Brakes

Brake Fluid

Check the brake fluid level by looking at the reservoir in the engine compartment.

Check that the fluid level is between the “MAX” and “MIN” lines. If the brake fluid level is near the “MIN” line, fill it up to the “MAX” line with DOT3 brake fluid.

WARNING:
Failure to follow the guidelines below can result in personal injury or serious damage to the brake system.

• If the brake fluid in the reservoir drops below a certain level, the brake warning light on the instrument panel will come on (the
engine must be running with the parking brake fully disengaged.) Should the light come on, immediately ask your SUZUKI dealer to inspect the brake system.

• A rapid fluid loss indicates a leak in the brake system which should be inspected by your SUZUKI dealer immediately.

• Brake fluid can harm your eyes and damage painted surfaces. Use caution when refilling the reservoir.

• Do not use any fluid other than DOT3 brake fluid. Do not use reclaimed fluid or fluid that has been stored in old or open containers.

It is essential that foreign particles and other liquids are kept out of the brake fluid reservoir.

WARNING:
Brake fluid is harmful or fatal if swallowed, and harmful if it comes in contact with skin or eyes. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Immediately contact a poison control center or a physician. If brake fluid gets in eyes, flush eyes with water and seek medical attention. Wash thoroughly after handling. Solution can be poisonous to animals. Keep out of the reach of children and animals.

CAUTION:
The brake fluid should be replaced according to the maintenance schedule.

Have the brake fluid replaced by your SUZUKI dealer.

NOTE:
With disc brakes, the fluid level can be expected to gradually fall as the brake pads wear.

Brake Pedal

With the engine running and the parking brake set, measure the distance between the brake pedal and floor carpet when the pedal is depressed with approximately 300 N (66 lbs, 30 kg) of force. The minimum distance required is as specified. Since your vehicle’s brake system is self-adjusting, there is no need for pedal adjustment.

If the pedal to floor carpet distance as measured above is less than the minimum distance required, have your vehicle inspected by your SUZUKI dealer.

NOTE:
When measuring the distance between the brake pedal and floor wall, be sure not to include the floor mat or rubber on the floor wall in your measurement.

WARNING:
If you experience any of the following problems with your vehicle’s brake system, have the vehicle inspected immediately by your SUZUKI dealer.

• Poor braking performance.

• Uneven braking (Brakes not working uniformly on all wheels.).

• Excessive pedal travel.

• Brake dragging.

• Excessive noise.

• (Except ABS equipped vehicle).

Pedal pulsation (Pedal pulsates when pressed for braking.)

Parking Brake Lever

Check the parking brake for proper adjustment by counting the number of clicks made by the ratchet teeth as you slowly pull up on the parking brake lever to the point of full engagement. The parking brake lever should stop between the specified ratchet teeth and the rear wheels should be securely locked. If the parking brake is not properly adjusted or the brakes drag after the lever has been fully released, have the parking brake inspected and/or adjusted by your SUZUKI dealer.