1-33 SEATS AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
85Z03-03E
or because of what the repair costs were.
For frontal air bags, inflation is determined
by the angle of the impact and how quickly
the vehicle slows down in frontal and near-
frontal impacts. For side impact air bags,
inflation is determined by the location and
severity of the impact.What Makes an Air Bag Inflate?In an impact of sufficient severity, the air
bag sensing system detects that the vehi-
cle is in a crash. For both frontal and side
impact air bags, the sensing system trig-
gers a release of gas from the inflator,
which inflates the air bag. The inflator, the
air bag and related hardware are all part of
the air bag modules. Frontal air bag mod-
ules are located inside the steering wheel
and instrument panel. Side impact air bag
modules are located in the side of the seat-
back closest to the door.How Does an Air Bag Restrain?In moderate to severe frontal or near fron-
tal collisions, even belted occupants can
contact the steering wheel or the instru-
ment panel. In moderate to severe side
collisions, even belted occupants can con-
tact the inside of the vehicle.
The air bag supplements the protection
provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute
the force of the impact more evenly over
the occupant’s upper body, stopping the
occupant more gradually. But the frontal air
bags would not help you in many types ofcollisions, including rollovers, rear impacts,
and many side impacts, primarily because
an occupant’s motion is not toward the air
bag. Side impact air bags would not help
you in many types of collisions, including
frontal or near frontal collisions, rollovers,
and rear impacts, primarily because an
occupant’s motion is not toward those air
bags. Air bags should never be regarded
as anything more than a supplement to
safety belts, and then only in moderate to
severe frontal or near-frontal collisions for
the driver’s and right front passenger’s
frontal air bags, and only in moderate to
severe side collisions for vehicles with side
impact air bags.
What Will You See After an Air Bag
Inflates?After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates,
so quickly that some people may not even
realize the air bag inflated. Some compo-
nents of the air bag module will be hot for a
short time. These components include the
steering wheel hub for the driver’s frontal
air bag, the instrument panel for the right
front passenger’s frontal bag and the side
of the seatback closest to the front door for
the side impact air bag. The parts of the
bag that come into contact with you may
be warm, but not too hot to touch. There
will be some smoke and dust coming from
the vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag
inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from
seeing or being able to steer the vehicle,nor does it stop people from leaving the
vehicle.
In many crashes severe enough to inflate
an air bag, windshields are broken by vehi-
cle deformation. Additional windshield
breakage may also occur from the right
front passenger air bag.
Air bags are designed to inflate only
once. After an air bag inflates, you’ll
need some new parts for your air bag
system. If you don’t get them, the air bag
system won’t be there to help protect
you in another crash. A new system will
include air bag modules and possibly
other parts. The service manual for your
vehicle covers the need to replace other
parts.
WARNING
When an air bag inflates, there is dust
in the air. This dust could cause
breathing problems for people with a
history of asthma or other breathing
trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the
vehicle should get out as soon as it is
safe to do so. If you have breathing
problems but can’t get out of the
vehicle after an air bag inflates, then
get fresh air by opening a window or
a door. If you experience breathing
problems following an air bag deploy-
ment, you should seek medical atten-
tion.
Supplemental Restraint System:
1-34 SEATS AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
85Z03-03E
Your vehicle is equipped with a crash
sensing and diagnostic module, which
records information about the air bag
system. The module records information
about the readiness of the system, when
the system commands air bag inflation.
Let only qualified technicians work on
your air bag system. Improper service
can mean that your air bag system won’t
work properly. See your SUZUKI dealer
for service.Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped
VehicleAir bags affect how your vehicle should be
serviced. There are air bag system parts in
several places around your vehicle. You
don’t want the system to inflate while
someone is working on your vehicle. Your
SUZUKI dealer and the service manualhave information about servicing your vehi-
cle and the air bag system.
The air bag systems in your vehicle do not
need regular maintenance.
Restraint System CheckChecking Your Restraint SystemsNow and then, make sure the safety belt
reminder light and all your belts, buckles,
latch plates, retractors and anchorages are
working properly. Look for any other loose
or damaged safety belt system parts. If you
see anything that might keep a safety belt
system from doing its job, have it repaired.
Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect
you in a crash. They can rip apart under
impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get
a new one right away.
