Bulletin No.: PI1543
Date: Oct-2015

Subject:

2016 Chevrolet Spark New Model Features

Models:

2016 Chevrolet Spark
Equipped with Gasoline Engine, 1.4L, 4-Cylinder, L4, MFI, DOHC, VVT, ALUM, GEN 1, VAR 1 — RPO LV7
Equipped with Automatic Transmission, Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), FWD — RPO MR8
Equipped with Manual 5 Speed Transmission — RPO MR7

Overview

Bulletin Purpose
The purpose of this bulletin is to help the Service and Sales Personnel become familiar with the new model features of the 2016 Chevrolet Spark.

Vehicle Features
The 2016 Chevrolet Spark represents the second generation of the Chevrolet Spark nameplate and has been redesigned and reengineered, delivering an allnew vehicle with increased levels of safety, efficiency, technology and refinement that haven’t been seen in the city/mini car segment before. While the firstgeneration Spark was a very competitive and capable city/mini car, the second generation model improves on its predecessor.
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The new Spark has a sleeker appearance, due to a slightly longer wheelbase, and an overall height that’s about 1.6 inches (40 mm) lower than its predecessor
with an incrementally longer wheelbase. The lower profile reduces aerodynamic drag to help improve efficiency and interior changes maintain the Spark’s
generous headroom. The vehicle is also built on an all-new, stronger and more robust architecture that serves as the foundation for its more sophisticated
driving experience. The stronger body structure enables engineers to tune the ride and handling more precisely, for greater feelings of control and refinement,
while providing a quieter ride.
The most obvious exterior change is the new front fascia, which updates the Spark to Chevrolet’s current styling language. The new headlamps are sleeker,
more horizontal units and the trademark "dual-port" grille has been restyled into a sportier element with chrome surrounds. The lower piece stretches lower into
the apron, replacing the previous thin air dam. The fog lights retained their positions at the sides of the bumper and have received redesigned surrounds.
The rear fascia changes are equally dramatic, starting with a completely redesigned hatch that now has a smaller glass area and more angular taillights. The
bumper sports a trapezoidal character line and a small splitter underneath. On the sides, the city car gained a new character line across the front door and
handle, while the rear-door crease defining the shoulders is more prominent and it extends into the taillights.
The interior features an all-new instrument panel which includes an advanced dot-matrix LCD display, while the center stack incorporates an upgraded
infotainment system and climate system controls. The round air outlets have been replaced by trapezoidal ones for a more dynamic appearance.
The vehicle also received a new Chevrolet MyLink™ radio with a 7-inch (178 mm) capacitive-touch color screen display that allows smartphone-like swiping,
pinching, and other gestures for easier operation. OnStar® with 4G LTE connectivity and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot are standard.
The new phone integration technology displays content from Apple® iPhone® 5 or later models on the multicolor infotainment screen through the Apple
CarPlay™ features; supported apps for the systems include phone, messages, maps, music and compatible third-party apps. Users of Android™ can take
advantage of Android Auto™.
A range of new safety features are also offered with a standard rear-view camera system and available Forward Collision Alert (FCA), Lane Departure Warning
(LDW), and available rear park assist.
Under the hood, the 2016 Spark comes with a new Ecotec, 1.4-liter, 4-cylinder, in-line engine delivering an estimated 98 horsepower (73 kW) and 94 lb-ft
(128 Nm) of torque. The transmission options include a 5-speed manual and an automatic continuously variable ratio transmission.
The 2016 Chevrolet Spark is produced with globally sourced parts at GM’s award-winning Changwon, South Korea, assembly facility.

Ecotec 1.4L 4-Cylinder In-line Engine

Engine Description
The 2016 Spark is equipped with an all-new Ecotec 1.4L, 4-cylinder, in-line engine, delivering an estimated 98 horsepower (73 kW), which is a 16 percent
increase in power over the previous engine.

Cylinder Block
The cylinder block is constructed of aluminum alloy, by high-pressure die casting with 4 cast-in-place iron cylinder liners arranged in-line. The block has
5 crankshaft bearings with the thrust bearing located on the second bearing from the rear of the engine. The cylinder block incorporates a bedplate design that
forms an upper and lower crankcase. This design promotes cylinder block rigidity and reduced noise and vibration.

