gear light SUZUKI GRAND VITARA 2011 User Guide

4-3DRIVING TIPS
79K21-03E
54G584S
Improving Fuel EconomyThe following instructions will help you
improve fuel economy.
Avoid excessive idling
If you are to wait for more than a minute
while you are parked, stop the engine and
start it again later. When warming up a
cold engine, allow the engine to idle until
the temperature gauge pointer comes up
to the “C” position. In this position, the
engine is sufficiently warm for starting off.
Avoid “jackrabbit” starts
Fast starts away from lights or stop signs
will consume fuel unnecessarily and
shorten engine life. Start off slowly.
Avoid unnecessary stops
Avoid unnecessary deceleration and stop-
ping. Try to maintain a slow, steady speed
whenever possible. Slowing down and then
accelerating again uses more fuel.
Keep a steady cruising speed
Keep as constant a speed as road and traf-
fic conditions will permit.
CAUTION
To minimize the possibility of catalyst
or other vehicle damage:
 Maintain the engine in the proper
operating condition.
 In the event of an engine malfunc-
tion, particularly one involving
engine misfire or other apparent
loss of performance, have the vehi-
cle serviced promptly.
 Do not shut off the engine or inter-
rupt the ignition when the transmis-
sion is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.
 Do not try to start the engine by
pushing or towing the vehicle or
coasting down a hill.
 Do not idle the engine with any
spark plug wires disconnected or
removed, such as during diagnos-
tic testing.
 Do not idle the vehicle for pro-
longed periods if idling seems
rough or there are other malfunc-
tions.
 Do not allow the fuel tank to get
near the empty level.
WARNING
Be careful where you park and drive;
the catalytic converter and other
exhaust components can get very
hot. As with any vehicle, do not park
or operate this vehicle in areas where
combustible materials such as dry
grass or leaves can come in contact
with a hot exhaust system.
On-Pavement Driving: NO
Off-Road Driving: NO

4-6
DRIVING TIPS
79K21-03E
Off-Road DrivingYour vehicle has specific design character-
istics for off-road driving. When you leave
the pavement, you will encounter driving
surfaces of all kinds which may change
continually as you drive. In most cases, off-
road driving requires the use of 4-wheel
drive. If your vehicle is a 2-wheel drive
vehicle, you should limit your off-road driv-
ing only to hard, flat, nonslippery surfaces.
2-wheel drive vehicles have far less trac-
tion on off-road surfaces than 4-wheel
drive vehicles. It is important when driving
off-road to follow the guidelines below.
Use Caution on Steep Inclines
Always inspect hills before you attempt to
drive up them. Know what is on the other
side and how you will get back down. If you
have any doubt that it is safe, do not
attempt to drive over a hill. Never drive
your vehicle up an extremely steep incline.
Coming down a steep hill can be trickier
than getting up one. Keep the vehicle
heading straight down the hill and use low
gear. Do not lock the brakes. If the vehicle
begins to slide, accelerate slightly to regain
steering control.Do Not Turn on or Drive Across the Side
of Hills
Turning on or driving across the side of a
hill can be extremely hazardous. Most of
the vehicle’s weight will be transferred to
the downhill tires, which could result in the
vehicle rolling sideways. Whenever possi-
ble, avoid this potential hazard. Also, if you
have to exit your vehicle on a side-hill,
always get out on the uphill side.
Wear Your Seat Belts at All Times
You and your passengers should use the
seat belts at all times when driving off-
road. For proper seat belt use, refer to the
“Seat Belts and Child Restraint Systems”
section in this manual.
Avoid Sudden Reactions in Mud, Ice or
Snow
Be careful when off-road conditions are
slick. Reduce your speed and avoid sud-
den movements of the vehicle. If your vehi-
cle is a 2-wheel drive vehicle, do not drive
in deep snow or mud. If your vehicle is a 4-
wheel drive vehicle, be aware that driving
in deep snow or mud can cause a loss of
traction and an increase in the resistance
to the vehicle’s forward motion. Use 4WD
low gear (4L) and maintain a steady but
moderate speed with a light touch on the
steering wheel and brakes.Do not drive in the field covered with
grown grass
If you drive in the field covered with grass,
it may cause unexpected accident or vehi-
cle damage by getting caught in grown
grass.
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck
If your vehicle gets stuck in snow, mud or
sand, follow the directions below:
1) (For vehicles equipped with transfer
switch) Turn the transfer switch to “4H
LOCK” or “4L LOCK”.
2) Shift the transmission back and forth
between a forward range (or first gear
for manual transmission) and reverse.
This will create a rocking motion which
may give you enough momentum to
free the vehicle. Press gently on the
accelerator to keep wheel spin to a min-
imum. Remove your foot from the
accelerator while shifting.
Do not race the engine. Excessive
wheel spin will cause the tires to dig
deeper, making it more difficult to free
the vehicle.
3) If your vehicle remains stuck after a few
minutes of rocking, get another vehicle
to pull you out.

