1989 Suzuki Sidekick 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 1989 Suzuki Sidekick problems
The Suzuki Sidekick, produced from 1989 to 1998, is known for its compact size and four-wheel-drive capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it has its fair share of common problems. This article will focus on the 1989 Suzuki Sidekick, highlighting issues reported by owners and mechanics.
- Leaking Engine Oil from the Front Crankshaft Seal: Another common problem with the 1989 Suzuki Sidekick is engine oil leaks, particularly from the front crankshaft seal. This leak can result in reduced engine performance, increased oil consumption, and potential engine damage. The front crankshaft seal is a common point of wear and tear, and it may need to be replaced periodically.
- Failure of the Throttle Position Sensor: The throttle position sensor (TPS) is responsible for providing information about the throttle position to the engine control unit (ECU). A faulty TPS can cause issues with engine performance, including stalling, poor acceleration, and rough idling. This problem is commonly reported among Sidekick owners, and it may require replacement of the TPS or re-calibration of the sensor.
- Sticking Accelerator Pedal: Some Sidekick owners have reported issues with the accelerator pedal sticking or becoming difficult to depress. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged throttle cables, a faulty throttle position sensor, or debris in the throttle body.
- Automatic Transmission Creates Whining Noises: Some Sidekick owners have reported whining noises coming from the automatic transmission. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including low transmission fluid levels, worn transmission components, or issues with the torque converter. This problem may require replacement of the transmission or other components.
- Damage to the Transfer Case While Driving in 4WD on Dry Roads: Some Sidekick owners have reported damage to the transfer case while driving in 4WD on dry roads. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn or damaged components, improper use of the 4WD system, or issues with the transfer case fluid. This problem may require replacement of the transfer case or other components.
- Faulty Fuel Injectors: Some 1989 Sidekick owners have reported issues with faulty fuel injectors. This problem can cause issues with engine performance, including poor fuel economy, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine. This problem may require replacement of the fuel injectors or other components.
- Clutch Replacement Needed After 140,000 Miles: Some Sidekick owners have reported that the clutch needs to be replaced after 140,000 miles. This problem is attributed to the wear and tear of the clutch components, and it may require replacement of the clutch or other components.
- Stock Catalytic Converter Replacement Needed to Meet Newer Emission Regulations: Some Sidekick owners have reported that the stock catalytic converter needs to be replaced to meet newer emission regulations. This problem is attributed to changes in emission regulations, and it may require replacement of the catalytic converter or other components.
In summary, the 1989 Suzuki Sidekick is known for several common problems, including clutch pedal issues, engine oil leaks, throttle position sensor failures, sticking accelerator pedals, automatic transmission whining noises, transfer case damage, faulty fuel injectors, clutch replacement needs, and catalytic converter replacement needs. These problems can be addressed by regular maintenance, inspection, and replacement of worn or damaged components.
What engine is in a 1989 Suzuki Sidekick?
1989 Suzuki Sidekick Overview
Available powertrain includes a standard 80 horsepower, 1L NA I4 single overhead cam (SOHC) 8V engine and 5-Speed Manual transmission. It gives mileage of 24 MPG in city and 26 MPG on highway. The 1989 Suzuki Sidekick comes with 4WD.
Do Suzuki sidekicks have airbags?
The JLX trim was the top-of-the-line variant of the Sidekick and it came with 16-inch wheels and standard safety features like ABS and dual airbags.
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.”
What engine is in a 1990 Suzuki Sidekick?
Used 1990 Suzuki Sidekick JX - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 1.6 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 80 hp @ 5,400 rpm |
1989 Suzuki Sidekick car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Suzuki Sidekick problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Suzuki Sidekick vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1989 Suzuki Sidekick complaints
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Suzuki Sidekick.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-18
- VIN: JS4TA01C2K4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1989 SUZUKI SIDEKICK. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS CONSTANTLY ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. ON TWO OCCASIONS, HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND PAID $100 TO HAVE THE LIGHT TURNED OFF. THERE IS A SWITCH IN THE CIRCUIT THAT HE CANNOT LOCATE, BUT NEEDS TO REMOVE IT IN ORDER TO PREVENT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FROM ILLUMINATING AGAIN. THE SUZUKI DEALER WILL NOT REMOVE THE SWITCH BECAUSE IT IS A FEDERALLY MANDATED MALFUNCTION, ACCORDING TO THE PAPERWORK THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED. IF THE SWITCH IS NOT REMOVED, THE WARNING INDICATOR WILL ILLUMINATE AND PREVENT THE CONTACT FROM RECEIVING AN EMISSIONS STICKER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 81,000. UPDATED 5/5/09 *CN THE DEALER RECOMMENDED REPLACING THE OXYGEN SENSOR. UPDATED 05/06/09.*JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-25
- VIN: JS4TA01V1K4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRONT PASSENGER SHOULDER/LAP BELT EXPLODED INTO BUNCH OF LITTLE PIECES, NOW INOPERATIVE, HAPPENED AS RELEASE BUTTON WAS DEPRESSED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-02
- VIN: JF4PA51C1K4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EXHAUST LEAK, CONSUMER REPORTED BURNED REAR PASSENGER SEAT AREA WHILE DRIVING, CAUSED BY LEAK FROM THE TAIL PIPE PE91-1260. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- VIN: JF3TAO1C6K4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE ALTERNATOR OVER POWERED THE SYSTEM, FRIED THE BATTERY *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- VIN: JF3TAO1C6K4
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTOR ELECTRICAL RELAY BURNED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- VIN: JF3TAO1C6K4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TURN SIGNAL ELECTRICAL RELAY BURNED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- VIN: JF3TAO1C6K4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE BURNED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- VIN: JF3TAO1C6K4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALTERNATOR FAILURE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- VIN: JF3TAO1C6K4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VOLTAGE REGULATOR STUCK WIDE OPEN. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- VIN: JF3TAO1C6K4
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE ASSEMBLY MALFUNCTIONED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-03
- VIN: JS4TA01C0K4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE BROKE, REPLACED, REPLACEMENT BROKE ALSO. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-01-01
- VIN: JS4TA01C1K4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLE WILL NOT LATCH WILL POP OUT WHILE DRIVING. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-27
- VIN: JS4T801C1K4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT DOES NOT UNLOCK. PLEASE EXPLAIN. TT
1989 Suzuki Sidekick recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1989 Suzuki Sidekick.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
- Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Suzuki Sidekick problems:
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