Market Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road utility vehicle
Key Competitors:
Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco II, Mitsubishi Montero, Isuzu Amigo.
Vehicle Identity:
Lightweight, body-on-frame construction, 4x4 capability, compact size, affordability, off-road prowess.
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carbureted and fuel injected), ignition system, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch system, driveline, transfer case, driveshafts, axles.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, power assist, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake.
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system, steering column, tie rods.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear solid axle with coil springs, shock absorbers, stabilizer bars.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, body electrical systems.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, underbody.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic charts.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Diagnostics:
Engine performance diagnostics, emission control system diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, OBD-I code interpretation (where applicable).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, as well as detailed electrical system repair and diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
1.3L (G13A/B) and 1.6L (G16A/B) gasoline engines were common. Some later models might have had 2.0L (J20A) or 1.8L (J18A) options, though these are less common in the specific years covered by this manual.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 68-100 hp depending on engine and year.
Torque Range:
Approximately 70-90 lb-ft depending on engine and year.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (early models) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) (later models).
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based ignition system, potentially with electronic ignition control.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (rear-wheel drive) and 4WD (four-wheel drive) with selectable transfer case.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 86.6 inches
Length:
Approximately 149.6 - 152.4 inches
Width:
Approximately 63.4 inches
Height:
Approximately 63.8 - 65.0 inches
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,100 - 2,500 lbs
NHTSA Ratings:
Ratings vary by year and specific testing, but generally reflect the safety standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Expect moderate ratings for this era.
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may be optional on some later models.
Restraints:
Seat belts (front and rear), driver-side airbag (often optional or standard on later models).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for exact specifications.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions generally require fluid checks and occasional replacement. Consult manual.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions. Refer to manual for precise viscosity based on temperature. Oil capacity approx. 4.3 quarts (with filter).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant. Use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Capacity approx. 6.0 quarts.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent. Capacity approx. 5.8 quarts.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.5 quarts.
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.1 quarts.
Common Problems:
Rust on body panels and frame, exhaust system leaks, aging suspension components (bushings, ball joints), power steering leaks, clutch wear (manual transmission), occasional electrical gremlins, distributor issues.
Recommended Checks:
Regular inspection of brake lines, fuel lines, suspension bushings, and exhaust system for corrosion and wear. Check for oil and fluid leaks.
Suzuki Heritage:
Suzuki has a long history of producing small, capable vehicles, including rugged off-roaders and motorcycles.
Geo Brand:
Geo was a marque of Chevrolet used to market budget-friendly cars, often rebadged Japanese imports, from 1989 to 2001. The Geo Tracker was a rebadged Suzuki Sidekick.
First Generation:
Introduced in 1989, it was a compact, body-on-frame SUV designed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. Available in soft-top and hard-top configurations.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Suzuki, and also assembled in Canada by CAMI (Canadian Automotive Manufacturing Inc.) for the North American market.