Market Segment:
Mid-size Pickup Truck
Positioning:
Suzuki's entry into the North American pickup truck market, based on a robust Nissan platform.
Competitors:
Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado
Base Platform:
Built on the proven Nissan F-Alpha platform, shared with the Nissan Frontier and Xterra, offering enhanced durability and capability.
Reputation:
Known for its rugged construction and respectable towing/hauling capabilities, despite its relatively short production run.
Coverage:
All Models, Engines, Trim Levels, and Transmission Types
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (estimated based on description)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Service Repair:
Full Engine Service and Repair Procedures
Transmission Service Repair:
Full Transmission Service and Repair Procedures
Brake System:
Comprehensive Brake System Diagnosis and Repair
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed Electrical Wiring Diagrams
Electrical System:
Full Electrical System Troubleshooting and Repair
Suspension:
Suspension System Service and Repair
Periodic Lubrication:
Scheduled Lubrication and Maintenance Procedures
Steering:
Steering System Diagnosis and Repair
Cooling System:
Cooling System Maintenance and Repair
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Fuel Injection and Fuel System Service
Emission System:
Emission System Diagnosis and Repair
Heater Air Conditioning:
HVAC System Service and Repair
Engine Control System:
Engine Control Module (ECM) and related systems
Chassis Body:
Chassis and Body Repair Procedures
Restraint System:
Airbag and Seatbelt System Information
Interior:
Interior Trim and Component Repair
Differential Drive:
Differential and Drive Axle Service
Axle:
Axle Component Service and Repair
General Maintenance:
Comprehensive General Maintenance Procedures
Troubleshooting:
Detailed Troubleshooting Guides for Various Issues
Diagnostic Procedures:
Professional Diagnostic Procedures for All Systems
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-Step Repair Instructions with Substeps
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed Component Disassembly and Reassembly Guides
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Cleaning and Reinstallation Procedures for Components
Depth:
Complete, Professional-Level Coverage for Diagnostics, Repair, and Maintenance
Illustrations:
Hundreds of Diagrams, Drawings, and Photos for Clarity
Detail Level:
Enlarged Insets for Detailed Part Examination
Guidance:
Numbered Instructions and Figure Numbers for Easy Navigation
Warnings Cautions:
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings Pinpointing Critical Information
NHTSA Rollover Rating 2Wd:
4 out of 5 stars (2009)
NHTSA Rollover Rating 4Wd:
4 out of 5 stars (2009)
Traction Control:
Standard on most models
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on certain trims/options
Airbags:
Front-seat side-impact airbags, Front and rear curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Engine Oil Type Vq40De:
API SN, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Nissan Matic J ATF (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Nissan Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-OAT coolant
Common Issues Overview:
While based on a robust Nissan platform, potential common issues can include typical wear items for trucks of this age, such as suspension components, brake wear, and potential exhaust system corrosion. The VQ40DE engine is generally reliable but requires proper maintenance.
Suzuki Automotive Heritage:
Suzuki has a long history in producing robust and reliable vehicles, particularly known for its smaller cars and off-road SUVs like the Samurai and Vitara.
Equator Introduction:
The Suzuki Equator was introduced for the 2009 model year, marking Suzuki's return to the mid-size pickup truck segment in North America after a hiatus.
Platform Sharing:
A rebadged version of the second-generation Nissan Frontier, built under an OEM agreement between Suzuki and Nissan.
Production Location:
Smokey Mountain, Tennessee, USA (Nissan's Smyrna plant)
Production Years:
2008 (for 2009 model year) – 2012