steering SUZUKI ALTO 2013 7.G User Guide

3-4
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
53MH0-74E
It locks the ignition, and prevents normal
use of the steering wheel after the key is
removed.
To release the steering lock, insert the key
and turn it clockwise to one of the other
positions. If you have trouble turning the
key to unlock the steering, try turning the
steering wheel slightly to the right or left
while turning the key.
ACC
Accessories such as the radio can oper-
ate, but the engine is off.
ON
This is the normal operating position. All
electrical systems are on.
START
This is the position for starting the engine
using the starter motor. The key should be
released from this position as soon as the
engine starts.
Ignition key reminder (if equipped)
A buzzer sounds intermittently to remind
you to remove the ignition key if it is in the
ignition switch when the driver’s door is
opened.
81A297S
WA R N I N G
• Never remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is moving. The
steering wheel will lock and you
will not be able to steer the vehicle.
• Always remove the ignition key
when leaving the vehicle even if
only for a short time. Also do not
leave children alone in a parked
vehicle. Unattended children could
cause accidental movement of the
vehicle or could tamper with power
windows. They also could suffer
from heat stroke in warm or hot
weather. These could result in
severe injury or even death.
EXAMPLENOTICE
• Do not use the starter motor for
more than 15 seconds at a time. If
the engine does not start, wait 15
seconds before trying again. If the
engine does not start after several
attempts, check the fuel and igni-
tion systems or consult your MAR-
UTI SUZUKI dealer.
• Do not leave the ignition switch in
the “ON” position if the engine is
not running as the battery will dis-
charge.

3-17
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
53MH0-74E
Power-Assisted Brakes
(if equipped)
Your vehicle has power-assisted brakes. If
power assistance is lost due to a stalled
engine or other failures, the system is still
fully operational on reserve power and you
can bring the vehicle to a complete stop by
pressing the brake pedal once and holding
it down. The reserve power is partly used
up when you depress the brake pedal and
reduces each time the pedal is pressed.
Apply smooth and even pressure to the
pedal. Do not pump the pedal.
Brake Assist System (if equipped)
When you slam the brakes on, the brake
assist system judges as an emergency
stop and provides more powerful braking
for a driver who cannot hold down the
brake pedal firmly.
NOTE:
If you quickly and forcefully depress the
brakes, you may hear a clicking sound in
the brake pedal. This is normal and indi-
cates that the brake assist system is acti-
vated properly.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
(if equipped)
ABS will help you avoid skidding by elec-
tronically controlling braking pressure. It
will also help you maintain steering control
when braking on slippery surfaces or when
braking hard.
The ABS works automatically, so you do
not need any special braking technique.
Just push the brake pedal down without
pumping. The ABS will operate whenever itsenses that the wheels are locking up. You
may feel the brake pedal moves a little
while the ABS is operating.
NOTE:
The ABS will not work if vehicle speed is
under about 10 km/h (6mph).
WA R N I N G
If water gets into the brake drums,
brake performance may become poor
and unpredictable.
After driving through water or washing
the underside of the vehicle, test the
brakes while driving at a slow speed
to see if they have maintained their
normal effectiveness. If the brakes are
less effective than normal, dry them
by repeatedly applying the brakes
while driving slowly until the brakes
have regained their normal effective-
ness.
WA R N I N G
Even without reserve power in the
brake system, you can still stop the
vehicle by pressing the brake pedal
harder than normally required. How-
ever, the stopping distance may be
longer.
WA R N I N G
• On some types of loose surfaces
(such as gravel, snow-covered
roads, etc.) the stopping distance
required for an ABS-equipped vehi-
cle may be slightly greater than for
a comparable vehicle with a con-
ventional brake system. With a con-
ventional brake system, skidding
tires are able to “plow” the gravel
or snow layer, shortening the stop-
ping distance. ABS minimizes this
resistance effect. Allow for extra
stopping distance when driving on
loose surfaces.
• On regular paved roads, some driv-
ers may be able to obtain slightly
shorter stopping distances with
conventional brake systems than
with ABS.
(Continued)

