
9-21INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
80J21-03E
BrakesBrake Fluid
80J004
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.
80J104
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.
Clutch Pedal: 6
Tires: 6 

9-23INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
80J21-03E
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
80J005
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 specification 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 damage.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”
4th – 9th
200 N (44 lbs, 20 kg)
“b”
Steering wheel play “c”
0 – 30 mm (0.0 – 1.2 in.)
“c”
EXAMPLE
Tires: 6 

10-4
EMERGENCY SERVICE
80J21-03E
4) If the booster battery you are using is
installed on another vehicle, start the
engine of the vehicle with the booster
battery. Run the engine at moderate
speed.
5) Start the engine of the vehicle with the
discharged battery.
6) Remove the jumper cables in the exact
reverse order in which you connected
them.
Towing a Disabled VehicleEmergency TowingIf your vehicle is disabled, it may be towed
by a tow truck using one of the following
methods:
1) Tow the vehicle with two wheels lifted
by the tow truck and the other two
wheels on a towing dolly.
2) Use the appropriate towing method
specified for your vehicle in the “Towing
Your Vehicle (recreational towing)” sec-
tion, but with the wheels lifted by the
tow truck instead of on a towing dolly.
Be sure to carefully follow the specific
instructions provided in the “Towing
Your Vehicle (recreational towing)” sec-
tion.
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.
WARNING
Never connect the jumper cable
directly to the negative (–) terminal of
the discharged battery, or an explo-
sion may occur.
CAUTION
If vehicle damage (such as steering
or drivetrain damage, etc.) prevents
normal use of the towing procedures
for your vehicle described in the
“Towing Your Vehicle (recreational
towing)” section, have your vehicle
towed with two wheels lifted by the
tow truck and the other two wheels
on a towing dolly.
Jacking Instructions: 5
Jump Starting Instructions: 7 

11-4
APPEARANCE CARE
80J21-03E
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:  

15-1
INDEX
15
80J21-03E
INDEXSymbols“CRUISE” Indicator Light...................................................... 4-8
“ESP OFF” Indicator Light ........................................... 4-6, 6-14
“ESP OFF” Switch ............................................................... 4-13
“ESP” (Electronic Stability Program) Warning Light ......... 4-5
“ESP” Warning Light ........................................................... 6-13
“PASS AIRBAG OFF” Indicator .......................................... 4-20
“SET” Indicator Light ............................................................ 4-8Numerics2WD/i-AWD (intelligent All Wheel Drive) Switch ............... 4-14
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle .............................................. 6-5AA/T Selector Position Indicator .......................................... 4-10
Accelerator Pedal .................................................................. 5-2
Accessory Socket ................................................................ 5-11
Adding Coolant .................................................................... 9-18
Adjusting Seat Position ...................................................... 2-20
Adjusting Seatbacks ........................................................... 2-20
AIR BAG Light ........................................................................ 4-7
Air Cleaner............................................................................ 9-19
Air Conditioning System ..................................................... 9-48
All Seat Belts ........................................................................ 2-25
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) .......................................... 6-10
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light ................... 4-5
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) ....................................... 6-12
Assist Grips............................................................................ 5-9
Audio Systems ..................................................................... 4-32
Automatic Heating and Air Conditioning System 
(Climate Control).................................................................. 4-28Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) ................................... 2-24
Automatic Transaxle Fluid .................................................. 9-16
BBasic Operations.................................................................. 4-35
Battery ................................................................................... 9-35
Brake Assist System............................................................ 6-10
Brake Fluid............................................................................ 9-21
Brake Pedal.................................................................... 5-2, 9-22
Brake System Warning Light ................................................ 4-4
Brakes ................................................................................... 9-21
Braking .................................................................................... 6-9
Break-In ................................................................................. 6-18
Bulb Replacement ................................................................ 9-39CCatalytic Converter .............................................................. 6-19
Changing Engine Oil and Filter........................................... 9-12
Changing Wheels ................................................................. 9-31
Charging Light........................................................................ 4-6
Child Lock System (rear doors) .......................................... 2-13
Child Restraint Systems ...................................................... 2-29
Cigarette Lighter and Ashtray............................................. 4-16
Clock ..................................................................................... 4-17
Clutch Pedal .................................................................. 5-2, 9-24
Compact Spare Tire ............................................................. 9-30
Coolant Level Check ............................................................ 9-18
Coolant Replacement .......................................................... 9-18
Corrosion Prevention .......................................................... 11-1
Cruise Control ........................................................................ 3-9
Cup Holder and Storage Area ............................................. 5-11DDaily Inspection Checklist..................................................... 6-1 

