Daewoo Kalos Common Problems and Solutions
Speedometer Stopped Working
Problem:
The speedometer has stopped working, and you get the code P0722 in the powertrain control module.
Solution:
Your speedometer gear has likely become damaged due to coolant contamination of the transmission fluid. This is usually the result of a faulty radiator. Replace the radiator with a new one from our parts list, and then check the condition of your transmission. This may need to be cleaned or may also need to be replaced.
Difficulty level
Radiator
Key Stuck in Ignition
Problem:
Your key has become stuck in the ignition and won’t come out. You can still drive the car.
Solution:
First, try pushing the gear stick all the way to the left while you're in park. If that doesn’t work, then remove the centre console, where you’ll likely find a small but broken spring. Get your new spring from our parts list and slot it into place.
Difficulty level
Check Engine Light
Problem:
The check engine light is illuminated, but there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong with the car’s performance.
Solution:
While there are a lot of potential reasons for this, and it's best to get a full diagnostic check, it’s worth checking your fuel cap first, though. This is one of the most common reasons for the check engine light to come on in the Kalos. If your fuel cap looks worn, order a replacement from us and discard the old one.
Difficulty level
Fuel Cap
Rattling From Engine
Problem:
There is a rattling sound coming from the engine when it's running.
Solution:
Your timing belt is either on the way out or has stretched too much to be doing its job effectively. You’ll have to replace the timing belt, which you tend to have to do every 60,000 miles. Professionals always advise that you also replace the water pump when you're replacing the timing belt, and we always have both in stock for you to order.
Difficulty level
Timing Cam Belt
Grinding Noise From Rear
Problem:
There is a grinding noise coming from the rear of the car when you're driving. The sound may turn to a clunk when you travel over uneven surfaces.
Solution:
This will be a simple case of worn-out rear wheel bearings. Find new bearings on our parts list and do this simple job yourself if you want to save your wallet from a lot of stress. There are hundreds of guidelines available online that will show you how to remove and fit your wheel bearings.
Difficulty level
Wheel Bearing
Pulsing Brake Pedal
Problem:
The brake pedal pulses when you apply the brakes.
Solution:
This is a sign that your front brake discs and brake pads are worn and will need to be replaced. You can order both from BreakerYard and have your replacements delivered to you.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads
Overheating Engine
Problem:
Your engine keeps overheating, and your coolant looks and smells bad.
Solution:
Your extended life coolant has been contaminated, which is a fairly normal occurrence with the Kalos. You’ll need to carry out a full cooling system service long before the recommended 150,000 miles.
Difficulty level
Squeaking front suspension
Problem:
Are you hearing a squeaking noise coming from the front suspension when driving over speed bumps or rough surfaces? This is caused by the suspension bushes.
Solution:
You need to apply some rubber grease to the suspension bushes in order to stop the squeaking noise.
Difficulty level
Airbag warning light
Problem:
Has the airbag warning light appeared on your dashboard? If so, the main cause of this is a fault with the wiring. If your battery has recently gone flat then this would be the most likely cause of the warning light appearing.
Solution:
You will need to identify and replace the faulty wiring if this is the cause of the warning light, but if the battery has recently went flat, you will need to reset the warning light to remove it from the dashboard.
Difficulty level
Airbag Sensor
Hesitation/Surging
Problem:
If you are having problems with your Kalos surging forward and/or being very hesitant, this is usually due to blocked EGR valves. This seems to be more an issue at lower revs. The issue could also be due to a software problem with the ECU.
Solution:
If the problem is caused by a blocked EGR valve, you can remove the EGR valve and clean it out with some carb cleaner and a small brush (tooth brush). This will remove the carbon build up and should fix the problem. If it is a software issue, you will need to update the software on the ECU. Watch the video below to see how to clean out the EGR valve.
Difficulty level
EGR Valve
Misfiring
Problem:
Are you having problems with the engine misfiring on your Kalos? When the engine is idling, the revs should be at a constant speed rather than moving around erratically. If you are suffering from this issue, the ignition coils are known for failing on this car.
Solution:
You will need to replace the faulty ignition coil to stop the misfiring. It is recommended that you change all ignition coils at the same time in order to get optimum performance from your car.
Difficulty level
Ignition Coil