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Crankshaft
The crankshaft is forged micro alloy steel. It is supported in 5 main journals with main bearings which have oil clearance for lubricating. The thrust bearing is
located in the 4th position which controls proper crankshaft axial end play. The crankshaft is also comprised of 8 counterweights that have been scalloped for
mass reduction and topped for precise engine balance. A harmonic balancer is used to control torsional vibration.

Piston, Rings and Connecting Rod
The pistons are cast aluminum and use low-friction piston rings which are 2 compression rings and 1 oil control ring assembly. The piston is also a low friction,
lightweight design with a recessed top and barrel shaped skirt. The piston pins are chromium steel and are a full-floating design. The connecting rods are
powdered metal. The connecting rods are fractured at the connecting rod journal and then machined for the proper clearance. All applications use a piston with
a graphite coated skirt. The piston and pin must be serviced as an assembly.

Upper Oil Pan
The oil pan is a structural aluminum oil pan with transmission attachment. It includes the oil suction pipe, this pipe is connected with the oil pump. The oil pan is
attached at the lower crankcase.

Oil Pump
The oil pump is a low-friction type, crankshaft driven and integrated in the oil pump module. The oil pump draws engine oil from the oil pan and feeds it under
pressure to the various parts of the engine. An oil strainer is mounted before the inlet of the oil pump to remove impurities which could clog or damage the oil
pump or other engine components. When the crankshaft rotates, the oil pump driven gear rotates. This causes the space between the gears to constantly
open and narrow, pulling oil in from the oil pan when the space opens and pumping the oil out to the engine as it narrows. At high engine speeds, the oil pump
supplies a much higher amount of oil than required for lubrication of the engine. The oil pressure regulator prevents too much oil from entering the engine
lubrication passages.

Cylinder Head
This cylinder head is a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) type and has 2 camshafts that open and close 4 valves per cylinder with hydraulic valve lash
adjusters. The camshaft sprocket wheels are installed in front of the camshafts. The cylinder head is made of cast aluminum alloy for better strength in
hardness with light weight. The combustion chamber of the cylinder head is designed for increasing the squish and swirl efficiency which will maximize
combustion. The cylinder head also incorporates an integrated exhaust manifold, which further reduces weight – an attribute that contributes to increased
vehicle efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance, for a more responsive driving experience.

Valves
There are 2 intake and 2 exhaust valves per cylinder. Positive valve stem seals are used on all valves.

Valve Lash Adjusters
The valve train uses a roller finger follower acted on by a hydraulic lash adjuster. The roller finger follower reduces friction and noise.

Camshaft Cover
The camshaft cover has a steel crankcase ventilation baffling incorporated. The camshaft cover has mounting locations for the ignition system.

Camshaft/Camshaft Drive
Two low friction camshafts are used, one for the intake valves, one for the exhaust valves. The camshafts are assembled with steel lobes.
This engine design uses a chain to drive the dual overhead camshafts. The chain is an inverted tooth or silent design with a 6.35 mm pitch to ensure quiet
operation and is hydraulically tensioned to be maintenance-free. The tensioner has a ratchet mechanism to reduce chain movement during engine starts to
eliminate noise. The lightweight plastic/composite chain guides have a unique grooved face design to reduce friction for optimum efficiency. Both the crank
sprocket and cam sprockets are hardened to prevent wear even with extended oil change intervals.

Intake Manifold
The intake manifold is the air flow passage to the cylinder combustion chambers from the throttle body and has an effect on engine torque, power, noise,
drivability, emission, fuel economy and performance. It is made of composite plastic. The intake manifold incorporates a distribution and control system for
positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) gases.

Fuel Injection System
The fuel system is a returnless on-demand design. The fuel pressure regulator is a part of the fuel tank fuel pump module, eliminating the need for a return pipe
from the engine. A returnless fuel system reduces the internal temperature of the fuel tank by not returning hot fuel from the engine to the fuel tank. Reducing
the internal temperature of the fuel tank results in lower evaporative emissions.
An electric turbine-style fuel pump is attached to the fuel tank fuel pump module inside the fuel tank. The fuel pump supplies high pressure fuel through the fuel
feed pipe to the fuel injection system. The fuel pump provides fuel at a higher rate of flow than is needed by the fuel injection system. The fuel pressure
regulator, a part of the fuel tank fuel pump module, maintains the correct fuel pressure to the fuel injection system. The fuel tank fuel pump module contains a
reverse flow check valve. The check valve and the fuel pressure regulator maintain fuel pressure in the fuel feed pipe and the fuel rail in order to prevent long
cranking times.

