OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
A WARNING
The load-carrying capacity of your tyres is reduced at lower inflation pressures. If your tyres are even moderately under-inflated, the load on the tyres may exceed the load-carrying capacity of the tyres, which could lead to tyre failure. The low tyre pressure warning light will not alert you to this condition, because it only comes on when one or more of your tyres becomes significantly underinflated.
Check and adjust your tyre pressure at least once a month. Refer to "Tyres" in "INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE" section.
3-65
A WARNING
Continuing to drive with the low tyre pressure warning light on can lead to an accident, resulting in severe injury or death. If the low tyre pressure warning light comes on and stays on, reduce your speed and avoid abrupt steering and braking. Be aware that driving on a significantly under-inflated tyre can cause the tyre to overheat and can lead to tyre failure, and may affect steering control and brake effectiveness. Stop in a safe place as soon as possible and check your tyres. If you have a flat tyre, replace it with the spare tyre (if equipped). Refer to "Jacking instructions" in "EMERGENCY SERVICE" section for the tyre replacement method. Also refer to "Replacing tyres and/ or wheels" for instructions on how to restore normal operation of the TPMS after you have had a flat tyre. • If one or more of your tyres is under-inflated, adjust the inflation pressure in all of your tyres to the recommended inflation pressure as soon as possible.
The low tyre pressure warning light can come on due to normal causes such as natural air leakage and pressure changes caused by changes in temperature or atmospheric pressure. Adjusting the air pressure in the tyres to the pressure shown on the tyre information placard should cause the low tyre pressure warning light to turn off.
To make the low tyre pressure warning light go off, adjust the tyre pressures when the tyres are cold, and drive the vehicle for about 10 minutes. When the adjusted tyre pressure is recognized, the low tyre pressure warning light will go off and the information display shows the current tyre pressure (if you select the TPMS monitor (if equipped)).
NOTICE
If the low tyre pressure warning light does not go off even when you drive for more than 10 minutes after adjusting the cold tyre pressure, there may be a problem with the TPMS. Have your vehicle inspected by a SUZUKI dealer.
If the light turns on again shortly after adjusting the pressure in your tyres. you may have a flat tyre. If you have a flat tyre, replace it with the spare tyre (if equipped). Refer to "Jacking instructions" in "EMERGENCY SERVICE"" section. Refer to "Replacing tyres and/or wheels" for instructions on how to restore normal operation of the tyre pressure monitoring system after you have had a flat tyre.
61MM0A198
NOTE: For a certain type of instrument cluster only, the information display shows the above warning and indicator message when this light comes on. When the tyre pressure is adjusted in high altitude areas, the low tyre pressure light may not turn off even after tyre pressure adjustment. In this case, adjust the inflation pressure to a slightly higher pressure than the one shown on the tyre informaUon placard. The low tyre pressure warning light may turn off temporarily after coming on. This could be due to increase of surface temperature after long distance driving or traveling to a high temperature area. Even if the tyre pressure warning light turns off after coming on, check the inflation pressure of all tyres.
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
To reduce the chance that the low tyre pressure warning light will come on due to normal changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure, it is important to check and adjust the tyre pressures when the tyres are cold. If you check tyres after driving, they are warm. Even if the tyre pressure seems to be good in this condition, it could fall below the specified pressure when tyres cool down. Also, if tyres are inflated to the specified pressure in a warm garage, the tyre pressure could fall below the specified one when you drive the vehicle outside in very cold temperature. If you adjust the tyre pressure in a garage that is warmer than the outside temperature, you should add 1 kPa to the recommended cold tyre pressure for every O.B'C difference between garage temperature and outside temperature.
3-66
TPMS limitations
The tyre pressure monitoring system may not function properly under certain circumstances. In the following situations, the low tyre pressure warning light may come on and remain on or may blink. When you replace a flat tyre with the spare tyre. When you include a spare tyre during a tyre rotation. When the TPMS sensor is damaged during a tyre replacement or liquid sealants are used to repair a flat tyre. When the electronic signal of TPMS sensor is disturbed in one of the following ways: -Electric devices or facilities using similar radio wave frequencies are nearby. -A metallic film that may cause radio wave interference is attached on the window. -A lot of snow or ice covers the vehicle, in particular, around the wheels or wheel housings. -Snow tyres that are not installed with genuine TPMS sensors or snow chains are used.
When you use non-genuine SUZUKI wheels or tyres. When the pressure of any tyre is too high. When there is a problem with the receiver of the TPMS controller.
