The Most Common Suzuki Problems
The most common Suzuki problems include faulty timing chain tensioners, CVT failures, engine issues, and premature headlight failure.
Written by Annette Maxon
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Suzuki cars are prone to problems ranging from transmission system issues to faulty engine systems, bad timing chain tensioners, and burnt-out head bulbs, among other problems specific to each model.
It could be easy to think that the Japanese-made Suzuki is a near flawless make—between their durability and reliable performance, how could these cars have any problems? However, there’s no such thing as a perfect car and Suzuki is no exception.
Whether you’re shopping for a new car or are a current Suzuki owner, it’s a good idea to keep in mind some of the common problems you might come across when driving one of these sturdy vehicles.
That’s why the
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, created this helpful guide to break down common Suzuki problems by model. Plus, you’ll even learn how to find cheap Suzuki insurance costs
for your vehicle without any of the hassle involved in car shopping. Are you overpaying for your car insurance?
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What are the most common Suzuki problems?
There are a few key problems that appear again and again in Suzukis. The most common problems reported by Suzuki drivers include:
- CVT failures
- Inflated MPG numbers
- Engine overheating
- Burnt-out head bulbs
Though these problems may befall any Suzuki model, some models are more problem-prone than others. Check out the table below for an overview of the common problems for some of the most unreliable Suzuki models:
Model | Starting price | J.D. Power reliability rating | Most common problems | Years to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
XL7 | $26,500 | N/A | Brake problems, faulty timing chain, recalls, safety issues, excessive road noise, poor-quality materials on the interior | 2008, 2007, 2003, 2004, 2009 |
Forenza | $15,149 | 78/100 | Failed air/fuel sensor, faulty high/low-beam headlamps, lack of power, low fuel pressure, leaky fuel injector | 2006, 2005, 2008, 2007, 2004 |
Grand Vitara | $20,799 | N/A | Burnt-out headlights, Failed A/C condenser fan, timing chain oil leaks, faulty air bag sensor | 2006, 2007, 2008, 2002, 2010 |
SX4 | $16,500 | N/A | Transmission failures, leaky rear axle seals, accelerator pedal sticks, 5th gear malfunction, cracked engine block, faulty air bag sensors | 2007, 2008, 2009, 2013, 2010 |
Aerio | $18,000 | 79/100 | Tires wear out quickly, worn out brakes | 2006, 2006, 2002, 2004, 2007 |
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversMost common Suzuki XL7 problems
Average annual repair cost: $539
CarComplaints.com complaints: 79
Released in 2007,
Suzuki’s XL7
strove to do the impossible by combining the family-friendly flexibility of the minivan with the horsepower and torque of a sportier SUV. But what went wrong? Safety issues with the windshields have led to numerous recalls over its tenure. Constructed out of the incorrect materials, the windshields for these models were highly prone to fall out of place during a crash.
Other problems range from faulty brake systems and broken timing chains to excessive road noise and low-quality interior materials. As repair after repair stacks up, the average annual repair cost for the XL7 totals $500+. If you have any concerns about your
brake safety
, get an inspection ASAP.Most common Suzuki Forenza problems
Average annual repair cost: $455
CarComplaints.com complaints: 73
If you’re driving a
Forenza
, know that the fuel system may be the cause of many headaches. Problems with the fuel system range from failed air/fuel sensors to hard starts caused by low fuel pressure, not to mention the likelihood of a leaky fuel injector.Another common Suzuki Forenza problem deals with the lack of power paired with a Check Engine Light. Typically, the root of this issue is a broken throttle actuator, which will need to be replaced entirely to remedy the problem.
If you have a 2004-2006 model, know that the low beam and daytime running lights have been the cause of a few recalls. This problem is seen in other car years as well—so don’t be surprised if your Forenza
headlights stop working
(this is typically caused by a broken connection at the headlight switch
).Most common Suzuki Grand Vitara problems
Average annual repair cost: $478
CarComplaints.com complaints: 57
The
Grand Vitara
is no stranger to frequently burnt-out headlights. Though, unlike its cousin models, the Grand Vitara has not had any recalls for this specific problem. The most common situation is prematurely burnt-out low beam headlights, often caused by a faulty vehicle electrical system. The
A/C condenser
fan is a hot problem as well. Failure in this system prevents the car’s air conditioning system from being able to create cool air, which no one wants come summertime! Grand Vitara drivers may also have to deal with serious issues such as oil leaks around the timing chain gasket or a faulty airbag sensor.Most common Suzuki SX4 problems
Average annual repair cost: $499
CarComplaints.com complaints: 27
Though the
SX4
has relatively few complaints on CarComplaints.com, the common SX4 problems are just as serious as they are costly. SX4 owners have reported transmission system failures, including issues with the fifth gear not working—this problem alone will set you back nearly $2,000 to repair. You may also experience a sticking accelerator pedal, cracked engine block, leaky seals on the rear axles, or issues with the airbag sensor lights. If your
gas pedal is stuck
, you're either going nowhere fast or going fast forever!Most common Suzuki Aerio problems
Average annual repair cost: $317
CarComplaints.com complaints: 17
Suzuki Aerio’s
most common issues can be found in the tires and braking system. The rear tires tend to wear out prematurely, although uneven tire wear
can sometimes be remedied by rotating the tires. The other common problem is premature wear on the brake pads
, especially if you’re an aggressive driver or fail to check or add the brake fluid on time. Are Suzuki cars reliable?
Compared to other manufacturers Suzuki cars are not the most reliable. Between their steadfast and durable Japanese engineering to their simple technology, it’d be easy to assume that these cars will be foolproof. However, between numerous recalls, safety issues, and frequent headlight failures, among other problems, Suzuki cars are far less reliable than some of their counterparts.
However, that doesn’t mean that you should avoid all Suzukis! Here’s a closer look at the least reliable model (think: the model that should be avoided) and the most reliable of the Suzuki family.
The least reliable Suzuki model: 2008 Suzuki XL7
Most common problem: Faulty timing chain tensioner
NHTSA complaints: 73
It’s best to steer clear of the 2008 model Suzuki’s XL7. Though this model hit the market ready to offer a competitive 5-seat car with top-notch horsepower, spaciousness, and a budget-friendly price, the 2008 XL7 racked up numerous complaints about its faulty timing chain tensioner and leaky front axles.
With 73 NHTSA complaints plus 47 on CarComplaints.com, it’s clear to see that the 2008 Suzuki XL7 is the manufacturer’s least reliable model.
The most reliable Suzuki model: Suzuki Jimny
Most common problem: Engine issues
NHTSA complaints: N/A
The Suzuki Jimny is a highly reliable SUV, with a ReliabilityIndex of 71. What’s more, is that no complaints have been logged on CarComplaints.com for the Suzuki Jimny.
Starting at $26,990, the Jimny is one of Suzuki’s more expensive options. Nonetheless, know that this reliable model also deals with problems ranging from faulty wheel hub heads to poor rust prevention treatment,
gearbox
failures, worn-out velocity joints, and engine issues. How to buy hassle-free car insurance
Whether you’re a Suzuki driver or are just shopping around for a new car, it can be a headache trying to find the most reliable vehicle that won’t let you down. But why should shopping for
car insurance
have to be a hassle as well? Meet
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Suzuki insurance cost
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