15-2INDEX
80J21-03E
Daytime Running Light (D.R.L.) Indicator Light................ 4-10
Daytime Running Light (D.R.L.) System .............................. 3-5
Door Locks ............................................................................. 2-1
Driver’s Seat Belt Reminder Light........................................ 4-6
Driving on Hills ...................................................................... 7-1
Driving on Slippery Roads .................................................... 7-2EElectric Power Steering Light ............................................... 4-8
Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) ................................. 6-12
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) ................................. 2-24
Emission Compliance Label (for U.S.A.) ........................... 12-2
Engine Block Heater .............................................................. 6-4
Engine Coolant .................................................................... 9-17
Engine Hood......................................................................... 5-10
Engine Oil and Filter ............................................................ 9-11
Engine Serial Number ......................................................... 12-1
Exhaust Gas Warning............................................................ 6-1
Eyeglasses Holder ............................................................... 5-10FFluid Level Check ................................................................ 9-16
Fog Light Switch .................................................................. 4-16
Folding Rear Seats ................................................................ 5-4
Frame Hooks ........................................................................ 5-12
Front Air Bags ...................................................................... 2-42
Front Passenger’s Seat Belt Reminder Light.................... 4-19
Fuel Consumption and Driving Range .............................. 4-17
Fuel Filler Cap ........................................................................ 5-3
Fuel Gauge ........................................................................... 4-12
Fuel Pump Labeling............................................................... 1-1
Fuel Recommendation .......................................................... 1-1
Fuses .................................................................................... 9-35FUSES AND PROTECTED CIRCUITS ................................. 13-1
Fuses in the Engine Compartment ..................................... 9-36
Fuses under the Dash Board .............................................. 9-37
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 ............................................................................. 4-20HHazard Warning Switch ....................................................... 4-13
Head Restraints .................................................................... 2-20
Headlight Aiming.................................................................. 9-39
Heated Rear Window and Heated Outside Rearview 
Mirrors Switch ...................................................................... 4-15
Heating and Air Conditioning System................................ 4-21
Heating System .................................................................... 4-22
High Beam Indicator Light .................................................... 4-9
Highway Driving ..................................................................... 7-1
Horn ....................................................................................... 3-11
How the ABS Works............................................................. 6-11IIdentification Numbers ........................................................ 12-1
If the Engine is Flooded....................................................... 10-5
If the Engine Overheats ....................................................... 10-5
If the Starter Does Not Operate........................................... 10-4 

15-4INDEX
80J21-03E
Periodic Maintenance Schedule ........................................... 9-3
Power Assisted Brakes ......................................................... 6-9
Power Door Locking System ................................................ 2-2
Power Mirror Control ........................................................... 2-19
Power Steering..................................................................... 9-23
Power Steering Fluid ........................................................... 9-23
Power Window Controls ..................................................... 2-16RRadio Antenna ............................................................ 4-38, 5-16
Rear Window Wiper/Washer Switch .................................... 3-8
Refill with Oil and Check for Leaks .................................... 9-13
Refilling................................................................................. 9-12
Remote Audio Controls.............................................. 3-11, 4-53
Replace the Oil Filter ........................................................... 9-13
Replacing Tires and/or Wheels .......................................... 6-18
Reporting Safety Defects .................................................... 12-4
Roof Rails or Roof Rack Anchors ...................................... 5-16SSafety Certification Label.................................................... 12-2
Seat Adjustment .................................................................. 2-19
Seat Belt Extender ............................................................... 2-38
Seat Belt Hanger .................................................................. 2-28
Seat Belt Inspection ............................................................ 2-29
Seat Belt Pretensioner System........................................... 2-39
Seat Belt Reminder .............................................................. 2-26
Seat Belts and Child Restraint Systems............................ 2-22
Selection of Coolant ............................................................ 9-17
Shoulder Anchor Height Adjuster ...................................... 2-28
Side Air Bags and Side Curtain Air Bags .......................... 2-43
Side Door Locks .................................................................... 2-1
SLIP Indicator Light ...................................................... 4-5, 6-13Snow Tires ............................................................................ 9-31
Spark Plugs .......................................................................... 9-20
SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................. 14-1
Specified Fluid...................................................................... 9-16
Specified Gear Oil ................................................................ 9-14
Specified Oil ......................................................................... 9-11
Speedometer ........................................................................ 4-11
Spot Light ............................................................................... 5-9
Stability Control System...................................................... 6-12
Starting the Engine ................................................................ 6-2
Steering Wheel ..................................................................... 9-23
Sun Visor ................................................................................ 5-8
Supplemental Restraint System (air bags) ........................ 2-40
TTachometer ........................................................................... 4-12
Tailgate.................................................................................. 2-14
Temperature Gauge ............................................................. 4-13
Theft Deterrent Light............................................................ 4-20
Thermometer ........................................................................ 4-17
Tilt Steering Lock Lever ........................................................ 3-8
Tire Chains.............................................................................. 7-3
Tire Changing Tool .............................................................. 5-13
Tire Inflation Pressure ......................................................... 9-26
Tire Inspection...................................................................... 9-27
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ......................... 6-14
Tire Rotation ......................................................................... 9-29
Tire Sidewall Labeling ......................................................... 9-24
Tire Size ................................................................................ 9-25
Tires....................................................................................... 9-24
Towing a Disabled Vehicle .................................................. 10-4
Towing Your Vehicle (recreational towing) ......................... 8-2