Using the 2WD/i-AWD (intelligent All Wheel Drive) Switch (if equipped)

Using the 2WD/i-AWD (intelligent All Wheel Drive) Switch (if equipped)

This i-AWD system enables you to select the driving mode according to the driving conditions by operating the 2WD/i-AWD switch. With this feature, you can select 3 mode positions, “2WD”, “i-AWD AUTO” and “i-AWD LOCK” by operating the 2WD/ i-AWD switch even when the vehicle is moving, provided the front wheels are in the straight ahead position.

Description of 3 Mode 4 x 4 System Positions

2WD

In this position, engine power is supplied to the front axle only. Use this position for normal driving (on dry, hard surfaces).

i-AWD AUTO

In this position, engine power is supplied to the front and rear axles at normal speed, providing greater traction than 2-wheel drive. Use this position for driving on paved roads or on slippery roads (icy, snow-covered, muddy, etc.).

In the AUTO mode, the i-AWD controller judges the driving conditions using signals from sensors.

When slipping of the front wheels is detected, the electronically controlled coupling supplies optimum driving force to the rear wheels. This function improves driving stability and running through performance on rough roads and stabilizes driving performance even on a snow covered up-hill road or the like.

Also, during normal driving on paved roads, torque distribution to the rear wheels is reduced to achieve the nearly front wheel drive condition, thereby fuel consumption is improved.

i-AWD LOCK

In this position, engine power is supplied to the front and rear axles at reduced speed.

Use this position when it is hard to start off in the “i-AWD AUTO” mode such as in mud, sand or on snow.

NOTE:
• Avoid operating your vehicle in the “i- AWD LOCK” on wet pavement as much as possible. Operating your vehicle in the “i-AWD LOCK” on wet pavement may cause severe damage to the drive train.

• As the vehicle speed increases, the “i- AWD LOCK” mode is automatically canceled and the “i-AWD AUTO” mode is selected.

• When the ignition switch is turned to the “OFF” position, the “i-AWD LOCK” mode is canceled.

2WD/i-AWD Switch Operation

Operate the 2WD/i-AWD switch according to the appropriate procedure described below:

How to turn on 2WD/i-AWD switch

2WD/i-AWD switch will activate when the ignition switch is turned on.

From 2WD to i-AWD AUTO

Turn the 2WD/i-AWD switch to the neutral position, and the “i-AWD AUTO” indicator will come on.

From i-AWD AUTO to i-AWD LOCK

Push the “i-AWD LOCK” switch for a few seconds until the “i-AWD LOCK” indicator will come on.

From i-AWD LOCK to i-AWD AUTO

Push the “i-AWD LOCK” switch, and the “i- AWD AUTO” indicator will come on.

From i-AWD AUTO or LOCK to 2WD

Push the “2WD” switch, and the “i-AWD AUTO” or “i-AWD LOCK” indicator will turn off.

NOTE:
• The 2WD/i-AWD switch can be operated when the vehicle is either stopped or moving.

• Make sure that the front wheels are in the straight ahead position when operating the 2WD/i-AWD switch.

• While making turns or accelerating and decelerating, operating the 2WD/i-AWD switch or turning off the key switch in the “i-AWD AUTO” or “i-AWD LOCK” mode may cause a shock, but this is not a system malfunction.

• While driving in the “i-AWD LOCK” mode, as the vehicle speed increases, the driving mode changes to the “i-AWD AUTO” mode automatically. Even when the vehicle speed reduces, on the other hand, the driving mode does not return to the “i-AWD LOCK” mode automatically.

You should press the “i-AWD LOCK” switch according to the driving conditions.

• Any forcible operation while driving offroad in the sand or water or when a wheel has run off the road, the difference of the revolution between front wheels and rear wheels increases (wheels run idle). If this state continues, the oil temperature of the driving system parts rises.

In such case, the “i-AWD AUTO” indicator light blinks and the driving mode changes to the 2WD mode to protect the driving system parts.

When you operate your vehicle in the i- AWD mode continuously, park the vehicle at a safe place and run the engine idle. After some time, the “i-AWD AUTO” indicator light turns on again and the driving mode returns to the “i-AWD AUTO” mode.

CAUTION:
• Never use the “i-AWD LOCK” mode when driving on dry paved roads.

Avoid using the “i-AWD LOCK” mode when driving on wet paved roads as much as possible. Use of the “i-AWD LOCK” mode in above conditions will apply excessive force to the driving system and may cause a critical failure. Also, the tires may wear faster and fuel consumption may be affected adversely.

• Note that i-AWD vehicles are not all-around vehicles. Be sure to observe following instructions when driving your vehicle.

– Do not drive through water like crossing a river.

– Do not drive continuously where front wheels tend to race in places such as sand and mud.

– When any wheel is in the air for such reason as running off the road, do not race it needlessly.

• If the “i-AWD AUTO” and the “i- AWD LOCK” indicator lights stay on and come on simultaneously when driving, there may be something wrong the i-AWD system.

Have the system inspected by an authorized SUZUKI dealer.

CAUTION:
Unevenly worn tires can cause problems in the operation of the 2WD/i- AWD switch. Be sure to rotate the tires according to the maintenance schedule. Refer to “Tires” and “Maintenance Schedule” in the “INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE” section for proper tire rotation procedures.