Suzuki Xl-7 problems
The Suzuki XL-7 (styled as XL7 for the second generation) is a mid-size SUV sold by Suzuki from 1998 to 2009, over two generations. Slotted above the Grand Vitara in Suzuki's lineup, the XL-7 offered three-row seating. XL-7 stands for "Xtra Large 7-seater".
First generation (XL-7; 1998)
The first-generation XL-7 was a Suzuki design, had a body-on-frame construction, and was essentially a stretched Grand Vitara. The North American version had a Suzuki-designed 2.5- or 2.7-liter V6 engine, on a rear-wheel drive-based platform with optional four-wheel drive. Beginning in 2003, European versions were also available with a 2.0-liter Peugeot turbodiesel engine producing 109 PS (80 kW).
A unique trait in the US market in this segment was that the XL-7 was available with a five-speed manual transmission, in both five- and seven-seat variants.
When introduced, the XL-7 was the least expensive SUV available with three-row seating in North America. It was awarded the Consumers Digest "Best Buy" award. However, sales slowed as the vehicle aged relative to the competition.
In Thailand, the Grand Vitara XL-7 was Imported by Siam International Corporation Co. Ltd. on 2002.
In Indonesia, the Grand Escudo XL-7 was launched on July 19, 2003, at the 12th Gaikindo Auto Expo.
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Suzuki Xl-7 model years
Common Suzuki Xl-7 problems
Common problems with the Suzuki XL-7 based on complaints from owners include issues with the braking system, timing chain, engine, power steering, heating systems, wheel bearing hubs, and electrical components.
- Braking System: Owners have reported problems with the braking system, particularly with the front disc pads wearing out faster when the vehicle is fully loaded. Regular maintenance and gentle use of the brake pedal can help extend the life of the brake pads and discs.
- Timing Chain: Lack of lubrication leading to timing chain failure is a common issue. Preventive maintenance is crucial to avoid this problem, as a stretched timing chain cannot be fixed by tightening it back in place.
- Engine: Complaints include issues with the camshaft, misfires, and engine shutdown while driving. Repairs for these engine-related problems can be costly, ranging from replacing the camshaft to addressing misfires and rough idling.
- Power Steering: Some owners have experienced power steering issues, which can affect the vehicle's handling and safety. Regular checks and maintenance can help prevent these problems.
- Heating Systems: Problems with the heating systems have been reported, impacting the comfort of the vehicle's interior. Addressing these issues promptly is essential for a comfortable driving experience.
- Wheel Bearing Hubs: Wheel bearing hub problems have been mentioned by owners, affecting the vehicle's performance and safety. Timely maintenance and replacements are necessary to ensure safe driving.
- Electrical Components: Complaints about electrical components failing, such as the CD player in the radio, climate control face plate, and check engine light issues, have been raised. These electrical problems can be frustrating and may require professional attention for resolution.
These common problems with the Suzuki XL-7 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and careful use to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
What year should I avoid the Suzuki XL-7?
What's Wrong with the 2nd Generation XL7? The 2nd generation XL7 (2007—2009) has 65 owner complaints, mostly about engine problems. Overall it ranks dead last in reliability out of 14 eligible Suzuki generations. Reliability rankings are based on our PainRank™ system.
Is the Suzuki XL-7 a reliable car?
They're not the best car in the class but, so long as they're properly looked after, the Suzuki XL7 shouldn't be any more unreliable than another mid-size SUV.
How many miles can a Suzuki XL-7 last?
That includes one accident (which did far more damage to the Dodge Stratus than it did to the XL7... ...and the XL7 went strong for about 200,000 miles afterwards... This latest one I bought is also a 2002; with 129,000 miles on it, so I'm expecting to have many years before it reaches the same point as the original.
Why did they stop making Suzuki XL-7?
The automaker pulled the plug on production in May 2009. Suzuki's major failing across the board in the U.S. was that its products weren't distinctive enough to give the brand the traction it needed to establish a sustainable presence. Part of the problem was a sharp decline in support from GM.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Suzuki Xl-7 years
We have researched Suzuki problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Suzuki Xl-7 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Suzuki Xl-7 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Suzuki Xl-7 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Suzuki Xl-7 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Suzuki Xl-7 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Suzuki Xl-7 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Equipment problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Visibility problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Suzuki Xl-7 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Xl-7 model years
A total of 2 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Xl-7 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Xl-7 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Suzuki Xl-7 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Suzuki Xl-7 vehicles.
List of Suzuki Xl-7 complaints
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-07
- Date Complaint: 2010-09-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JS3TX92V914
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUZUKI XL7 . THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN TURNING THE VEHICLE ON THERE WAS SMOKING COMING FROM THE RIGHT FRONT BUMPER. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT IT WAS ACTUALLY COMING FROM THE LIGHT BULB WHEN FLAMES STARTED TO FORM. THERE WERE DAMAGES TO THE FRONT BUMPER AND THE HEADLIGHTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOWED. THE DEALER WAS INFORMED ABOUT THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT WOULD NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE FAILURE AND TO CONTACT THE INSURANCE AGENCY. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 105000.
