1996 Suzuki Sidekick sport 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 1996 Suzuki Sidekick sport problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1996 Suzuki Sidekick Sport, several common problems have been identified:
- Engine Stalling:
Another common problem reported by owners is engine stalling, which can occur when the engine is hot or cold. Despite stalling, the engine typically starts right back up. Owners have mentioned changing filters, wires, and spark plugs to address this issue. Engine stalling can be a frustrating problem that affects the reliability of the vehicle and may require thorough diagnostics to pinpoint the root cause and implement an effective solution.
- Fuel Efficiency:
Owners have expressed concerns about the fuel efficiency of the 1996 Suzuki Sidekick Sport. Reports indicate that the vehicle's gas mileage is lower than expected, with figures around 16mpg during normal driving conditions and slightly improved to around 18mpg with careful driving. This issue can lead to increased fuel costs for owners and may require regular maintenance and tuning to optimize fuel consumption.
These common problems with the 1996 Suzuki Sidekick Sport highlight key issues that owners have faced, impacting the performance, safety, and cost of ownership of this vehicle. Addressing these issues promptly and with the help of qualified professionals can ensure a smoother driving experience and prolong the lifespan of the Suzuki Sidekick Sport.
What is the mpg on a 1996 Suzuki Sidekick?
Fuel Economy
| City | 21 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 24 mpg |
| Combined | 22 mpg |
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.”
When did they stop making Suzuki Sidekick?
Suzuki Sidekick – 1989-1998
The Sidekick was a small four-wheel drive SUV in a similar vein to the Samurai. That said, the Sidekick was more modern, less rough, and more road-oriented. The Sidekick was also sold under the Chevrolet and Geo brands as the Tracker.
What type of car is a Suzuki Sidekick?
sport utility vehicles
The Suzuki Sidekick and Suzuki Grand Vitara are sport utility vehicles made by Suzuki. They were sold since 1988 when they replaced the small Suzuki Samurai. It was sold by General Motors from 1989 to 2004 as the Geo Tracker. The vehicle is sold in other countries as the Suzuki Escudo.
1996 Suzuki Sidekick sport complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Suzuki Sidekick sport.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Suzuki Sidekick sport problems:
Problems to look for when buying | Suzuki Forums
Jan 29, 2013 ... ... 1996-1998) - the first two are ... '97 Suzuki Vitara 8v, parts car - worth its ... Yes, definitely stay away from the Suzuki Sport (1.8L engine).
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1996 Suzuki Sidekick Problems
Jun 23, 2010 ... It is real common for the lights come on and when you try to start it you just get clicks. You need to take the cables off and clean them with a ...
1996 Sidekick sport 1.8 wont start | Suzuki Forums
May 31, 2017 ... The fuel was dumped and fresh fuel was put in. Anyway I bought it and i have serviced the motor and transmission and coolant etc. The problem:
Are Geo Trackers Worth Buying? : r/geotracker
Feb 18, 2020 ... Common problems. Parts availability/prices. Engine / Mechanical problems. Geo Trackers look very cool, and it would be sweet to own one, so if ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 1995 Suzuki Sidekick JLX Transmission
May 2, 2011 ... I have a 95 Suzuki Sidekick JLX with automatic transmission. There is a problem with the transmission. At first the - Answered by a verified ...
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