2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara Owner's Manual - Page 150

DRIVING TIPS Tire Chains WARNING • Do not allow anyone to stand near the vehicle when you are rocking it, and do not spin the wheels faster than an indicated 40 km/h (25 mph) on the speedometer. Personal injury and/or vehicle damage may result from spinning the wheels too fast. • Be sure to turn the transfer switch from "4H" to "4H LOCK" or "4L LOCK" when the tires slip in "4H". The continuing tires slip in "4H" can cause the limited slip differential gear damage in the center differential. Tire chains should only be used if they are needed to increase traction or are required by law. Make sure that the chains you use are small-link chains or cable-type chains and are the correct size for your vehicle's tires. Also make sure that there is enough clearance between the fenders and the chains as installed on the tires. Install the chains on the rear tires tightly, according to the chain manufacturer's instructions. Retighten the chains after driving about 1.0 km (1/2 mile) if necessary. With the chains installed, drive slowly. Do not drive through deep or rushing water Driving in deep or rushing water can be hazardous. You could lose control of the vehicle and the occupants could drown. Also, your vehicle could be seriously damaged. To avoid these risks, observe the following instructions and precautions. • Do not drive through deep or rushing water. Deep or rushing water, such as fast-moving streams or floodwaters, could carry your vehicle away from your intended path. The water is too deep if it covers your wheel hubs, axles or exhaust tailpipe. Know the depth of the water before you attempt to drive through it. • If water blocks the tailpipe, the engine may not start or run. If the water is deep enough to get drawn into the engine intake system, the engine will be badly damaged. • Submerged brakes will have poor braking performance. Drive slowly and carefully. Driving slowly will also help avoid water splashing onto the ignition system, which could cause the engine to stall. • Even when driving through shallow or still waters, drive carefully since the water may be hiding ground hazards such as holes, ditches or bumps. CAUTION If you hear the chains hitting against the vehicle body while driving, stop and tighten them. CAUTION Release the accelerator pedal when operating the gearshift lever. Operating the lever with the engine racing can damage the gears. CAUTION Do not continue rocking the vehicle for more than a few minutes. Prolonged rocking can cause engine overheating, transmission or transfer case damage or tire damage. 4-7 79K21-03E