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Multi-Point Fuel Injection
Multi-point fuel injection devotes a separate injector nozzle to each cylinder, right outside its intake port, which is why the system is sometimes called port
injection. Shooting the fuel vapor this close to the intake port almost ensures that it will be drawn completely into the cylinder. The main advantage is that MPFI
meters fuel more precisely than do TBI designs, better achieving the desired air/fuel ratio and eliminating the possibility that fuel will condense or collect in the
intake manifold.

dexos® Engine Oil

Ask for and use engine oils that meet the dexos® specification. Engine oils that have been approved by GM as meeting the dexos® specification are marked
with either of the dexos1® approved logos that are shown. For additional information, visit this General Motors website: http://www.gmdexos.com

Viscosity Grade
Use AC Delco dexos1® synthetic blend SAE 5W-20 viscosity grade engine oil. SAE 0W-20 may also be used as an alternative.
In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C) use SAE 0W-20 engine oil. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold
starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.

Engine Oil Life System
The vehicle features GM’s engine oil life system, which better protects engines by recommending oil changes based on a computer software algorithm using
actual engine operating conditions and can save the vehicle owner money by avoiding unnecessary oil changes.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Advantages of a CVT
A key advantage of a continuously variable automatic transmission for a manufacturer is that it uses fewer parts. For a driver, a CVT eliminates the gear shifts
of a conventional automatic and the accompanying rise and fall of engine speed (RPM). Instead, the engine RPM changes in linear fashion to an optimum level
depending on how far down the accelerator pedal is. Pulleys and a steel belt inside the CVT seamlessly change the gear ratios without any “shift shock” or
delay. It operates similar to a lamp with a dimmer switch instead of a three-way bulb.
Additional advantages are:

•

Better fuel economy than a regular automatic transmission, as the CVT is able to keep the car in its optimum power range regardless of speed.

•

Improved acceleration due to the decreased power loss that is experienced.

•

The CVT has the ability to allow the engine to rev almost immediately which delivers maximum torque.

•

It provides a smoother ride than an automatic transmission.

•

The CVT adapts to varying road conditions and power demands which allows for a better ride.

•

Improved emission control due to better control of the engine’s RPM range.

Transmission Components

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1.

Converter Housing

2.

Oil Pump

3.

Counter Drive Gear

4.

Control Valve

5.

Oil Pan

6.

Primary Pulley

7.

Steel Belt

8.

Secondary Pulley

9.

Planetary Gear (Auxiliary Gearbox)

10. Side Cover
11. Transmission Case
12. Differential Case
13. Final Gear
14. Reduction Gear
15. Counter Driven Gear
16. Drive Sprocket
17. Oil Pump Chain
18. Torque Converter
19. Driven Sprocket

Driver Assistance Systems
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Notice: If the Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system is not functioning properly when lane markings are clearly visible, cleaning the windshield
may help.

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LDW may help avoid crashes due to unintentional lane departures. The LDW indicator on the instrument cluster is green when a lane marking is detected. If a
detected lane marking is crossed without using a turn signal, the system flashes an amber indicator and sounds three low-pitched beeps on the right or left,
depending on the lane departure direction. LDW uses a camera sensor to detect the lane markings at speeds of 35 mph (56 km/h) or greater. Press the LDW
button on the left side of the instrument panel to turn the system ON or OFF. The LDW camera sensor is mounted on the windshield ahead of the rearview
mirror.

Forward Collision Alert (FCA)
The Forward Collision Alert (FCA) indicator on the instrument cluster is green when a vehicle is detected. When approaching a vehicle directly ahead too
rapidly, the system flashes a red visual alert and sounds several high-pitched beeps. The visual alert will stay illuminated when tailgating a vehicle ahead. FCA
detects vehicles within a distance of approximately 197 ft (60 m) and operates at speeds above 25 mph (40 km/h). Press the FCA button on the left side of the
steering wheel to set the alert timing to Far , Medium, Near, or OFF.

