1997 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 1997 Suzuki Sidekick problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1997 Suzuki Sidekick, several common problems have been identified:
- Engine Oil Leak From Front Crankshaft Seal:
- Another common problem involves engine oil leaks from the front crankshaft seal. This issue can result in oil puddles under the vehicle, reduced oil levels, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Throttle Position Sensor Failure:
- Owners have experienced failures with the throttle position sensor, which can lead to issues with acceleration, fuel efficiency, and overall engine performance. This problem may trigger warning lights on the dashboard and affect the drivability of the vehicle.
- Check Engine Light Issues:
- Many owners have reported persistent check engine light problems, often related to issues with the EGR system. Despite attempts to diagnose and fix the problem, including checking sensors and vacuum systems, the check engine light remains illuminated, indicating unresolved issues with the EGR system.
- Electrical Issues Leading to No Spark on Plugs:
- Some owners have faced electrical issues resulting in no spark on the spark plugs. This can cause the vehicle to fail to start or run rough. Checking the ignition system, spark plugs, and related components is crucial to address this problem effectively.
- Cosmetic and Mechanical Deterioration:
- Over time, the Suzuki Sidekick may suffer from cosmetic and mechanical deterioration, affecting its overall appearance and performance. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to address these issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
- High Cost of Replacement Parts:
- A significant concern among owners is the high cost of replacement parts for the Suzuki Sidekick. With the factory no longer in operation, finding affordable and quality replacement parts can be challenging, impacting the maintenance and repair costs of the vehicle.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough diagnostics to address issues with the 1997 Suzuki Sidekick effectively. Owners should stay vigilant for warning signs, such as unusual noises, dashboard lights, leaks, or performance issues, and address them promptly to ensure the continued reliability and performance of their vehicles.
How fast is a Suzuki Sidekick?
Suzuki Sidekick 4dr JX Specifications
| Engine | 1.6-Liter I-4 |
|---|---|
| 0-60 Time | 10.6 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 1500 pounds |
| Top Speed | 95 mph |
| Average Used Price | $4,832 - $8,126 |
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.
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.”
1997 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:
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Suzuki Sidekick vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Suzuki Sidekick
The NHTSA has received 54 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Suzuki Sidekick. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Suzuki Sidekick vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JS3TD21V4V4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING VEHICLE WILL STALL WHICH CAUSES LOSS OF ALL POWER. VEHICLE HAS BEEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER IN WHICH THE COMPUTER WAS REPLACED. PROBLEM STILL OCCURS; THE FAILED COMPONENT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-14
- VIN: JS3TDZ1V3VY
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND WITHOUT WARNING FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRES SEPARATED. *CB *NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-06
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CLUTCH PEDAL ATTACHMENT CLIP IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT SPOT WELD BROKE ALLOWING THE PEDAL TO DETACH FROM THE LINKAGE. WHEN THE OWNER ENTERED THE TRUCK THE PEDAL WAS ALREADY DETACHED. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS TS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED THE RING AND PINION GEARS FAILED. NLM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-26
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE VEHICLE STRUTS BROKE WHILE DRIVING, THE CONSUMER NEVER RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE 00V-008 RELATING TO THE STRUT ROD. NLM
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-01
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: JS3TB21V2V4
