Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 9-22 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
54G27-03E
BrakesBrake Fluid
52D033
Check the brake fluid level by looking at
the reservoir in the engine compartment.
Check that the fluid level is between the
“MAX” and “MIN” lines. If the brake fluid
level is near the “MIN” line, fill it up to the
“MAX” line with DOT3 brake fluid.
52D123
MAX
MIN
EXAMPLE
WARNING
Failure to follow the guidelines below
can result in personal injury or seri-
ous damage to the brake system.
If the brake fluid in the reservoir
drops below a certain level, the
brake warning light on the instru-
ment panel will come on (the
engine must be running with the
parking brake fully disengaged.)
Should the light come on, immedi-
ately ask your SUZUKI dealer to
inspect the brake system.
A rapid fluid loss indicates a leak in
the brake system which should be
inspected by your SUZUKI dealer
immediately.
Brake fluid can harm your eyes and
damage painted surfaces. Use cau-
tion when refilling the reservoir.
(Continued)
or
WARNING
(Continued)
Do not use any fluid other than
DOT3 brake fluid. Do not use
reclaimed fluid or fluid that has
been stored in old or open contain-
ers. It is essential that foreign parti-
cles and other liquids are kept out
of the brake fluid reservoir.
WARNING
Brake fluid is harmful or fatal if swal-
lowed, and harmful if it comes in con-
tact with skin or eyes. If swallowed,
do not induce vomiting. Immediately
contact a poison control center or a
physician. If brake fluid gets in eyes,
flush eyes with water and seek medi-
cal attention. Wash thoroughly after
handling. Solution can be poisonous
to animals. Keep out of the reach of
children and animals.
CAUTION
The brake fluid should be replaced
according to the maintenance sched-
ule. Have the brake fluid replaced by
your SUZUKI dealer.
Tires: 6
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 9-24 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
54G27-03E
Parking Brake Lever
60A226
Check the parking brake for proper adjust-
ment by counting the number of clicks
made by the ratchet teeth as you slowly
pull up on the parking brake lever to the
point of full engagement. The parking
brake lever should stop between the speci-
fied ratchet teeth and the rear wheels
should be securely locked. If the parking
brake is not properly adjusted or the
brakes drag after the lever has been fully
released, have the parking brake
inspected and/or adjusted by your SUZUKI
dealer.
Steering Wheel
65D187
Check the play of the steering wheel by
gently turning it from left to right and mea-
suring the distance that it moves before
you feel slight resistance. The play should
be between the specified values. Check
that the steering wheel turns easily and
smoothly without rattling by turning it all
the way to the right and to the left while
driving very slowly in an open area. If the
amount of free play is outside the specifi-
cation or you find anything else to be
wrong, an inspection must be performed
by your SUZUKI dealer.
Power Steering (if equipped)
54G225
(1) UPPER
(2) LOWER
Check the steering box case, vane pump
and hose connections for leaks or dam-
age.Power Steering FluidCheck the fluid level by looking at the res-
ervoir in the engine compartment when the
fluid is cold (about room temperature).
Check that the fluid level is between the
“UPPER” and “LOWER” lines. If the fluid
level is near the “LOWER” line, fill it up to
the “UPPER” line with an automatic tran-
saxle fluid equivalent to ATF DEXRON
®-II
(Esso JWS 2326) or DEXRON
®-III. Do not
overfill. Ratchet tooth specification “b”
6th – 8th
200 N (44 lbs, 20 kg)
“b”
Steering wheel play “c”
0 – 30 mm (0.0 – 1.2 in.)
“c”
EXAMPLE
Tires: 6
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 9-30 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
54G27-03E
schedule. After rotation, adjust front and
rear tire pressures to the specification
listed on your vehicle’s Tire and Loading
Information Label.
Compact Spare Tire (if equipped)
54G115
(1) Wear indicator
(2) Indicator location mark
Your vehicle comes equipped with the
compact spare tire. The compact spare is
designed to save space in your storage
area, and its lighter weight makes it easier
to install if a flat tire occurs. It is only
intended for temporary emergency use,
until the conventional tire can be repaired
or replaced. The inflation pressure of the
compact spare tire should be checked at
least monthly. Use a quality pocket-type
inflation pressure gauge and set at 420
kPa (60 psi). At the same time, check that
the tire is stored securely. If it is not,
tighten it.