Rear Vision Camera (RVC)
Notice: Periodically clean the rear vision camera (RVC) lens, which is located above the rear license plate with clean water and a soft cloth.
When the vehicle is shifted into R (Reverse), an image of the area behind the vehicle appears in the infotainment screen. The previous screen displays when
the vehicle is shifted out of R after a short delay.
To see the previous screen sooner, perform one of the following:

•

Press a button on the infotainment system.

•

Shift into P (Park).

To turn the RVC Guidance Lines or Rear Park Assist Symbols ON or OFF, go to Rear Camera in the Settings menu.

Rear Park Assist
When the vehicle is in R (Reverse), detected objects are indicated by audible beeps. The interval between beeps becomes shorter as the vehicle gets closer
to an object. When the distance is less than 16 in. (40 cm), the beeps are continuous for 5 seconds. The system only operates at speeds of less than 5 mph
(8 km/h).

Chevrolet MyLink™ with Phone Integration Technology

1.

Screen Icon: Touch the appropriate screen icon to access the Application.

2.

Phone Icon: Press the Phone icon to view the phone screen or to answer a call.

3.

Seek Button: Press this Seek button to select the next radio station or music track.

4.

Seek Button: Press this Seek button to select the previous radio station or music track.

5.

Home Icon: Press this button to select the Home Page.

New for the 2016 Spark is Chevrolet’s MyLink™ infotainment system with a 7-inch diagonal (178 mm) capacitive-touch color display screen that gives owners a
smart and simple way to access Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. Each of these system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most, with
many controlled via voice commands using a button on the steering wheel. That helps drivers spend more time with their eyes on the road and hands on the
wheel. New volume control and other physical buttons reduce complexity and enhance the system’s intuitiveness.

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•

Apple CarPlay™ puts iPhone® features on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner, allowing drivers to make calls, send and receive messages
and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri®. Supported apps for Apple CarPlay™ include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and
compatible third-party apps. For a full list of supported apps visit: www.Apple.com/ios/carplay

•

Android Auto™ is built around Google Maps™, Google Now™ and the ability to talk to Google®, as well as a growing audio and messaging app
ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. For a full list of supported apps visit:
www.Android.com/auto

Using either application is simple. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink™ screen is visible when a phone is not connected and changes to indicate Apple
CarPlay™ or Android Auto™ when a compatible phone is connected via a USB. Apple CarPlay™ requires an iPhone® 5 or later and Android Auto™ requires a
phone running the Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above.
Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using.

OnStar® 4G LTE with Built-In Wi-Fi Hotspot
Notice: To retrieve the SSID and password for the Wi-Fi hotspot, press the OnStar® Voice Command button on the overhead console or rearview
mirror, wait for the prompt, and then say "Wi-Fi settings." The information will be displayed on the screen. For assistance, press the blue OnStar®
button or call 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827).
The OnStar® built-in Wi-Fi hotspot supports up to seven mobile devices so passengers can connect to the content they want. OnStar® with 4G LTE offers a
stronger, more reliable signal; and it’s built-in, so it’s easy to use. Plus, it’s connected to your vehicle battery, so you’re always fully charged for the adventure
ahead.
The powerful OnStar® connection also enables improved access to existing OnStar® safety and security services, including the ability to transmit voice and
data simultaneously. That means OnStar® advisors can run a diagnostic check without ever leaving the call, making customer interactions quicker and more
seamless. It’s the most comprehensive in-vehicle safety and connectivity system available.

Available Product Training
The majority of the systems found on this vehicle are taught in GM’s core curriculum from a conceptual theory and operation perspective. The North America
training structure is system based.
To access all of the available training courses visit the following website:
–

In the United States go to > www.centerlearning.com

–

In Canada go to > GM GlobalConnect and select “Centre of Learning”

U.S. Training Course Name or System — Course Number and Description
Course Name or System

Course Number and Description

New Model Launch

#10317.75W 2016 Chevrolet Spark New Model Launch

Chevrolet Spark New Model Launch

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Engine
Engine - Gas, 4 CYL, L4, 1.4L, MFI, DOHC, VVT, ALUM, GEN 1,
VAR 1 — RPO LV7