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY, THERE IS A KNOCKING NOISE UNDERNEATH VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK CONSUMER STATES FRONT OF CAR STARTED TO SHAKE CAUSING LOOSE STEERING, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT WHERE TWO PEOPLE WERE INJURED. *YD
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-04
- VIN: JS3TD21VX41
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: NHTSA ID# 00V-008-000 MANUFACTURE ID #W2 THE DEALERSHIP IS REFUSING TO SERVICE THE RECALL BECAUSE THE COMPUTER READING SHOWS THAT THE FRONT STRUTS WHERE ALREADY SERVICED ON APRIL 13, 2000. THE CONSUMER DEBATES THE PRINT FROM THE MANUFACTURER. NLM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER THE RECALL THE PROBLEM BECAME WORSE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AT: MARKET PLACE SUZUKI, HENERETTA, NY 585-359-4900. NLM
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 60 MPH ON ROAD AT NIGHT, THEN WOKE UP IN HOSPITAL. WITNESS SAID THAT DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE, AND HIT MIDDLE OF THE ROAD, THEN ROLLED OVER. DEALER WAS CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION.*AK
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-31
- VIN: JS3TD21V2V4
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PURCHASED THIS SIDEKICK JULY 24, 2001. WITHIN DAYS THE " ENGINE SOON" LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. DUE TO A 30 DAY 1000 MILE EXTENDED WARRANTY I TOOK THE SIDEKICK TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP PURCHASED AT. THE SIDEKICK WAS TAKEN TO THE SUZUKI DEALERSHIP FOR EVALUATION. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE SOLENOID AND VALVE BODY WERE DEFECTED. A REMANUFACTURED TRANSMISSION WAS PLACED IN THE VEHICLE DUE TO COST ANALYSIS. AFTER 1.5 WEEKS IN THE SHOP I PICKED UP "MY" SIDEKICK. WITHIN 3 DAYS THE "CHECK ENGINE SOON" LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. RETURNED THE SIDEKICK TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHERE PURCHASED. THE SUZUKI DEALERSHIP DETERMINED THAT THE REMANUFACTURED TRANSMISSION NEEDED REPLACED. IT WAS RELAYED TO ME THAT THE SUZUKI REMANUFACTURED TRANSMISSIONS HAD A VALVE BODY DEFECT. TRANSMISSION NUMBER 2 WAS PULLED AND IN WENT REMANUFACTURED TRANSMISSION NUMBER 3. I PICKED UP THE SIDEKICK THIS MORNING. WITHIN 2 HOURS AND LESS THAN 30 MILES THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. CONTACTED THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHERE PURCHASED. THE SIDEKICK WILL BE PICKED UP MONDAY MORNING AND I'LL BE DRIVING ANOTHER LOANER VEHICLE (FOR WHICH I'M VERY GRATEFUL). I'LL FIND OUT IN 2-3 DAYS WHETHER MY NEW TO ME USED TO YOU GETS TRANSMISSION NUMBER 4. I'VE HAD THIS VEHICLE FOR 31 DAYS, HAD THE PRIVILEDGE OF DRIVING IT FOR 7 DAYS TOPS. THE 30 DAY 1000 MILE EXTENDED WARRANTY HAS NOW EXPIRED. I'VE REQUESTED A COLLATERAL TRADE. I WON'T FIND OUT ABOUT THAT UNTIL THE OWNER OF THE DEALERSHIP RETURNS MONDAY. I'VE HAD MORE TRANSMISSIONS IN THIS ONE VEHICLE IN ONE MONTH THAN I'VE HAD IN ALL MY VEHICLES IN THE PAST 15 YEARS! LIKE TO KNOW WHAT OUR RIGHTS ARE. I'VE NOT EVEN MADE THE FIRST PAYMENT YET. WOULD LIKE SOME INORMATION ON OUR RIGHTS AS CONSUMERS. THANKS!*AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2S3TD03V9V6
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH CONSUMER SUDDENLY LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND IT CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE WALL. DEALERSHIP EXAMINED VEHICLE, AND FOUND THAT STRUT ROD HAD BROKEN, CAUSING THE CRASH. *AK THE LEFT TIE ROD ASSEMBLY HAS SEPARATED BETWEEN THE INNER LINK AND THE ADJUSTING SLEEVE. *SLC
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-30
- VIN: JS3TE21V7V4
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRES SEPARATED WITH COMPLETE STEEL TREAD AND TIRES CHUNKS MISSING, THIS OCCURRED AT 60MPH. I STILL HAVE TIRES ON CAR.*AK (TIRESIZE: 275 60R16H)
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-30
- VIN: JS3TE21V7V4
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRES SEPARATED WITH COMPLETE STEEL TREAD AND TIRES CHUNKS MISSING, THIS OCCURRED AT 60MPH. I STILL HAVE TIRES ON CAR.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH KEEP PREMATURELY FAILING ABOUT 6-10 MONTHS DUE TO A WHITE PIECE THAT GOES AROUND CLUTCH THAT KEEPS BREAKING. CONSUMER HAS ALREADY REPLACED CLUTCH 6 TIMES.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-01
