2013 SUZUKI ALTO oil level

2-32
BEFORE DRIVING
53MH0-74E
Electric Power Steering Light
(if equipped)
53M-04-077
This light comes on when the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position, and
goes out when the engine is started.
If this light comes on while driving, the
power steering system may not work prop-
erly. Have the system inspected by your
MARUTI SUZUKI dealer.
NOTE:
If the power steering system does not work
properly, you will feel heavier to steer but
you still will be able to steer.
Oil Pressure Light
53M-04-078
This light comes on when the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position, and
goes out when the engine is started. Thelight will come on and remain on if there is
insufficient oil pressure. If the light comes
on when driving, pull off the road as soon
as you can and stop the engine.
Check the oil level and add oil if necessary.
If there is enough oil, the lubrication sys-
tem should be inspected by your MARUTI
SUZUKI dealer before you drive the vehi-
cle again.
Charging Light
53M-04-079
This light comes on when the ignition
switch is turned to the “ON” position, and
goes out when the engine is started. The
light will come on and remain on if there is
something wrong with the battery charging
system. If the light comes on when the
engine is running, the charging system
should be inspected immediately by your
MARUTI SUZUKI dealer.
High Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light
53M-04-080
When the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position, this light comes on briefly so
you can check that the light is working. If
this light blinks while driving, it means the
engine is running hot. Avoid driving condi-
tions that may lead to actual overheating. If
NOTICE
• If you operate the engine with this
light on, severe engine damage can
result.
• Do not rely on the Oil Pressure
Light to indicate the need to add
oil. Be sure to periodically check
the engine oil level.

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.

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

7-4
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
BRAKE
1. Brake fluid (Level, Leakage) I I I R I R I R I R
2.Brake pedal (Pedal-to-wall clearance) IIIIIIIIII
3.Parking brake lever and cable (Play, Damage) IIIIIIIIII
4.a. Brake discs and pads (Wear) – I IIIIIIII
b. Brake drums & shoes (Wear) – – IIIIIIII
5.Master cylinder, wheel cylinder, caliper piston (Fluid leakage, Boot/Seal
Damage)IIIIIIIIII
6.Brake hoses and pipes (Fluid leakage, Damage)
IIIIIIIIII
WHEEL
1. Tyres (Air pressure, Abnormal wear, Crack, Rotation) I
I&OI&O I&OI&OI&OI&OI&OI&O I&O
2. Wheels (Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
3. Front/Rear wheel bearings (Loose, Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION
1. Suspension strut (Oil leakage, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. Suspension arms/knuckle support (Loose, Damage) –
IIIIII I I I
3. Rear spring (Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
4. Shock absorbers (Oil leakage, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
5. All bolts and nuts (Loose)–
T T T T T T T T T
6. Suspension arms and Tension rods –
I I I I I I I I I
STEERING
1. Steering wheel (Play, Loose) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. All rods and arms (Loose, Damage, Wear) I
I I I I I I I I I
ELECTRICAL
1. Battery electrolyte (Level, leakage) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. Wiring harness connection (Loose, Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
3. Lighting system (Operation, Stains, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
4. Horn (Operation) I
I I I I I I I I I
5. System voltage I
I I I I I I I I I
BODY
1. All chassis bolts and nuts (Tighten)
–II T
T T T T T T
2. All latches, hinges and locks (Function)
II&LI&L I&L
I&L I&L I&L I&L I&L I&L

7-7
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) ––––– I ––– I
2. Engine Coolant (Level, Leakage) I I I R I R I R I R
3. Engine oil and Oil filter – – RRRRRRRR
4. Cooling system hoses and connections (Leakage, Damage)IIIIIIIIII
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 –––– I –– I ––
8. Exhaust System (Noise, Leakage etc.) – I – I – I – I – I
9. 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 –––––R–––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 R I I I R
CLUTCH AND TRANMISSION
1.Clutch pedal (Play) IIIIIIIIII
2.Clutch slipping (Dragging or Excessive damage) IIIIIIIIII
3. Manual Transmission Oil (Level, Leakage)IIIIIIIIII
Replace every 1,60,000 kms or 10 years whichever comes first
DRIVE SHAFTS
1. Drive shaft boots (Boot cut / Damage)IIIIIIIIII
2.Drive Shaft Noise IIIIIIIIII
BRAKE
1. Brake fluid (Level, Leakage) I I I R I R I R I R
2. Brake pedal (Pedal-to-wall clearance)IIIIIIIIII

