General Description

The Suzuki 3-speed is a fully automatic electronically controlled transaxle for front wheel drive vehicles providing three forward gear ranges and a reverse. The major components of this transaxle are:
- Torque converter
- Gear type fluid pump
- Valve body assembly
- Direct clutch
- Forward clutch
- 1st-Reverse brake
- Intermediate brake band
- Sprag type one-way clutch

A Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is used to evaluate driving conditions such as throttle opening rate and vehicle speed by receiving information through various sensors throughout the vehicle. The PCM uses this information to determine upshifts and downshifts for optimum vehicle performance.

The Suzuki 3-speed automatic transaxle can be operated in any one of six different ranges:
P - Park position prevents the vehicle from rolling either forward or backward. For reasons of safety, the parking brake should be used in addition to the park position at all times.
R - Reverse position allows the vehicle to be operated in a rearward direction.
N - Neutral position allows the engine to be started and operated without driving the vehicle. If necessary, this position may be selected if the engine must be restarted with the vehicle moving.
D - Drive position is used for city traffic and hilly terrain. It provides three gear ratios with available downshifts for safe passing by pressing the accelerator pedal.
2 - Manual second is used to provide acceleration and engine braking. This range should be selected only when vehicle speed is below 48 km/h (30 mph).
L - Manual low is used to provide maximum engine braking. This range should be selected only when vehicle speed is below 24 km/h (15 mph).