Note that two or more compact spare tires
should not be used on one vehicle simulta-
neously.
WARNING
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the
parts to which it is fastened, can
make wheel nuts become loose after
a time. The wheel could come off and
cause an accident. When you change
a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from
places where the wheel attaches to
the vehicle. In an emergency, you can
use a cloth or a paper towel to do
this; but be sure to use a scraper or
wire brush later, if you need to, to get
all the rust or dirt off.
WARNING
The compact spare tire and wheel are
intended for temporary emergency
use only. Continuous use of this
spare can result in tire failure and
loss of control. Always observe these
precautions when using this spare:
Your vehicle will handle differently
with this temporary spare.
Do not exceed 80 km/h (50 mph)
speed.
Replace this spare with a standard
tire and wheel as soon as possible.
Use of this spare will reduce
ground clearance.
Recommended air pressure for this
spare is 420 kPa (60 psi).
Do not use tire chains on the com-
pact spare. If you must use tire
chains, rearrange the wheels so
standard tires and wheels are fitted
to the front axle.
The compact spare tire has a much
shorter tread life than the conven-
tional tires on your vehicle.
Replace the tire as soon as the
tread wear indicator appears.
When replacing the compact tire,
use a replacement tire with the
exact same size and construction.
Tires: 6
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 10-6 EMERGENCY SERVICE
54G27-03E
If the Starter Does Not
Operate1) Try turning the ignition switch to the
“START” position with the headlights
turned on to determine the battery con-
dition. If the headlights go excessively
dim or go off, it usually means that
either the battery has run down or bat-
tery terminal contact is poor. Recharge
the battery or correct battery terminal
contact if necessary.
2) If the headlights remain bright, check
the fuses. If the reason for failure of the
starter is not obvious, there may be a
major electrical problem. Have the vehi-
cle inspected by your authorized
SUZUKI dealer.
If the Engine is FloodedIf the engine is flooded with gasoline, it
may be hard to start. If this happens, press
the accelerator pedal all the way to the
floor and hold it there while cranking the
engine. (Do not operate the starter motor
for more than 15 seconds).
If the Engine OverheatsThe engine could overheat temporarily
under severe driving conditions. If the High
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
Light in the instrument cluster glows red
during driving:
1) Turn off the air conditioner, if equipped.
2) Take the vehicle to a safe place and
park.
3) Let the engine run at the normal idle
speed for a few minutes until the engine
is cooled down to the normal tempera-
ture.
You can determine the engine tempera-
ture is normal by either condition below:
– Both High Engine Coolant Tempera-
ture Warning Light and Low Engine
Coolant Temperature Light have gone
off.
– Low Engine Coolant Temperature
Light is lit in blue, and High Engine
Coolant Temperature Warning Light
has gone off.
See “High Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light” and “Low Engine Coolant
Temperature Light” in the INDEX for further
information.
If the Starter Does Not Operate: 2, 9
If the Engine is Flooded: 2, 9
If the Engine Overheats: 2, 9
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 11-2 APPEARANCE CARE
54G27-03E
Keep passenger and cargo compart-
ments clean
Moisture, dirt or mud can accumulate
under the floor mats and may cause corro-
sion. Occasionally, check under these
mats to ensure that this area is clean and
dry. More frequent checks are necessary if
the vehicle is used off road or in wet
weather.
Certain cargo such as chemicals, fertiliz-
ers, cleaners, salts, etc. are extremely cor-
rosive by nature. These products should
be transported in sealed containers. If a
spill or leak does occur, clean and dry the
area immediately.
Use the body trim
The use of the body trim will help protect
your vehicle, especially if you frequently
drive on gravel or salted roads. The fittings
for such guards should also be corrosion
resistant. Please check with your autho-
rized SUZUKI dealer for information on
these guards.