7-8
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
3. Parking brake level and cable (Play, Damage)IIIIIIIIII
4.a. Brake discs and pads (Wear) – I I IIIIIII
b. Brake drums & shoes (Wear) ––IIIIIIII
5.Master cylinder, wheel cylinder, caliper piston (Fluid leakage, Boot/Seal
Damage)IIIIIIIIII
6.Brake hoses and pipes (Fluid leakage, Damage)
IIIIIIIIII
WHEEL
1. Tyres (Air pressure, Abnormal wear, Crack and Rotation) I
I&OI&O I&OI&OI&OI&OI&OI&O I&O
2. Wheels (Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
3. Front/Rear wheel bearing (Loose, Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION
1. Suspension strut (Oil leakage, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. Suspension arms/knuckle support (Loose, Damage) –
IIIIII I I I
3. Rear spring (Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
4. Shock absorbers (Oil leakage, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
5. All bolts and nuts (Loose)–
T T T T T T T T T
6. Suspension arms and Tension rods –
I I I I I I I I I
STEERING
1. Steering wheel (Play, Loose) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. All rods and arms (Loose, Damage, Wear) I
I I I I I I I I I
ELECTRICAL
1. Battery electrolyte (Level, Leakage) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. Wiring harness connection (Loose, Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
3. Lighting system (Operation, Stains, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
4. Horn (Operation) I
I I I I I I I I I
5. System voltage I
I I I I I I I I I
BODY
1. All chassis bolts and nuts (Tighten)
–ITT
T T T T T T
2. All latches, hinges and locks (Function)
II&LI&L I&L
I&L I&L I&L I&L I&L I&L
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

7-11
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
SAE 0W-20 (1) is the best choice for good
fuel economy, and good starting in cold
weather.
Oil Level Check
68KH066
It is important to keep the engine oil at the
correct level for proper lubrication of your
vehicle’s engine. Check the oil level with
the vehicle on a level surface. The oil level
indication may be inaccurate if the vehicle
is on a slope. The oil level should be
checked either before starting the engine
or at least 5 minutes after stopping the
engine.
Pull out the oil dipstick, wipe oil off with a
clean cloth, insert the dipstick all the way
into the engine, then remove it again. The
oil on the stick should be between the
upper and lower limits shown on the stick.
If the oil level indication is near the lowerlimit, add enough oil to raise the level to the
upper limit.
Refilling
53M-09-007
Remove the oil filler cap and pour oil slowly
through the filler hole to bring the oil level
to the upper limit on the dipstick. Be careful
not to overfill. Too much oil is almost as
bad as too little oil. After refilling, start the
engine and allow it to idle for about a min-
ute. Stop the engine, wait about 5 minutes
and check the oil level again.
Changing Engine Oil and Filter
Drain the engine oil while the engine is still
warm.
1) Remove the oil filler cap.
2) Place a drain pan under the drain plug.
3) Using a wrench, remove the drain plug
and drain out the engine oil.
ALTO 800
53MH0701
Tightening torque for drain plug (1):
49 Nm (4.9 kg-m, 36.0 lb-ft)
EXAMPLE
NOTICE
Failure to check the oil level regularly
could lead to serious engine trouble
due to insufficient oil.
EXAMPLE
CAUTION
The engine oil temperature may be
high enough to burn your fingers
when the drain plug is loosened. Wait
until the drain plug is cool enough to
touch with your bare hands.
(1)EXAMPLE

7-13
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
Refill with Oil and Check for Leaks
1) Pour oil through the filler hole and
install the filler cap.
For the approximate capacity of the oil,
refer to the “Capacities” item in the
“SPECIFICATIONS” section.
2) Start the engine and look carefully for
leaks at the oil filter and drain plug. Run
the engine at various speeds for at least
5 minutes.
3) Stop the engine and wait about 5 min-
utes. Check the oil level again and add
oil if necessary. Check for leaks again.
Engine Coolant
Selection of Coolant
To maintain optimum performance and
durability of your engine, use MARUTI
Genuine Coolant or equivalent.
This type of coolant is best for your cooling
system as it:
Helps maintain proper engine tempera-
ture.
Gives proper protection against freezing
and boiling.
Gives proper protection against corro-
sion and rust.
Failure to use the proper coolant can dam-
age your cooling system. Your authorized
MARUTI SUZUKI dealer can help you
select the proper coolant.
Coolant Level Check
Check the coolant level at the reservoir
tank, not at the radiator. With the engine
cool, the coolant level should be between
the “FULL” and “LOW” marks.
NOTICE
• When replacing the oil filter, it is rec-
ommended that you use a genuine
MARUTI SUZUKI replacement filter.
If you use an aftermarket filter, make
sure it is of equivalent quality and
follow the manufacturer’s instruc-
tions.
• Oil leaks from around the oil filter
or drain plug indicate incorrect
installation or gasket damage. If
you find any leaks or are not sure
that the filter has been properly
tightened, have the vehicle
inspected by your MARUTI SUZUKI
dealer.
NOTICE
To avoid damaging your cooling sys-
tem:
• Always use a high quality eth-
yleneglycol base non-silicate type
coolant diluted with distilled water
at the correct mixture concentra-
tion.
• Make sure that the proper mix is 30/
70 coolant to distilled water and in
no case higher than 70/30. Concen-
trations greater than 70/30 coolant
to distilled water will cause over-
heating conditions.
• Do not use straight coolant nor
plain water.
• Do not add extra inhibitors or addi-
tives. They may not be compatible
with your cooling system.
• Do not mix different types of base
coolants. Doing so may result in
accelerated seal wear and/or the
possibility of severe overheating
and extensive engine damage.