4WD Control System Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Suzuki Vitara, 2002 Suzuki Vitara, 2001 Suzuki Vitara, 2000 Suzuki Vitara, and 1999 Suzuki Vitara. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When the 4WD switch is turned ON by shifting the transfer shift lever, ECM (PCM) actuates (energizes) the air pump assembly. Then positive pressure is sent from the air pump assembly to the actuator installed to the differential case and causes the axle lock clutch and the free axle hub in the differential case to be engaged, resulting in the 4WD mode. Only when running in the 4WD mode, front axles are joined to differential case, and they become free when 2WD mode is used (or when transfer shift lever is shifted to N position) thereby reducing the power loss.