Store your vehicle in a dry, well-venti-
lated area
Do not park your vehicle in a damp, poorly
ventilated area. If you often wash your
vehicle in the garage or if you frequently
drive it in when wet, your garage may be
damp. The high humidity in the garage
may cause or accelerate corrosion. A wet
vehicle may corrode even in a heated
garage if the ventilation is poor.Cover your vehicle
50G203
If you can not regularly park your vehicle in
a garage, we recommend you use a vehi-
cle cover. Years of exposure to midday sun
can cause the colors in paint, plastic parts
and fabrics to fade. Covering your vehicle
with a high-quality, “breathable” vehicle
cover can help protect the finish from the
harmful UV rays in sunlight, and can
reduce the amount of dust and air pollutionreaching the surface. Your SUZUKI dealer
can help you select the right cover for your
vehicle.
WARNING
Do not apply additional undercoating
or rust preventive coating on or
around exhaust system components
such as the catalytic converter,
exhaust pipes, etc. A fire could be
started if the undercoating substance
becomes overheated.
Corrosion Prevention:
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 11-4 APPEARANCE CARE
54G27-03E
WashingWhen washing the vehicle, follow the
instructions below:
1) Flush the underside of body and wheel
housings with pressurized water to
remove mud and debris. Use plenty of
water.2) Rinse the body to loosen the dirt.
Remove dirt and mud from the body
exterior with running water. You may
use a soft sponge or brush. Do not use
hard materials which can scratch the
paint or plastic. Remember that the
headlight covers or lenses are made of
plastic in many cases.
3) Wash the entire exterior with a mild
detergent or car wash soap using a
sponge or soft cloth. The sponge or
cloth should be frequently soaked in the
soap solution.
4) Once the dirt has been completely
removed, rinse off the detergent with
running water.
5) After rinsing, wipe off the vehicle body
with a wet chamois or cloth and allow it
to dry in the shade.6) Check carefully for damage to painted
surfaces. If there is any damage,
“touch-up” the damage following the
procedure below:
1. Clean all damaged spots and allow
them to dry.
2. Stir the paint and “touch-up” the
damaged spots lightly using a small
brush.
3. Allow the paint to dry completely.
WARNING
Never attempt to wash and wax
your vehicle with the engine run-
ning.
When cleaning the underside of the
body and fender, where there may
be sharp-edged parts, you should
wear gloves and a long-sleeved
shirt to protect your hands and
arms from being cut.
After washing your vehicle, care-
fully test the brakes before driving
to make sure they have maintained
their normal effectiveness.
CAUTION
When washing the vehicle, avoid
directing steam or hot water of
more than 80°C (176°F) on plastic
parts.
To avoid damaging engine compo-
nents, do not use pressurized
water in the engine compartment.
CAUTION
To avoid damage to the paint or plas-
tic surface, do not wipe the dirt off
without ample water. Be sure to fol-
low above procedure.
CAUTION
When using a commercial car wash
product, observe the cautions speci-
fied by the manufacturer. Never use
strong household detergents or
soaps.
CAUTION
If you use an automatic car wash,
make sure that your vehicle’s body
parts, such as spoilers, can not be
damaged. If you are in doubt, consult
the car wash operator for advice.