- VIN: JS3TD21V6V4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THESE PARTS WERE REPLACED WHEN I HAD TRANSMISSION FAILURE. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JS3TDZ1V3V4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 TO 40 MPH UNDER COLD/ DRY CONDITIONS WHEN VEHICLE HIT A DIP IN ROAD, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL, AND VEHICLE WENT OVER A SNOW BANK, AND IMPACTED A TREE ON FRONT CENTER AREA OF VEHICLE. DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. DEALERSHIP HAS NOT GIVEN CONSUMER ANY REASON FOR CAUSE OF DEFECT. *SUZUKI WAS IN POSSESSION OF AIR BAGS, AND VEHICLE WAS CONSIDERED TO BE A TOTAL LOSS.*AK *SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-01
- VIN: JS3TD21V3V4
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE UNIT WOULD NOT ENGAGE OR WORK ON OCCASIONS, THE TRANSFER CASE REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. *MJS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-09-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH WHEN DRIVER NOTICED THAT GEAR WAS IN THE 2ND GEAR ,CONSUMER WENT TO SHIFT GEAR WHEN IT SHIFTED INTO REVERSE, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SPIN AND ROLL OVER. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED, RESULTING IN INJUIRES TO DRIVER. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-09-13
- VIN: JS3TD21V0V4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE STALLED WHEN LET OFF GAS DURING TURN IN INTERSECTION ALMOST LOST CONTROL. THIS VEHICLE IS STANDARD SHIFT, NEED 3 FEET TO DRIVE. THIS APPEARS TO POSSABLY BE THE SAME ISSUE AS ODI ID 781364, 824717, 713749, 805550. DEALER SAYS ENGINE DEFECTIVE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-20
- VIN: JS3TD21V6V4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE BRACKET THAT THE COOLING FAN AND AIR CONDITIONING COMPRESSOR MOUNT TO CRACKED AND SEPARATED. THE COOLING FAN WAS THROWN INTO THE RADIATOR AND CAUSED THE RADIATOR TO FAIL SUDDENLY. THE COOLING FAN AND BRACKET PIECE ALSO DAMAGED THE FRONT OF THE AIR CONDITIONING COMPRESSOR CAUSING FAILURE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JS3TD21V1V4
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONSUMER TRIED SEVERAL TIMES TO GET DEALER TO REPAIR VEHICLE UNDER RECALL. BUT NO PARTS WERE AVAILABLE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-11
- VIN: 2S3TE02V6V6
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAD JUST PULLED ONTO A MAJOR HIGHWAY, LUCKILY WAS ONLY GOING 40 MPH IN 4TH GEAR WHEN THE DRIVESHAFT CAME OFF THE MOTOR MOUNT, BUT STAYED ATTACHED TO THE REAR. MY TRUCK CAME UP OFF THE GROUND 3 FT. ACCORDING TO A WITNESS WHO WAS BEHIND ME AT THE TIME. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OFF THE HIGHWAY. PER THE SER VICE MANANGER AT DAVID MCDAVID, THE BOLTS WERE MISSING FROM THE MOTOR MOUNT. I AM NOT HARD ON THIS VEHICLE, AND IN MY OPINION, AND THAT OF THE SERVICE MGR. THIS IS A QUALITY ISSUE WITH SUZUKI. I DID CONTACT THE TX. REP. FOR SUZUKI, SHE WAS VERY RUDE! IT TOOK 17 DAYS FOR THE SERVICE DEPT. AT THE DEALERSHIP TO GET A NEW DRIVE SHAFT. THEY STATED THERE WAS NOT "ONE" IN ALL OF NORTH AMERICA OR CANADA." THEY HAD TO HAVE ONE BROUGHT IN BY BOAT. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE IN THIS VEHICLE ANY LONGER, AND WOULD NEVER BUY ANOTHER SUZUKI. ALSO, THE DEALERSHIP'S GENERAL MANAGER STATED THAT THEY WOULD MAKE ME A GOOD DEAL ON A GMC FULL SIZE TRUCK. I NEVER WANTED BACK IN THE SUZUKI AGAIN, THIS WAS A VERY TRAUMATIC EXPERIENCE FOR ME. I PICKED OUT A GMC TRUCK, MADE A DEAL WITH DAVID MCDAVID, DROVE IT HOME AND THEN THEY WELCHED ON THE DEAL AND ALL OF A SUDDEN WANTED A $3,000.00 DOWNPAYMENT! I AM TURNING THIS INTO THE BBB. MY WHOLE FAMILY HAS BEEN REPEAT CUSTOMERS OF THAT DEALERSHIP, AND NOW I AM BEING TREATED VERY POORILY. THEY JUST LOST ALOT OF BUSINESS. ANYTHING YOU CAN DO TO HELP ME WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-03
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RECALL REPAIR COMPLETED (00V-008), HOWEVER THE MECHANIC FAILED TO REPAIR CORRECTLY, CONSUMER HAD TO RETURN FOR ADDITIONAL REPAIR. *MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-21
- VIN: JS3TD21V2V2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BRACKET WHICH HOLDS THE FAN BROKE OFF AND CAUSED THE FAN TO CUT INTO THE RADIATOR. DEALER NOTIFIED, AND PART WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-20
- VIN: JS3TD21V2V4
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FAN BRACKET BROKE AND SENT FAN INTO RADIATOR CAUSING MAJOR GASHES AND CAR TO OVERHEAT. VEHICLE TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEVER WENT TO HOT AND ENGINE LIGHTS DID NOT GIVE ANY SIGNS OF PROBLEMS. MOTOR COMPLETELY BURNT UP.
