The Suzuki Vitara is one of the most popular Suzuki models in the market. This car has been in production from 1988 to date. However, it also faces several problems that interested owners should know about. But what are the Suzuki Vitara automatic gearbox problems?
Common Suzuki Vitara automatic gearbox problems are difficulty shifting gears, clutch slipping, leaking transmission, sensor or ECU failure, faulty clutch, faulty converter, and grinding or shaking sensation in gear. Note that most of these issues occur because of negligence from the car owner.
What are the common problems with the Suzuki Vitara automatic gearbox?
Difficulty shifting gears
This is one of the most common problems with the Suzuki Vitara automatic gearbox. Many owners have complained that the automatic transmission may have difficulty shifting when it’s cold. This is usually caused by defective pressure and control solenoids. In some cases, it might be due to bad seals or internal leakage from leaking seals.
Take the car to a professional mechanic for inspection and to help you fix it.
Leaking transmission
Another problem that owners of the Suzuki Vitara with automatic gearbox have complained about is the transmission leaking. This is a dangerous issue and it can lead to further damage to the transmission and the car. Some of the things that cause the transmission to leak are cracked or broken transmission lines, cracked torque pumps, or damaged axle seals.
To fix this issue, ensure to visit a professional mechanic and have your car examined before fixing it.
Clutch slipping
Several users have also reported experiencing a slipping clutch. Like most Suzuki models, clutch slipping in the Suzuki Vitara is usually caused by low fluid levels. But in some cases, it can be caused by driving in stop-and-go traffic.
To fix this problem, the user needs to check the fluid level in the master cylinder and refill it if need be. Maintaining your car properly will ensure that you don’t face such issues.
Faulty clutch or converter
Automatic gearboxes are normally slow and have inertia when accelerating. Nevertheless, this is supposed to occur when the car is started. But if this issue persists when you start driving your Suzuki Vitara, this is an indication of a bad or faulty clutch or converter.
So, you should ensure that your car is inspected by a mechanic before fixing any part. Ensure that the bad clutch or converter is replaced.
Sensor or ECU failure
After covering several miles, your car’s transmission sensors may fail and cause the gearbox not to shift properly. This is because a failing transmission position sensor may no longer send the correct signals to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a result, without signals from the position sensor, the PCM will no longer know when to shift the transmission’s gears out of park into a moving gear.
Fixing this issue is not only cumbersome, but it can also be costly. That’s why you should visit a professional mechanic to help you fix it.
Grinding or shaking sensation in gear
Even though not very common, several Suzuki Vitara users have also reported experiencing a grinding or shaking sensation in gear. This problem normally happens when the automatic transmission has damaged gears.
So, if your Suzuki Vitara is experiencing this issue, you should have your car inspected by a professional mechanic and the underlying problem fixed.
FAQ
What type of automatic gearbox is fitted in the Suzuki Vitara?
While the automatic gearbox has several advantages, it is also crucial to know the type of automatic gearbox that your car is fitted with. This helps you know what type of problems you’re likely to face. The Suzuki Vitara is not an exception and different models come with different automatic gearboxes.
Some of the automatic gearboxes provided by Suzuki in the Vitara are classic automatic gearbox, robotized automatic gearbox, continuously variable automatic gearbox, and double-clutch automatic gearbox.
Why are automatic transmissions easy to use?
Automatic gearboxes are easy to use as you don’t require to use your clutch pedal. On top of that, the processes are electronically and mechanically controlled for the life of all gearboxes. Furthermore, the user doesn’t have to use every hand and foot to drive the car.
Is Suzuki Vitara automatic reliable?
Yes, it is. This is because many users of this car have praised it and applauded its durability. Even though it comes with some notable automatic gearbox issues, they are not as many as in other cars. Besides, this car is also economical, and if properly maintained, it will last for more than 200,000 miles.
What is the main difference between manual and automatic transmissions?
Manual transmissions need inputs from the driver to select the right gear to get the desired speed. On the other hand, automatic transmissions provide greater convenience by automatically shifting gears based on inputs from the speed the car is traveling at, throttle position, and the engine’s revolutions.
With that said, it is vital to select between the different types of automatic transmissions offered in the market. While most people are familiar with traditional automatic transmission, continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) are also making some noise.
Why you should select a CVT transmission over a traditional automatic transmission?
Despite the conventional automatic transmission having benefits like better driver engagement and greater serviceability at a lower cost, the CVT still offers more benefits. The CVT transmission provides better fuel economy than traditional automatic transmissions.
Furthermore, the CVT is smaller in size and lighter in weight. This means that it takes up less space. In addition, it delivers smooth acceleration and it has fewer parts, meaning that it is cheaper to manufacture.
Bottom line
The Suzuki Vitara is a sleek, well-performing, reliable, and practical SUV. But like all cars, it also comes with multiple problems that can be avoided with proper care and maintenance. Aside from transmission issues, this car also faces engine issues, suspension problems, and much more.
Most of the automatic transmission problems that we’ve discussed above can be prevented if the owner takes good care of the car.