Vehicle Cleaning:
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 15-1 INDEX
15
54G27-03E
INDEXSymbols“AIR BAG” Light
..................................................................4-5
“CRUISE” Indicator Light
...................................................4-6
“O/D OFF” Indicator Light ..................................................4-6
“PANIC” button function
....................................................2-3
“PASS AIRBAG OFF” Indicator
..........................................4-14
“SET” Indicator Light
..........................................................4-6
Numerics4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
............................................6-4
AA/T Selector Position Indicator
..........................................4-7
Accelerator Pedal
................................................................5-2
Accessory Socket ................................................................5-10
Adding Engine Coolant
.......................................................9-18
Adjusting Seat Position ......................................................2-11
Adjusting Seatbacks
...........................................................2-12
Air Cleaner
...........................................................................9-20
Air Conditioning System
.....................................................9-43
All Seat Belts Except Rear Center
.....................................2-16
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
..........................................6-7
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
.................4-3
Armrest
.................................................................................5-6
Assist Grips
.........................................................................5-7
Audio Systems .....................................................................4-26
Automatic Heating and Air Conditioning System
(Climate Control) .................................................................4-22
Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR)
..................................2-15
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
..................................................9-16
BBasic Operations
................................................................ 4-29
Battery
.................................................................................. 9-35
Brake Fluid
.......................................................................... 9-22
Brake Pedal ..................................................................5-2
, 9-23
Brake System Warning Light
............................................. 4-3
Brakes
.................................................................................. 9-22
Braking ................................................................................. 6-7
Break-In ................................................................................ 6-9
Brightness Control
............................................................. 4-8
Bulb Replacement ............................................................... 9-38
CCatalytic Converter
............................................................. 6-9
Changing Engine Oil and Filter
......................................... 9-12
Changing Wheels
................................................................ 9-31
Charging Light
.................................................................... 4-4
Child Lock System (rear side doors)
................................ 2-6
Child Restraint Systems
..................................................... 2-22
Cigarette Lighter and Ashtray
........................................... 4-11
Clock
.................................................................................... 4-13
Clutch Pedal
.................................................................5-2
, 9-25
Coat Hooks
.......................................................................... 5-8
Compact Spare Tire
............................................................ 9-30
Corrosion Prevention ......................................................... 11-1
Cruise Control
..................................................................... 3-6
Cup Holder and Storage Area
............................................ 5-9
DDaily Inspection Checklist
................................................. 6-1
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 15-2 INDEX
54G27-03E
Daytime Running Light (D.R.L.) Indicator Light
...............4-7
Daytime Running Light (D.R.L.) System
............................3-3
Door Locks
...........................................................................2-1
Driver’s Seat Belt Reminder Light
.....................................4-4
Driving on Hills
....................................................................7-1
Driving on Slippery Roads
..................................................7-2
EEmergency Locking Retractor (ELR)
.................................2-15
Emission Compliance Label (for U.S.A.)
...........................12-2
Engine Block Heater
............................................................6-3
Engine Coolant
....................................................................9-17
Engine Coolant Level Check
..............................................9-18
Engine Coolant Replacement .............................................9-18
Engine Hood
........................................................................5-8
Engine Oil and Filter
............................................................9-11
Engine Serial Number .........................................................12-1
Exhaust Gas Warning .........................................................6-1
Eyeglasses Holder
...............................................................5-8
FFluid Level Check
................................................................9-16
Fog Light Switch ..................................................................4-11
Folding Rear Seats ..............................................................5-4
Frame Hooks
........................................................................5-11
Front Passenger’s Seat Belt Reminder Light
...................4-13
Front Seat Back Pocket
......................................................5-13
Fuel Filler Cap
......................................................................5-3
Fuel Gauge
...........................................................................4-9
Fuel Pump Labeling
............................................................1-1
Fuel Recommendation ........................................................1-1
Fuses
....................................................................................9-35
FUSES AND PROTECTED CIRCUITS
.................................13-1Fuses in the Engine Compartment
.................................... 9-36
Fuses under the Dash Board
............................................. 9-36
GGasoline Containing MTBE
................................................ 1-1
Gasoline/Ethanol blends
.................................................... 1-1
Gasoline/Methanol blends ................................................. 1-1
Gear Oil
................................................................................ 9-14
Gear Oil Level Check
.......................................................... 9-15
Gear Oil Replacement ......................................................... 9-15
Gearshift Lever
.................................................................... 5-2
GLOSSARY OF TIRE TERMINOLOGY
............................... 9-32
Glove Box
............................................................................ 4-14
HHazard Warning Switch
...................................................... 4-10
Head Restraints
................................................................... 2-12
Headlight Aiming ................................................................ 9-37
Heating and Air Conditioning System
.............................. 4-15
Heating System
................................................................... 4-16
High Beam Indicator Light
................................................. 4-6
Highway Driving
.................................................................. 7-1
Horn
...................................................................................... 3-8
How the ABS Works
........................................................... 6-9
IIdentification Numbers
....................................................... 12-1
If the Engine is Flooded ..................................................... 10-6
If the Engine Overheats ...................................................... 10-6
If the Starter Does Not Operate
......................................... 10-6
If You Can Not Shift Automatic Transaxle Gearshift
Lever Out of “P” (PARK)
.................................................... 10-8
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck ................................................. 7-2
Ignition Key Reminder
........................................................ 2-1