Segment:
Subcompact to Compact Sedan/Hatchback (depending on market and specific configuration)
Key Competitors 1995-2002:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Lancer, Hyundai Elantra
Vehicle Attributes:
Affordable, reliable, practical, fuel-efficient transportation, available in sedan and hatchback body styles.
Mechanical Systems:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Electrical Systems:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Audio System Wiring, Body Control Modules (BCM) if applicable
Body And Chassis:
Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seating, Chassis Frame and Structure
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replenishment
Repair Procedures:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Bodywork Repairs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Common Fault Identification
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive (covers routine maintenance to major overhaul and component-level repair)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic procedures, specifications for testing components (e.g., resistance, voltage), and troubleshooting charts.
Engine Codes:
G13BB (1.3L I4 SOHC), G16B (1.6L I4 DOHC), M16A (1.6L I4 DOHC VVT - later models), H20A (2.0L I4 DOHC VVT - less common, Esteem variant)
Horsepower Range:
63 hp to 118 hp (depending on engine and market)
Torque Range:
90 Nm to 152 Nm (depending on engine and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition System (EIS) with Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on later models.
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) controlling fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (market dependent)
Drive Layout:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Clutch Type:
Dry Single Plate Clutch (Manual Transmission)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4,200-4,300 mm (varies slightly by market and year)
Height:
Approx. 1,400-1,430 mm
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,000-1,150 kg (depending on engine and transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1,400-1,550 kg
Crash Test Data:
Limited public data available from major agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for this specific generation and market. Manual will contain manufacturer's safety system details.
ABS:
Optional on some models and markets.
Traction Control:
Generally not available for this generation.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (optional on some trims/markets).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically around 90,000-100,000 km or 5-7 years (crucial for G16B and other interference engines; refer to manual for exact interval and part number for belt kit).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or SJ, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise viscosity and API rating based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.5-3.0 liters.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF. Capacity approx. 2.5-3.5 liters (dry fill).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, exhaust system corrosion, front suspension components (ball joints, bushings), minor electrical gremlins, potential for oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Overheating if cooling system maintenance is neglected, potential for timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule (interference engine design).
Transmission Issues:
Manual transmissions can develop synchro issues or clutch wear. Automatic transmissions may exhibit delayed shifting or slipping if fluid is neglected.
Manufacturer History:
Suzuki Motor Corporation, a Japanese multinational corporation known for producing automobiles, motorcycles, ATVs, and marine engines. Established in 1909.
Baleno Esteem Lineage:
The Baleno (sold as Esteem in North America and other markets) was introduced as a successor to the Suzuki Cultus (Swift in many markets). It was designed to be a larger, more refined vehicle in the compact segment, offering a balance of practicality and affordability.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with potential assembly in other countries through Suzuki's global network (e.g., India, Hungary).