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2009-07-06
- VIN: JS3CX92V514
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUZUKI XL-7. SINCE JULY OF 2009, THE AIR CONDITIONING UNIT HAS BEEN BINDING AND FREEZING UP. THE CONTACT PULLED THE FUSE SO THAT THE AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR WOULD NOT FREEZE UP. HE DOES NOT ACTIVATE THE AIR CONDITIONING DUE TO CONCERN THAT THE BELT MAY SNAP OFF WHILE DRIVING AND CAUSE A CRASH. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-19
- Date Complaint: 2008-04-30
- VIN: JS3TX92V414
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: A/C COMPRESSOR SEIZING/ JUST OVER 100,000 MILES AND MECHANIC SAID THIS IS DEFECT AND COMMON BUT SUZUKI IS IGNORING PROBLEM. ALSO THIS COULD CAUSE SERIOUS ACCIDENT IF OCCURS WHILE DRIVING. *TR
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2008-01-17
- VIN: JS3TX92V114
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: I HAVE A 2001 SUZUKI XL-7 THE AC COMPRESSOR STARTED MAKING A NOISE WHEN YOU TURNED IT ON. AND THEN ONE DAY WE WHERE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND I TURNED THE AIR ON AND MY VEHICLE DIED. WE COASTED OFF THE ROAD AND TRIED TO START IT, BUT NOTHING. SO, I TURNED THE SWITCH OFF TO THE AIR AND THE VEHICLE STARTED BACK. I HAD TO REPLACE THE COMPRESSOR WHICH WAS NOT CHEAP. AND NOW IT IS STARTING TO MAKE THE SAME NOISE I BEFORE. WHICH I CAN'T AFFORD ANOTHER 900.00 TO REPLACE THIS ONE. AND SUZUKI REFUSED TO DO ANYTHING. I ALSO TOLD THEM ABOUT THE VEHICLE STALLING OUT THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD WHEN THE COMPRESSOR WENT OUT. THEY DIDN'T CARE. *TR
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-27
- Date Complaint: 2006-08-07
- VIN: JS3TX92V924
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A LOUD WHINING NOISE WAS HEARD WHILE DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DETERMINED THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL AND THE FRONT AXEL BEARING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2006-08-01
- VIN: JS3TX92V214
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE A/C COMPRESSOR HAS FAILED AT APPROX. 47,000 MILES. I HAVE CHECKED WITH MANY OTHER SUZUKI OWNERS AND THE DEALERSHIP HERE LOCALLY. THEY ALL STATE THIS IS COMMON FOR SUZUKI'S. DUE TO THE HIGH REPLACEMENT COST OF THE COMPRESSOR I AM CURRENTLY WITHOUT A/C WITH A 110 DEGREE HEAT INDEX. I WILL BE PURCHASING THE NEW COMPRESSOR AND HAVING IT INSTALLED SOON. *JB
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2005-10-30
- VIN: JS3TX92V614
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I OWN A 2001 SUZUKI XL7 4X4, 51,000 MILES. SUZUKI WON'T HONOR THEIR WARRANTY FOR THIS ENGINE. THE WARRANTY IS FOR 100,000 MILES OR 7 YEARS ON THE ENGINE. WELL, I HAVE A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH MY SUZUKI XL7. THERE IS AN ENGINEERING DESIGN FLAW IN THE AUTOMATIC TENSION ADJUSTMENT FOR THE TIMING CHAIN AS NOTED IN A SUZUKI INTERNAL SERVICE BULLETIN. SUZUKI TURNS A DEAF EAR AND BLIND EYE TO THIS PROBLEM. IT WILL COST ME $3,000 TO FIX MY CAR. THIS VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE, THE ENGINE JUST STOPPED ON ME, WHILE I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK, AT 1:00 A.M., IN THE MORNING, ON OCT. 5, 2005. I WAS PETRIFIED WHEN THIS HAPPEN TO ME. THE DEALER IS TELLING ME THAT BECAUSE OTHER PEOPLE HAVE WORKED ON IT BEFORE (SPARK PLUGS AND WIRES ARE ALL I HAVE HAD DONE TO IT) THAT THEY WON'T HONOR THE WARRANTY BUT WILL FIX IT FOR A FEE. I AM NOW FACED WITH A BEAUTIFUL VEHICLE THAT WILL NOT RUN AND STILL HAVE TO MAKE PAYMENTS TO THE BANK. WITH NO WAY TO GET TO WORK AND EARN INCOME, I AM NOW FACED WITH LOSING MY HOME. THIS IS SUZUKI'S TOP OF THE LINE MODEL. I HAVE DONE SOME RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND THAT THEY HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM SINCE 1999. PLEASE SEE THE LINK THAT I HAVE PROVIDED. ACTION NEEDS TO TAKEN AGAINST THEM. WWW.CARREVIEW.COM. *NM
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2005-10-30
- VIN: JS3TX92V614
