🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Suzuki

Model:

Grand Vitara

Generation:

Second Generation (JT)

Production Years Covered:

2006, 2007, 2008

Chassis Code:

JT

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size SUV, known for its off-road capability and versatility.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Jeep Cherokee.

Vehicle Strengths:

Available V6 engines, robust 4x4 system (on many models), durable construction, good value for money, strong off-road potential for its class.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential information for DIY repairs, preventative maintenance, and understanding complex systems, offering significant cost savings compared to professional service.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Variants Covered:

2.7L V6 (J27A), 2.0L I4 (R20A), 3.2L V6 (N32A) - Specific to model year availability

Drivetrain Variants Covered:

4x4 (All-Wheel Drive), 4x2 (Rear-Wheel Drive)

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine mechanicals, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (including injection and emissions), ignition system, starting and charging system, engine control system (ECM/PCM), exhaust system.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (5-speed, 6-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed, 5-speed) - removal, installation, overhaul, diagnosis, torque converter, external controls, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Front differential, rear differential, transfer case (4WD models), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, axle shafts.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (multi-link, coil springs, shock absorbers), steering linkage, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and components, parking brake.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument panel and gauges, wiper and washer system, horn, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seating, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) system, body sealing, rust prevention.

Chassis:

Frame structure, subframes, chassis components.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change procedures, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation and pressure, air filter replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts for common symptoms (e.g., no-start, poor performance, unusual noises), DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and related diagnostic steps, sensor testing.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major systems (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical, etc.).

Specification Adjustments:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, wheel alignment procedures, idle speed adjustments, timing settings (if applicable).

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic information and wiring diagrams for accurate troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Compatible with all Windows versions, Linux, and macOS due to PDF format.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans, optimized for clear text and diagrams, suitable for printing.

Format Type:

Digital Download (PDF)

Digital Media:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 2.7L V6:

J27A, DOHC, 24-valve, 60-degree V-angle

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 185-190 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies by model year and market)

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 240-245 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (varies by model year and market)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 140-150 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 140-150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 230 hp @ 6200 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 213 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 2 2.0L I4:

R20A, DOHC, 16-valve

Engine 3 3.2L V6:

N32A, DOHC, 24-valve, 60-degree V-angle (later models, e.g., 2009+, but may be present in late 2008s in some markets)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 2.7L:

4-speed automatic (often standard with V6)

Transmission Type 2.0L:

5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic

AWD System:

Suzuki's advanced 'i-AWD' system (intelligent All-Wheel Drive) with electronic control and locking center differential on some models, or a selectable 4WD system.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III / Mercon or equivalent (refer to specific manual chapter for exact spec like ATF 3317 or similar)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (confirm specific viscosity and type in manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Length:

Approx. 176.4 inches (4480 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.3 inches (1811 mm)

Height:

Approx. 65.7 inches (1669 mm) (without roof rails)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3500-4000 lbs (1588-1814 kg) depending on engine and drivetrain

Towing Capacity:

Typically up to 3000 lbs (1360 kg) when properly equipped (check specific model/market)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Side Impact:

Generally good ratings, often 4 or 5 stars for frontal and side impact in tests by safety organizations like NHTSA (check specific model year reports for exact figures).

IIHS Rollover Resistance:

Rated as 'Good' for rollover resistance in IIHS tests due to its 4WD system and lower center of gravity compared to some body-on-frame SUVs.

Traction Control:

Standard or available traction control system (TCS) and electronic stability control (ESC) on many models.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, available side-impact airbags and curtain airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants, three-point belts for rear passengers.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers. Optional premium audio systems, and in-dash CD/MP3 changers with auxiliary input or satellite radio.

Navigation:

Optional factory-integrated navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control on most models.

Auxiliary Input:

Available auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external music players.

Bluetooth:

Limited availability of Bluetooth hands-free connectivity during this period; often an aftermarket addition.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals.

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

At every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed based on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.7L V6:

Around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Iridium-tipped plugs (check manual for exact spec and interval).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as recommended by severe service intervals. Manual: 50,000-100,000 miles (80,000-160,000 km).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend engine oil meeting API SN/SM or ILSAC GF-5 standards (verify viscosity and specification in manual).

Coolant Spec:

Suzuki Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent) - a P-HOAT (Phosphate Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically pink or red. Capacity: Approx. 7.5-8.5 quarts (7.1-8.0 liters).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems V6:

Variable valve timing (VVT) system issues (solenoid or timing chain related), occasional oil consumption, intake manifold gasket leaks.

Common Problems AWD:

Front CV joint wear, wheel bearing noise, transfer case actuator issues (on some models), propeller shaft center bearing wear.

Common Problems General:

Front sway bar links and bushings wear, potential for AC system leaks (compressor or condenser), power steering pump whine.

📚 Vehicle History

Suzuki SUV Legacy:

Suzuki has a long history of producing capable and durable off-road vehicles, including the Samurai and Sidekick, establishing a reputation for ruggedness.

Generation 2 Introduction:

The second generation Grand Vitara (JT) transitioned from body-on-frame to unibody construction (except for a short wheelbase 3-door version in some markets), offering improved on-road manners while retaining off-road capability.

Key Changes 2006-2008:

Introduction of available V6 engines, longer wheelbase for improved ride and space, optional advanced AWD system.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Kosai Plant) and also assembled in other locations globally through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Offroad Capability Rating:

Frequently praised for its relative off-road capability within the compact SUV segment, often earning positive mentions in comparison tests focused on light off-roading.

Value For Money:

Consistently recognized for offering a good balance of features, capability, and price, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.

Manual Quality Assurance:

Represents a factory-level technical document, ensuring accuracy and completeness for repair and maintenance tasks.