
Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 6-5 OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
54G27-03E
For all normal driving, make sure that the
“O/D OFF” indicator light is off, then put the
gearshift lever into “D” (Drive). Use the
other gearshift lever positions as described
below:
P (Park)
Use this position to lock the transaxle
when the vehicle is parked or when start-
ing the engine. Shift into Park only when
the vehicle is completely stopped.
R (Reverse)
Use this position to back the vehicle from
stop. Make sure that the vehicle is com-
pletely stopped before shifting into
Reverse.
N (Neutral)
Use this position for starting the engine if
the engine stalls and you need to restart it
while the vehicle is moving. You may also
shift into Neutral and depress the brake
pedal to hold the vehicle stationary during
idling.D (Drive)
Use this position for all normal driving.
With the selector in “D” range, you can get
an automatic downshift by pressing the
accelerator pedal. The higher the vehicle
speed is, the more you will need to press
the accelerator pedal to get a downshift.
2 (Low 2)
Use this position to provide extra power
when climbing hills, or to provide engine
braking when going down hills.
L (Low 1)
Use this position to provide maximum
power when climbing steep hills or driving
through deep snow or mud, or to provide
maximum engine braking when going
down steep hills.
NOTE:
If you move the gearshift lever to a lower
gear while driving faster than the maximum
allowable speed for the lower gear, the
transaxle will not actually downshift until
your speed drops below the maximum
speed for the lower gear.
WARNING
Always depress the brake pedal
before shifting from “P” (Park) or “N”
(Neutral) to a forward or reverse gear,
to help prevent the vehicle from mov-
ing unexpectedly when you shift.
CAUTION
Be sure to take the following precau-
tions to help avoid damage to the
automatic transaxle:
Make sure that the vehicle is com-
pletely stopped before shifting into
“P” or “R”.
Do not shift from “P” or “N” to “R”,
“D”, “2” or “L” when the engine is
running above idle speed.
Do not rev the engine with the tran-
saxle in a drive position (“R”, “D”,
“2” or “L”) and the front wheels not
moving.
Do not use the accelerator to hold
the vehicle on a hill. Use the vehi-
cle’s brakes.
Using the Transaxle: 10

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 6-8 OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
54G27-03E
54G140
52D075
WARNING
On some types of loose surfaces
(such as gravel, snow-covered
roads, etc.), the stopping distance
required for an ABS-equipped vehi-
cle may be slightly greater than for
a comparable vehicle with a con-
ventional brake system. With a
conventional brake system, skid-
ding tires are able to “plow” the
gravel or snow layer, shortening
the stopping distance. ABS mini-
mizes this resistance effect. Allow
for extra stopping distance when
driving on loose surfaces.
On regular paved roads, some driv-
ers may be able to obtain slightly
shorter stopping distances with
conventional brake systems than
with ABS.
In both of the above conditions,
ABS will still offer the advantage of
helping you maintain directional
control. However, remember that
ABS will not compensate for bad
road or weather conditions or poor
driver judgment. Use good judg-
ment and do not drive faster than
conditions will safely allow.
WARNING
If the ABS warning light ((1) or (2)) on
the instrument panel comes on and
stays on while driving, there may be a
problem with the ABS system.
If this happens:
1) Pull off the road and stop care-
fully.
2) Turn the ignition switch to “LOCK”
and then start the engine again.
If the warning light comes on briefly
then turns off, the system is normal.
If the warning light still stays on,
have the system inspected by your
SUZUKI dealer immediately. If the
ABS system becomes inoperative,
the brake system will function as an
ordinary brake system that has no
ABS.
or
WARNING
If the ABS warning light ((1) or (2))
and the Brake system warning light
(3) on the instrument panel simulta-
neously stay on or come on when
driving, both anti-lock function and
rear brake force control function
(Proportioning valve function) of the
ABS system may have failed. This
could cause the rear wheels to skid
or the vehicle to spin during braking
on a slippery road or hard braking on
a dry paved road. If both warning
lights come on, drive carefully, avoid-
ing hard braking as much as possi-
ble, and ask your SUZUKI dealer to
inspect the ABS system immediately.
or
Braking: 6

