Approx. 2300 - 2500 lbs (varies by body style and trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Refer to vehicle's compliance plate
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Likely 3-star or 4-star (based on era and segment, manual will have specific data)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Likely 3-star or 4-star (based on era and segment, manual will have specific data)
Active Features
ABS:
Available (Anti-lock Braking System)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, pretensioners
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette tape, basic speaker system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio system connectivity (e.g., AUX input, if equipped).
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact interval based on driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or 12-24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, Iridium recommended for longer life)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for G16A/B engines: 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (failure can cause catastrophic engine damage)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, or SJ certified, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendation)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5-4.0 US quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Suzuki Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Known Issues
Timing Belt:
Critical maintenance item; replacement is paramount to prevent engine damage.
Suspension Components:
Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings due to age and mileage.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and leaks in the exhaust manifold and pipes.
Electrical Connectors:
Potential for corrosion in grounds and electrical connectors over time.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Suzuki Automotive:
Suzuki has a long history of producing reliable and economical vehicles, often with a focus on compact and lightweight designs.
Model Evolution
Esteem Lineage:
The Esteem was a popular compact car produced by Suzuki from 1989 to 2002, succeeding the Suzuki Cultus/Swift in some markets. The 1998 model represents the second generation (1995-2002).
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, also assembled in other international locations.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Segment Recognition:
The Esteem was generally well-regarded for its fuel economy and value proposition in the compact car segment of its time.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Index:
Manual will provide specific ratings or diagnostic data often referenced by consumer guides.