Vehicle Type:
Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Reputation:
Known for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and affordability. A joint venture between Suzuki and General Motors (Geo brand).
Competitors 1996:
Jeep Wrangler, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Montero, Ford Bronco II.
Off Road Capability:
Body-on-frame construction, available 4WD system, decent ground clearance.
Practicality:
Compact size for maneuverability, versatile cargo space with folding rear seats.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
Yes
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Yes
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific manual edition, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory-level coverage.
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Coverage Scope:
Factory-level repair and maintenance information, suitable for professional technicians and DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical and electrical knowledge.
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Print Quality:
Full Printable
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, specifications for fuel injection, ignition, emissions control systems.
Powertrain Maintenance:
Engine oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushing, timing belt/chain service, spark plug replacement, component testing.
Transmission Service:
Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, fluid changes, clutch service, diagnostic procedures.
4X4 System:
Operation, maintenance, and repair of the transfer case and drive axles.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake inspection, pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, fluid bleeding, ABS diagnostics (if equipped).
Suspension And Steering:
Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint service, tie rod end replacement, power steering system maintenance.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing procedures for lighting, accessories, starting, charging systems, ECU diagnostics.
Body And Interior:
Door lock mechanisms, window regulators, seat removal, dashboard disassembly, exterior trim replacement, panel repair.
Maintenance:
Step-by-step guides for routine maintenance tasks.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and reassembling various vehicle components.
Repair Procedures:
Comprehensive repair instructions for all major systems.
Cleaning And Reinstallation:
Guidance on proper cleaning and reinstallation of parts during repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues.
Depth:
Factory-level detail including torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and component testing parameters.
Wheelbase Short Body:
Approx. 86.6 inches (2199 mm)
Wheelbase Long Body:
Approx. 94.9 inches (2410 mm) for convertible/4-door models
Length Short Body:
Approx. 140.9 inches (3579 mm)
Length Long Body:
Approx. 157.7 inches (4005 mm) for 4-door models
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 2300-2600 lbs (1043-1179 kg), varies by configuration
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
NHTSA does not typically provide specific rollover ratings for this vehicle class from this era.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional ABS (typically on rear wheels for 2WD, potentially all wheels on 4WD depending on configuration).
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, with driver and front passenger pretensioners.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt:
If equipped with a timing belt (G16B uses a belt), typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km). Critical replacement interval.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., green conventional).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Common Problem 1:
Rust: Particularly in the frame, rocker panels, and wheel wells, especially in areas with road salt.
Common Problem 2:
Exhaust system: Susceptible to rust and corrosion.
Common Problem 3:
Clutch wear: On manual transmission models, clutch wear is a common maintenance item.
Common Problem 4:
CV joints: Can wear out, especially if the protective boots are damaged, leading to clicking noises during turns.
Common Problem 5:
Window regulators: Can become stiff or break.
Suzuki Heritage:
Suzuki has a long history of producing small, capable off-road vehicles like the Jimny and Samurai.
Geo Brand:
Geo was a budget-oriented brand introduced by General Motors in the early 1990s to compete with import compact cars. The Tracker was a rebadged Suzuki Sidekick.
Second Generation:
The 1996 model is part of the second generation, which saw updates in styling, interior, and powertrain compared to the first generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Suzuki, and also assembled in Canada (by CAMI Automotive).
