1999 Daewoo Matiz from UK and Ireland - Comments

If anyone has a problem with their Matiz cutting out randomly - especially if coasting, i.e. with your foot off the gas, and maybe with your foot down on the clutch. There would also be a strange sulphuric sort of smell after it had cut out and I had restarted. The problem was something that they called a map sensor, which I had replaced and the car hasn't cut out since. I hope that helps someone. The part itself was about £40 and the labour was minimal, about 1/2hr.

Common problem faced by Matiz cars:

1) Yellow light - The distributor with sensor is replaced.

2) Back side engine water leak below the 3 bolted triangular piece. Mseal putty provided.

3) Wheel brakes - hand brakes jammed. Repaired.

Now 49,000KMs without no other problem.

At the moment I am trying to decide whether to scrap my Daewoo Matiz, or pay £400 for a new head gasket.

I've only had it for 6 weeks! Bought it from a private dealer (more fool me) and it's my first car, 8 days after buying it, it broke down, wouldn't start at all, fuel sensor had gone on it and it cost me £180 to transport and fix it.

Now I've not been able to drive it for the past week, as the water was just disappearing out of the car, pouring out from underneath one day, they thought a hose was worn away, but the garage have now discovered the head gasket has gone.

I'm in a quandary whether to just put it down to experience and a big mistake and get a better car, or whether to give it one last chance.

I only paid £600 for the car, if I repair it again, I'll have spent another £580 on it. Altogether costing me £1180!!

I thought I got myself a bargain, how wrong could I be?

On a positive note, when it's working it's lovely to drive and I do love the little car.

Would I ever have another one? No way. Wish I'd read these reviews before I bought it.

If head gasket is blowing away, you had better check the following:

> Inlet manifold for sure.

> Water pump.

> Cooling fan.

My Daewoo Matiz has twice had problems with the inlet manifold, but it was solved on the same manifold,& the rest it's running like a new born baby.

If your cooling fan is not running, that might be the big reason for the coolant getting evaporated pretty soon.

And last, check your water pump, that's it.

According to me problem it's related to inlet manifold & cooling fan.

Do reply to us.