Also look for any opened or broken air bag
covers, and have them repaired or
replaced. (The air bag system does not
need regular maintenance.)
CAUTION
If you damage the covering for the
driver’s or the right front passenger’s
frontal air bag, or the covering on the
front seatback for a side air bag, the
bag may not work properly. You may
have to replace the air bag module in
the steering wheel, both the air bag
module and the instrument panel for
the right front passenger’s air bag, or
both the air bag module and seatback
for the side impact air bag. Do not
open or break the air bag coverings.
WARNING
For up to 10 seconds after the igni-
tion key is turned off and the battery
is disconnected, an air bag can still
inflate during improper service. You
can be injured if you are close to an
air bag when it inflates. Avoid yellow
connectors. They are probably part of
the air bag system. Be sure to follow
proper service procedures, and make
sure the person performing work for
you is qualified to do so.
Supplemental Restraint System:
Restraint System Check:
2-1 FEATURES AND CONTROLS
85Z03-03E
Keys
One key is used for the ignition, the door
and all other locks.
When a new vehicle is delivered, you are
provided with two keys. Keep one of the
two keys as a spare. The key number is
stamped on the key tag (A). The tag has a
code on it that tells your SUZUKI dealer or
a qualified locksmith how to make extra
keys. If you lose your key, you’ll be able to
have a new one made easily using the tag.
For vehicle security, keep the tag in a safe
place and also record the key number
somewhere other than inside of the vehi-
cle.
If you need a new key, contact your
SUZUKI dealer who can obtain the correct
key code.
Remote Keyless Entry SystemIf equipped, the keyless entry system oper-
ates on a radio frequency subject to Fed-
eral Communications Commission (FCC)
Rules and with Industry Canada.
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the fol-
lowing two conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference,
and
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation of the
device.
This device complies with RSS-210 of
Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference,
and
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation of the
device.
Changes or modifications to this system by
other than an authorized service facility
could void authorization to use this equip-
ment.
At times you may notice a decrease in
range. This is normal for any remote key-
less entry system. If the transmitter does
not work or if you have to stand closer to
your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try
this:
WARNING
Leaving children in a vehicle with the
ignition key is dangerous for many
reasons. A child or others could be
badly injured or even killed.
They could operate the power win-
dows or other controls or even make
the vehicle move.
Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with
children.
L3U2001A
N4U2001A
Keys:
2-2 FEATURES AND CONTROLS
85Z03-03E
Check the distance. You may be too far
from your vehicle. You may need to
stand closer during rainy or snowy
weather.
Check the location. Other vehicles or
objects may be blocking the signal. Take
a few steps to the left or right, hold the
transmitter higher, and try again.
Check to determine if battery replace-
ment is necessary. See “Battery
Replacement” under Remote Keyless
Entry System Operation in this section.
If you are still having trouble, see your
SUZUKI dealer or a qualified technician
for service.
Remote Keyless Entry System
OperationThe following functions are available if your
vehicle has the remote keyless entry sys-
tem:
(LOCK):
Press this button to lock all of the doors. If
all of the doors and the trunk are closed,
the hazard lamps will flash once and the
horn will chirp to indicate that locking has
occurred. The theft-deterrent system will
activate and the security indicator located
on the driver’s door lock will flash.
(UNLOCK):
Press this button to unlock all of the doors.
If all of the doors and the trunk are closed,
the hazard lamps will flash twice to indicate
that unlocking has occurred. The theft-
deterrent system will deactivate and thesecurity indicator located on the driver’s
door lock will turn off.
If a door is not opened or if the engine is
not started within 30 seconds after press-
ing Unlock on the remote keyless entry
transmitter, all of the doors will automati-
cally relock and the theft-deterrent system
will reactivate.
(TRUNK): Sedan model
Press this button for about 1 second to
open the trunk.
(PANIC): Wagon model
Press this button to turn on the panic alarm
feature. The hazard lamps will flash and
the panic alarm will stay on for about 28
seconds unless you press the Panic button
again.
The LED (A) on the transmitter will flash
when the transmitter button is pressed.
The Lock, Unlock and Trunk buttons will
not operate and the theft-deterrent system
will not activate while the key is in the igni-
tion.
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle
Each remote keyless entry transmitter is
coded to prevent another transmitter from
unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is
lost or stolen, a replacement can be pur-
chased through your SUZUKI dealer.