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 6-10 OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
54G27-03E
54G584S
Improving Fuel EconomyThe following instructions will help you
improve fuel economy.
Avoid excessive idling
If you are to wait for more than a minute
while you are parked, stop the engine and
start it again later. When warming up a
cold engine, allow the engine to idle until
the temperature gauge pointer comes up
to the “C” position. In this position, the
engine is sufficiently warm for starting off.
Avoid “jackrabbit” starts
Fast starts away from lights or stop signs
will consume fuel unnecessarily and
shorten engine life. Start off slowly.
Avoid unnecessary stops
Avoid unnecessary deceleration and stop-
ping. Try to maintain a slow, steady speed
whenever possible. Slowing down and then
accelerating again uses more fuel.
Keep a steady cruising speed
Keep as constant a speed as road and traf-
fic conditions will permit.
CAUTION
To minimize the possibility of catalyst
or other vehicle damage:
Maintain the engine in the proper
operating condition.
In the event of an engine malfunc-
tion, particularly one involving
engine misfire or other apparent
loss of performance, have the vehi-
cle serviced promptly.
Do not shut off the engine or inter-
rupt the ignition when the transaxle
is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.
Do not try to start the engine by
pushing or towing the vehicle or
coasting down a hill.
Do not idle the engine with any
spark plug wires disconnected or
removed, such as during diagnos-
tic testing.
Do not idle the vehicle for pro-
longed periods if idling seems
rough or there are other malfunc-
tions.
Do not allow the fuel tank to get
near the empty level.
WARNING
Be careful where you park and drive;
the catalytic converter and other
exhaust components can get very
hot. As with any vehicle, do not park
or operate this vehicle in areas where
combustible materials such as dry
grass or leaves can come in contact
with a hot exhaust system.
Catalytic Converter: NO
Improving Fuel Economy: NO

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 8-2 VEHICLE LOADING AND TOWING
54G27-03E
Trailer Towing
54G639
Do not use your vehicle to tow a trailer. The
vehicle is not designed or intended for
such use. Towing a trailer can adversely
affect handling, durability and fuel econ-
omy.
Towing Your Vehicle
(recreational towing)Your vehicle may be towed behind another
vehicle (such as a motorhome), provided
your vehicle is 2 wheel drive (2WD) and
you use the proper towing method speci-
fied for your vehicle. The towing method
you must use depends on the specifica-
tions of your vehicle: whether it is a manual
transaxle vehicle or an automatic transaxle
vehicle.
Use the towing instruction table to select
the proper towing method for your vehicle,
and carefully follow the corresponding
instructions. Be sure to use proper towing
equipment designed for recreational tow-
ing and make sure that towing speed does
not exceed 90 km/h (55 mph).TOWING INSTRUCTION TABLE
54G640
WARNING
Always use a safety chain when tow-
ing your vehicle and be sure to
observe federal, state, and local
requirements for trailer hitches, tow
bars, lights, etc.
DRIVE
TRAINTRAN-
SAXLETOWING
METHOD
2WDA/T (AUTO)A
M/T
(MANUAL)A B
AWD A/Tnone
CAUTION
For All-wheel drive (AWD) models,
don’t tow your vehicle behind
another vehicle such as a motor-
home, or the drive train may be seri-
ously damaged.
Trailer Towing: 5, 11, 13
Towing Your Vehicle (recreational towing): 13

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
9
54G27-03E
60G410
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCEMaintenance Schedule ....................................................... 9-2
Periodic Maintenance Schedule ........................................ 9-3
Maintenance Recommended under Severe Driving
Conditions ........................................................................... 9-7
Engine Oil and Filter ........................................................... 9-11
Gear Oil ................................................................................ 9-14
Automatic Transaxle Fluid ................................................. 9-16
Engine Coolant .................................................................... 9-17
Windshield Washer Fluid ................................................... 9-19
Air Cleaner ........................................................................... 9-20
Spark Plugs ......................................................................... 9-21
Brakes .................................................................................. 9-22
Steering Wheel .................................................................... 9-24
Clutch Pedal ........................................................................ 9-25
Tires ...................................................................................... 9-25
Battery .................................................................................. 9-35
Fuses .................................................................................... 9-35
Headlight Aiming ................................................................. 9-37
Bulb Replacement ............................................................... 9-38
Wiper Blades ....................................................................... 9-41
Air Conditioning System .................................................... 9-43

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