🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Suzuki

Model:

Grand Vitara

Year:

1998

Generation Code:

First Generation (SQ)

Chassis Code:

SQ416, SQ420, SQ625

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Subcompact SUV, Lifestyle SUV

Key Selling Points 1998:

Compact size, available 4WD, affordable pricing, rugged styling

Key Competitors 1998:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Montero Sport

Vehicle Usp:

True body-on-frame construction (unlike some unibody competitors), robust 4WD system, good off-road capability for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Secondary Coverage:

Specifications, Diagrams, Component Removal/Installation

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF) or Printed Book

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System

Drivetrain:

Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case, Drive Shafts, Axles, Differentials

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System, Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Audio System, Anti-theft System

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Seats, Trim, HVAC System

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection & Replacement

Repair:

Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed step-by-step procedures for removing and reinstalling all major components

Technical Data:

Torque Specifications, Clearances, Diagnostic Values, Wiring Diagrams

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (if digital), Printed Book (if physical)

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval (for PDF versions)

Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and clear text (expected for factory manuals)

Binding:

Perfect Bound or Spiral Bound (for printed versions)

Paper Quality:

Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand shop use (for printed versions)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1 6L:

G16A / G16B (1.6L Inline-4, SOHC)

Engine Code 2 0L:

J20A (2.0L Inline-4, DOHC, VVT)

Engine Code 2 5L V6:

H25A (2.5L V6, DOHC)

Horsepower 1 6L:

Approx. 95-100 hp

Torque 1 6L:

Approx. 130-135 Nm

Horsepower 2 0L:

Approx. 125-135 hp

Torque 2 0L:

Approx. 170-180 Nm

Horsepower 2 5L V6:

Approx. 155-160 hp

Torque 2 5L V6:

Approx. 205-215 Nm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain Options:

2WD (Rear Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) systems

4Wd System:

Part-time 4WD system with a 2-speed transfer case (often with high and low range gearing)

📐 Dimensions

Length Short Wheelbase:

Approx. 3,800 - 3,950 mm

Width Short Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,695 - 1,730 mm

Height Short Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,635 - 1,700 mm

Length Long Wheelbase:

Approx. 4,050 - 4,250 mm

Width Long Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,780 - 1,800 mm

Height Long Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,690 - 1,730 mm

Wheelbase Short Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,200 mm

Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,480 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,200 - 1,500 kg (depending on engine and drivetrain)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

Not explicitly rated for 1998 model year by NHTSA in a comparable format to modern standards. Early SUVs had varied safety performance.

IIHS Crash Test:

Not explicitly rated for 1998 model year by IIHS in a comparable format to modern standards.

ABS:

Available (often standard on higher trims or 4WD models)

Traction Control:

Rarely available on 1998 models

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard on most models)

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or CD player, often with 4-6 speakers. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Cruise Control:

Available on some higher trim levels

Keyless Entry:

Available on some higher trim levels

Phone Integration:

Not available from factory; requires aftermarket Bluetooth/hands-free kits.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Filter Replacement:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months

Engine Oil Change:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months (synthetic or synthetic blend recommended)

Spark Plugs:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed. Typically iridium or platinum plugs last longer.

Timing Belt:

The 1.6L and 2.0L engines utilize timing chains, which are generally maintenance-free. The 2.5L V6 engine uses a timing belt, requiring replacement around 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) due to it being an interference engine.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)

Engine Oil Capacity 1 6L:

Approx. 3.7 Liters (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 2 0L:

Approx. 4.2 Liters (with filter)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5; SAE 75W-90

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Engine Minor:

Occasional oil leaks, idle control valve issues, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on older models).

Transmission Major:

Automatic transmission hard shifting or slipping (especially with higher mileage). Manual transmission clutch wear.

Suspension Chassis:

Worn bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends due to age and potential off-road use. Rust on body panels and frame, especially in areas with road salt.

Electrical Minor:

Window regulator failures, power lock issues, occasional instrument cluster problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Suzuki Offroad Legacy:

Suzuki has a long history of producing rugged, compact off-road vehicles like the SJ/Samurai series, which influenced the Grand Vitara's design and capabilities.

Gv Introduction:

The Grand Vitara nameplate was introduced in 1997 for the 1998 model year, replacing the previous Vitara (or Sidekick in some markets) as the larger, more refined option in Suzuki's SUV lineup.

Body Styles:

Available in 3-door (short wheelbase) and 5-door (long wheelbase) configurations, including convertible options for some markets.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan, with assembly plants in other countries for various markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

While not heavily awarded as a luxury vehicle, the Grand Vitara was generally praised for its value, capability, and durability in the compact SUV segment upon its release.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Consumer Reports reliability ratings for the 1998 model year vary; some years and specific components might have had average to below-average scores, common for vehicles of this era and segment.