Remember to bring any remaining trans-
mitters with you when you go to your
N4U2002B
(A)
(A)
(Sedan) (Wagon)
Keys:
2-11 FEATURES AND CONTROLS
85Z03-03E
How to Turn Off the System Alarm
If the system alarm is active, it can be
deactivated using the following methods:
Press the Lock or Unlock button on the
remote keyless entry transmitter.
Unlock the driver’s or passenger’s front
door using the key.
Otherwise, the alarm will automatically
stop after 30 seconds. The system will
then lock the doors and reactivate the
theft-deterrent system.
How to Detect a Tamper Condition
If the hazard lamps flash once when the
Lock or Unlock button on your transmitter
is pressed, that means the theft-security
system alarm was triggered while you
were away.
Daily Inspection ChecklistBefore Driving1) Make sure that windows, mirrors, lights
and reflectors are clean and unob-
structed.
2) Visually check the tires for the following
points:
– the depth of the tread groove
– abnormal wear, cracks and damage
– loose wheel nuts
– existence of foreign material such as
nails, stones, etc.
Refer to “Tires” in the “SERVICE AND
APPEARANCE CARE” section for details.
3) Look for oil or other fluid leaks.
NOTE:
It is normal for water to drip from the air
conditioning system after use.
4) Make sure the hood is fully closed and
latched.
5) Check the headlights, turn signal lights,
brake lights and horn for proper opera-
tion.
6) Lock all doors.
7) Adjust the seat and adjustable head
restraints (if equipped).
8) Check the brake pedal.
9) Adjust the mirrors.
10)Make sure that you and all passengers
have properly fastened your safety
belts.11)Make sure that all warning lights come
on as the key is turned to the “ON” or
“START” position.
12)Check all gauges.
13)Make sure that the BRAKE light turns
off when the parking brake is released.
Once a week, or each time you fill your fuel
tank, perform the following under-hood
checks:
1) Engine oil level
2) Coolant level
3) Brake fluid level
4) Power steering (if equipped) fluid level
5) Windshield washer fluid level
6) Hood latch operation
Pull the hood release handle inside the
vehicle. Make sure that you cannot
open the hood all the way without
releasing the secondary latch. Be sure
to close the hood securely after check-
ing for proper latch operation. See the
item “Lubricate Locks, Hinges & Hood
Latch” under “Chassis and Body” in the
“MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE” section
for the lubrication schedule.
WARNING
Make sure the hood is fully closed
and latched before driving. If it is not,
it can fly up unexpectedly during
driving, obstructing your view and
resulting in an accident.
Theft-Deterrent Systems:
Daily Inspection Checklist:
2-12 FEATURES AND CONTROLS
85Z03-03E
Starting and Operating Your
VehicleNew Vehicle Break-InIgnition Positions
With the key in the ignition switch, you can
turn the key to four different positions.LOCK:
This position locks your steering wheel,
ignition, automatic transmission shift lever
and automatic transmission. This is the
only position from which you can remove
the key. For easier key operation when
unlocking the steering wheel, move the
steering wheel back and forth while turning
the key to the ACC position.
ACC (ACCESSORY):
This position operates some of your elec-
trical accessories, such as the radio, but
not the ventilation fan. Press in the switch
as you turn it away from you.
ON:
This is the position to which the switch
returns after you start your engine and
release the key. The switch stays in ON
when the engine is running. But even when
the engine is not running, you can use ON
to operate your electrical accessories, and
to display some instrument panel warning
lights.
START:
This position starts the engine. When the
engine starts, release the key. The ignition
switch will return to ON for normal driving.
Do not turn the key to START if the engine
is running.
Even if the engine is not running, ACC and
ON allow you to operate electrical acces-
sories, such as the radio.
CAUTION
Your vehicle doesn’t need an elabo-
rate “break-in.” But it will perform
better in the long run if you follow
these guidelines:
Don’t drive at any one speed – fast
or slow – for the first 500 miles (805
km). Don’t make full-throttle starts.
Avoid making hard stops for the
first 200 miles (322 km) or so. Dur-
ing this time your new brake linings
aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops
with new linings can mean prema-
ture wear and earlier replacement.
