🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Suzuki

Model:

Vitara

Generation:

First Generation (ET/TA/V6)

Chassis Codes:

ET, TA, TD01W, TD02W, TD02W, TD11W, TD11W, TD31W, TD32W, TD51W, TD52W, TD61W, TD62W, TD81W, TD82W, TD93W

Engine Codes:

G16A, G16B, H20A, H25A, H27A (V6 variants)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops servicing older Suzuki models.

Key Competitors:

Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota RAV4 (early models), Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero (early models), Nissan Pathfinder (early models), Ford Bronco II.

Vehicle Attributes:

Renowned for its off-road capability, compact size, ruggedness, and versatility. Available in 2-door and 4-door body styles, with convertible options.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data for maintaining and repairing a classic off-road vehicle, extending its lifespan and preserving its functionality.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998

Geographic Coverage:

Global (assumed, based on common repair manual content)

Total Pages:

835

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Download Method:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine construction, overhaul, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor and injection), exhaust system, engine management.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU, sensors, wiring diagrams.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, driveshafts), Automatic transmission (torque converter, planetary gear sets, valve body, control).

Drivetrain:

4WD system (transfer case, front and rear differentials, drive axles, CV joints).

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms), Rear suspension (multi-link solid axle, coil springs, shock absorbers).

Steering:

Steering gearbox, power steering system (pump, hoses, reservoir), steering column, tie rods.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers/wheel cylinders), parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, fuse box.

Body And Frame:

Body construction, door mechanisms, glass, trim, bumpers, chassis components.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

Heater core, blower motor, air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based diagnosis.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Installation:

Procedures for installing new or reconditioned components.

Adjustments:

Carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, suspension alignment.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive, 'bumper-to-bumper' coverage, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Detail Level:

Detailed explanations, pictorial diagrams, exploded views, and photos guiding through procedures.

Specifications:

Includes service data, specifications, allowable limits, and tightening torques.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High quality, printable pages.

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within the PDF, facilitating quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Yes, all pages are printable.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Software Requirement:

Adobe Reader

Os Compatibility:

Windows, Mac, Linux OS

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement 1:

1.6 Liters (1590 cc)

Fuel Delivery 1:

Carbureted (early models) or Multi-point Fuel Injection (later models)

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 80-95 HP (depending on year and fuel system)

Torque 1:

Approx. 90-105 lb-ft (depending on year and fuel system)

Engine Type 2:

V6, SOHC

Displacement 2:

2.0 Liters (H20A) and 2.5 Liters (H25A)

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 100 HP (2.0L) to 155 HP (2.5L)

Torque 2:

Approx. 115 lb-ft (2.0L) to 155 lb-ft (2.5L)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Acceleration 0 60 Mph:

Approximately 12-16 seconds (Varies significantly by engine and transmission)

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission

Type Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission

Drivetrain Options:

Part-time 4WD system with selectable 2WD/4WD high/low range. Some models may have full-time 4WD.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 2 Door:

Approx. 86.6 inches (2200 mm)

Wheelbase 4 Door:

Approx. 97.0 inches (2465 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2200 - 3000 lbs (1000 - 1360 kg), depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

Information on crashworthiness and occupant protection specific to this era may be limited. Refer to manual for any available data.

Braking Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes standard. Some later or higher trims may have rear disc brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional on some models.

Restraint Systems:

Seat belts (3-point front, 2-point rear bench or 3-point rear), optional airbags (driver-side, highly dependent on market and trim).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on higher trims or later models. Speaker configuration varies by trim.

ABS Availability:

Optional on many models, not standard across the range during this period.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; no Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Basic power accessories like power windows and door locks may be present on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, refer to manual for exact specification.

Air Filter Replacement:

Check every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary significantly based on plug type (copper, platinum), typically 30,000-60,000 miles.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For G16A/B engines, typically 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km). Critical maintenance item.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Timing belt failure (if not replaced), clutch wear, exhaust manifold cracks (G16A), rear main seal leaks, minor electrical gremlins, rust (especially in certain climates).

📚 Vehicle History

Suzuki Offroad Legacy:

Suzuki has a long history of producing capable and compact off-road vehicles, starting with the SJ/Samurai series, establishing a reputation for ruggedness and affordability.

Vitara Introduction:

Launched as a successor to the SJ/Samurai, offering a more refined and comfortable ride while retaining significant off-road prowess. Introduced with various body styles (2-door soft-top, 2-door hardtop, 4-door wagon).

Production Period:

1988 - 1998 for the first generation covered by this manual.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan, with production also occurring in other global facilities through joint ventures or licensing.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Offroad Magazine Awards:

Often cited in off-road enthusiast circles for its capability and affordability, though formal 'awards' from major publications might be scarce for this specific era.

Reliability Perception:

Generally considered reliable when properly maintained, with a reputation for durability in off-road conditions. Mechanical simplicity contributes to this perception.