2012 Suzuki Equator problems

suzuki logo

The Suzuki Equator was a mid-size pickup truck based on the Nissan Frontier and assembled by Nissan. It was first sold in the US for the 2009 model year with MSRPs starting at $17,220, and made its debut at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

The Equator was offered as either a four-seat Extended Cab or a five-seat Crew Cab. In the Canadian market, the Equator is only offered in the Crew Cab configuration, in a single trim level.

Power on base Extended Cab models comes from a 4-cylinder engine. A V6 is optional on Extended Cab models and standard with the Crew Cab. Both engines are supplied by Nissan.

The base 2.5 L QR25DE Inline-4 produces 152 hp (113 kW) at 5,200 rpm and 171 lb⋅ft (232 N⋅m) at 4,400 rpm, and is a rear-wheel-drive. It comes with either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic.

The 4.0 L VQ40DE V6 engine develops 261 hp (195 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 281 lb⋅ft (381 N⋅m) at 4,000 rpm. It comes standard with a five-speed automatic and is available with four-wheel-drive.

The Equator won Peterson's 4Wheel & Off-Road'S 2009 4x4 of the Year, beating out the Dodge Ram 1500, Ford F150, Hummer H3, Kia Borrego, and Toyota Sequoia. Sales of the Suzuki Equator since 2009 have been 5,808 overall, and it rarely sold over 200 units per month.

The Suzuki Equator was discontinued in 2010 for the Canadian market and 2012 for the United States market.

2012 Suzuki Equator

Social links

Common 2012 Suzuki Equator problems

The Suzuki Equator is a compact pickup truck that was produced from 2009 to 2012. While the Equator is known for its reliability, there are a few common problems that have been reported by owners of this vehicle.

One of the most common problems with the Suzuki Equator is noise from the rear driveshaft center support bearing. This issue can cause a loud noise or vibration, which can be especially noticeable when accelerating or driving at low speeds. The problem is caused by a failure of the bearing, which can occur due to wear and tear or a lack of maintenance.

Another common problem with the Suzuki Equator is faulty lower control arms, which can cause alignment issues. This problem is caused by the failure of the lower control arms, which can lead to a misalignment of the wheels. This can result in uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency.

In addition to these common problems, the Suzuki Equator has also been recalled for issues with the front wheel hubs. The recall affects certain model year 2012 Equator two-wheel drive vehicles manufactured from June 19, 2012, through July 12, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with front wheel hubs that may not meet the design hardness specifications. A wheel hub that was manufactured below hardness specification may wear prematurely and eventually crack. If the vehicle is driven with a cracked wheel hub, the wheel hub may break, which would reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.

While the Equator is known for its reliability, there have been a few complaints about electrical issues. These complaints include issues with the air bag sensor, tow package wiring, and a loud hissing sound. These problems are relatively rare, but they can be serious and may require the attention of a qualified mechanic.

In conclusion, while the Suzuki Equator is a reliable vehicle, there are a few common problems that have been reported by owners of this vehicle. These include noise from the rear driveshaft center support bearing, faulty lower control arms, issues with the front wheel hubs, and electrical problems. If you own a Suzuki Equator, it is important to be aware of these issues and to take steps to address them if they arise.

2012 Suzuki Equator engine

Is the Suzuki Equator reliable?

Equator owners have made 1 complaint over 4 model years. It ranks 2nd in reliability out of 12 eligible Suzuki models. Our reliability rank is based on our PainRank™ system.

What is the problem with the Suzuki Kizashi 2012?

(Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Kizashi vehicles manufactured October 2009 through July 2012. In the affected vehicles, spiders may weave a web in the evaporative canister vent hose, blocking it and causing the fuel tank to have an excessive amount of negative pressure.

What happened to the Suzuki Equator?

Unfortuantely, the party was over by 2012 as The American Suzuki Motor Corporation filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to lagging sales, a parse vehicle lineup, tightening emissions regulations, and "unfavorable exchange rates," according to the automaker.

What is the last year of Suzuki Equator?

2012

The Suzuki Equator was discontinued in 2010 for the Canadian market and 2012 for the United States market.

2012 Suzuki Equator car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Suzuki Equator problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Exterior lighting problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Suzuki Equator vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2012 Suzuki Equator complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Suzuki Equator.

2016-08-30

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-08-01
  • VIN: 5Z61D0FV3CC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: THE REAR CARGO/TAILLIGHT/BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLY LOCATED ON THE REAR OF THE CAB OVERHEATS AND HAS MELTED THE LENS COVER. THIS WAS NOTICED RECENTLY AND THERE IS NO APPARENT REASON OTHER THAN EITHER FAULTY LIGHT APPLICATION/LENGTH OF LIGHT TIME OR FAULTY LENS MATERIALS. THIS COULD CAUSE FIRES IF NOT CORRECTED. I HAVE NOT CONTACTED SUZUKI.