6-5VEHICLE LOADING AND TOWING
79K21-03E
Additional Trailer Towing Warnings
WARNING
Never overload your trailer or your
vehicle. Gross Trailer Weight must
never exceed 1350 kg (3000 pounds).
Gross Combined Weight must never
exceed 3400 kg (7500 pounds) for
2WD or 3450 kg (7600 pounds) for
4WD.
Gross vehicle weight must never
exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rat-
ing (GVWR) listed on the Safety Certi-
fication Label. Gross axle weight for
the front and rear axles must not
exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating
(GAWR) listed on the Safety Certifica-
tion Label.
WARNING
Do not tow a trailer having a gross
trailer weight greater than 450 kg
(1000 pounds) unless the trailer is
equipped with trailer brakes.
WARNING
Connect trailer lights and hook up
safety chains every time you tow.
WARNING
Your vehicle will handle differently
when towing a trailer. For your safety
and the safety of others, you should
observe the following precautions:
 Practice turning, stopping and
backing up before you begin tow-
ing in traffic. Do not tow in traffic
until you are confident that you can
handle the vehicle and trailer
safely.
 Never exceed posted towing speed
limits or 72 km/h (45 mph), which-
ever is lower.
 Never drive at a speed that causes
shaking or swaying of the trailer. If
you notice even the slightest sign
of shaking or swaying, slow down.
 Always have someone guide you
when backing.
(Continued)
WARNING
(Continued)
 Allow adequate stopping distance.
Stopping distance is increased
when you tow a trailer. For each 16
km/h (10 mph) of speed, allow at
least one vehicle and trailer length
between you and the vehicle ahead.
Follow at a greater distance if roads
are wet or slippery.
 Slow down when making turns.
Remember that a larger than nor-
mal turning radius is needed
because the trailer wheels will be
closer than the vehicle wheels to
the inside of the turn.
 Avoid sudden acceleration and
stopping of the vehicle. Do not
make quick maneuvers unless they
are necessary.
 Slow down in cross winds and be
prepared for wind blasts from large
passing vehicles.
 Be careful when passing other
vehicles. Be sure to allow enough
room for your trailer before you
change lanes, and signal well in
advance.
 Slow down and shift into a lower
gear before you reach long or steep
downhill grades. It is hazardous to
attempt downshifting while you are
descending a hill.
(Continued)
Trailer Towing: 5, 11, 13

6-8
VEHICLE LOADING AND TOWING
79K21-03E
Before towing
64J147
Vehicles equipped with a transfer switch
may be towed from the front with all four
wheels on the ground. Be sure to use
proper towing equipment designed for rec-
reational towing and make sure that towing
speed does not exceed 90 km/h (55 mph).To tow a vehicle equipped with a trans-
fer switch with all four wheels on the
ground:
1) Turn the ignition key to the “ON” posi-
tion.
2) Place the transmission in “N” (Neutral)
and depress the brake pedal and the
clutch pedal fully (if equipped).
3) Use the transfer switch to shift into neu-
tral.
64J218
NOTE:
First, push in and turn the switch to the
mark (1) at the left of the “N” position, and
hold the switch in this position for 5 sec-
onds until the “N” indicator blinks, then turn
the switch to the “N” position.
When you turn the transfer switch to the
“N” position, “N” indicator will come on with
the buzzer sound.
4) Make sure the “N” light on the instru-
ment cluster comes on.
5) Shift the manual transmission lever into
2nd gear or the automatic transmission
lever into “P” (Park).
6) Turn the ignition key to the “ACC” posi-
tion to unlock the steering wheel.
WARNING
When you tow your vehicle, follow
the instructions below to avoid acci-
dents and damage to your vehicle. In
addition, be sure to observe govern-
ment and local requirements regard-
ing vehicle lighting and trailer hitches
or tow bars.
WARNING
A safety chain should always be used
when you tow your vehicle.
CAUTION
Do not tow your vehicle with either
front wheels or rear wheels directly
on the ground (and the transmission
in neutral). If you do, the transmis-
sion will be damaged fatally.
(1)
Towing Your Vehicle (recreational towing): 13

INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
7
79K21-03E
60G410
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCEMaintenance Schedule ....................................................... 7-2
Periodic Maintenance Schedule ........................................ 7-3
Maintenance Recommended under Severe Driving
Conditions ........................................................................... 7-7
Drive Belt ............................................................................. 7-9
Engine Oil and Filter ........................................................... 7-10
Engine Coolant .................................................................... 7-13
Air Cleaner ........................................................................... 7-16
Spark Plugs ......................................................................... 7-16
Gear Oil ................................................................................ 7-17
Clutch Pedal ........................................................................ 7-20
Automatic Transmission Fluid ........................................... 7-20
Brakes .................................................................................. 7-22
Steering Wheel .................................................................... 7-24
Tires ...................................................................................... 7-25
Battery .................................................................................. 7-36
Fuses .................................................................................... 7-36
Headlight Aiming ................................................................. 7-39
Bulb Replacement ............................................................... 7-40
Wiper Blades ....................................................................... 7-46
Windshield Washer Fluid ................................................... 7-49
Air Conditioning System .................................................... 7-49

13-2INDEX
79K21-03E
Cup Holder and Storage Bin
...............................................5-72
DDaily Inspection Checklist
..................................................3-2
Daytime Running Light (D.R.L.) Indicator Light
...............2-63
Daytime Running Light (D.R.L.) System
............................2-78
Door Locks
...........................................................................2-1
Drive Belt
..............................................................................7-9
Driver’s Seat Belt Reminder Light
.....................................2-61
Driving Range
......................................................................2-68
EElectronic Stability Program (ESP®)
.................................3-31
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) .................................2-28
Emission Compliance Label (for U.S.A.)
...........................10-2
Engine Block Heater
............................................................3-10
Engine Coolant
....................................................................7-13
Engine Coolant Level Check
..............................................7-14
Engine Coolant Replacement .............................................7-15
Engine Hood
........................................................................5-63
Engine Oil and Filter
............................................................7-10
Engine Serial Number .........................................................10-1
Exhaust Gas Warning .........................................................3-1
FFloor Mats
............................................................................5-74
Fluid Level Check
................................................................7-20
Folding Rear Seats ..............................................................2-24
Frame Hooks
........................................................................5-83
Front Air Bags ......................................................................2-45
Front Fog Light Switch
.......................................................2-78
Front Passenger’s Seat Belt Reminder Light
...................2-55
Front Seat Back Pocket
......................................................5-73
Front Seat Heater
.................................................................2-21Front Seats
.......................................................................... 2-18
Fuel Consumption
.............................................................. 2-68
Fuel Filler Cap
..................................................................... 5-62
Fuel Gauge
.......................................................................... 2-65
Fuel Pump Labeling
............................................................ 1-1
Fuel Recommendation ....................................................... 1-1
Fuse under the Dash Board
............................................... 7-38
Fuses
.................................................................................... 7-36
FUSES AND PROTECTED CIRCUITS
................................ 11-1
GGasoline Containing MTBE
................................................ 1-1
Gasoline/Ethanol blends
.................................................... 1-1
Gasoline/Methanol blends ................................................. 1-1
Gear Oil
................................................................................ 7-17
Gear Oil Level Check
.......................................................... 7-19
Gear Oil Replacement ......................................................... 7-19
GLOSSARY OF TIRE TERMINOLOGY
............................... 7-32
Glove Box
............................................................................ 5-71
HHazard Warning Switch
...................................................... 2-79
Head Restraints
..........................................................2-20
, 2-23
Headlight Aiming
................................................................ 7-39
High Beam Indicator Light
................................................. 2-63
Hill descent control Indicator Light
................................... 2-60
Hill descent control System
............................................... 3-35
Hill hold control System
..................................................... 3-37
HomeLink®
.......................................................................... 5-80
Horn
...................................................................................... 2-82
IIdentification Numbers
....................................................... 10-1
If the Engine is Flooded ..................................................... 8-9

