Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge
Competitors:
Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota 4Runner, Mitsubishi Montero, Ford Bronco II
Vehicle Appeal:
Go-anywhere capability, rugged construction, compact size, affordable price point
Manual Value:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicle, saving on dealership costs.
Engine:
G16A 1.6L SOHC 8-valve, G16B 1.6L DOHC 16-valve (EFI)
Transmission:
Manual (5-speed), Automatic (3-speed)
Drivetrain:
4WD System (Part-time 4x4), Transfer Case, Drive Axles, CV Joints
Suspension:
Front (Independent Coil Spring/Shock Absorber), Rear (3-Link Solid Axle with Panhard Rod)
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (with optional Rear Disc for some trims/markets), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Steering:
Power Steering System
Electrical:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Ignition System, Lighting, Gauges, Fuses, Relays
Fuel System:
Carburetor (for G16A), Fuel Injection (EFI for G16B), Fuel Pump, Fuel Tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fan, Thermostat, Water Pump, Coolant Hoses
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler
Body And Chassis:
Frame, Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Adjustments, Fluid Checks and Replenishments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Common Fault Finding, Symptom-Based Diagnosis
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Overhaul:
Detailed engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, and electrical systems
Rebuilds:
Complete rebuild instructions for major mechanical components
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, 8-valve
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1590 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
75.0 mm x 84.5 mm
Horsepower:
70 HP @ 5000 RPM (approx.)
Torque:
84 lb-ft @ 3000 RPM (approx.)
Optional Engine Code:
G16B
Optional Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Optional Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1590 cc)
Optional Horsepower:
95 HP @ 5500 RPM (approx.)
Optional Torque:
105 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (approx.)
Fuel Delivery G16A:
Single Barrel Carburetor
Fuel Delivery G16B:
Multi-point Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
4Wd System:
Part-time 4-wheel drive with selectable 2WD/4WD and Low Range
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or as specified in manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent, check manual for exact specification)
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 Liters
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (excluding torque converter)
NHTSA Ratings:
Not extensively tested by modern standards; focus on passive safety features.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or all four wheels for some models.
4Wd System:
Provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear
Body Construction:
Body-on-frame construction, designed for durability.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (check manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions)
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace at every oil change
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on type and engine variant)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for climate specific recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.7 Liters (with filter)
Common Problems:
Rust on body and frame, starter motor issues, catalytic converter failure (especially on higher mileage vehicles), clutch wear (manual transmissions), accessory belt slippage.
Engine G16A Carburetor:
Carburetor adjustments and cleaning can be required for optimal performance.
Common Filters:
Oil Filter: Fram PH5721, Wix 51356; Air Filter: Fram CA3167, Wix 42174
Suzuki Offroad:
Suzuki has a long history of producing capable off-road vehicles, starting with the SJ series (Samurai).
Vitara Introduction:
The first-generation Vitara (also known as Sidekick or Escudo) was introduced globally in 1988, offering a blend of compact size, SUV styling, and off-road prowess.
1991 Updates:
The 1991 model year typically featured the introduction of the more powerful 1.6L DOHC 16-valve G16B engine with EFI, enhancing performance and fuel efficiency.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, Canada (by CAMI Automotive), and other international plants.
First Gen Years:
1988-1998
