2011 Suzuki Grand vitara problems
The Suzuki Vitara is a series of SUVs produced by Suzuki in five generations since 1988. The second and third generation were known as the Suzuki Grand Vitara, while the fourth generation eschewing the "Grand" prefix. In Japan and a number of other markets, all generations have used the name Suzuki Escudo (Japanese: スズキ・エスクード, Hepburn: Suzuki Esukūdo).
The choice of the name "Vitara" was inspired by the Latin word vita, as in English word vitality. "Escudo", the name primarily used in the Japanese Domestic Market, refers to the "escudo", the monetary unit of Portugal before adoption of the Euro. The original series was designed to fill the slot above the Suzuki Jimny. The first generation was known as Suzuki Sidekick in the United States. The North American version was produced as a joint venture between Suzuki and General Motors known as CAMI. It was also sold as the Santana 300 and 350 in Spain and in the Japanese market, it was also sold as the Mazda Proceed Levante.
The second generation was launched in 1998 under the "Grand Vitara" badge in most markets. It was accompanied by a still larger SUV known as the Suzuki XL-7 (known as Grand Escudo in Japan). The third generation was launched in 2005.
The fourth generation, released in 2015, reverted to the original name "Vitara" in most markets, but shifted from an off-road SUV towards a more road-oriented crossover style. It shares the platform and many components with the slightly larger SX4 S-Cross.
The model introduced in 2022 for the Indian market only reuses the "Grand Vitara" nameplate. It is slightly larger than the SX4 S-Cross.
Social links
Common 2011 Suzuki Grand vitara problems
The Suzuki Grand Vitara 2011 is known for several common problems, primarily related to its engine, transmission, and suspension system.
- Timing Chain Failure: The timing chain in the Grand Vitara's 1.6-liter engine typically lasts for 100-110,000 km before requiring replacement. If neglected, this issue can lead to significant engine damage.
- Low Beam Head Light Failure: A common issue reported by Grand Vitara owners is the failure of the low beam headlights. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty headlight assembly.
- AC Condenser Fan Motor Failure: Another problem reported by Grand Vitara owners is the failure of the AC condenser fan motor. This issue can be addressed by replacing the faulty fan motor.
- Transmission Problems: The Grand Vitara's manual transmission is known to have problems with first gear, which may not engage when the car is warm or may become stuck . This issue can be caused by a dying clutch or bad oil in the transmission.
- Suspension Issues: The Grand Vitara's suspension system has several known weaknesses, including the front silent blocks, which may require replacement after 70-100,000 km . Additionally, the rear breaker bolts may become corroded and difficult to adjust, requiring replacement of the entire rear silent block assembly .
- Oil Leaks: The Grand Vitara's front and rear transfer cases are known to leak oil, which can lead to the failure of the all-wheel-drive system if not addressed in a timely manner .
- Fuel System Issues: The Grand Vitara's fuel system is prone to issues, particularly in diesel models, which may suffer from seized water pumps and clogged particulate filters.
- Engine Oil Consumption: Some Grand Vitara engines, particularly the 2.0-liter models, are known to consume significant amounts of oil, up to 400 grams per 1,000 km.
- Valve Adjustment: The Grand Vitara's engine requires regular valve adjustment, which is often neglected by owners, leading to issues with lubrication and engine performance .
- Recall: In 2011, there was a recall related to the engine drive belt tension pulley, which could have a problem with the internal spring, potentially affecting the engine's performance and fuel efficiency.
In summary, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2011 has several common problems related to its engine, transmission, and suspension system. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
What is the common problem with Suzuki Grand Vitara?
The Grand-Vitara has a known issue with its water pumps, which are prone to seizing up. Those pumps run off the timing belt, so seizure leads to a timing belt slip which is causing the engine to stall. In most cases, you will need to order both a new water pump and a new timing belt from BreakerYard.
What year are bad for Suzuki Grand Vitara?
Summary: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Grand Vitara and 2007-2011 SX4 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, over time, the OCS sensor mat installed in the front passenger seat may fail due to repeated flexing of the mat from use of the seat.