4-3
DRIVING TIPS
53MH0-74E
Keep the air cleaner clean
60A183S
If the air cleaner is clogged with dust, there
will be greater intake resistance, resulting
in decreased power output and increased
fuel consumption.
Keep weight to a minimum
Heavier the load, more fuel the vehicle
consumes. Take out any luggage or cargo
when it is not necessary.
Keep tire pressures correct
Underinflation of the tires can waste fuel
due to increased running resistance of the
tires. Keep your tires inflated to the correct
pressure shown on the label on the driver’s
side door or the driver’s door lock pillar.
Highway Driving
When driving at high speeds, pay attention
to the following:
Stopping distance progressively
increases with vehicle speed. Apply the
brakes far enough ahead of the stopping
point to allow for the extra stopping dis-
tance.
On rainy days, hydroplaning can occur.
Hydroplaning is the loss of direct contact
between the road surface and the vehi-
cle’s tires due to a water film forming
between them. Steering or braking the
vehicle while hydroplaning can be very
difficult, and loss of control can occur.
Keep speed down when the road surface
is wet.
At high speeds, the vehicle may be
affected by side winds. Therefore,
reduce speed and be prepared for unex-
pected buffeting, which can occur at the
exits of tunnels, when passing by a cut of
a hill, or when being overtaken by large
vehicles, etc.
Driving on Hills
53M06005
When climbing steep hills, the vehicle
may begin to slow down and show a lack
of power. If this happens, you should
shift to a lower gear so that the engine
will again be operating in its normal
power range. Shift rapidly to prevent the
vehicle from losing momentum.
When driving down a hill, the engine
should be used for braking by shifting
into a lower gear.
EXAMPLE
EXAMPLE

4-4
DRIVING TIPS
53MH0-74E
While moving uphill/gradient from a
stand still condition
Apply the parking brake firmly so that the
vehicle does not roll backwards.
Depress the Clutch pedal and Shift the
gearshift lever to 1
st Select position.
Do not slip the clutch.
When ready to start, press accelerator
pedal and slowly release the clutch
pedal simultaneously. When the vehicle
starts to move, gradually release the
parking brake.
Driving on Slippery Roads
60G089S
Under wet road conditions you should
drive at a lower speed than on dry roads
due to possible slippage of tires during
braking. When driving on icy, snow-cov-
ered, or muddy roads, reduce your speed
and avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt
braking, or sharp steering movements.
Tire Chains
Tire chains should only be used if they are
needed to increase traction or are required
by law. Make sure that the chains you use
are the correct size for your vehicle’s tires.
Also make sure that there is enough clear-
ance between the fenders and the chains
as installed on the tires.
Install the chains on the front tires tightly,
according to the chain manufacturer’s
instructions. Retighten the chains after
driving about 1.0 km (1/2 mile) if neces-
sary. With the chains installed, drive slowly.WA R N I N G
Try not to hold the brake pedal down
too long or too often while going
down a steep or long hill. This could
cause the brakes to overheat, result-
ing in reduced braking efficiency.
Failure to take this precaution could
result in loss of vehicle control.
NOTICE
When descending down a hill,
NEVER turn the ignition key to the
“OFF” position. Emission control
system damage may result.
EXAMPLE
NOTICE
• If you hear the chains hitting
against the vehicle body while driv-
ing, stop and tighten them.
• If your vehicle is equipped with full
wheel caps, remove the wheel caps
before installing the chains or the
wheel caps can be damaged by the
chain bands.

6-3
VEHICLE LOADING AND TOWING
53MH0-74E
B: 2WD VEHICLES WITH MANUAL
TRANSAXLE OR AUTO GEAR SHIFT
1) Shift the gearshift lever into neutral.
2) Turn the ignition key to the “ACC” posi-
tion to unlock the steering wheel.
3) Release the parking brake.
NOTICE
After shifting the auto gear shift gear-
shift lever to the “N” position, always
check the gear position indicator in
the instrument cluster shows the “N”
position to make sure that the
transaxle is disengaged.
If the transaxle cannot be put in neutral,
turn the key from the “OFF” to the
“ON” position, and move the auto gear
shift lever from “N” to “D”, “M” or “R”,
then back to “N” again. Then turn the
key from the “ON” to the “OFF” posi-
tion.
These procedures may help put the
transaxle in neutral. If the transaxle
still cannot be put in neutral, you can-
not tow the vehicle without using a
towing dolly.
NOTICE
The steering column is not strong
enough to withstand shocks trans-
mitted from the front wheels during
towing. Always unlock the steering
wheel before towing.

INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
7
53MH0-74E
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Maintenance Schedule ....................................................... 7-2
Periodic Maintenance Schedule ........................................ 7-2
Drive Belt ............................................................................. 7-10
Engine Oil and Filter ........................................................... 7-10
Engine Coolant .................................................................... 7-13
Air Cleaner ........................................................................... 7-15
Spark Plugs ......................................................................... 7-15
Gear Oil ................................................................................ 7-16
Clutch Pedal ........................................................................ 7-17
Fuel Filter ............................................................................. 7-17
Brakes .................................................................................. 7-18
Steering ................................................................................ 7-20
Tires ...................................................................................... 7-20
Battery .................................................................................. 7-22
Fuses .................................................................................... 7-23
Bulb Replacement ............................................................... 7-27
Wiper Blades ....................................................................... 7-29
Windshield Washer Fluid ................................................... 7-31
Air Conditioning System .................................................... 7-31

7-4
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
*Interval: This interval should be judged by
odometer reading or months, whichever comes
first.km (x 1,000)
monthsFREE INSPECTIONS PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SERVICE AT COST
1 5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
1 6 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96
BRAKE
1. Brake fluid (Level, Leakage) I I I R I R I R I R
2.Brake pedal (Pedal-to-wall clearance) IIIIIIIIII
3.Parking brake lever and cable (Play, Damage) IIIIIIIIII
4.a. Brake discs and pads (Wear) – I IIIIIIII
b. Brake drums & shoes (Wear) – – IIIIIIII
5.Master cylinder, wheel cylinder, caliper piston (Fluid leakage, Boot/Seal
Damage)IIIIIIIIII
6.Brake hoses and pipes (Fluid leakage, Damage)
IIIIIIIIII
WHEEL
1. Tyres (Air pressure, Abnormal wear, Crack, Rotation) I
I&OI&O I&OI&OI&OI&OI&OI&O I&O
2. Wheels (Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
3. Front/Rear wheel bearings (Loose, Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION
1. Suspension strut (Oil leakage, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. Suspension arms/knuckle support (Loose, Damage) –
IIIIII I I I
3. Rear spring (Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
4. Shock absorbers (Oil leakage, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
5. All bolts and nuts (Loose)–
T T T T T T T T T
6. Suspension arms and Tension rods –
I I I I I I I I I
STEERING
1. Steering wheel (Play, Loose) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. All rods and arms (Loose, Damage, Wear) I
I I I I I I I I I
ELECTRICAL
1. Battery electrolyte (Level, leakage) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. Wiring harness connection (Loose, Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
3. Lighting system (Operation, Stains, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
4. Horn (Operation) I
I I I I I I I I I
5. System voltage I
I I I I I I I I I
BODY
1. All chassis bolts and nuts (Tighten)
–II T
T T T T T T
2. All latches, hinges and locks (Function)
II&LI&L I&L
I&L I&L I&L I&L I&L I&L