TPMS setting (For instrument cluster -Type A)
You can set one of the initial value of tyre pressure below that is indicated on the tyre information label. -Comfort Mode -Load Mode
For details on how to set the mode, refer to "Setting mode" in "BEFORE DRIVING" section.
A WARNING
If the loading weight has changed, adjust the tyre pressure according to the tyre information label and set the initial value via the information display. If the loading weight, tyre pressure and initial value do not match, the tyre pressure monitoring system will not function properly.
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
TPMS setting (For instrument clus
ter• Type B)
• You can check the current tyre pressure on the information display. • You can set one of the initial value of tyre pressure below that is indicated on the tyre information label. -Comfort Mode
-Load Mode
A WARNING
If the loading weight has changed, adjust the tyre pressure according to the tyre information label and set the initial value via the information display. If the loading weight, tyre pressure and initial value do not nJatch, the tyre pressure monitoring system will not function properly.
3-68
DRIVING TIPS
Know Your Vehicle
Take time to familiarize yourself with the unique handling characteristics of your vehicle by first driving around in an area away from traffic. Practice turning the vehicle at a variety of speeds and in different directions. Get a feel for the greater steering response that your vehicle has over a conventional car.
Wear Your Seat Belts at All Times
The driver and all passengers should be properly restrained at all times, using the seat belts provided. Refer to the "SEAT BELTS" section for instructions on proper use of the seat belts.
Don't Make Sharp Turns
As mentioned before, small multipurpose vehicles have specific design characteristics that allow them to perform in a wide variety of applications. These characteristics also change the cornering behavior relative to conventional passenger cars. Remember, small multipurpose vehicles have more responsive steering and a higher center of gravity than conventional passenger cars. If at all possible, avoid making sharp turns in your vehicle.
4-3
Slow Down on Curves
Learn to approach curves cautiously and at a conservative speed. Do not attempt to take curves at the same speeds that you would in a vehicle with a lower center of gravity. Just as you would not drive a sports car on a trail, you should not attempt to drive your vehicle around curves like a sports car.
Slow Down and Use Caution on
Slippery Roads
60G089A
Under wet road conditions you should drive at a lower speed than on dry roads due to possible slippage of tyres during braking. When driving on icy, snow-covered, or muddy roads, reduce your speed and avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt braking, or sharp steering movements. Use 4-wheel drive high range (4H) for better traction.
NOTICE
Never operate your vehicle in 114H" or 114L11 on dry pavement and, as much as possible, avoid using 114H" or 114L" on wet pavement, as this puts severe stress on the drive train, especially during tight cornering, and can d~mage it. Also, you may have some d1ff1~ culty in steering.
Off-Road Driving
Your vehicle has specific design characteristics for off-road driving. When you leave the paved road, you will encounter driving surfaces of all kinds which may change continually as you drive. In most cases, offroad driving requires the use of 4-wheel drive.
Use Caution on Steep Inclines
Always inspect hills before you attempt to drive up them. Know what is on the other side and how you will get back down. If you have any doubt that it. is safe, do not attempt to drive over a hill. Nev".r d_nve your vehicle up an extremely steep incline. Coming down a steep hill can be trickier than getting up one. Keep the vehicle heading straight down the hill and use low gear. Do not lock the brake~. If the vehicle begins to slide, accelerate slightly to regain steering control.
DRIVING TIPS
Do not Drive Across the Side of
Hills
Driving across the side of a hill can be extremely hazardous. Most of the vehicle'.s weight will be transferred to the downhill tyres, which could result in the vehicle rolling sideways. Whenever possible, avoid this potential hazard. Also, 1f you have to exit your vehicle on a side-hill, always get out on the uphill side.
Wear Your Seat Belts at All Times
You and your passengers should use the seat belts at all times when driving offroad. For proper seat belt use, refer to the "Seat Belts" section in this manual.
Avoid Sudden Reactions in Mud,
Ice, or Snow
Be careful when off-road conditions are slippery. Reduce your speed and avoid sudden movements of the vehicle. Be aware that driving in deep snow or mud can cause a loss of traction and an increase in the resistance to the vehicle's forward motion. Use 4WD low gear (4L) and maintain a steady but moderate speed with a light touch on the steering wheel and brakes.
