1992 Daihatsu Sportrak ELXI 1.6 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A well-built compact 4WD with comfort

Faults:

Gearbox detonated at 60,000miles - rebuilt at non-Daihatsu dealer.

Gearbox rebuilt again at 80,000miles - this time properly. Was told that this is a weakness of Sportrak.

General Comments:

I have owned the Sportrak longer than any of my other cars and I like it a lot. It is far mor solid than the Suzuki Vitara, the interior is smart and the performance is lively with 30+ mpg on longer runs. suspension is a little harsh, but has hard/medium/soft switch. On sunny days go open top!

It is a real workhorse - it will carry heavy loads and pulls well.

The only real criticisms are a lack of luggage space, and a removable roof panel which doesn't stow properly in the back.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th June, 2002

1992 Daihatsu Sportrak ELXI 1.6 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Fun machine

Faults:

Before I owned it, the fuel pipes were replaced. That's about it really.

General Comments:

I really love the little Sportrak, it's great to drive and it's nice to sit high up.

Transmission noise is a bit loud especially in 4 wheel drive, but apart from that it's great.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 12th November, 2000

29th Oct 2001, 12:21

Hi,

I've purchased a 1996 Sportrak 1.6 XI which is a great little 4x4.

One problem, though... in 4 wheel drive, (manual lock) the front wheels bind on steering lock left or right.

Has anyone else experienced this.

My garage (Daihatsu specialists) say that there is nothing wrong, despite a demo by myself of the problem.

Regards...Ed.

15th Dec 2002, 10:38

I had the same problem with the wheels binding the first time I selected 4 wheel drive. The steering lock is reduced, but this might be normal, but when I took my foot off the gas the car stopped as if the brakes were on! They seemed to free up after the first use, maybe it was because 4 wheel drive hadn't been selected by the previous owner. I took it to my local dealer who jacked it up on the chassis and engaged 4 drive and they were all driving fine.

I now engage 4 drive frequently and it has never been a problem since.

19th Apr 2003, 09:12

Hi.

I've just bought a Sportrak 1.6 Eli. Unfortunately the Owner's manual was missing. Has anybody got any ideas where I could get hold of a copy?

Thanks.

20th Feb 2004, 13:16

The tightness in the steering when in four wheel drive is normal and is caused by transmission "windup". IE, the front and back axles are locked together when in 4x4 so when you try to turn it the steering will be stiff.

You should only use the 4x4 position on the gear lever when off roading so the windup can spin out on slippy surfaces or you could break something.

Keith.

9th Oct 2005, 00:41

Hi

I also have purchased a 95 Sportstrack, as this is my 1st 4x4 I am also struggling as I have no manual, so does anyone know where I can purchase one?