1997 Suzuki Sidekick recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Suzuki Sidekick.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. INSUFFICIENT STRENGTH OF THE MOUNTING BASE ON THE UPPER END OF THE FRONT STRUTS CAN LEAD TO BREAKAGE OF THE MOUNTING BOLTS THAT ATTACH THE UPPER END OF THE FRONT STRUTS TO THE VEHICLE BODY.
- Consequence: IF THE STRUT BROKE LOOSE, A DRIVER COULD LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL ADD A REINFORCEMENT, FOR BOTH FRONT STRUTS, BETWEEN THE FRONT STRUT MOUNTING BASE AND THE VEHICLE BODY. IN ADDITION, THE FRONT STRUT MOUNTING BASES, MOUNTING BOLTS AND NUTS, AND STRUT BAR STAYS WILL BE REPLACED.
Negative 1997 Suzuki Sidekick car reviews
Positive 1997 Suzuki Sidekick car reviews
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This car has been fantastic for 80k miles. Unfortunately, I did experience a blown engine on a trip due to a bad heat sensor and a leak in the cooling system. However, the repair cost was less than $1000 and it has been running smoothly ever since. Other than regular maintenance, there have been no major expenses on the car.
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I hope you've been enjoying your Suzuki! It sounds like it's been a reliable car for you, especially in the snow with its four-wheel drive. I understand that as your cleaning business grows, you may need a larger vehicle. Let me know if you need any recommendations or assistance in finding a new car.
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You can always count on this SUV to be reliable!
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It can be quite challenging to find parts for an older car like my 1997 Sidekick, especially since there is only one dealership in Salt Lake City. Unfortunately, my experience with the Suzuki Dealership in West Valley has been less than satisfactory. Their customer service leaves much to be desired, and I would not recommend them to anyone. Additionally, I have noticed that my car tends to feel unstable when going around corners.
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my Sidekick. It has been such a reliable companion, taking me everywhere I need to go, even in below 0 weather! The original battery lasted almost 8 years, which is amazing. I've had a few minor issues, like some rust at the driver's door, but nothing major. Changing the tires was a breeze. I really appreciate the large windows, which are just the right height for me, even though it's a 2 x 4. I live in the city, so it's the perfect size for me. I've put over 179,500 miles on my Sidekick and it's still going strong!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Suzuki Sidekick problems:
Problems to look for when buying | Suzuki Forums
Jan 29, 2013 ... Good luck. '91 Tracker 8V, 1.6L, 5 sp, 4wd, 2dr, conv, CAMI, horribly rusty '97 Suzuki Vitara 8v, parts car - worth its weight in gold.....
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.
1997 Suzuki Sidekick; Minor Issues | Suzuki Forums
Jun 8, 2006 ... Well I think I may have found the problem. The exhaust manifold is totally shot. The outermost lining is cracked right through and a hole is ...
Q&A: Common Problems with 1997 Suzuki Sidekick Automatic ...
May 21, 2016 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
1997 Suzuki Sidekick JLX 4x4 Problem | Suzuki Forums
Dec 13, 2010 ... When the car is moving when cold or hot. The car would create sounds resembling like a hovercraft. I think its a fan belt or something but ...
Other years of Suzuki Sidekick
Are you having problems with your 1997 Suzuki Sidekick?
Marty Bashirian 2024-11-17
I really enjoy driving this truck (that's what I call it)! Although it's a bit small for me and my two kids, it's perfect for cruising around with the roof off in the summer, and it's great to have 4WD in the winter. I take really good care of mine and now it's starting to get attention. I have a strong attachment to it, and it brings me a lot of joy.
Xander Hahn 2024-10-02
I bought this sidekick with relatively high mileage (over 100k in 2000) for use at my second home in the NC mountains. Since none of my other vehicles have four wheel drive, I needed a cheap and reliable vehicle to drive in the winter. Despite being anemic in normal driving, it can't be beat for its low price and winter-driving ability.
Brannon Bechtelar 2024-09-19
Good dependable car overall, but when repairs are needed, the parts can be expensive. For example, the front struts cost $100 each, and the PVC valve and labor cost $260. Unfortunately, I blew a head gasket at 85,000 miles because the thermostat did not register over medium temperature, which cost $2,000 to fix.
Patrick Stark 2024-06-14
I bought this vehicle used with about 30,000 miles and I absolutely love it! The only issues I've had were a tie rod end and one hub, but that was at 100,000 miles. Other than that, I've only needed a tune-up and brakes for this vehicle.
Oran Jenkins 2024-05-26
This small SUV packs the power of a 4 cylinder engine while maintaining the gas mileage of an 8 cylinder. The 4 wheel drive works pretty well, but it's worth noting that replacement parts can be a bit pricey - for example, a serpentine belt can cost up to $35.