Daihatsu Charade C1396 Engine Trouble Code
What is Daihatsu Charade C1396?
When Daihatsu Charade C1396 code appears, first check your gas cap. Pull over safely, ensure it is tight, and inspect for cracks. A loose or damaged gas cap affects fuel-system pressure and emissions. A replacement cap costs about $3–$10. This simple fix can resolve the code and improve fuel economy.
C1396 on the Daihatsu Charade
Transmission-mounted speed sensors on the Daihatsu Charade share a ground path with the engine control module. A corroded ground point on the transmission bell housing generates electrical noise that the ECU misinterprets as a C1396 fault condition.
Code Information
| Code Type: | OBD-II Chassis (C) Trouble Code |
| System: | Chassis |
| Vehicle: | Daihatsu Charade |
| Brand: | Daihatsu |
| Model: | Charade |
| Code: | C1396 |
C1396 Daihatsu Charade Symptoms
Check Engine Light
Illuminated Daihatsu Charade dashboard warning
Engine Stalling
Engine stops unexpectedly or misfires
Performance Issues
Reduced power or acceleration on the Daihatsu Charade
Starting Problems
Difficulty starting the engine
Poor Fuel Economy
Increased fuel consumption on the Daihatsu Charade
Increased Emissions
Failed emissions test due to C1396
C1396 Code Structure
Understanding what each digit means in the C1396 chassis trouble code:
| C | 1 | 3 | 9 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chassis Code | Fuel And Air Metering | Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit Intermittent | Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction | Ignition Coil A Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction |
How to Fix Daihatsu Charade C1396
Diagnostic Steps:
Oxygen sensors measure exhaust gas oxygen content to optimise air-fuel ratio. This optimisation improves fuel economy and reduces emissions. Sensors degrade over time and require periodic replacement.
Repair Solution:
Verify all electrical connections are clean and tight. Check for damaged wiring, especially in high-heat or high-vibration areas. Use manufacturer wiring diagrams for accurate diagnosis.
Technical Notes:
C1396 on electronically controlled automatic transmissions relates to shift solenoid operation. The solenoid actuates hydraulic circuits controlling clutches or bands for gear changes.
Daihatsu Charade C1396 Repair Cost
Torque converter clutch solenoid replacement on the Daihatsu Charade — relevant for owners who tow regularly — costs $280–$480. A full transmission fluid change ($120–$160) at the same service is recommended because contaminated fluid accelerates solenoid wear.
C1396 Description
C1396 engine trouble code is related to Ignition Coil A Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction.
Main Cause
The primary reason for C1396 OBD-II Engine Trouble Code is: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit Intermittent.
Common C1396 Misdiagnosis on the Daihatsu Charade
When Daihatsu Charade presents C1396 with a concurrent coolant temperature DTC, technicians sometimes replace the thermostat rather than the coolant temperature sensor (CTS). The CTS is a $15–$25 component; the thermostat job carries 1–2 hours of additional labour.
DIY Repair Guide: C1396 on Daihatsu Charade
The fuel pressure test on the Daihatsu Charade requires a Schrader-valve type fuel pressure gauge ($25–$40) connected to the fuel rail test port. With the ignition ON (engine off), pressure should hold above 30 PSI for two minutes. A rapid drop confirms a leaking injector or failing regulator as the root cause of C1396.
Preventing C1396 on the Daihatsu Charade
Scheduled inspection of the Daihatsu Charade air filter every 15,000 miles can prevent the intake restriction that leads to C1396. A blocked filter forces the engine to run rich, stressing the catalytic converter and ultimately storing fault codes.
Frequently Asked Questions — Daihatsu Charade C1396
A: Temporarily clearing C1396 can help determine whether it is intermittent or persistent, but it does not fix the underlying fault. The code will return if the problem is still present. Do not clear codes just before an emissions test without a proper drive cycle.