What is the defect of Grand Vitara?
Maruti Suzuki India has announced a recall of 11,177 units of the Grand Vitara owing to a possible defect in rear seatbelt mounting brackets. This is the third recall announced by the country's largest carmaker involving the Grand Vitara in less than two months.
Is a Suzuki Grand Vitara reliable?
Overall, owners don't need to worry about the Suzuki Grand Vitara, because it has no major problems. Most of its issues are easily fixed and don't involve major components like the engine or transmissions, which are the ones that are most expensive to repair.
2011 Suzuki Grand vitara car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Suzuki Grand vitara problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Structure problems
- Tires problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Suzuki Grand vitara vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2011 Suzuki Grand vitara complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Suzuki Grand vitara.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-01
- VIN: JS3TE0D70B4
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I JUST PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE NEW AND IT DOES HAVE RECALLS AND I HAD I AM TRYING TO FIND OUT IF THE RECALLS HAVE BEEN REPAIRED OR STILL NEED DONE PLEASE THANK YOU
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-26
- VIN: JS3TE0D49B4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: LLEVE MI AUTO A TRIANGLE SUZUKI EN LA AVE. 65 INF. KM 5.4 EN CAROLINA CON TELFONO 787-776-3023 YA QUE SOY EL CLIENTE # 29676 DEBIDO A QUE TENIA LAS LUZ DEL AIR BAG ENCENDIDA. LUEGO DE ELLOS REVISAR DICHO SUZUKI QUIEN TENIA EL TAG 5406 ENCONTRARON EL COGIN DEFECTUOSO CON CDIGO B1312. DONDE ELLOS FACTURAN LA CANTIDAD DE $267.00 POR LA REPARACIN DEL MISMO. TENGO ENTENDIDO QUE LA VITARA TIENE UN RECALL DEBIDO A AIR BAGS. PODRAN ORIENTARME AL RESPECTO.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-03
- VIN: JS3TD0D23B4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRONT PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR HOLDS WATER WHEN AIR CONDITIONER IS ON AND THE INSIDE FLOOR IS STARTING TO RUST THIS IS OF NO FAULT OF MY OWN THIS IS A DEFECT. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-19
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I HAVE ALMOST 27,400 MILES ON MY TRUCK AND THE TIRES ARE DRY ROTTED WHICH THEY SHOULDNT BE LIKE THAT I DO NOT DRIVE FAR AT ALL I AM A VERY UNSATISFIED CUSTOMER THE TIRE SIZES ARE P225 70 R16. *JS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-01
- VIN: JS3TD0D29B4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2011 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA RECALLED APPROX. OCT. 2013. SUZUKI SENT A LETTER SAYING THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE AND WOULD FIX WHEN AVAILABLE. IT'S BEEN 6 MONTHS. HOW LONG IS IT SUPPOSED TO TAKE TO MANUFACTURE THESE PARTS? DID THEIR PARTS SUPPLIERS GO BANKRUPT ALSO? DEALER NOW SELLS ANOTHER BRAND AND DOESN'T SEEM TO KNOW (OR CARE) ANYTHING ABOUT WHEN THIS WILL BE FIXED. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-30
- VIN: JS3TD0D23B4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BROWN DAUB DEALERSHIP KNOWS OF THIS RECALL AND THEY REFUSE TO HONOR THIS RECALL THERE PHONE NUMBER IS 484-298-0000. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-02-01
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2011 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIR BAG RECALL NOTICE AND AIR BAG MALFUNCTION DURING AN ACCIDENT. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED HE/SHE RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE REGARDING A DEFECT WITH THE AIR BAGS. THE CONSUMER BEGAN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE AIR BAG LIGHT ON AND OFF SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN 2012. HOWEVER, THE CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT END COLLISION, AND THE VEHICLE WAS DECLARED A TOTAL LOSS. DURING THE ACCIDENT, NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-09
