Suzuki Sidekick sport problems

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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.

photo of Suzuki Sidekick sport car production

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Suzuki Sidekick sport model years

suzuki sidekick sport 1998 photo
Sidekick sport 1998
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suzuki sidekick sport 1997 photo
Sidekick sport 1997
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suzuki sidekick sport 1996 photo
Sidekick sport 1996
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Common Suzuki Sidekick sport problems

The Suzuki Sidekick, known as the Geo Tracker in some markets, is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability and off-road capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it can experience certain issues over time. Here are some of the most common problems reported by Suzuki Sidekick owners:

  • Clogged EGR Valve: The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve can become clogged, leading to reduced performance and poor fuel efficiency. This issue is more common in older Sidekicks, such as the 1994 model, and can be addressed by cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
  • Failure of ring and pinion gears: This problem affects the differential, causing issues with the 4WD system, particularly when engaging or disengaging the 4WD. This issue is more common in the 1996 Sport model and can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
  • Transfer case failure: This issue can also affect the 4WD system, preventing it from engaging when needed. This problem is more common in the 1992 model and can be resolved by repairing or replacing the transfer case.
  • Failure of the torque converter solenoid: This issue can cause the vehicle to hesitate or jerk when accelerating, particularly in the 1993 model. This problem can be addressed by replacing the faulty solenoid or the entire torque converter.
  • Sticking accelerator pedal: This issue can cause the vehicle to accelerate unintentionally, posing a safety hazard. This problem is more common in the 1993 model and can be resolved by adjusting or replacing the accelerator pedal assembly.
  • Oil leak due to failure of front axle seal: This issue can cause oil leaks, potentially leading to more serious engine problems. This problem is more common in the 1993 model and can be resolved by replacing the faulty seal.
  • Difficulty starting the engine in cold climates and high altitudes: This issue can affect the performance and reliability of the Sidekick, particularly in challenging driving conditions. This problem can be addressed by using the appropriate fuel and ensuring that the engine is properly maintained.
  • Rough idling, late acceleration, and stalling at high RPM: This issue can affect the performance and drivability of the Sidekick, particularly in the 1994 model. This problem can be addressed by cleaning or replacing the IAC (Idle Air Control) valve, EGR valve, and O2 sensor.
  • Poor fuel efficiency: This issue can affect the Sidekick's performance and cost-effectiveness, particularly in the 1996 Sport model. This problem can be addressed by using high-quality fuel, maintaining the engine properly, and using injector cleaner regularly.
  • Electrical problems: This issue can affect the Sidekick's performance and reliability, particularly in the 1996 Sport model. This problem can be addressed by diagnosing and repairing the faulty electrical components.

In summary, the Suzuki Sidekick is a reliable and capable compact SUV, but it can experience certain issues over time, particularly in older models. These issues can include problems with the EGR valve, differential, transfer case, torque converter solenoid, accelerator pedal, front axle seal, cold starting, idling, acceleration, stalling, fuel efficiency, and electrical components. However, with regular maintenance and timely repairs, these issues can be addressed, and the Sidekick can continue to provide reliable and enjoyable transportation for many years to come.

Suzuki Sidekick sport

Is the Suzuki Sidekick the same as a Vitara?

Though Vitara is the global model name, it is marketed under different names in certain markets. In Japan the Vitara is sold as the Escudo, while in North America the first generation was known as the Sidekick. The choice of the name ”Vitara” was inspired by the English word “vital,” as in “vitality.”

How fast is a Suzuki Sidekick?

Suzuki Sidekick 4dr JX Specifications

Engine1.6-Liter I-4
TransmissionFive-speed manual
0-60 Time10.6 seconds
Towing Capacity1500 pounds
Top Speed95 mph

How much horsepower does a 1996 Suzuki Sidekick have?

How much horsepower does a 1996 Sidekick have? The 1996 Sidekick ranges in power from the JS Convertible SUV 2D with 95 horsepower to the Sport JX SUV 4D with 120 horsepower.

What was the last year they made the Suzuki Sidekick?

The sub-compact SUV, available as a two or four-door model, was on sale in the United States from 1989 to 1998 (first-generation), as an upscale alternative to the legendary Suzuki Samurai. The two-door could also be had as a convertible.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Suzuki Sidekick sport years

We have researched Suzuki problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Suzuki Sidekick sport cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Suzuki Sidekick sport model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Suzuki Sidekick sport model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Suzuki Sidekick sport years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Suzuki Sidekick sport car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Suzuki Sidekick sport , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Steering problems
  • Tires problems

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

The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Suzuki Sidekick sport . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Suzuki Sidekick sport vehicles.

List of Suzuki Sidekick sport complaints

Suzuki Sidekick sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-12-01
  • Date Complaint: 2003-12-05
  • VIN: JS3TD21V1W4
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE BRACKET WHICH THE CLUTCH FOOT PEDAL AND THE ARM WHICH THE MAIN CLUTCH VALVE ACTUATOR IS DRIVEN BY HAS A METAL FATIGUE WHICH MAKES THE CLUTCH INOPERATIVE. COULD LEAD TO A ACCIDENT OR OTHER PROBLEMS.*JB
Suzuki Sidekick sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 1999-02-26
  • Date Complaint: 2000-11-09
  • VIN: JS3TE21V0W4
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MOTOR MOUNTS NEEDED TO BE SECURED. *SLC
Suzuki Sidekick sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 1998-07-15
  • Date Complaint: 2000-11-09
  • VIN: JS3TE21V0W4
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. *SLC
Suzuki Sidekick sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-07-12
  • Date Complaint: 2000-11-09
  • VIN: JS3TE21V0W4
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: NOISE COMING FROM TRANSMISSION, DRIVESHAFT CV JOINT FAILURE DUE TO POSSIBLE POOR DESIGN. *SLC
Suzuki Sidekick sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 1999-01-15
  • Date Complaint: 2000-11-09
  • VIN: JS3TE21V0W4
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: DRIVE BELT FAILED. *SLC
Suzuki Sidekick sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 1998-07-15
  • Date Complaint: 2000-11-09
  • VIN: JS3TE21V0W4
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: EXHAUST BOLTS VIBRATED LOOSE AND BROKE OFF. *SLC
Suzuki Sidekick sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 1999-01-04
  • Date Complaint: 2000-11-09
  • VIN: JS3TE21V0W4
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: IDLER PULLEY WAS REPLACED. *SLC
Suzuki Sidekick sport 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 2000-09-22
  • VIN: JS3TD21V7W4
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: ORIGINAL TIRES ON A 1998 SUZUKI SIDEKICK SPORT, P215/65R16 DOT AP2HJEUUO58. RIGHT REAR TIRE CAME APART, CONSUMER HEARD A NOISE THAT SOUNDED LIKE EXHAUST. THEN, CONSUMER HEARD A THUMP THUMP NOISE LIKE TIRE WAS COMING APART.*AK THE TIRE CAME APART AT THE SEAMS WHILE TRAVELING AT 70 MPH. IT WAS DETERMINED TO BE TREAD SEPARATION. *YH

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Suzuki Sidekick sport photo