Hello, I've just recently purchased a 2000 Vitara with a 2.0l.  It's a pretty fun vehicle, I mainly use it as a family car.  One thing that does have me concerned is that the four-wheel drive is rather odd when it is engaged.  When I turn, it feels as if my brakes are on.  It is very annoying, especially when trying to get out of a parking space.  I know this has probably been answered before, and I tried searching before posting, but I didn't find anything.  Any help is appreciated.

for me its the same, i dont wanna say any details because im not sure of them, but im guessing its pretty much normal.  however you will find that for some reason if you do actually need it (when it snows, on rough terrain, any out of normal surface/wether) you really dont notice it...overall this car's 4wheel drive system has actually been one of the best i have used because of its size and not to mention if selected its going to be full time.

you are not supposed to be in 4wd in parking lots!  unless there's a whack of snow... 4x4 should not be engaged on dry pavement, any 4x4 in a tight turn on pavement will feel this way, so there's likely nothing wrong.  you have to remember that this a a 4x4, not an all wheel drive pretend truck!

I understand that it is not an "all-wheel drive pretend truck."  This was happening in the snow and in the rain.  I had it on this morning because it was raining pretty good where I live.  I understand it is not supposed to be used on dry pavement, that's why I don't use it.  So please, don't be rude, it's just a question.  I've used the four-wheel drive in a parking lot when there was snow, because if I didn't the rear-wheel drive function would not have gotten me out.  So this is occuring in snow and in rainy conditions.  It feels as if the brakes are completely on and there's no way to backup at that point.  It's like your turning radius is cut in half.  Any other ideas, or is it just normal.

Also, even when I wasn't in the parking lot, and there was a bunch of snow on the ground, it still did the same thing.

its normal, as i stated, it happens to mee too, i wouldnt worry about it too much.  ussually in the snow you dont tend to feel it as much or depending on when at all. 

Ok, thanks for the feedback.  Sorry, didn't mean to ask the question again or make like I was ignoring your answer.  I just think that's it's a rather odd feeling.  So far, it's the only "problem" that I've had with the vitara (knock on wood).  But thanks for the feedback.

wasn't trying to be rude with you.  as long as you are using the 4x4 in the right conditions it's ok.  the reaons i mentioned the AWD thing is i've met people who drive these things that are completely clueless as to the difference.  i wouldn't suggest using it in the rain on pavement either.  if you need it for traction in the rain it's likely you have a tire issue.

hahahaha o no, just wanted to clarify what i stated :-D i freakin hate that too especially when i have to make those damn tight turns!!