- VIN: JS3TE0D71B4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA. THE CONTACT STATED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 11V055000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM REPAIR WAS PERFORMED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE STEERING WHEEL MADE A LOUD SQUEAKING AND RATTLE NOISE WHILE MAKING A LEFT OR RIGHT TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION, WHICH LOCATED THE FAILURE AT THE TENSION CONTROL PULLEY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 75,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-25
- VIN: JS3TD0D21B4
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE POWER BRAKES DON'T WORK WHEN IT IS COLD LIKE 40 DEGREES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-15
- VIN: JS3TD0D76B4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THIS IS AN UPDATE TO AN EARLIER COMPLAINT #10425314. THE VEHICLE IS A 2011, NOT A 2012 AS INDICATED IN ABOVE REFERENCE NUMBER. THANK YOU. *TT
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-17
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: I RECENTLY PURCHASED A 2011 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA. AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE I REALIZED THAT THE REAR HEAD RESTRAINTS FOLDED FORWARD (TO ALLOW FOR EASE OF VIEWING THROUGH THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE BY THE DRIVER). THESE HEAD RESTRAINTS DO NOT LOCK UP AND FOLD OVER VERY EASILY. IT IS LIKELY THAT IF THE VEHICLE STOPPED SUDDENLY OR STRIKE SOMETHING FROM BEHIND THAT THESE HEAD RESTRAINTS WOULD FOLD FORWARD. WHEN FORWARD THESE RESTRAINTS REST AT THE BASE OF MY NECK AT ABOUT THE C1-C2 JUNCTION. THIS LOCATION IS THE MOST COMMON SOURCE OF SEVERE SPINAL DAMAGE AND PARALYSIS WHEN INJURED. WHILE I AM HOPEFUL THAT NOONE HAS BEEN INJURED YET, I AM NOT PLEASED WITH SUZUKI'S RESPONSE WHICH WAS ESSENTIALLY THAT THE NHTSA TESTED THE VEHICLE AND PASSED SO IT MUST BE SAFE. I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT THIS HEAD RESTRAINT WAS A PARTY TO ANY DIRECT IMPACT CRASH TESTING WITH REAR OCCUPANTS (WITHER WITH OR WITHOUT THE RESTRAINT IN THE DOWN POSITION. MY HOPE IS THAT IT IS TESTED TO DETERMINE ITS SAFETY BEFORE SOME ONE'S LIFE IS FOREVER ALTERED. THIS NEEDS TO BE RECALLED IMMEDIATELY IN MY OPINION. AS FOR MY GRAND VITARA. I HAVE REMOVED MY HEAD RESTRAINTS AND WOULD RATHER RISK WHIPLASH THAN PARALYSIS. *TR
2011 Suzuki Grand vitara recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2011 Suzuki Grand vitara.
- Manufacturer: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kizashi and 2006-2013 Grand Vitara vehicles. The front passenger leather seat may shrink due to high humidity and high temperature. As a result, the occupant classification system (OCS) sensor mat may not accurately detect if an adult or child is occupying the seat.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating airbag deployment, an incorrect classification may result in the passenger frontal air bag deploying even if there is a child in the front passenger seat, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Suzuki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat bottom cushion, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on May 3, 2019. All second letters notifying owners of the remedy were mailed by April 10, 2020. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's numbers for this recall are 4011 and 4012.
- Manufacturer: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
- Summary: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Grand Vitara vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. The gear shift rear shaft on these vehicles may break, preventing the gears from being able to be changed.
- Consequence: If the transmission cannot be shifted, it can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Suzuki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the gear shift rear shaft, free of charge. The recall began March 2017. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's number for this recall is VZ.
- Manufacturer: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Grand Vitara and 2007-2011 SX4 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, over time, the OCS sensor mat installed in the front passenger seat may fail due to repeated flexing of the mat from use of the seat. As a result, during a crash necessitating deployment, the air bag will deploy regardless of whether the front seat occupant is an adult or a child.
- Consequence: Air bag deployment with a child in the front passenger side seat increases the risk of injury to that child.
- Remedy: Suzuki will notify owners and dealers will replace the front passenger seat cushion assembly (which includes the OCS sensor mat) free of charge. Sufficient quantities of parts are not currently available to fix all of the affected vehicles. Owners will be notified of the recall in October 2013 and will receive a second notification when parts are available to have their vehicle repaired. The recall began on May 23, 2014. Owners may contact Suzuki at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's recall campaign number is VD.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
- Summary: SUZUKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4-CYLINDER ENGINES; MODEL YEAR 2011 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES PRODUCED PRIOR TO OCTOBER 17, 2010; MODEL YEAR 2010 SUZUKI SX4 PASSENGER VEHICLES; AND 2011 SUZUKI SX4 PASSENGER VEHICLES PRODUCED PRIOR TO OCTOBER 14, 2010. THE TENSION ADJUSTER PULLEY FOR THE DRIVE BELT THAT OPERATES THE ALTERNATOR, WATER PUMP, AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR AND POWER STEERING PUMP, HAS AN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED INTERNAL SPRING THAT CAN BREAK DUE TO REPEATED STRESS. IF THE SPRING BREAKS, THE DRIVE BELT WILL NOT BE ADJUSTED PROPERLY AND CAN SLIP, CAUSING A SQUEAKING NOISE. OR THE DRIVE BELT COULD COME OFF CAUSING THE DRIVER TO INCREASE TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THIS CAN ALSO CAUSE THE COOLANT TEMPERATURE INDICATION TO RISE, WHICH CAN LEAD TO THE ENGINE OVERHEATING, OR CAN CAUSE THE CHARGING LIGHT TO COME ON, WHICH CAN LEAD TO BATTERY DISCHARGE AND ENGINE STALL.
- Consequence: IF THE DRIVE BELT COMES OFF, REQUIRING THE DRIVER TO USE INCREASED STEERING EFFORT, OR THE ENGINE STALLS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TENSION ADJUSTER PULLEY WITH AN IMPROVED PART. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 16, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI AT 1-887-697-8985 OR VISIT SUZUKI'S WEBSITE AT HTTP://WWW.SUZUKIAUTO.COM.
Negative 2011 Suzuki Grand vitara car reviews
Positive 2011 Suzuki Grand vitara car reviews
-
I recently bought a 2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara with 120259 miles from a private seller. I must say that this vehicle has exceeded my expectations. The performance is fantastic, and the steering and driving experience have been an absolute joy, especially on overdrive. It takes off like an airplane! I loved the Suzuki Grand Vitara so much that I decided to purchase a 2009 model. It has everything I want in a small SUV and more. Although I haven't driven my new Grand Vitara yet, I have high expectations for it.
-
This is my fourth Suzuki. I'm so glad to say that I've never had to put any money into any of them. They've always been so dependable, which makes them less expensive to own and very sensible.
-
This is a great little SUV! I was looking for a compact SUV that was an actual SUV, not a crossover, and this vehicle caught my eye. The interior materials and quality are top-notch, and it's very comfortable to drive. The heated seats warm up quickly and feel great. The styling is fantastic, and the engine is nice and peppy. The gauges are superb and easy to read, and the brakes are good. It drives like it's on rails, even in the snow, and it's very maneuverable in tight spots. Plus, it takes potholes like a champ without worrying about getting a flat tire. I bought the GV because of the terrible roads in the winter and the potholes that only seem to spread more and more, as well as for off-road and towing. The gas mileage is not bad at all, averaging 20 mpg so far. Take a look at it, and I'm sure you'll like it too!
-
The Grand Vitara has a very solid feel and ride. I have owned 3 XL-7's and this is my 3rd Grand Vitara. You can tell Suzuki has improved the interior noise greatly. I love sitting up high in the driver's seat and the leather seems to be of better quality than before. The V-6 engine runs smoothly. Suzuki could improve by adding auto windows up/down, power drivers/passengers seats, a larger console, and a larger screen navigation unit that is built into the dash to keep up with other makes that retail for less money. However, the 0% interest, quality, and styling keep bringing me back to the Grand Vitara. The biggest downside to the Suzuki's is their resale values. Even a loaded 2010 GV with very few miles can be purchased used for $18,000.
-
My husband surprised me with a Grand Vitari Sport. I was a bit surprised when I heard it was a Suzuki, but the design was great and the interior was sharp. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it came with extras like Bluetooth, Garmin navigation, and fog lights. What's even more amazing is that my husband is over 6 feet tall and I'm just barely 5 feet, yet we both have enough leg and head room to be comfortable. It's the first time we've found a car that fits us both so well.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2011 Suzuki Grand vitara problems:
2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Top 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara Problems · Low Beam Head Light. 222 people have reported this. 121 · AC Condenser Fan Motor May Fail. 90 people have reported this.
Suzuki Grand Vitara Reliability and Common Problems - In The ...
Sep 15, 2023 ... Suzuki Grand Vitara Common Problems · Headlight Burning Out · A/C Condenser Fan Failure · Oil Leak Around Timing Chain Gasket · Air Bag Sensor ...
2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara Reliability - Consumer Reports
In the event of a crash necessitating airbag deployment, an incorrect classification may result in the passenger frontal air bag deploying even if there is a ...
Q&A: 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara Problems - Overheating & More
Nov 27, 2020 ... I have a 2012 suzuki grand vitara 2.4L that starts overheating when it goes to distance, I stop the car and it usually - Answered by a ...
Early production J24B (2.4L) engines w/head & block cracking ...
Dec 6, 2013 ... I too have a 2008 Grand Vitara & am in Australia, I have the same problem block cracked, I contacted every wrecker I could find, one told me I ...
Other years of Suzuki Grand vitara
Are you having problems with your 2011 Suzuki Grand vitara?
Jocelyn Muller 2025-01-08
I recently purchased a 2010 Grand Vitara Premium model with the 4-cylinder engine based on the reviews given here. However, I wanted to share my experience with the AC issue. Unfortunately, these models have a known failing AC issue that can cause the interior compartment to flood if you use the AC. There is a connection that goes through the firewall between the internal AC system and the external drain pipe that will eventually fail. Unfortunately, there is no replaceable part to fix the issue, and you would need to get the entire internal one-piece component. Please keep this in mind when considering this model.
Issac Fisher 2024-07-08
We bought this car with high hopes, expecting it to be as reliable as the Honda we traded in. Unfortunately, we've had a lot of trouble with it. Despite multiple trips to the repair shop and many conversations with the customer relations department, the problems persist. We've had issues from the very beginning, and while the dealer finally acknowledged the problems, they were unable to fix them. We were then sent to another dealer, but they were also unable to resolve the issues. As a result, we haven't been able to travel much this summer, and we certainly wouldn't feel comfortable carrying our precious grandchildren in this car. We hope our experience can help others avoid the same frustrations and disappointments. Please be cautious when considering a Suzuki.
Jess Robel 2024-03-26
The car is a great off-roader in its class, beating out competitors like the RAV4, HR-V, Santa-Fe, and possibly even the Mitsubishi (although I'm not entirely sure about that one). While it may not excel on the road, it does offer some interior creature comforts that I really appreciate, such as the great visibility. However, it can be quite noisy, particularly due to the engine noise. It can be a bit overwhelming, especially when driving uphill, and it feels like the car is struggling to pull its weight. Despite these issues, overall it's a decent car with some room for improvement.
Declan Gusikowski 2024-02-07
Sorry to hear about your bad experience with your second Suzuki. It must have been frustrating to have the motor lock up after only four days of driving. I hope the dealer is able to fix it soon and get it back to you. While the gas mileage is not great at the moment, I'm sure it will improve after the breaking period. If you're interested, I know someone who might be in the market for a 2009 Grand Vitara with low mileage. Let me know if you want me to connect you with them!
Neal Prosacco 2024-02-06
Congratulations on your new purchase! I understand that the quality/reliability rating may not be relevant to you at this time. From the reviews, it seems that the only small crossovers that can handle off-road terrain are Subarus and the GV, with the GV being slightly better. It's great that you were able to find a vehicle that met your needs, even with the 6 cylinder option being sold out in your region. The Suzuki rebate and dealer willingness to negotiate made it a good deal for you. I hope you enjoy the nice interior and off-road capabilities of your new GV. Best of luck with its reliability!