2-30
BEFORE DRIVING
53MH0-74E
Warning and Indicator Lights
Brake System Warning Light
53M-04-072
Three different types of operations exist
depending on the vehicle’s specification.
1) The light comes on briefly when the
ignition switch is turned to the “ON”
position.
2) The light comes on when the parking
brake is engaged with the ignition
switch in the “ON” position.
3) The light comes on when under either
or both of above two conditions.
The light also comes on when the fluid in
the brake fluid reservoir falls below the
specified level.
The light should go out after starting the
engine and fully releasing the parking
brake, if the fluid level in the brake fluid res-
ervoir is adequate.
The light also comes on together with the
ABS warning light when the rear brake
force control function (proportioning valve
function) of the ABS system fails.
If the brake system warning light comes on
while you are driving the vehicle, it maymean that there is something wrong with
the vehicle’s brake system. If this happens,
you should:
1) Pull off the road and stop carefully.
2) Test the brakes by carefully starting and
stopping at the side of the road.
– If you determine that it is safe, drive
carefully at low speed to the nearest
dealer for repairs, or
– Have the vehicle towed to the nearest
dealer for repairs.
NOTE:
Because the disc brake system is self-
adjusting, the fluid level will drop as the
brake pads become worn. Replenishing
the brake fluid reservoir is considered nor-
mal periodic maintenance.
Seat Belt Warning Light
(if equipped)
53M-04-073
WA R N I N G
Remember that stopping distance
may be longer, you may have to push
harder on the pedal, and the pedal
may go down farther than normal.
WA R N I N G
If any of the following conditions
occur, you should immediately ask
your MARUTI SUZUKI dealer to
inspect the brake system.
• If the brake system warning light
does not go out after the engine
has been started and the parking
brake has been fully released.
• If the brake system warning light
does not come on when the igni-
tion switch is turned to the “ON”
position.
• If the brake system warning light
comes on at any time during vehi-
cle operation.
2-31
BEFORE DRIVING
53MH0-74E
If the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled when
the ignition switch is turned to the “ON”
position, this light will blink until the driver’s
seat belt is buckled.
For details about the seat belt reminder,
refer to “Seat Belts and Child Restraint
Systems” in this section.
“AIR BAG” Light (if equipped)
53M-04-074
This light blinks or comes on for several
seconds when the ignition switch is turned
to the “ON” position so you can check if the
light is working.
The light will come on and stay on if there
is a problem in the air bag system.
Malfunction Indicator Light
53M-04-075
Your vehicle has a computer-controlled
emission control system. A malfunction
indicator light is provided on the instrument
panel to indicate when it is necessary to
have the emission control system serviced.
The malfunction indicator light comes on
when the ignition switch is turned to “ON”
position to let you know the light is working
and goes out when the engine is started.
If the malfunction indicator light comes on
when the engine is running, there is a
damage with the emission control system.
Bring the vehicle to your MARUTI SUZUKI
dealer to have the damage fixed.
Also, if the light comes on, there may be
something wrong with the transaxle sys-
tem. Have the system inspected by MAR-
UTI SUZUKI authorized dealer.Transaxle Warning Light
(if equipped)
53M-04-076
This light comes on briefly when the igni-
tion switch is turned to the “ON” position or
the engine switch is pressed to change the
ignition mode to “ON” so you can check the
light is working.
If this light comes on when the engine is
running, there is the problem with the auto-
matic transaxle system. Ask your MARUTI
SUZUKI dealer to have the system
inspected.
NOTE:
If the automated manual transaxle system
temperature becomes too high, this light
will blink. Stop the vehicle in a safe place
and let the system cool down.
WA R N I N G
If the “AIR BAG” light does not blink
or come on briefly when the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position,
stays on for more than 10 seconds,
or comes on while driving, the air bag
system may not work properly. Have
both systems inspected by an
MARUT SUZUKI authorized dealer.
NOTICE
Continuing to drive the vehicle when
the malfunction indicator light is on
can cause permanent damage to the
vehicle’s emission control system,
and can affect fuel economy and
driveability.
3-2
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
53MH0-74E
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) Adjust the seat and head restraint
(if equipped).
7) Check the brake pedal and the parking
brake lever.
8) Adjust the mirrors.
9) Make sure that you and all passengers
have properly fastened your seat belts.
10)Make sure that all warning lights come
on as the key is turned to the “ON” posi-
tion.
11)Check all gauges.
