🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Suzuki Model: Esteem Year: 1999 Generation Generation Identifier: Second Generation (GF) Codes Chassis Code: GF413 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Subcompact/Compact sedan and hatchback, aimed at affordability and practicality. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus (in relevant markets) Key Features Vehicle Selling Points: Fuel efficiency, reliability (generally), affordability, practical interior space for its class. Manual Value Proposition Manual Advantage: Provides detailed, actionable information for maintenance and repair, empowering owners to maintain their vehicle effectively and potentially save on labor costs. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Scope: Comprehensive repair, service, and maintenance Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely 500-1000+ pages (typical for a complete factory service manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine removal/installation, engine specifications, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems Drivetrain Systems: Transmission, drive chain & sprockets (if applicable to certain configurations, though Esteem is typically FWD/AWD with conventional transmissions), drive axles, differential Chassis Systems: Steering system, suspension (shocks), brakes, wheels, tires Electrical Systems: Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, ignition, starting, charging, lighting, instruments, accessories Body Systems: Body work, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, HVAC (likely covered under general maintenance or body) Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Repair Procedures: Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, internal engine repair, transmission repair, suspension and steering component replacement, brake system overhaul, electrical component repair Troubleshooting Procedures: Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation (if applicable), advanced troubleshooting guides Technical Depth Technical Depth: Covers from basic user maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repairs, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Portable Document Format (PDF) Print Quality PDF Searchability: Typically searchable text, enabling quick information retrieval. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: G13B (likely) Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve Displacement: 1.3 Liters (1328 cc) Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 80-85 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque Range: Approximately 105-110 Nm @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Recommended Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 87 RON / 86 MON) Lubrication System Oil Capacity: Approx. 3.2 Liters (3.4 US Quarts) with filter change Cooling System Coolant Capacity: Approx. 5.0 Liters (5.3 US Quarts) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features Transmission Fluid Type: Manual: Gear oil (API GL-4, SAE 75W-90); Automatic: ATF DEXRON-II or equivalent Drive Type Drive Layout: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional on some trims/markets 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4155 mm (163.6 in) for sedan Width: Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in) Height: Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in) for sedan Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1000-1100 kg (2200-2425 lbs) depending on body style and drivetrain Cargo Cargo Volume: Sedan: Approx. 12.0 cu ft; Hatchback: Significantly more with rear seats folded 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating: Not readily available for this specific model year and market, likely 3-4 star (based on era and class) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Rating: Not readily available for this specific model year and market, likely 3-4 star (based on era and class) Active Features ABS: Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims or later production runs. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Seatbelts: 3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts (outboard), 2-point center rear seatbelt. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. 4 speakers standard. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional on higher trim levels. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not available in standard factory configuration. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era). Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months. Timing Belt Replacement: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Critical to follow to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on climate). Coolant Specification: Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Brake Fluid Specification: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Known Issues Common Complaints: Rust/corrosion (especially in certain climates), aging suspension components (bushings, ball joints), occasional electrical gremlins, potential for head gasket issues if overheated. Timing Belt Failure Risk: High risk of catastrophic engine damage if timing belt breaks due to interference engine design. Strict adherence to replacement schedule is paramount. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Suzuki Automotive Focus:...
Subcompact/Compact sedan and hatchback, aimed at affordability and practicality.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus (in relevant markets)
Key Features
Vehicle Selling Points:
Fuel efficiency, reliability (generally), affordability, practical interior space for its class.
Manual Value Proposition
Manual Advantage:
Provides detailed, actionable information for maintenance and repair, empowering owners to maintain their vehicle effectively and potentially save on labor costs.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Scope:
Comprehensive repair, service, and maintenance
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 500-1000+ pages (typical for a complete factory service manual)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital Downloadable PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Systems:
Engine removal/installation, engine specifications, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission, drive chain & sprockets (if applicable to certain configurations, though Esteem is typically FWD/AWD with conventional transmissions), drive axles, differential
Covers from basic user maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repairs, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Print Quality
PDF Searchability:
Typically searchable text, enabling quick information retrieval.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
G13B (likely)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.3 Liters (1328 cc)
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 80-85 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Range:
Approximately 105-110 Nm @ 3500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 87 RON / 86 MON)
Lubrication System
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 Liters (3.4 US Quarts) with filter change
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional on some trims/markets
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4155 mm (163.6 in) for sedan
Width:
Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in) for sedan
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1000-1100 kg (2200-2425 lbs) depending on body style and drivetrain
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
Sedan: Approx. 12.0 cu ft; Hatchback: Significantly more with rear seats folded
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:
Not readily available for this specific model year and market, likely 3-4 star (based on era and class)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Rating:
Not readily available for this specific model year and market, likely 3-4 star (based on era and class)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims or later production runs.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts (outboard), 2-point center rear seatbelt.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. 4 speakers standard.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trim levels.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not available in standard factory configuration.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Critical to follow to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on climate).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common Complaints:
Rust/corrosion (especially in certain climates), aging suspension components (bushings, ball joints), occasional electrical gremlins, potential for head gasket issues if overheated.
Timing Belt Failure Risk:
High risk of catastrophic engine damage if timing belt breaks due to interference engine design. Strict adherence to replacement schedule is paramount.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Suzuki Automotive Focus:
Suzuki is historically known for its smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles and motorcycles, often emphasizing value and practicality.
Model Evolution
Cultus Lineage:
The Esteem is a successor to the Suzuki Cultus and was sold globally under various names (e.g., Suzuki Cultus Crescent, Suzuki Baleno in some markets).
Production
Production Period:
First generation (GF) produced from 1991 to 1998. The 1999 model year represents the start of the second generation (GF), often considered a facelift or revised model, with full redesign occurring later for subsequent generations.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, also assembled in other countries under license or joint ventures (e.g., India, Pakistan, Hungary).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Notable Awards:
While not a frequent recipient of major awards, the Esteem was generally praised for its value and practicality within the subcompact segment during its production run.