Engine complaints by model year
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (engine, cooling system, oil leaks, timing chain, exhaust).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
While stopped at traffic light at idle, I can hear a knocking noise in the engine compartment. Took it to my mechanic, and believe it is coming from the lower engine. He removed the oil pan and found that the rod and crankshaft bearing has movement. The car is 2008 and only has 36,000 miles.
The vehicle was parked in a store parking lot and when I started the car put it in reverse and then in drive to exit the parking lot. When on the street the car went across the street I put my foot on the gas and it stalled. When I my put my foot on the gas to go forward it didn't respond. I then put the car in park and the car jumped forward three times on its own and then stopped repeating this again, but not a third time because I shut the car off. Then I restarted the car. I was able to coast with hazards on to my house under 10 MPH. O shut it off and called the auto mechanic. The throttle sensor went. So my car now stays at the station awaiting a new sensor while I am without a means to get to work. This could have caused a serious accident as I crossed the street because cars were coming.
While driving, belt tensioner seized breaking belt and over heating car. Both belt tensioners have been replaced. There is a recall for the power steering/fan tensioner. Not for the water pump/alternator pulley/tensioner.
Sat 1/3/09: 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara died while driving at 30 MPH on mtn loop highway. The vehicle simply died-no warning-speedometer fell to zero. Engine light and transmission lights came on after trying to restart engine. Restarted vehicle and drove a short distance to get it off of the road. Could not start it later. Had it towed. 1st repair shop found spark plugs gummed-removed the valve cover. "requires replacement gaskets and other parts-it appears the key for the timing "chain" broke and came off-need to dismantle more of the engine." they did. The damage appears to be bent valves and the broken 2-piece gear". They discussed rebuild versus engine replacement being potentially a less expensive option. Found out that power train still under warranty. Under warranty were required to send to a dealer shop. …
Tl* the contact owns a 2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara. The contact stated that while driving at unknown speeds and pulling out of the driveway, the steering wheel became very hard to turn and the vehicle almost turned over when the brake was applied. The contact also stated that the vehicle proceeded to accelerate while the brakes were engaged. The vehicle was steered into the bushes to avoid a crash and was then shutdown with the keys. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where it was found that the throttle body had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 78,400. Updated 04/02/13 the consumer stated she was arrested because of this event. Updated 04/18/2013
I purchased a 2001 Suzuki Grand vitarta with 8000 miles. At 24,500 miles the engine began to have noise. Took to dealer who stated it was timing chin tensioner. They replaced 2 tensioners at the dealers expense. I have put an additional 5000 miles on the car and the problem seems to be back. I have researched the tensioners and found 100's of complaints on the same part. Suzuki has not issued a recall on this item as of yet, however if the timing chain should break, accidents can occur. I have another appointment with the dealer in the next few days and am not sure if the problem with be fixed and is so at whose expense. The closest dealership is 65 miles away. There have also been TSB on this part so Suzuki is well aware of the problem.
Owner complaints vibration while braking and premature wear. Number of other problems with this vehicle. The consumer stated that the brakes squeel like nails on a chalkboard. The consumer was told that the rotors were dusty. The vehicle horn started blowing and would not stop. The consumer was told that it was an electrical problem. The fuse was taken out to stop the horn from working. The tail light bulb went out. The consumer heard a ticking noise coming from the vehicle. The consumer noticed smoke coming through the vents on the inside of the vehicle. The temprature gauge went from cold to hot instantly. The vehicle needs new struts.
2000 Grand Vitara with 60K miles needs a timing chain tensioner. Have been told this part should not need to be replaced at 60K miles. Have read information from other Suzuki Grand Vitara owners with similar problems after warranty is expired.
Frequently asked questions
Which Suzuki Grand Vitara years have engine problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 1999 (20), 2006 (11), 2000 (9) and 2001 (8) model years. Engine complaints make up 19% of all complaints for the 1999.
Is there a recall for Suzuki Grand Vitara engine problems?
No. NHTSA lists no engine & cooling recall for any Suzuki Grand Vitara model year. A widespread problem may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin, so ask a dealer.
At what mileage do Suzuki Grand Vitara engine problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 55,000 miles; 53% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the engine (14 mentions), followed by the engine › gasoline (8).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.