12)Make sure that the BRAKE SYSTEM
WARNING 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) Windshield washer fluid level
5) Battery solution 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 “Alllatches, hinges & locks” of “CHASSIS
AND BODY” in the “Periodic Mainte-
nance Schedule” in the “INSPECTION
AND MAINTENANCE” section for lubri-
cation schedule.
Once a month, or each time you fill your
fuel tank, check the tire pressure using a
tire pressure gauge. Also check the tire
pressure of the spare tire.Engine Oil Consumption
It is normal for the engine to consume
some engine oil during normal vehicle
operation.
The amount of engine oil consumed
depends on the viscosity of the oil, the
quality of the oil and the conditions the
vehicle is driven under.
More oil is consumed during high-speed
driving and when there is frequent acceler-
ation and deceleration. Under high loads,
your engine also will consume more oil.
A new engine also consumes more oil,
since its pistons, piston rings and cylinder
walls have not yet become conditioned.
New engines reach the normal level of oil
consumption only after approximately 5000
km (3000 miles) driving.
Oil consumption:
Max. 1.0 L per 1000 km
When judging the amount of oil consump-
tion, note that the oil may become diluted
and make it difficult to accurately judge the
true oil level.
As an example, if a vehicle is used for
repeated short trips, and consumes a nor-
mal amount of oil, the dipstick may not
show any drop in the oil level at all, even
after 1000 km or more of driving. This is
because the oil is gradually becoming
diluted with fuel or moisture, making it
appear that the oil level has not changed.
WA R N I N G
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.
4-1
DRIVING TIPS
53MH0-74E
68PHM4001
Running-in Catalytic Converter
80G106
The purpose of the catalytic converter is to
minimize the amount of harmful pollutants
in your vehicle’s exhaust. Use of leaded
fuel in vehicles equipped with catalytic
converters is prohibited, because lead
deactivates the pollutant-reducing compo-
nents of the catalyst system.
The converter is designed to last the life of
the vehicle under normal usage and when
unleaded fuel is used. No special mainte-
nance is required on the converter. How-
ever, it is very important to keep the engine
properly tuned. Engine misfiring, which
can result from an improperly tuned
engine, may cause overheating of the cat-
alyst. This may result in permanent heat
damage to the catalyst and other vehicle
components.
WA R N I N G
• WEAR YOUR SEAT BELTS AT ALL
TIMES. Even though air bags may
be equipped at the front seating
positions, the driver and all pas-
sengers should be properly
restrained at all times, using the
seat belts provided. Refer to the
“Seat Belts and Child Restraint
Systems” section for instructions
on proper use of the seat belts.
• Never drive while under the influ-
ence of alcohol or other drugs.
Alcohol and drugs can seriously
impair your ability to drive safely,
greatly increasing the risk of injury
to yourself and others. You should
also avoid driving when you are
tired, sick, irritated, or under
stress.
NOTICE
The future performance and reliabil-
ity of the engine depends on the care
and restraint exercised during its
early life. It is especially important to
observe the following precautions
during the initial 960 km of vehicle
operation.
• After starting, do not race the
engine. Warm it up gradually.
• Avoid prolonged vehicle operation
at a constant speed. Moving parts
will break in better if you vary your
speed.
• Start off from a stop slowly. Avoid
full throttle starts.
• Avoid hard braking, especially
during the first 320 km of driving.
• Do not drive slowly with the
transaxle in a high gear.
• Drive the vehicle at moderate
engine speeds.
• Do not tow a trailer.
EXAMPLE
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
7
53MH0-74E
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Maintenance Schedule ....................................................... 7-2
Periodic Maintenance Schedule ........................................ 7-2
Drive Belt ............................................................................. 7-10
Engine Oil and Filter ........................................................... 7-10
Engine Coolant .................................................................... 7-13
Air Cleaner ........................................................................... 7-15
Spark Plugs ......................................................................... 7-15
Gear Oil ................................................................................ 7-16
Clutch Pedal ........................................................................ 7-17
Fuel Filter ............................................................................. 7-17
Brakes .................................................................................. 7-18
Steering ................................................................................ 7-20
Tires ...................................................................................... 7-20
Battery .................................................................................. 7-22
Fuses .................................................................................... 7-23
Bulb Replacement ............................................................... 7-27
Wiper Blades ....................................................................... 7-29
Windshield Washer Fluid ................................................... 7-31
Air Conditioning System .................................................... 7-31
7-1
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
60A187S
WA R N I N G
You should take extreme care when
working on your vehicle to prevent
accidental injury. Here are a few pre-
cautions that you should be espe-
cially careful to observe:
(Continued)
WA R N I N G
(Continued)
• To prevent damage or unintended
activation of the air bag system or
seat belt pretensioner system, be
sure the battery is disconnected
and the ignition switch has been in
the “LOCK” position for at least 90
seconds before performing any
electrical service work on your
vehicle. Do not touch air bag sys-
tem components, seat belt preten-
sioner system components or
wires.
