2016 DAIHATSU COPEN

Typical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi

Symptoms: Cold-start ticking or tapping from valve train, quiets slightly when warm, Loss of power at high RPM, sluggish throttle response, Check engine light for cam/crank correlation or misfire codes

Fix: KF-VET hydraulic lifters clog with sludge or wear out, especially if oil changes are stretched. Fix requires cylinder head removal, all 6 lifters replaced, and head resurfacing if warpage is present. Budget 8-10 hours labor plus machine shop time.

Estimated cost: $1,800-2,800

Typical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Rattling noise on cold start from front of engine, Rough idle, hesitation, or stalling, Check engine light with timing advance/retard codes

Fix: The KF-VET uses a chain but the tensioner and guides wear prematurely, especially with infrequent oil changes or spirited driving. Chain replacement requires head-off or significant front disassembly. Factor 10-12 hours labor, plus timing set and gaskets.

Estimated cost: $2,200-3,500

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Vibration at idle or under load, worsens with RPM, Squealing or chirping from front of engine, Visible wobble of crankshaft pulley, potential for accessory belt loss

Fix: The rubber damper ring degrades and separates from the hub, risking accessory drive failure or crank damage if the pulley comes off. Replacement is straightforward but access is tight in the Copen's bay—3-4 hours labor. OEM part availability can be an issue.

Estimated cost: $600-1,000

Typical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi

Symptoms: Whistling or whining noise under boost, Blue smoke on deceleration or startup, Loss of boost pressure, sluggish acceleration, Oil consumption increase

Fix: Small turbo oil feed and drain lines clog easily with sludge; starved turbo seals fail and consume oil. Turbo replacement or rebuild plus cleaning/replacing oil lines. Labor 6-8 hours depending on access. Used turbos are common but quality varies.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,200

Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking or thudding when shifting from Park to Drive, Excessive drivetrain vibration, especially at idle in gear, Visible engine/trans movement when revving in Park

Fix: The CVT mounts are soft and wear quickly, especially with spirited driving. Front and rear mounts typically need replacement together. Straightforward job, 2-3 hours labor, but aftermarket options are limited.

Estimated cost: $400-700

Typical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Transmission slipping or hesitating during acceleration, Burning smell from under car after hard driving, CVT overheat warning light or limp mode activation, Delayed engagement from stop

Fix: The CVT runs hot in spirited use; transmission oil cooler can clog or fail, leading to fluid breakdown and belt slip. Requires CVT fluid flush, cooler replacement, and possibly internal CVT rebuild or replacement. If rebuild needed, 12-16 hours labor. Many owners swap to manual transmission instead.

Estimated cost: $2,500-5,000

Typical onset: 80,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, sweet smell, Overheating with no external leaks, Coolant loss, milky oil on dipstick or cap, Rough running, misfires on one or more cylinders

Fix: Overheating episodes or prolonged high boost can warp the aluminum head. Requires head removal, resurface (or replacement if cracked), new gasket, and often lifters/seals while apart. Labor 10-14 hours plus machine shop. This is often the final straw for high-mileage Copens.

Estimated cost: $2,800-4,500