The Suzuki Vitara is one of the finest Suzuki SUVs on the market. This car is refined, spacious, comfortable, and fun to drive. However, it also comes with several problems. But what are the common problems with the Suzuki Vitara?
Common problems with the Suzuki Vitara are a clogged DPF, failing brake calipers, a cracked cylinder head, a failing drive belt tension adjuster pulley, and a faulty suspension system. On top of that, it also records a dropped clutch, rough idling, problems with the AC system, clogged EGR valve, and engine rattling noise.
What are the common problems with Suzuki Vitara?
Clogged DPF
If you own a Suzuki Vitara, this is the first issue you should anticipate having. This is because the Suzuki Vitara’s mechanical system has a great need for clean oil and regular oil changes. As a result, if the owner fails to match this demand, it can lead to a dirty diesel particulate filter that can clog and underperform.
To fix this problem, ensure to unclog or clean the DPF.
Failing brake calipers
Another common problem is failing brake calipers. This issue always shows up when the Vitara has been left idle for a long period. If the brake calipers of your car are unresponsive or not working properly, then you will have to replace them.
Cracked cylinder head
If you notice that your car is performing poorly and producing smoke from the exhaust, it is high time you check the cylinder head. A cracked cylinder head can cause oil and coolant to leak on the ground.
To fix this issue, take the car to a professional mechanic for inspection and replace the cracked cylinder head.
Failing drive belt tension adjuster pulley
The Suzuki Vitara has not had many recalls in the past. With that said, one of the main issues that caused the manufacturer to recall certain model years was a failing drive belt tension adjuster pulley. The most affected models were the 2011 Suzuki Vitara models.
The manufacturer noted that an internal spring could cause a loss of tension in the system. Nonetheless, the issue was fixed.
Faulty suspension system
If you’re planning to acquire a used Suzuki Vitara, it is crucial to inspect the car well. One of the issues that used Vitara models faces is faulty suspension. If the car was used for towing, you should check its suspension as it’s prone to failure. Ensure the suspension system is checked and fixed.
Dropped clutch
When there is a broken weld on the pedal pivot assembly, the clutch pedal will drop or become loose. To fix this issue, you will have to order a new clutch assembly and replace it with the faulty one. Before doing so, ensure your mechanic inspects the entire clutch assembly.
Rough idle
Suzuki Vitara doesn’t come with a lot of engine problems. Nonetheless, several users have complained about the engine idling rough. This issue is usually caused by an engine vacuum leak from the throttle body base gasket. Therefore, if you want to fix this problem, you should replace the bad gasket.
Issues with the AC system
Another overlooked problem with the Suzuki Vitara is a failing air conditioning system. Many owners complained that the AC stops blowing cold air or takes longer to blow cold air. The main suspect is a failing condenser fan motor. So, to fix this problem, your mechanic should inspect and replace the bad condenser fan motor.
Engine rattling noise
This issue is typically caused by a lack of or poor maintenance of the car. After putting on several miles, the timing chain tensioners will fail. And if they do, you will hear a rattling noise emanating from the engine. This is a sign that the timing chain tensioner is worn out or damaged and has to be changed.
Clogged EGR Valve
The exhaust gas recirculation valve is a crucial part of your car’s engine. Nonetheless, this part tends to clog up and cause engine idling and lack of power. If your car has a clogged EGR valve, fixing the problem is simple. All you will have to do is to clean up the valve and get rid of the carbon buildup.
FAQ
Is the Suzuki Vitara reliable?
Yes, the Suzuki Vitara is a very reliable car. Only models from Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai have performed better than the Vitara. Besides, most reliability agencies awarded it above-average reliability, which is very impressive.
How long does the Suzuki Vitara last?
With proper care and maintenance, the Suzuki Vitara should easily clock more than 200,000 miles. Nevertheless, some people have even clocked more than 300,000 miles, which is very impressive. But for the owner to achieve this feat, it is vital to exercise good driving habits apart from taking good care of the car.
Is it expensive to maintain the Suzuki Vitara?
No, maintaining the Suzuki Vitara is way cheaper compared to most of its competitors. This is because it costs around $480 to maintain this car on an annual basis. This is cheaper than the average cost of maintaining cars, which is $652 annually. So, the owner will save a lot in terms of expenditure on the car.
What is the least reliable Suzuki Vitara model year?
Suzuki Vitara is one of the least reliable Suzuki models on the market. Nonetheless, there are some reliable models, but most of them perform poorly in this category. The title of the least reliable Suzuki Vitara model year goes to the 2006 models. This car registers many issues, but the main ones are brake grinding and premature failure of the front passenger seat sensor.
Which car is more reliable –Suzuki Vitara or Kia Seltos?
In the past, Kia used to produce more reliable cars than Suzuki. But lately, Suzuki has improved a lot, and most of their recent models rank above Kia models. In this case, the Suzuki Grand Vitara is more reliable than the Kia Seltos. On the flip side, when it comes to safety, the Kia Seltos is rated slightly higher.
Bottom line
Generally, the Suzuki Vitara is an outstanding SUV with outstanding features. It is also practical, efficient, spacious, and cheap to maintain. However, it also comes with many problems that owners need to handle early to avoid costly repairs. With proper maintenance, the Suzuki Vitara will easily clock more than 200k miles.
