Model:
Sidekick / Tracker
Common Names:
Suzuki Sidekick, Geo Tracker, Chevrolet Tracker (later models), Asüna Sunrunner, Poney, Grind
First Generation Years:
1989-1998 (North America)
Manual Covered Years:
1986-1996
Vin Code Prefix:
JS3 (Suzuki), JA (Geo)
Market Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle
Key Competitors:
Jeep Wrangler, Toyota RAV4 (later models), Honda CR-X (early comparison), Daihatsu Rocky
Vehicle Focus:
Affordable, lightweight, body-on-frame, 4x4 capability, nimble handling
Diy Focus:
Suitable for both professional technicians and do-it-yourself mechanics
Digital Benefit:
Cleanliness: Digital format avoids stains from oil and dirt, allowing users to print specific sections.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, component replacement, timing belt/chain, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carbureted and injected)
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (EFI), emissions control, diagnostics (OBD-I)
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, transfer case, drivelines, 4WD system
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Disc and drum brake systems, hydraulic components, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, lighting, instruments, wipers, horn, infotainment, power accessories, diagnostic codes
Body And Chassis:
Body panel replacement, interior trim, glass, door mechanisms, chassis components, frame repair
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Safety Features:
Airbag system (if equipped), seat belts
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common problems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic codes (OBD-I)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Code 1986 1991:
G16A (1.6L SOHC I4 Carbureted/EFI)
Engine Code 1991 1996:
G16B (1.6L DOHC I4 EFI) and H20A (2.0L DOHC I4 EFI)
Horsepower 1.6L:
80-102 HP (depending on year and engine variant)
Torque 1.6L:
83-96 lb-ft (depending on year and engine variant)
Horsepower 2.0L:
118-120 HP
Torque 2.0L:
120-130 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery Early:
Carbureted (e.g., 1.6L G16A)
Fuel Delivery Late:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Timing Belt 1.6L:
Timing Belt (G16A, G16B) - Replacement recommended every 60,000 miles
Timing Chain 2.0L:
Timing Chain (H20A)
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (e.g., M50)
Automatic Transmission:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic (e.g., 30-43LE)
Drivetrain:
Part-time 4WD system with optional 2WD mode, selectable by lever.
Transfer Case:
Low range gearing available for off-road use.
Body Styles:
2-door convertible, 2-door hardtop, 4-door wagon
Wheelbase 2 Door:
Approx. 86.6 inches (2200 mm)
Wheelbase 4 Door:
Approx. 96.9 inches (2460 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Typically around 7.5 - 8.0 inches (190-203 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2200 - 2700 lbs (1000 - 1225 kg) depending on body style and drivetrain
Crash Test Performance:
Variable; early models had basic safety features. Later models incorporated some improvements but were generally considered average for their era.
Active Safety:
4-wheel drive system enhances traction. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some later models.
Passive Safety:
Seat belts, reinforced chassis, optional airbags on later models.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player; optional CD player on later models. Limited speaker configurations.
Driver Assistance:
Minimal; focused on fundamental vehicle operation. ABS was an optional upgrade on some models.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards. No Bluetooth, USB, or integrated navigation.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (or 6 months), depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years for 1.6L G16A/G16B engines.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early 1.6L engines), rust (particularly on body panels and frame), electrical connector corrosion, aging rubber bushings and mounts, potential starter motor issues.
Oil Filter Example:
Fram PH3600, Wix 51356 (verify for specific engine)
Air Filter Example:
Fram CA3568, Wix 42076 (verify for specific engine)
Suzuki Offroad:
Suzuki has a long history of producing small, capable off-road vehicles like the SJ Series (Jimny).
First Generation Launch:
Introduced in 1986 in Japan and 1989 in North America as a collaboration between Suzuki and General Motors (Geo brand).
Engine Updates:
Saw an introduction of a more powerful 2.0L engine and an upgraded 1.6L engine during its production run.
Rebranding:
Rebadged as Chevrolet Tracker from 1999 onwards in North America.
Manufacturing:
Primarily manufactured by Suzuki in Japan.