The wires are wrapped with yellow
tape or yellow tubing, and the cou-
plers are yellow for easy identifica-
tion.
• Do not leave the engine running in
garages or other confined areas.
• When the engine is running, keep
hands, clothing, tools, and other
objects away from the fan and drive
belt. Even though the fan may not
be moving, it can automatically
turn on without warning.
(Continued)
WA R N I N G
(Continued)
• When it is necessary to do service
work with the engine running, make
sure that the parking brake is set
fully and the transaxle is in Neutral.
• Do not touch ignition wires or other
ignition system parts when start-
ing the engine or when the engine
is running, or you could receive an
electric shock.
• Be careful not to touch a hot
engine, exhaust manifold and
pipes, muffler, radiator and water
hoses.
• Do not allow smoking, sparks, or
flames around fuel or the battery.
Flammable fumes are present.
• Do not get under your vehicle if it is
supported only with the portable
jack provided in your vehicle.
• Be careful not to cause accidental
short circuits between the positive
and negative battery terminals.
• Keep used oil, coolant, and other
fluids away from children and pets.
Dispose of used fluids properly;
never pour them on the ground,
into sewers, etc.
7-3
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
*Interval: This interval should be judged by
odometer reading or months, whichever comes
first.km (x 1,000)
monthsFREE INSPECTIONS PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SERVICE AT COST
1 5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
1 6 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96
ENGINE
1.Water pump drive belt (Tension, Wear) AIIIIIIRAI
2. Engine Coolant (Level, Leakage) I I I R I R I R I R
3.Engine oil and Oil filter R I RRRRRRRR
4. Cooling system hoses and connections (Leakage, Damage) I I IIIIIIII
5. Engine bolts (All cylinder head and manifold fixings) – – T – T – T – T –
6. Engine mounting (Loose, Damage) – – T – T – T – T –
7. Valve Clearance – A – A – A – A – A
8. Camshaft timing belt (Damage, Wear)–––I–I–I–I
Replace Every 1,00,000 km
9. Exhaust system (Noise, Leakage etc.) – I – I – I – I – I
10. Positive crankcase ventilation System (Hoses, Connections and Valve) – I – I – I – I – I
IGNITION
1. Ignition wiring (Damage, Deterioration) – – – I – I – I – I
2. Spark plugs (Clean and Adjust the gap) – – I R I R I R I R
FUEL
1. Air cleanerPaved-road Clean every 5,000 km. Replace after every 40,000 km.
Dusty condition Clean every 2,500 km or as required. Replace after every 40,000 km.
More frequent replacement if dust condition is severe.
2. Fuel tank cap, fuel lines and connections (Leakage, Damage) – I – – – I – – – I
3. Fuel filter (Leakage) I I I I I R I I I R
CLUTCH AND TRANMISSION
1. Clutch pedal (Play) I I IIIIIIII
2. Clutch slipping (Dragging or Excessive damage) I I IIIIIIII
3. Manual Transmission Oil (Level, Leakage)IIIIIIIIII
Replace every 1,60,000 kms or 10 years, which ever comes earlier
DRIVE SHAFTS
1. Drive shafts boot (Boot cut / Damage) – I IIIIIIII
2.Drive Shaft Noise IIIIIIIIII
7-5
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
*Interval: This interval should be judged by
odometer reading or months, whichever comes
first.km (x 1,000)
monthsFREE INSPECTIONS PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SERVICE AT COST
1 5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
1 6 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96
ROAD TEST
1. Operation of Brakes, Gear shifting and speedometer
II I I
I I I I I I
2.Body and Chassis noise
II I I
I I I I I I
AIR CONDITIONER (if equipped)
1. Check belt tension
IIII
IIIIII
3. Tighten compressor mounting bolts
–TTT
TTTTTT
2. All hose joints (Check, Tighten)
IIII
I I I I I I
4. Check functioning of Recirculating flap
IIII
I II I I I
5.Clean condenser with low pressure water
–CCCCCCCCC
6. Check belt for frayed edges, change if necessary
–I I I
I II I I I
7.Check all mounting bolts
–I I I
I I I I I I