Korean automaker, entered the global market with ambitious plans but due to reported concerns by owners, didn’t make quite the impact they had hoped. Despite this, Daewoo vehicles are still on the roads today typically due to their affordability and ease of use. However, they are not immune to issues. Some common issues have been reported to plague Daewoo vehicles, and being aware of these problems can help Daewoo owners budget for repairs and mechanics diagnose issues efficiently.

Electrical Gremlins

A recurring theme reported with Daewoo vehicles manifests in electrical problems. Medium.com reports issues from “faulty wiring to malfunctioning sensors” as well as these problems leading to issues such as problems with starting up, lights flickering or the dashboard controls being unresponsive (https://medium.com/@samsundauda4/daewoo-car-common-problems-and-how-to-solve-them-17bbbe1a59b9). 

Inconsistent Build Quality

Daewoo cars were often reported as being known for inconsistent build quality amongst owners (https://www.carsguide.com.au/daewoo/problems). This inconsistent quality across a number of models resulted in issues like:

  • Uneven panel gaps: Poor body panel alignment can be a telltale sign of rushed assembly.
  • Fading paint and trim: Subpar paint quality or low-grade materials can lead to premature fading and cracking of exterior plastics.
  • Rattles and squeaks: Loose interior fittings and components can create annoying cabin noises.

Transmission Troubles:

Daewoo gearboxes have been reported to have various issues with the transmission, including problems with “rough shifting, slipping gears, or transmission fluid leaks.” (https://medium.com/@samsundauda4/daewoo-car-common-problems-and-how-to-solve-them-17bbbe1a59b9) These concerns can often be alleviated or avoided completely by keeping on top of regular maintenance and ensuring that any potential problems are checked and dealt with before they can become bigger and more serious problems.

Engine Quirks

While Daewoo engines weren’t inherently problematic, there have been a number of issues raised by owners and mechanics over the years, (https://www.gabitos.com/)  including issues with:

  • EGR valve problems: Carbon buildup in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can lead to hesitation, poor idling, and a lack of power.
  • Fuel gauge inaccuracy: Faulty sensors or instrument cluster issues can cause the fuel gauge to display incorrect readings.
  • Burning smell: A burning smell emanating from the engine bay could indicate oil leaks, overheating issues, or electrical problems.

Braking System

The braking system is crucial for safety, and some Daewoo models have had reported issues in this area over the years. This includes problems such as “squeaking or grinding noises, soft or spongy pedals and uneven braking” to name a few. These issues usually required regular inspections to avoid, as well as the replacement of brake pads and rotors if an issue arose. Regular replacement was also recommended to avoid any more substantial damage over time.

By being aware of common issues, Daewoo owners can adequately prepare and budget for maintenance and repairs over the lifespan of their vehicle, and keep an eye out for any potential problems before they become costly. By recognising the signs of trouble, drivers can take proactive steps to address problems before they become major issues. To book your vehicle in with our team, simply get in touch and we’ll get you booked in at a time that suits you at your local Service4Service garage, as soon as possible.