13-3
INDEX79K21-03E
If the Engine Overheats
......................................................8-9
If the Starter Does Not Operate
..........................................8-8
If You Cannot Shift Automatic Transmission Gearshift
Lever Out of “P” (PARK)
.....................................................3-15
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck ..................................................4-6
Ignition Key Reminder
........................................................2-1
Ignition Switch
.....................................................................3-3
Illumination Indicator Light
................................................2-64
Important Vehicle Design Features To Know
...................4-1
Improving Fuel Economy
....................................................4-3
Information Display
.............................................................2-67
Inside Rearview Mirror ........................................................2-17
Installation with Lap-Shoulder Seat Belts
(Child Restraint with No Top Strap)
...................................2-35
Installation with the LATCH System ..................................2-38
Installation-Child Restraint with Top Strap
.......................2-40
Instrument Cluster
...............................................................2-54
Interior Light Switch ............................................................5-64
JJacking Instructions
............................................................8-2
Jump Starting Instructions
.................................................8-7
KKeyless Entry System Transmitter (Type B)
.....................2-11
Keyless Start System Indicator Light
................................2-63
Keyless Start System Remote Controller (Type A)
..........2-5
Keyless Start System Remote Controller/
Keyless Entry System Transmitter
....................................2-4
Keys
......................................................................................2-1
LLap-Shoulder Belt
................................................................2-28
Lighting Control Lever
........................................................2-75Lighting Operation
.............................................................. 2-76
Lights “On” reminder ......................................................... 2-78
Listening to a CD
.......................................................5-15
, 5-42
Listening to a CD from an External CD Changer
(Option)
.......................................................................5-28
, 5-54
Listening to a XM Satellite Radio (Option)
..............5-25
, 5-51
Listening to Audio for AUX (Option)
.............. 5-27
, 5-49
, 5-53
Listening to the Radio
...............................................5-13
, 5-40
Low Fuel Warning Light
..................................................... 2-62
Low Tire Pressure Warning Light
.............................2-55
, 3-38
Luggage Compartment Cover
........................................... 5-74
Luggage Compartment Light ............................................. 5-65
Luggage Restraint Loops
................................................... 5-78
MMaintenance Recommended under Severe Driving
Conditions
........................................................................... 7-7
Maintenance Schedule
....................................................... 7-2
Malfunction Indicator Light
................................................ 2-61
Manual Transmission
......................................................... 3-11
Master Warning Indicator Light
......................................... 2-64
Mirrors
.................................................................................. 2-17
NNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA)
............................................................................... 10-4
OOdometer
............................................................................. 2-70
Off-Road Driving
................................................................. 4-6
Oil Level Check ................................................................... 7-10
Oil Pressure Light ............................................................... 2-60
On-Board Vehicle Computers and Event Data
Recorders
............................................................................ 10-3

13-4INDEX
79K21-03E
On-Pavement Driving
..........................................................4-4
Open Door Warning Light
...................................................2-62
Outside Rearview Mirrors ...................................................2-17
Overhead Console Box
.......................................................5-71
PParking Brake Lever
.................................................... 3-7
, 7-24
Pedals
...................................................................................3-8
Periodic Maintenance Schedule
.........................................7-3
Power Assisted Brakes
.......................................................3-29
Power Door Locking System
..............................................2-2
Power Mirror Control
...........................................................2-18
Power Steering
....................................................................7-24
Power Steering Fluid
...........................................................7-24
Power Window Controls
.....................................................2-15
RRadio Antenna
.....................................................................5-8
Rear Seats
............................................................................2-22
Rear Window Defroster and Outside Rearview Mirrors
Defroster Switch
..................................................................2-82
Rear Window Wiper/Washer Switch
..................................2-81
Refill with Oil and Check for Leaks ....................................7-12
Remote Audio Controls
............................................ 5-30
, 5-56
Replace the Oil Filter
...........................................................7-12
Replacing Tires and/or Wheels
..........................................3-41
Reporting Safety Defects
....................................................10-4
Roof Rails or Roof Rack Anchors
......................................5-78
SSafety Certification Label
...................................................10-2
Seat Adjustment
........................................................ 2-18
, 2-22
Seat Belt Extender
...............................................................2-41
Seat Belt Inspection ............................................................2-33Seat Belt Pretensioner System
.......................................... 2-42
Seat Belt Reminder
............................................................. 2-30
Seat Belts and Child Restraint Systems
........................... 2-26
Selection of Coolant
........................................................... 7-13
Shopping Hook
................................................................... 5-73
Shoulder anchor height adjuster
....................................... 2-32
Side Air Bags and Side Curtain Air Bags
......................... 2-46
Side Door Locks
.................................................................. 2-1
SLIP Indicator Light
...................................................2-58
, 3-32
Snow Tires
..................................................................7-32
, 8-6
Spare Tire Nut Lock
............................................................ 8-1
Spark Plugs
......................................................................... 7-16
SPECIFICATIONS
................................................................ 12-1
Specified Fluid
.................................................................... 7-20
Specified Gear Oil ............................................................... 7-17
Specified Oil
........................................................................ 7-10
Speedometer ....................................................................... 2-65
Spot Light
............................................................................ 5-66
Stability Control System
.................................................... 3-31
Starting the Engine
............................................................. 3-9
Steering Wheel
.................................................................... 7-24
Sun Visor
............................................................................. 5-64
Sunroof
................................................................................ 5-68
Supplemental Restraint System (air bags)
....................... 2-43
TTachometer
.......................................................................... 2-65
Tailgate
................................................................................ 2-3
Temperature Gauge
............................................................ 2-66
Theft Deterrent Light .......................................................... 2-15
Thermometer
....................................................................... 2-70
Tilt Steering Lock Lever
..................................................... 2-82