2007 DAIHATSU COPEN

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from valve train, especially cold starts, Noise persists after warm-up or worsens over time, Loss of power or rough idle if lifters collapse completely

Fix: JB-DET engines are notorious for lifter tick due to narrow oil passages and carbon buildup. Requires cylinder head removal to replace all lifters (12 total). Budget 8-10 hours labor including head gasket replacement, valve cover gasket, timing belt inspection, and fresh coolant. Use OEM or high-quality aftermarket lifters—cheap ones fail quickly.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,000

Typical onset: 80,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, especially under boost, Coolant loss with no visible leaks, Overheating or fluctuating temperature gauge, Milky oil on dipstick or oil cap

Fix: Small turbo engines run hot, and the JB-DET's thin head gasket is a known weak point, especially if previously overheated. Head must come off for resurfacing (often warped slightly), new gasket set, timing belt, water pump, and fresh head bolts. Plan 10-14 hours labor. Always pressure-test the cooling system and replace the radiator cap if marginal.

Estimated cost: $1,800-3,200

Typical onset: 70,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Red ATF puddles under engine bay or transmission tunnel, Transmission slipping or delayed engagement when fluid level drops, Burnt smell from transmission area

Fix: The 4-speed auto uses external hard lines and rubber hoses to the cooler, and both corrode or crack over time. Lines run under the car and are exposed to road salt and debris. Replacing lines is straightforward (2-3 hours), but accessing the cooler itself adds time. Flush and refill with Honda-spec ATF (Daihatsu spec is essentially Honda Z1). Check for trans mount wear while underneath.

Estimated cost: $400-700

Typical onset: 90,000-140,000 mi

Symptoms: Vibration felt through steering wheel or chassis at idle or under load, Serpentine belt misalignment or unusual wear, Rattling or knocking noise from front of engine, Visible rubber separation or wobble on pulley

Fix: The rubber damper ring deteriorates with heat cycles, especially in turbo applications. If it separates or wobbles, it can shear the crankshaft key or throw the timing belt. Requires removal of front accessories, timing cover, and belt to replace. Critical to use OEM or quality aftermarket (not eBay specials). 4-6 hours labor including timing belt inspection/replacement if due.

Estimated cost: $600-1,100

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Metallic rattle from engine bay at idle or light throttle, Overboosting or underboosting (limp mode), Check engine light with boost pressure or throttle position codes, Excessive smoke under acceleration

Fix: Small IHI turbo uses an internal wastegate actuator that can stick or develop play in the rod linkage. Carbon buildup in the wastegate port is common. Often fixable with a rebuild kit and cleaning (5-7 hours including removal, disassembly, and reinstallation), but if shaft play is excessive or wheel damage present, replacement is needed. Aftermarket turbos are available but require tuning.

Estimated cost: $800-1,800

Symptoms: Roof operation stops mid-cycle or won't initiate, Grinding or labored noise from hydraulic pump behind seats, Roof moves slowly or unevenly, Warning light on dash related to roof system

Fix: The roof hydraulic system uses a small electric pump and control relays that fail from heat and age. Pump motor brushes wear out or seals leak, causing slow operation. Relay corrosion is common in humid climates. Pump replacement is straightforward (2-3 hours, behind driver seat). Relays are under dash. Lubricate all pivot points and check micro-switches at latch points during service. Aftermarket pumps exist but OEM is more reliable.

Estimated cost: $400-900