Suzuki VITARA Series, Owner'S Manual

Page: 235 / 482

4-1
DRIVING TIPS
54P00-01E
52D078S
Running-in Catalytic converter
80G106
The purpose of the catalytic converter is to
minimize the amount of harmful pollutants
in your vehicle’s exhaust. Use of leaded
fuel in vehicles equipped with catalytic
converters is prohibited, because lead
deactivates the pollutant-reducing compo-
nents of the catalyst system.
The converter is designed to last the life of
the vehicle under normal usage and when
unleaded fuel is used. No special mainte-
nance is required on the converter. How-
ever, it is very important to keep the engine
properly tuned. Engine misfiring, which can
result from an improperly tuned engine,
may cause overheating of the catalytic
converter. This may result in permanent
WARNING
• Fasten your seat belts at all times.
Even though air bags are equipped
at the front seating positions, the
driver and all passengers should
be properly restrained at all times,
using the seat belts provided. Refer
to “Seat belts and child restraint
systems” section for instructions
on proper use of the seat belts.
• Never drive under the influence of
alcohol or other drugs. Alcohol and
drugs can seriously impair your
ability to drive safely, greatly
increasing the risk of injury to
yourself and others. You should
also avoid driving when you are
tired, sick, irritated or under stress.
NOTICE
The future performance and reliabil-
ity of the engine depends on the care
and restraint exercised during its
early life. It is especially important to
observe the following precautions
during the first 960 km (600 miles) of
vehicle operation.
• After starting, do not race the
engine. Warm it up gradually.
• Avoid prolonged vehicle operation
at a constant speed. Moving parts
will break in better if you vary your
speed.
• Start off from a stop slowly. Avoid
full throttle starts.
• Avoid hard braking, especially
during the first 320 km (200 miles)
of driving.
• Do not drive slowly with the trans-
axle in a high gear.
• Drive the vehicle at moderate
engine speeds.
• Do not tow a trailer during the first
960 km (600 miles) of vehicle oper-
ation.