2012 Suzuki Equator recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 Suzuki Equator.

2012-09-19
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:HUB
  • Summary: Suzuki is recalling certain model year 2012 Equator two-wheel drive vehicles manufactured from June 19, 2012, through July 12, 2012. These vehicles may have been equipped with front wheel hubs that may not meet the design hardness specifications. A wheel hub that was manufactured below hardness specification may wear prematurely and eventually crack.
  • Consequence: If the vehicle is driven with a cracked wheel hub, the wheel hub may break, which would reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
  • Remedy: All of the affected vehicles have been quarantined at Suzuki dealers prior to being sold. As such, a recall notification letter will not be issued. Suzuki dealers will replace the left and right side front wheel hub assemblies free of charge. Customers may contact Suzuki at 1-877-697-8985.
2011-12-19
  • Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: SUZUKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 EQUATOR PICKUP TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 16, 2011, THROUGH AUGUST 31, 2011. SOME OF THE BOLTS THAT CONNECT THE ENGINE OIL COOLER AND THE ENGINE OIL FILTER TO THE ENGINE IN THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED TO BELOW SPECIFICATION STRENGTH. AS A RESULT, THE BOLT MAY BREAK AT THE OIL FILTER ATTACHMENT POINT AND CAN CAUSE AN ENGINE OIL LEAK.
  • Consequence: IF THERE IS AN ENGINE OIL LEAK, THE ENGINE OIL PRESSURE WOULD DROP AND THE ENGINE COULD SEIZE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: SUZUKI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CONNECTOR BOLTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 11, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI AT 1-714-996-7040.

Negative 2012 Suzuki Equator car reviews

  1. Logan Mitchell 2024-10-25

    The truck was purchased with the expectation of improved fuel efficiency and performance. However, during a vacation in August 2009, the brakes failed and have remained mushy since. Despite seeking assistance, the issue has yet to be resolved. While the Suzuki representative has stated that everything is fine, two certified brake technicians have identified a problem. As a result, the truck is currently unsafe for our family to drive. It is imperative that this issue is addressed promptly and effectively.

Positive 2012 Suzuki Equator car reviews

  1. Richie Keeling 2024-10-02

    I recently switched from a V8 truck that only got 14mpg combined to a more fuel-efficient truck that has a great ride and lots of power. I am very happy with my purchase, especially since it was a much better deal than the Frontier I was considering. This truck comes with GPS, side airbags, and step rails, and was about $2800 cheaper than the Frontier. What's even better is that it comes with a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. With 2800 miles on it, it currently averages 21mpg combined, and I expect it to get even better once the engine breaks in.

  2. Chaim Bartell 2024-09-29

    I'm so glad to hear that you purchased a 2011 Equator Crew Cab RMZ4 in 2022! It sounds like you made a great choice. The engine performance and styling are both impressive, and I'm happy to hear that you're enjoying the 4x4 package with rear locking differential. While some may critique the interior, I'm glad to hear that you find it comfortable and well-handled. It's great that the truck still feels new even with 111k miles on it. Overall, it sounds like you're very happy with your purchase and I'm thrilled for you!

  3. Gregory Simonis 2024-06-20

    Great little truck! It's wonderful to hear that you had no problems with it and that you paid much less than you expected. I hope you'll consider doing this again in a year or two.

  4. Glen Graham 2024-06-17

    I searched locally, state-wide, and on the internet. Finally, I found a dealer who was willing to go the extra mile to help me find the vehicle I wanted, even though it was 250 miles away! The sales guy was amazing. I was looking for an extended-cab 4WD truck, but I wasn't really interested in a 4-door pickup truck. This truck almost feels like a car to drive. The 17

  5. Marc Dicki 2024-06-16

    The 2009 Suzuki Equator is an excellent truck that offers incredible rebates and is essentially a Nissan Frontier. Although the 5th gear is too low, leading to higher cruising RPMs, the Equator is still a great purchase. It would get the same mileage as the Tacoma if it had a higher 5th gear. Additionally, adding a sprayed-on bed liner would enhance its appearance. Overall, the Equator is a well-worth purchase.

Leave your review of 2012 Suzuki Equator

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2012 Suzuki Equator problems:

2012 Suzuki Equator Crew Cab Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2012 Suzuki Equator Crew Cab Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/suzuki/equator-crew-cab/2012/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2012 Suzuki Equator Crew Cab? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next ...

2012 Suzuki Equator Reliability - Consumer Reports
2012 Suzuki Equator Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suzuki/equator/2012/reliability/

IF THERE IS AN ENGINE OIL LEAK, THE ENGINE OIL PRESSURE WOULD DROP AND THE ENGINE COULD SEIZE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Q&A: Common Problems with 2012 Suzuki Equator - JustAnswer
Q&A: Common Problems with 2012 Suzuki Equator - JustAnswer
https://www.justanswer.com/car/jc0nk-check-engine-light-2012-suzuki-equator-manual.html

May 9, 2022 ... billys gone? Auto Mechanic: Billy. Verified trainer - ...

Saw a truck I'd never heard of today. Suzuki Equator ...
Saw a truck I'd never heard of today. Suzuki Equator ...
https://www.mavericktruckclub.com/forum/threads/saw-a-truck-id-never-heard-of-today-suzuki-equator.21203/

Sep 27, 2022 ... 2012 Suzuki Equator. Engine: 2.0L EcoBoost. Sep 27, 2022. #5. I am the proud owner of a 2012 Equator Crew Cab 4x4 with 130K. Been a great truck ...

Suzuki Equator Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Suzuki Equator Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/suzuki/equator

Top Suzuki Equator Problems · Noise From Rear Driveshaft Center Support Bearing · Faulty lower control arms causing alignment issue · Squeeking Noise or Vibration ...

Other years of Suzuki Equator

suzuki equator 2009 photo
Equator 2009
Suzuki

0

1

7

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
suzuki equator 2010 photo
Equator 2010
Suzuki

0

3

7

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
suzuki equator 2011 photo
Equator 2011
Suzuki

2

1

13

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
suzuki equator 2012 photo
Equator 2012
Suzuki

1

2

14

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2012 Suzuki Equator?

Add car complaint
2012 Suzuki Equator photo