#16440.20D Engines: New and Updates for RPOs LF4 LGX LGW
L3A LV7 LE2 LWN LWC
#16043.52W1 - W3 Engine Mechanical Diagnosis and
Measurement 1-3
#16044.21W1-W4 Engine Performance 1-4

Transmission
Transmission - Manual, 5 Speed, 180MM, Y4M HD+, 1ST 3.636,
2ND 1.864, 3RD 1.242, 4TH 0.946, 5TH 0.756 — RPO MR7
Transmission - Auto, Continuously Variable Ratio (CVT), FWD, VAR
2 — RPO MR8

#10317.75W 2016 Chevrolet Spark New Model Launch (RPO MR7
Nuances Covered in this Course)
#17043.38W1-2 Front Wheel Drive (FWD) / Rear Wheel Drive
(RWD) Operation, Diagnosis and Service 1-2
#57500.10V CVT Operational Characteristics

GDS 2

#16048.28D GDS 2 Diagnostics (Video)

HVAC

#11044.05W1 HVAC Systems and Operation Stage 1

HVAC System - Air Conditioner Front, Manual Controls — RPO C60

#11044.05W2 HVAC Systems and Operation Stage 2

Infotainment

#10316.23H Bring Your Own Media 2 (BYOM2)

Radio-Infotainment System - Midlevel HMI, Midlevel Connectivity —
RPO IOB
Speaker System - Enhanced Audio — RPO UQ3
Speaker System - Standard Audio — RPO UQF
Driver Information

#22048.42W1 GM Safety systems 1

Display - Driver Info Center — RPO U68

#19047.13W1 Entertainment Systems 1

Display Instrument - Driver Info Enhanced (Segmented) — RPO
UDB

#19047.13W2 Entertainment Systems 2
#19040.39W2 OnStar® Systems 2

Display Instrument - Driver Info Enhanced (One Color Graphic) —
RPO UDC
Shift Interlock - Brake, Trans — RPO M97
Vision - Rear View, Mono, Analog — RPO UVC
Safety Avoidance

#22048.42W2 GM Safety Systems 2

Park Assist - Rear — RPO UD7

#22048 42W3 GM Safety Systems 3

Sensor Indicator - Ultrasonic Blindspot Detection — RPO UDQ
Sensor Indicator - Forward Collision Alert — RPO UEU
Lane Active Safety - Departure Warning — RPO UFL
#19047.09W Entry and Security Systems

Vehicle Access Starting and Security
Lock Control, Entry - Remote Entry, Extended Range, Passive
Entry, Front Doors — RPO AVJ
Theft Deterrent - Electrical, Unauthorized Entry — RPO UTJ
Equipment - Security System, Immobilization, Step Two — RPO BAH
Alarm, - Remote Start Panic — RPO BTT
Frequencies Rating - 315 MHZ, Long Distance — RPO XL7

Special Tools
The following new tools were released for the 2016 Spark:

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Tool #

Description

EN-51368

Front Crankshaft Seal Installer
Engine Mechanical

EN-51369

Rear Crankshaft Seal Installer
Engine Mechanical

EN-51760

Flywheel Holder
Engine Mechanical

EN-51632

Camshaft Retainer
Engine Mechanical

EN-51691

Timing Chain Retainer
Engine Mechanical

EN-51768

Engine Support Fixture Adapter Bolts
Engine Mechanical

J-44765

Seal Installer
Automatic Transmission - Jatco CVT

DT-51776

Seal Installer
Automatic Transmission - Jatco CVT

CH-51725

Wheel Hub and Bearing Installer/Remover
Front Suspension

Android™ is a Trademark of Google Inc.
Android Auto™ is a Trademark of Google Inc.
Apple® is a Registered Trademark of Apple Inc.
Apple CarPlay™ is a Trademark of Apple Inc.
dexos® is a Registered Trademark of General Motors LLC
dexos1® Icons are Registered Trademarks of General Motors LLC
Chevrolet MyLink™ is a Trademark of General Motors LLC
Google® is a Registered Trademark of Google Inc.
iPhone® is a Registered Trademark of Apple Inc.
OnStar® is a Registered Trademark of OnStar LLC
Siri® is a registered Trademark of Apple Inc.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may
occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools,
safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that
your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

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