A rounded coupé-cabriolet unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2001 and launched the following year, the Daihatsu Copen remained in production for around ten years, with just over sixty thousand units sold. Long regarded as the world's smallest coupé-cabriolet, its compact dimensions were a deliberate choice by the manufacturer — one that allowed Japanese drivers to avoid certain vehicle taxes. Like any car, the Copen is not immune to mechanical problems. EDEN BOITES explains how to maintain its gearbox and prevent failures.
What makes the Daihatsu Copen special?
The Copen is available exclusively with petrol engines, producing between 64 and 87 bhp. Drive is sent to the front wheels — a logical choice for this segment. Depending on the year of production and the driver's preference, the car is fitted with different gearboxes. The first generation offers a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The second generation adds the Super Active Shift CVT as an option — a continuously variable transmission that does away with a traditional gear lever altogether. For a clearer picture of these differences, see our guide on the differences between manual and automatic gearboxes.
How do you maintain the gearbox and prevent problems?
Good driving habits
A few simple habits can go a long way towards protecting the gearbox and delaying wear. On a Copen with a manual gearbox, the following tips apply:
- read the road ahead and anticipate obstacles to avoid unnecessary use of the clutch and gear lever;
- avoid harsh downshifts that skip several gears at once;
- do not rest your hand on the gear lever while driving — even light pressure is enough to bring internal components into contact and accelerate their wear;
- select neutral during brief stops, such as at traffic lights, rather than holding first gear with the clutch depressed.
With an automatic gearbox, day-to-day maintenance is simpler: avoid selecting another gear, park, or reverse until the car has come to a complete stop, as doing so risks damaging the transmission. Also make a habit of checking the ground beneath your Copen regularly for any signs of oil leaks.
Regular oil changes
Often confused with engine oil, gearbox oil lubricates the entire system, helps dissipate heat, and cleans certain components thanks to its detergent properties. Over time, it becomes laden with metal particles and loses its effectiveness. Automatic gearboxes require an oil change approximately every 60,000 kilometres or every two years, whichever comes first. Manual gearboxes are more forgiving and can generally go up to 250,000 kilometres, unless the oil has turned abnormally black or gear changes are accompanied by crunching noises — either of which warrants an early change.
Reliable repair when things go wrong
Even with the best care, the gearbox can break down. Some issues can be resolved at the garage, but more advanced wear may call for a thorough inspection. Your mechanic may then recommend a full gearbox replacement. A brand-new unit can mean limited availability and long lead times; that is why we offer our reconditioned gearboxes on an exchange basis. Fully stripped, cleaned, inspected and tested, they give you a gearbox that performs like new — and we collect your old unit at the time of delivery for recycling. Other models in the range have their own dedicated guides, including the Daihatsu Charade gearbox and the Daihatsu Trevis gearbox.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I change the oil in my Copen's gearbox?
For an automatic gearbox, aim for approximately every 60,000 kilometres or every two years, whichever comes first. For a manual, around 250,000 kilometres is the general guideline, unless there are signs of premature wear.
Why shouldn't I rest my hand on the gear lever?
Although it seems harmless, the constant pressure keeps internal gearbox components in contact with one another and speeds up their deterioration. It is best to let go of the lever while driving.
My Copen has a CVT — is maintenance any different?
The principle of a continuously variable transmission differs from a conventional gearbox, but monitoring the oil level and paying attention to juddering or unusual noises remains just as important. If in any doubt, seek a professional diagnosis.
What if the gearbox is beyond repair?
An exchange unit allows you to replace it with a reconditioned and tested gearbox matched to your engine.
Why choose EDEN BOITES?
EDEN BOITES brings its reconditioned gearbox expertise to your Daihatsu Copen. Our exchange gearboxes come with a warranty of up to 24 months and can be paid for in up to 10 instalments. Delivery is available throughout France and the European Union, within the timeframe confirmed on your quote. Our exchange offer is also available on a satisfaction-or-money-back basis, subject to our Terms and Conditions, so you can get back to enjoying open-top driving as quickly as possible.
