Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Jeep Cherokee (XJ).
Vehicle Type:
Body-on-frame construction (typical for early generations), available 4WD/AWD systems, compact size with good utility.
Manual Advantage:
Provides detailed technical information essential for DIY maintenance and repair, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of the Grand Vitara.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECU/ECM).
Transmission:
Manual transmission (M/T), Automatic transmission (A/T), transfer case, driveline, clutches, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front and rear brakes, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, roof, body panels, bumpers, paint.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, tightening sequences, alignment specifications, fluid capacities, electrical component specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Code Displacement Hp Torque:
J20A: 2.0L Inline-4, approximately 128-135 hp, 134-139 lb-ft torque (US Spec). Other markets might have G16A (1.6L) or H20A (2.0L V6) options.
Compression Ratio:
J20A: Approximately 9.7:1
Bore X Stroke:
J20A: 84.0 mm x 90.0 mm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or coil pack ignition depending on specific J20A variant.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (M/T)
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (A/T)
Drivetrain:
Available 2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) or 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) with low-range gearing (often selectable or full-time depending on trim).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (consult specific vehicle documentation for exact type)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (consult specific vehicle documentation for exact type)
Length:
Approx. 4125 mm (162.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1780 mm (70.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2480 mm (97.6 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1400-1550 kg (3086-3417 lbs) depending on configuration.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Not extensively documented for this specific model year; generally considered good for its class at the time.
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select trims and markets.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with 4-6 speakers. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors are common features.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic or synthetic blend oil.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (iridium recommended).
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 45,000 miles or 3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Engine Oil Type Capacity:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil, approximately 4.3 liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter for J20A.
Coolant Type:
Suzuki Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent silicate-free, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific preference)
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some J20A engines may exhibit increased oil consumption with higher mileage; regular checks are advised.
Catalytic Converter:
Can be prone to failure if engine misfires or oil burning issues are not addressed.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings can lead to rattling noises and degraded handling.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can sometimes fail.
Exhaust System Corrosion:
The exhaust system can be susceptible to rust in certain climates.
Suzuki Offroad:
Suzuki has a long-standing reputation for producing capable and durable off-road vehicles, notably the Jimny and Samurai.
First Generation Start:
The Grand Vitara (initially known as the Vitara in some markets, then 'Grand Vitara' to differentiate it from smaller Vitara models) was introduced in 1998 as a second generation of Suzuki's compact SUV offering.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan (Kosai Plant).