Follow this break-in guideline every
time you get new brake linings.
WARNING
On manual transmission vehicles,
turning the key to LOCK and remov-
ing it will lock the steering column
and result in a loss of ability to steer
the vehicle. This could cause a colli-
sion. If you need to turn the engine
off while the vehicle is moving, turn
the key only to ACC. Don’t push the
key in while the vehicle is moving.
CAUTION
If your key seems stuck in LOCK and
you can’t turn it, be sure you are
using the correct key; if so, is it all
the way in? If it is, then turn the steer-
ing wheel left and right while you turn
the key hard. Turn the key only with
your hand. Using a tool to force it
could break the key or the ignition
switch. If none of these works, then
your vehicle needs service.
S4U2015A
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle:
3-19 INSTRUMENT PANEL
85Z03-03E
Trip OdometerThe trip odometer can record the number
of kilometers or miles traveled for up to two
trips.
The trip odometer button is located in the
lower right area of the speedometer.
There are two independent trip odometers,
which measure the distances your vehicle
has traveled since you last reset this func-
tion.
You can switch the trip odometer display
between Trip A and Trip B by pressing the
trip odometer button.
To reset each trip meter to zero, press and
hold the trip odometer button until it resets.
TachometerThe tachometer shows your engine speed
in revolutions per minute (rpm).
Safety Belt Reminder LightWhen the key is turned to ON, a chime will
come on for several seconds to remind
people to fasten their safety belts, unless
the driver’s safety belt is already buckled.
The safety belt light will also come on and
stay on until the driver’s safety belt is buck-
led.
If the driver’s belt is already buckled, nei-
ther the chime nor the light will come on.Safety Belt Reminder ToneIf your vehicle has this feature, a tone
(instead of a chime) will sound for several
seconds when the ignition is ON to remind
people to fasten their safety belts. The tone
will not sound if the driver’s safety belt is
fastened.
CAUTION
Keep track of your odometer reading
and check the maintenance schedule
regularly for required services.
Increased wear or damage to certain
parts can result from failure to per-
form required services at the proper
mileage intervals.
CAUTION
Do not operate the engine with the
tachometer in the red area, or engine
damage may occur. The damage
would not be covered by your war-
ranty.
Warning Lights, Gauges and Indicators:
3-20 INSTRUMENT PANEL
85Z03-03E
Air Bag Readiness LightThere is an air bag readiness light on the
instrument panel. The air bag readiness
system checks the air bag’s electrical sys-
tem for malfunctions. The light tells you if
there is an electrical problem. The system
check includes the air bag sensor, the air
bag modules, the wiring and the crash
sensing and diagnostic module. For more
information on the air bag system, see “Air
Bag Systems” in section 1.
This light will come on when you start your
vehicle, and it will flash for a few seconds.
Then the light should go out. This means
the system is ready.If the air bag readiness light stays on after
you start the vehicle or comes on or
flashes when you are driving, the air bag
system may not work properly. Have your
vehicle serviced right away.
The air bag readiness light should be illu-
minated for a few seconds when you turn
the ignition key to ON. If the light doesn’t
come on then, have it fixed so it will be
ready to warn you if there is a problem.
Charging System LightThe charging system light will come on
when you turn on the ignition, and the
engine is not running, as a check to show
you it is working.
When the engine is running, the light
should go out.
If it stays on, or comes on while you are
driving, you may have a problem with the
electrical charging system. It could indicate
that you have a loose generator drive belt,
or another electrical problem. Have it
checked right away. Driving while this light
is on could drain your battery.
If you must drive a short distance with the
light on, be certain to turn off all your
accessories, such as the radio and air con-
ditioner.
WARNING
It is absolutely essential that the
driver and passengers wear their
safety belts at all times. Persons who
are not wearing safety belts have a
much greater risk of injury if an acci-
dent occurs. Make a regular habit of
buckling your safety belt before put-
ting the key in the ignition.
S4U3042A
WARNING
If the air bag readiness light stays on
after you start your vehicle, it means
the air bag system may not be work-
ing properly. The air bags in your
vehicle may not inflate in a crash, or
they could even inflate without a
crash. To help avoid injury to yourself
or others, have your vehicle serviced
right away if the air bag readiness
light stays on after you start your
vehicle.
Warning Lights, Gauges and Indicators: