2012 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.
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Common 2012 Suzuki Grand vitara problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2012, several common problems have been identified:
- Airbags: Complaints have been reported regarding issues with the airbags. Instances include problems with airbags at various mileage points in different locations, such as airbag detachment affecting the fuel-air ratio and causing soot buildup in the diesel particulate filter, potentially leading to a fire in extreme cases.
- Electrical System: Concerns have been raised about the electrical system, with specific cases highlighting problems in this area. For example, an issue was reported in Albrightsville, PA, related to the electrical system.
- Engine and Engine Cooling: Owners have faced challenges with the engine and engine cooling system. An incident in Marion, NY, indicated a problem in this area, emphasizing the need for attention to engine-related issues.
- Exterior Lighting: Complaints have surfaced regarding the exterior lighting of the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2012. An instance in Houston, TX, highlighted an issue related to exterior lighting components.
- Fuel System, Gasoline: Concerns have been raised about the fuel system, particularly gasoline-related problems. A complaint from Wynantskill, NY, pointed out an issue with the fuel system, emphasizing the importance of addressing fuel-related concerns promptly.
- Power Train: Owners have reported issues with the powertrain of the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2012. A complaint from Lincoln, NE, highlighted a problem in the powertrain, indicating the need for maintenance and attention to powertrain components.
- Seat Belts and Seats: Problems have been noted with the seat belts and seats of the vehicle. An incident in Brandon, FL, mentioned issues related to seat belts and seats, underlining the importance of ensuring the safety and functionality of these components.
- Steering: Complaints have been made regarding the steering system of the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2012. An issue in Bronx, NY, highlighted a problem with the steering, emphasizing the significance of maintaining the steering system for safe driving.
- Unknown or Other: Some complaints fell under the category of "Unknown or Other," indicating miscellaneous issues that owners faced. An incident in Albrightsville, PA, was reported under this category, suggesting the presence of unidentified or diverse problems.
These common problems reported by owners of the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2012 underscore the importance of regular maintenance, prompt attention to issues, and thorough inspections to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and safety.
What is the common problem with Suzuki Grand Vitara?
Oil Leak Around Timing Chain Gasket
Both parts are likely to wear out and malfunction without oil lubricating them. To be able to access the timing chain gasket on the Suzuki Grand Vitara, mechanics need to remove the engine from the engine bay. This process is typically labor-intensive and costly for owners.
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 Suzuki Grand Vitara reliable?
It is reliable and unpretentious. If you provide it with correct and high-quality service, it will overcome more than one hundred kilometers without repair. It is important to use good gasoline for refueling, monitor the engine oil level, listen to engine performance, and use only Suzuki OEM parts.
What year did Grand Vitara avoid?
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.
2012 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
- Steering problems
- Seat belts problems
- Seats problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Suzuki Grand vitara vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Suzuki Grand vitara complaints
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Suzuki Grand vitara.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-30
- VIN: JS3TE0D43C4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. MY SUZUKI GRAND VITARA 2012 HAS THE AIRBAG LIGHT ON FOR ABOUT 3 MONTHS. I CALL FOR TWO TIMES TO THE DEALER THAT SUZUKI FACTORY DELEGATE THE SERVICES, BUT THEY TELL ME THAT MY VEHICLE VIN NUMBER IS NOT IN THE LIST. I USE THAT CAR TO TAKE MY WIFE TO HER QUIMIOS AND I AND AFRAID THAT SHE IS HURT WITH THE MALFUNCTION OF THE AIRBAG.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-22
- VIN: JS3TD0D26C4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SEATBELT LIGHT STAYS ON ALL THE TIME.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
- VIN: JS3TD0D68C4
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WAS LOOSE WHEN TURNED IN EITHER DIRECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OR DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED LATER AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. *TT THE CONSUMER STATED CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER ABOUT 02/02/2018 & 02/03/2018 IN REFERENCE TO THE DEFECT. *TR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-08
- VIN: JS3TE0D79C4
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
- Summary: TROUBLE CODE B1312 OCM SENSOR MAT FAULT. AIR BAG AND PASSENGER SEAT BELT INDICATOR LIGHT ARE ON ALL THE TIME.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-01
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON. STARTED MY CAR IN THE MORNING AND IT JUST SUDDENLY LIT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JS3TE0D31C4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ON SEPTEMBER 12 2016 APROXIMATELY AT 2:00AM MY WIFE WAS IMPACTED ON THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR WAITING FOR THE GREEN LIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS AT A STANSTILL WHEN A JEEP LATE 90S MODEL HIT HER FULL FORCE ON THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR, LUCKILY THE FORTIFICATION OF THE BAR INSIDE THE DOOR THAT GOES ACROSS TOOK THE BLUNT OF THE IMPACT AND MY WIFE ONLY CAME OUT WITH MINOIR BRUISES AND CUTS FROM THE DRIVERS WINDOW. NEITHER THE DRIVERS AIRBAG OR THE PASSENGER AIRBAG DEPLOYED AND THAT CONCERNS ME BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WASS ESTIMATED TO BE GOING AROUND 40MPH WHEN IT IMPACTED MY WIFES CAR. IVE NOTIFIED MY LOCAL DEALER WHERE SUZUKI VEHICLES ARE DEALT WITH AND ITS BEEN SAID THAT SINCE THERES NO RECALL THERES NOTHING TO BE DONE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-11
- VIN: JS3TE0D18C4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I OWN A 2012 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA WITH 38,000 MILES. THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION LINKAGE BROKE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. I WAS ROUNDING A CORNER AND PREPARING TO DOWNSHIFT IN ORDER TO NEGOTIATE A LARGE HILL ON A MAIN STREET. I GRABBED THE GEARSHIFT DEPRESSED THE CLUTCH TO DOWNSHIFT INTO 4TH GEAR WHEN I PULLED THE GEAR SHIFT BACK INTO THE 4TH GEAR POSITION THERE WAS A NOTICEABLE POP AND THE THE GEARSHIFT WAS EXTREMELY LOOSE. I LET OUT ON THE CLUTCH AND REALIZED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS STILL IN 5TH GEAR. THE GEARSHIFT WAS OBVIOUSLY NO LONGER CONNECTED TO THE TRANSMISSION BUT I WAS ABLE TO TAKE BACK STREETS TO OUR MECHANIC'S SHOP WHILE AVOIDING ALL STOP LIGHTS. THIS IN MY OPINION SHOULD BE A FACTORY RECALL DUE TO THE FACT THAT THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT FAILURE OF A CRITICAL COMPONENT. I HAVE OWNED OTHER STANDARD TRANSMISSION VEHICLES AND IN THE 12 YEARS I OWNED MY LAST VEHICLE I NEVER HAD ANY ISSUES WITH THIS PARTICULAR PROBLEM.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-01
- VIN: JS3TD0D27C4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I AM HAVING PROBLEMS WITH FRONT LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS, HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THEM FOUR TIMES IN THE LAST YEAR AND HALF. IT ALSO AFFECTS THE INTERIOR LIGHT OF THE VEHICLE AND THE CLIMATE CONTROL PANEL MAKING THE HEAT/COOL CONTROLS UNABLE TO WORK PROPERLY. AND THE FUEL DOOR RELEASE LEVER DOESN'T OPEN THE FUEL DOOR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-08
- VIN: KS3TD0D74D4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR BAG SENSOR WAS DAMAGED AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE EXTENDED WARRANTY DID NOT COVER ELECTRICAL FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-16
- VIN: JS3TE0D22C4
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SINCE 2012 I HAVE PURCHASED THIS SUV ITS GIVING ME TROUBLE RELATED TO LOW BEAM LIGHT. I HAVE REPLACED THIS LIGHT FOR AT LEAST 5 TIMES. MANY PEOPLE ON DIFFERENT WEBSITE HAVE REGISTERED THE SAME PROBLEM AND ARE HAVING SAME KIND OF PROBLEM. PLEASE HELP US TO GET A PERMANENT SOLUTION TO THIS ISSUE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JS3TD0D78C4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FORTY-NINE DAYS AFTER PURCHASING THE CAR IT BURST INTO FLAMES FROM UNDER THE HOOD ONLY MOMENTS AFTER MY WIFE HAD EXITED THE CAR IN HER PARKING LOT AT A SCHOOL. THE CAR BECAME A TOTAL LOSS AS THE FIRE REACHED THE DRIVER'S COMPARTMENT. TWO NEARBY CARS BELONGING TO WORKMATES WERE ALSO DAMAGED WITH MELTED TAIL LIGHTS AND BLISTERED PAINT. NO AFTER MARKET EQUIPMENT HAD BEEN INSTALLED AND NO SERVICE HAD YET BEEN PERFORMED ON THE CAR. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-22
- VIN: JS3TD0D76B4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GAS COVER DOESN'T OPEN AFTER PULLING LEVER FROM DRIVERS SEAT. I'VE BEEN TO DEALER AND SERVICE MANAGER SAYS TO PUSH LEVER ON HINGE OF COVER. HAD VEHICLE FOR 4 MONTHS NOW AND HAVE BEEN PUSHING THIS THIN METAL BACK EVERY TIME BUT AT TIMES IT STILL WILL NOT OPEN. BEEN TO DEALER 3 TIMES NOW AND HE KEEPS TELLING ME TO PUSH THIS THING BACK. FRUSTRATED, I SAID THAT THIS IS A TERRIBLE DESIGN, HE SAID IN RETURN "HONDA HAS SAME FEATURE". I LEFT. *TR
2012 Suzuki Grand vitara recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 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.
Negative 2012 Suzuki Grand vitara car reviews
Positive 2012 Suzuki Grand vitara car reviews
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There's not much wrong with this compact SUV, especially when compared to larger and more expensive models. The handling is good and it has a great turning radius for tight spots. If you haven't owned a small SUV before, it's worth giving careful consideration to. Of course, it's not going to handle like a sports car at highway speeds, but it's great for around town and trips. The body style is great and it has lots of safety features, making it a good value for the price. The only thing that could have made it better is another 2 inches in the cargo area.
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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.
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As a proud owner of both a Ford Rangers STX 2005 and now a 2010 Grand Vitara for over 2 years, I can confidently say that the new Grand Vitara is an excellent vehicle to drive. Whether I'm driving through rural areas or the center of Puerto Rico, to and from work, or supporting my supermarket and Sport Bar, I always feel safe and secure behind the wheel. With a fuel efficiency of around 22-23 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg around town, it's also an economical choice. The Grand Vitara is incredibly quiet on the highway and all of its features are highly functional. The warranty is also fantastic, covering 7 years or 100,000 miles. Overall, I highly recommend giving this small SUV a second look before making a decision to buy a new vehicle.
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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.
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I've had this vehicle for almost a year now. Where I live, the winters can be brutal, which is why I decided to buy it. And I have no regrets! It's awesome in slippery and snowy conditions. I've tried a few times to get it to lose control, but it's almost impossible. The ESP will even put the brakes on for you if you're going too slow.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Suzuki Grand vitara problems:
2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara Problems · Low Beam Head Light. 222 people have reported this. 121 · Oil Leak/Noise Due to Timing Chain Cover Gasket/Tensioner ...
I have the same problem on the same car Suzuki Grand Vitara
Nov 29, 2017 ... I have the same problem on the same car Suzuki Grand Vitara 2012 ... This is widely known issue in Grand Vitara since 2009/10. ... common issue I ...
2012 Grand Vitara 5 door 2.4. | Suzuki Forums
Jul 15, 2015 ... Is there any other problems with this model I should be looking out for ? The vehicle suits my needs perfectly, and hope Suzuki have got their ...
Q&A: 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara Check Engine Light - Common ...
Nov 15, 2022 ... There are many problems that can fail that will trigger this. It could be a faulty sensor, wiring issue, module fault, engine malfunction, etc.
2012 Grand Vitara Overheating issue | Suzuki Forums
May 15, 2023 ... The upper heater core hose is hot and the lower one is cold. Any suggestions where to look or is there a common issue or air bleeder or ...
Other years of Suzuki Grand vitara
Are you having problems with your 2012 Suzuki Grand vitara?
Luigi Kassulke 2025-03-03
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. I hope this information helps you make an informed decision.
Leif Koelpin 2024-09-27
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!
Jamison Reinger 2024-07-23
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.
Shawn Eichmann 2024-04-24
Hi there! I've had this car for 2 years now, but I've been having some trouble with the engine. It's been a bit difficult to start at times, and unfortunately, it's stopped working altogether now. Luckily, I have an extended warranty, but I'm still a bit frustrated about the situation. I might consider trading it in for a different brand. Thanks for listening!
Charles Walker 2024-04-03
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!