7-8
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
*Interval: This interval should be judged by
odometer reading or months, whichever comes
first.km (x 1,000)
monthsFREE INSPECTIONS PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SERVICE AT COST
1 5 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
1 6 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96
3. Parking brake level and cable (Play, Damage)IIIIIIIIII
4.a. Brake discs and pads (Wear) – I I IIIIIII
b. Brake drums & shoes (Wear) ––IIIIIIII
5.Master cylinder, wheel cylinder, caliper piston (Fluid leakage, Boot/Seal
Damage)IIIIIIIIII
6.Brake hoses and pipes (Fluid leakage, Damage)
IIIIIIIIII
WHEEL
1. Tyres (Air pressure, Abnormal wear, Crack and Rotation) I
I&OI&O I&OI&OI&OI&OI&OI&O I&O
2. Wheels (Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
3. Front/Rear wheel bearing (Loose, Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION
1. Suspension strut (Oil leakage, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. Suspension arms/knuckle support (Loose, Damage) –
IIIIII I I I
3. Rear spring (Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
4. Shock absorbers (Oil leakage, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
5. All bolts and nuts (Loose)–
T T T T T T T T T
6. Suspension arms and Tension rods –
I I I I I I I I I
STEERING
1. Steering wheel (Play, Loose) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. All rods and arms (Loose, Damage, Wear) I
I I I I I I I I I
ELECTRICAL
1. Battery electrolyte (Level, Leakage) I
I I I I I I I I I
2. Wiring harness connection (Loose, Damage) –
I I I I I I I I I
3. Lighting system (Operation, Stains, Damage) I
I I I I I I I I I
4. Horn (Operation) I
I I I I I I I I I
5. System voltage I
I I I I I I I I I
BODY
1. All chassis bolts and nuts (Tighten)
–ITT
T T T T T T
2. All latches, hinges and locks (Function)
II&LI&L I&L
I&L I&L I&L I&L I&L I&L
ROAD TEST
1. Operation of Brakes, Gear shifting and speedometer
II I I
I I I I I I
2.Body and Chassis noise
II I I
I I I I I I

7-10
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
Drive Belt
Make sure the drive belt tension is correct.
If the belt is too loose, insufficient battery
charging, engine overheating, poor power
steering, poor air conditioning, or exces-
sive belt wear can result. When you press
the belt with your thumb midway between
the pulleys, there should be a deflection
according to the following chart.
The belts should also be examined to
ensure that they are not damaged.
If you need to replace or adjust the belt
have it done by your MARUTI SUZUKI
dealer.F8D
51KM036
K10B
53M-09-003
Engine Oil and Filter
Specified Oil (ALTO 800)
53M-09-004
(1) Preferred
Be sure that the engine oil you use comes
under the quality classification of SG+, SL,
SM and SN. Select the appropriate oil vis-
cosity according to the above chart.
SAE 5W-30 (1) is the best choice for good
fuel economy, and good starting in cold
weather.
Specified Oil
(ALTO K10)
53M-09-005
(1) Preferred
Be sure that the engine oil you use comes
under the quality classification of SL, SM
and SN. Select the appropriate oil viscosity
according to the above chart.
WA R N I N G
When the engine is running, keep
hands, hair, clothing, tools, etc. away
from the moving fan and drive belts.
: 100 N (10 kg, 22 lbs) press
GE: Generator
DEF: Deflection
AC: Air conditioner compressorDEF: 6 – 7 mm
(0.24 – 0.28 in.)
GE
AC
DEF: 7 – 8 mm
(0.28 – 0.31 in.)
EXAMPLE
EXAMPLE

7-20
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
53MH0-74E
Steering
53M-09-032
Steering wheel play “c”:
0 – 30 mm (0.0 – 1.2 in.)
Check the play of the steering wheel by
gently turning it from left to right and mea-
suring the distance that it moves before
you feel slight resistance. The play should
be between the specified values.
Check that the steering wheel turns easily
and smoothly without rattling by turning it
all the way to the right and to the left while
driving very slowly in an open area. If the
amount of free play is outside the specifi-
cation or you find anything else to be
wrong, an inspection must be performed
by your MARUTI SUZUKI dealer.
Tires
53M-09-033
The front and rear tire pressure specifica-
tions for your vehicle are listed on the Tire
Information Label. Both the front and rear
tires should have the specified tire pres-
sure.
Tire Inspection
Inspect your vehicle’s tires at least once a
month by performing the following checks:
1) Measure the air pressure with a tire
gauge. Adjust the pressure if neces-
sary. Remember to check the spare
tire, too.
53M-09-034
EXAMPLEEXAMPLE
WA R N I N G
• Air pressures should be checked
when the tires are cold or you may
get inaccurate readings.
• Check the inflation pressure from
time to time while inflating the tire
gradually, until the specified pres-
sure is obtained.
• Never underinflate or overinflate
the tires.
Underinflation can cause unusual
handling characteristics or can
cause the rim to slip on the tire
bead, resulting in an accident or
damage to the tire or rim.
Overinflation can cause the tire to
burst, resulting in personal injury.
Overinflation can also cause
unusual handling characteristics
which may result in an accident.
EXAMPLE