Suzuki Jimny, Manual

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4-4
DRIVING TIPS
78RB1-01E
Off-Road Driving
Your vehicle has specific design character-
istics for off-road driving. When you leave
the paved road, 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.
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 Drive Across the Side of
Hills
Driving across the side of a hill can be
extremely hazardous. Most of the vehicle’s
weight will be transferred to the downhill
tyres, which could result in the vehicle roll-
ing sideways. Whenever possible, 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” section in this manual.
Avoid Sudden Reactions in Mud,
Ice, or Snow
Be careful when off-road conditions are
slippery. Reduce your speed and avoid
sudden movements of the 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.
NOTICE
Never operate your vehicle in “4H” or
“4L” on dry pavement and, as much
as possible, avoid using “4H” or “4L”
on wet pavement, as this puts severe
stress on the drive train, especially
during tight cornering, and can dam-
age it. Also, you may have some diffi-
culty in steering.