4-4
A WARNING
In addition to following the driving tips in this section, it is important to observe the following precautions. • Check that your tyres are in good condition and always maintain the specified tyre pressure. Refer to "Tyres" in "INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE" section for details. (Continued)
A WARNING
(Continued) Do not use tyres other than those specified by SUZUKI. Never use different sizes or types of tyres on the front and rear wheels. For information regarding the specified tyres, refer to the tyre information label located on the driver's door lock pillar. Never use oversized tyres or spe~ cial shock absorbers and springs to raise uack up) your vehicle. This will change the handling characteristics. Oversized tyres may also rub against the fender over bumps, causing vehicle damage, drive train damage or tyre failure. After driving through water, test the brakes while driving at a slow speed to see if they have maintained their normal effectiveness. If the brakes are less effective than normal, dry them by repeatedly applying the brakes while driving slowly until the brakes have regained their normal effectiveness.
DRIVING TIPS
When encountering a flooded area
80J042
Avoid driving in a flooded area or a deep puddle. If driving in a flooded area is unavoidable, go slowly in the lowest gear. In case that you have driven in a flooded area, stop the vehicle in a safe place while checking the brake effectiveness. Then, ask a SUZUKI dealer or a qualified workshop to check the following inspection items. Function of brake Function of electrical components Changes of oil level and quality for engine, transmission and differential. In case that the oil is turbid whitely, water has been mixed in the oil and an oil change is required. Lubricant condition of the bearings, suspension joints, etc.
4-6
DRIVING TIPS
NOTICE
Avoid driving in a flooded area or a deep puddle. It may cause an engine stall, short in electrical components, engine and transmission damages, etc.
4-7
Do not drive through deep or rush
ing water
Driving in deep or rushing water can be hazardous. You could lose control of the vehicle and the occupants could drown. Also, your vehicle could be seriously damaged. To avoid these risks, observe the following instructions and precautions. Do not drive through deep or rushing water. Deep or rushing water, such as fast-moving streams or fioodwaters, could carry your vehicle away from your intended path. The water is too deep if it covers your wheel hubs, axles, or exhaust tailpipe. Know the depth of the water before you attempt to drive through it.
If the vehicle goes across the river unavoidably, follow the instructions below before going across the river. 1) Confirm the depth of the river and the terrain. 2) Select the place which is less than 30cm (11.8 inch) in depth of water. Go across the river to a right angle for the river or lower part of the river 3) Drive slowly at less than 5 km/h (3.1 mph) not to raise the wave and go across the river immediately to avoid operating the gearshift lever.
If the vehicle goes across the river that is more than 30 cm (11.8 inch) in depth of water unavoidably, stop the vehicle in a safe place while checking the brake effectiveness. Then, ask a SUZUKI dealer or a qualified workshop to check the following
inspection items. Function of brake Function of electrical components Changes of oil level and quality for engine, transmission and differential. In case that the oil is turbid whitely, water has been mixed in the oil and an oil change is required. Lubricant condition of the bearings, suspension joints, etc. If water blocks the tailpipe, the engine may not start or run. If the water is deep enough to get drawn into the engine intake system, the engine will be badly damaged. Submerged brakes will have poor braking performance. Drive slowly and carefully. Driving slowly will also help avoid water splashing onto the ignition system, which could cause the engine to stall. Even when driving through shallow or still waters, drive carefully since the water may be hiding ground hazards such as holes, ditches, or bumps.
A WARNING
In addition to following the driving tips in this section, it is important to observe the following precautions for on-road and off-road driving. Driver and passengers should wear seat belts at all times. Do not let anyone else drive your vehicle unless they are also aware of the vehicle characteristics and handling differences described in this section. Avoid loaning your vehicle to any• one unless you accompany them. Make sure your tyres are in good condition and always maintain the specified tyre pressure. Refer to "Tyres" in the "INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE" section for details. Do not use tyres other than those specified by SUZUKI. Never use dif• ferent sizes or types of tyres on the front and rear wheels. For informa• lion regarding the specified tyres, refer to the "SPECIFICATIONS" section. Never use oversized tyres or special shock absorbers and springs to raise uack up) your vehicle. This will raise the center of gravity of the vehicle and change its handling characteristics. (Continued)
A WARNING
(Continued) After driving through water, mud, or sandy ground, test the brakes while driving at a slow speed to see if they have maintained their nor• mal effectiveness. If the brakes are less effective than normal, dry them by repeatedly applying the brakes while driving slowly until the brakes have regained their nor• mal effectiveness. After extended operation in mud, sand, or water, have the brakes, bearings and joint parts etc. inspected by a SUZUKI dealer as soon as possible.
DRIVING TIPS
Running-in
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 first 960 km (600 miles) of vehicle operation. • After starting, do not race the engine. Warm ii 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 (200 miles) of driving. Do not drive slowly with the !rans• mission in a high gear. Drive the vehicle at moderate engine speeds. Do not tow a trailer during the first 960 km (600 miles) of vehicle oper• ation.
4-8