Market Position:
The Suzuki Grand Vitara (JT generation) was positioned as a compact to mid-size SUV, offering genuine off-road capability in a segment often dominated by car-based crossovers. It appealed to buyers seeking versatility, utility, and a more rugged alternative.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan X-Trail, and Mitsubishi Outlander. The Grand Vitara often distinguished itself with its body-on-frame construction (on some models and for earlier generations, though the JT generation adopted unibody construction for improved on-road manners while retaining some off-road prowess), available V6 engines, and a more traditional SUV feel.
Key Features:
Available 4WD system (part-time or full-time depending on trim/market), spacious interior for its class, robust design, and respectable towing capacity. The manual covers the popular M16A 1.6L and J20A 2.0L engines, crucial for owners of these variants.
Coverage Areas:
All major mechanical, electrical, body, and diagnostic systems for the specified models and engines.
Page Count:
~2500-3000 pages (estimated for comprehensive coverage)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical (M16A, J20A), Engine management (ECU, sensors, actuators), Fuel system (injection, pump, lines), Ignition system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system, Drivetrain (4WD system, differentials), Transmission (manual & automatic), Brakes (ABS, EBD), Steering system, Suspension (front & rear), Climate control, Electrical system (wiring diagrams, components), Body & chassis, Safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), Diagnostics (OBD-II, troubleshooting charts).
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake service, suspension alignment, electrical diagnostics, body panel repair, HVAC system servicing, troubleshooting common issues.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic inspections and fluid top-offs to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, intricate electrical diagnostics, and structural body repairs. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their solutions, and step-by-step repair procedures.
Engine Description:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, VVT.
Bore X Stroke Mm:
78.0 x 83.0
Horsepower Ps Kw:
106 PS (78 kW) @ 5900 rpm (approx.)
Torque Nm:
146 Nm @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Description:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, VVT.
Bore X Stroke Mm:
85.0 x 92.7
Horsepower Ps Kw:
133 PS (98 kW) @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque Nm:
183 Nm @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON or higher recommended).
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, Oxygen sensors (O2 sensors), EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system (market dependent).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission.
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission.
Transmission Features:
Both manual and automatic transmissions are typically paired with Suzuki's advanced 4WD system (e.g., on-demand 4WD or full-time 4WD with a lockable center differential, depending on trim and market).
Fluid Specification Automatic
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Suzuki ATF 3317 or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible fluid. Capacity: approx. 6.8 liters (dry fill).
Fluid Specification Manual
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: approx. 2.3 liters.
Length Mm:
4145 - 4300 (depending on bumper design and market)
Height Mm:
1670 - 1705 (depending on roof rails and model)
Ground Clearance Mm:
195 - 200 (approx.)
Cargo Volume Liters:
398 (with rear seats up, to window line)
Curb Weight Kg:
1440 - 1580 (depending on engine and drivetrain)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
1950 - 2050 (approx.)
Wheel Size:
16-inch or 17-inch alloy or steel wheels.
Tire Size:
225/70R16, 225/65R17 (common sizes).
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5x4.5 inch)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by market and testing year. Generally performed moderately well for its class in its era.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) (market dependent), Traction Control System (TCS) (market dependent), Electronic Stability Program (ESP)/Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) (market dependent).
Passive Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), Side airbags (front), Curtain airbags (front and rear), Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Base models often feature a standard AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Higher trims may offer an integrated multi-information display and a more advanced audio system with optional CD changer and premium speaker configurations.
Driver Assistance Features:
Features like ABS, EBD, and optional traction/stability control were available, enhancing active safety. The manual provides details on their operation and troubleshooting.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary input for audio devices was common. Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming became more prevalent in later model years or as dealer-installed options.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. For severe driving conditions, 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months is recommended.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs: 100,000 km (60,000 miles). Platinum spark plugs: 40,000 km (24,000 miles).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 10,000 km (6 months), then every 40,000 km (24 months) thereafter. Use Suzuki Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API SN/SM/SL or ILSAC GF-5/GF-4 certified.
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 4.0 - 4.2 quarts (3.8 - 4.0 liters) for M16A, 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for J20A (with filter change).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron-III/Mercon ATF or equivalent power steering fluid.
Known Issues:
Minor electrical gremlins (e.g., power window switches), occasional HVAC blower motor issues, potential for exhaust manifold cracks (especially on earlier models or if subjected to extreme thermal cycling), some reports of premature wheel bearing wear, and specific issues related to the 4WD system's electronic engagement in certain conditions. The manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures for these and more.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Suzuki Part No. 16510-61A00 or equivalent aftermarket brands like Bosch 3323, Fram PH7317, Wix 57317.
Air Filter Part Number:
Suzuki Part No. 13780-77GB0 or equivalent aftermarket brands like Mann-Filter C26005, K&N 33-2942.
Brand Heritage:
Suzuki has a long history of producing rugged, capable vehicles, including many successful off-roaders and compact SUVs. This heritage influences the Grand Vitara's design and market positioning.
Model Evolution:
The 2005-2008 Grand Vitara represents the second generation (JT), launched in 2005. It moved to a unibody construction (unlike its body-on-frame predecessor) for improved on-road dynamics and fuel efficiency, while still offering significant off-road capability through its available 4WD systems and higher ground clearance.
Production Years:
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly in other global locations.