1990 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 1990 Suzuki Sidekick problems
Based on the information gathered from various sources about the Suzuki Sidekick, here are some common problems reported by owners of the 1990 Suzuki Sidekick:
- ECM (Engine Control Module) Problems: The ECM in Suzuki Sidekicks can have issues with leaky capacitors. While this can be a concern, there are individuals who offer repair services for these components at reasonable prices .
- Fuel Pump Concerns: If a Suzuki Sidekick sits idle for extended periods, the fuel pump may develop issues. This can lead to starting problems or poor engine performance, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and care for the vehicle .
- Rod Bearing Failures: Some 8-valve engines in Suzuki Sidekicks, especially after around 150,000 miles, may experience rod bearing failures. While this issue can arise unexpectedly, prompt action to replace the bearing can prevent further damage to the engine components .
- Vacuum Leak Challenges: Owners have reported significant vacuum leaks in Suzuki Sidekicks, which can lead to various performance issues like rough idling, poor acceleration, and overall engine inefficiency. Locating and fixing these leaks can be crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance .
These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and timely repairs to ensure the Suzuki Sidekick's longevity and optimal performance.
What is the common problem of Suzuki?
Common problems with Suzuki include timing chain, headlight, and brake issues. Here's what to know. What are the most common Suzuki problems?
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.”
Does a Suzuki Sidekick have a frame?
Tiny Suzuki pioneered the segment with the Sidekick. With a traditional SUV body-on-frame construction, it was primitive compared to later unibody versions to come.
What is the other name for Suzuki Sidekick?
This model is known as Escudo V6 in Japan, Sidekick Sport in North America or Vitara V6/TD elsewhere.
1990 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:
- Seat belts problems
- Structure problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Suzuki Sidekick vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Suzuki Sidekick complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Suzuki Sidekick.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-20
- VIN: JC4TAO1CXL4
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FIREWALL CRACKED AFTE CLUTCH WAS INSTALLED IN VEHICLE. CONSUMER TOOK IT TO DEALER, AND WAS TOLD BY MECHANIIC THAT THERE WAS A WEAK SPOT IN FIREWALL. COST TO HAVE IT REPAIRED WAS $1700.OO. CONSUMER THINKS THIS MAY OR SHOULD BE A RECALL.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-04
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE MASTER CYLINDER IS DEFECTIVE. THE BRAKES DRAG INTERMITENTLY, AND THE MECHANIC HAS TOLD ME THAT THE "CHECK VALVE" INSIDE THE MASTER CYLINDER IS FAILING TO RELEASE WHEN I TAKE MY FOOT OFF OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. WHEN THE CHECK VALVE FAILS TO RELEASE, THE BRAKES DRAG, AND IF I NEED TO STOP, THE BRAKE PEDAL IS VERY HARD TO PUSH. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO TWO REBUILT MASTER CYLINDERS, AND ALSO TO A NEW REPLACEMENT MASTER CYLINDER FROM SUZUKI.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JS3TC01C4L4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DURING IMPACT, THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT RELEASED FROM THE BELT BUCKLE. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-10
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT FAILURE. *AW
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-23
- VIN: JS4TC01C0L4
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BOTH FRONT SEAT BELTS FAILED, ONE SHATTERING AND NOT FUNCTIONING AT ALL. TT
1990 Suzuki Sidekick recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1990 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.
Negative 1990 Suzuki Sidekick car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Suzuki Sidekick problems:
Problems to look for when buying | Suzuki Forums
Jan 29, 2013 ... ... 1990, 1991-1995, 1996-1998 ... '97 Suzuki Vitara 8v, parts car - worth its ... Yes, definitely stay away from the Suzuki Sport (1.8L engine).
ok.. need all info on suzuki sidekick! | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Nov 25, 2004 ... And problems I should look for that are common with the sidekick? ... common with the sidekick? Click ... 1990 model Suzuki Sidekick had this ...
Common issues or not? : r/SuzukiSamurai
Apr 12, 2022 ... So I bought a suzuki samurai(not starting) that had been sitting for 5 years. ... So what I'm wondering is are these common problems ... He has a ...
Vitara with problems | Suzuki Forums
Apr 14, 2008 ... I recently bought a 1992 Vitara softtop 1.6 8v for not that much money. What could be expected, it has some problems.. Although I have no ...
Suzuki Sidekick Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top Suzuki Sidekick Problems · Clutch Pedal May Suddenly Fall to the Floor · Engine Oil Leak From Front Crankshaft Seal · The Throttle Position Sensor May Fail.
Other years of Suzuki Sidekick
Are you having problems with your 1990 Suzuki Sidekick?
Ewald Champlin 2024-09-11
This car is a great choice for a single girl or young couple. It is mechanically sound and very practical.
Freeman Yost 2024-02-27
I've owned this car for four years and it's been quite the adventure! I've taken it off-roading countless times, even though it's not an ATV, and I've definitely put it through its paces. I've had to replace a few parts, like axles, tires, shocks, and struts, but that's to be expected when you push a car to its limits. It's been a blast to drive with the top off and the 4-wheel drive engaged. If you're someone who loves off-roading and living on the edge, this car would be a great choice for you. The only thing I wish it had was a bit more power and a roll cage for added safety. Overall, I have no complaints about this car and I'm sure it would make a great purchase for anyone looking for a fun and reliable ride!