Segment:
Subcompact/Compact Car
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Suzuki Aerio owners seeking to understand and maintain their vehicles.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Mazda3, Ford Focus.
Value Proposition:
Offers a spacious interior for its class, available all-wheel drive (AWD), and a reputation for reliability.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, timing belt replacement, piston/ring service, cylinder head service, crankshaft/connecting rod service.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, ignition system troubleshooting, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, PCV), cooling system service.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system diagnosis and replacement, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage adjustment.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission diagnosis, fluid and filter replacement, internal component service, torque converter replacement.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle service, CV joint replacement, driveshaft balancing and repair.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system diagnosis, pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake fluid flush and bleeding, ABS system troubleshooting.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component identification, strut and shock absorber replacement, spring replacement, ball joint and tie rod end service, wheel alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, pump and rack and pinion replacement, steering column service.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuse and relay identification, battery service, starter and alternator testing and replacement, lighting system diagnostics, power windows and locks.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant recharge, compressor and condenser service, heater core replacement, blower motor service.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door and window regulator repair, interior trim component replacement, chassis component identification.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.
Maintenance Schedule:
Detailed recommended maintenance intervals for fluids, filters, belts, and spark plugs.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of all critical fastener torque specifications for engine, transmission, suspension, and brakes.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Code:
G15A (1.5L - Early Models), M13A (1.3L - some international markets), M15A (1.5L), M18A (1.8L - common in North America)
Displacement:
1.5L (1493cc) and 1.8L (1796cc) for most North American models.
Horsepower 1.5L:
Approximately 103 hp @ 5500 rpm (M15A)
Torque 1.5L:
Approximately 104 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (M15A)
Horsepower 1.8L:
Approximately 125 hp @ 6000 rpm (M18A)
Torque 1.8L:
Approximately 125 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (M18A)
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Length:
Approx. 169.1 inches (4295 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Height:
Approx. 59.3 inches (1505 mm)
Length:
Approx. 163.6 inches (4155 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Height:
Approx. 59.1 inches (1500 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.4 inches (2500 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2400-2700 lbs (1089-1225 kg), varies by trim and drivetrain
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2002 model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2002 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
4 Stars (2002 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
4 Stars (2002 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5 Stars (2002 model)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5 Stars (2002 model)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on select models.
Airbags:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags. Side curtain airbags available on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using recommended oil).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs recommended. Inspect at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), replace at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or as indicated.
Timing Belt:
Crucial: Suzuki recommends replacement every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Inspect fluid level and condition at 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Change fluid and filter every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or under severe usage.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API SN or higher. Check owner's manual for exact viscosity and specification based on climate.
Coolant:
Suzuki Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Suzuki ATFSyntrans or equivalent (Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluids may be suitable, but verify with manual).
Timing Belt Tensioner:
The timing belt tensioner can fail, leading to belt slippage and potential engine damage. Regular replacement is critical.
Catalytic Converter:
Some models may experience premature catalytic converter failure, often due to engine misfires or oil consumption.
Idle Air Control Valve:
The Idle Air Control (IAC) valve can become dirty or fail, leading to rough idling or stalling.
Power Window Regulators:
Plastic components in power window regulators can become brittle and break.
Exhaust Hangers:
Rubber exhaust hangers can degrade over time and break.
Suzuki Automotive:
Suzuki has a long history of producing compact and fuel-efficient vehicles, often with a focus on affordability and practicality.
First Generation:
The Suzuki Aerio was introduced in 2001 (as a 2002 model year in North America) as a replacement for the Esteem. It was marketed as a versatile and practical compact car, available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
Updates:
A minor facelift occurred for the 2004 model year, with revised styling and improved features. The 1.8L engine became more prevalent in North America during its production run.
Production Years:
2002-2007 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily)