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I OWN A 2001 SUZUKI XL7 4X4, 51,000 MILES. SUZUKI WON'T HONOR THEIR WARRANTY FOR THIS ENGINE. THE WARRANTY IS FOR 100,000 MILES OR 7 YEARS ON THE ENGINE. WELL, I HAVE A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH MY SUZUKI XL7. THERE IS AN ENGINEERING DESIGN FLAW IN THE AUTOMATIC TENSION ADJUSTMENT FOR THE TIMING CHAIN AS NOTED IN A SUZUKI INTERNAL SERVICE BULLETIN. SUZUKI TURNS A DEAF EAR AND BLIND EYE TO THIS PROBLEM. IT WILL COST ME $3,000 TO FIX MY CAR. THIS VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE, THE ENGINE JUST STOPPED ON ME, WHILE I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK, AT 1:00 A.M., IN THE MORNING, ON OCT. 5, 2005. I WAS PETRIFIED WHEN THIS HAPPEN TO ME. THE DEALER IS TELLING ME THAT BECAUSE OTHER PEOPLE HAVE WORKED ON IT BEFORE (SPARK PLUGS AND WIRES ARE ALL I HAVE HAD DONE TO IT) THAT THEY WON'T HONOR THE WARRANTY BUT WILL FIX IT FOR A FEE. I AM NOW FACED WITH A BEAUTIFUL VEHICLE THAT WILL NOT RUN AND STILL HAVE TO MAKE PAYMENTS TO THE BANK. WITH NO WAY TO GET TO WORK AND EARN INCOME, I AM NOW FACED WITH LOSING MY HOME. THIS IS SUZUKI'S TOP OF THE LINE MODEL. I HAVE DONE SOME RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND THAT THEY HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM SINCE 1999. PLEASE SEE THE LINK THAT I HAVE PROVIDED. ACTION NEEDS TO TAKEN AGAINST THEM. WWW.CARREVIEW.COM. *NM
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-11
- Date Complaint: 2005-01-04
- Components: STRUCTURE,INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHEN ACCELERATING AT ANY TIME DOOR AJAR SENSOR LIGHT CAME ON. *AK
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2004-05-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JS3TX92V014
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH ACCELERATOR STICKING. *MR CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN TWO COLLISIONS WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE DUE TO ACCELERATOR PROBLEMS. AN ACCELERATOR CABLE WAS INSTALLED, BUT A FEW MONTHS LATER VEHICLE STARTED TO ACCELERATE ALMOST HITTING ANOTHER VEHICLE. *LA
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2004-02-23
- VIN: JS3TX92V614
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, AIR WAS COMING THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD. THE WINDSHIELD WAS REPLACED ONCE BEFORE FOR A SIMILAR PROBLEM. *AK
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2004-02-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JS3TX92V614
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE DRIVER STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN. DRIVER PRESSED ACCELERATOR AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ZIG ZAG AND LOSE CONTROL. VEHICLE FLIPPED OVER AND HIT A FENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK RECALL# 03V512000 ONE WEEK AFTER THE ACCIDENT. *SC
Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-22
- Date Complaint: 2004-01-28
- VIN: JS3TY92VX14
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON. TOOK IN TO BE CHECKED, SEEMS THAT THE CLOCKSPRING HAS A SHORT. *AK
Latest 5 recalls Suzuki Xl-7
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the Suzuki Xl-7.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Suzuki Xl-7 2006
- Report Received Date: 2010-06-09
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP
- Summary: SUZUKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR MODEL YEAR 2006 GRAND VITARA AND MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 XL-7 VEHICLES. THE TENSION ADJUSTER PULLEY FOR THE DRIVE BELT THAT OPERATES THE POWER STEERING PUMP AND AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR (IF EQUIPPED) HAS AN OUTER PORTION THAT IS MADE OF PLASTIC. REPEATED HEAT STRESS CAN CAUSE THE PLASTIC MATERIAL TO DETERIORATE AND PIECES OF THE PULLEY CAN BREAK OFF.
- Consequence: BROKEN PIECES OF THE PULLEY CAN GET CAUGHT BETWEEN THE PULLEY AND THE DRIVE BELT, CAUSING THE DRIVE BELT TO COME OFF AND RESULTING IN THE DRIVER NEEDING INCREASED EFFORT TO STEER THE VEHICLE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER STEERING PUMP DRIVE BELT TENSION ADJUSTER PULLEY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 28, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI AT 1-800-934-0934.
- Model: Suzuki Xl-7 2005
- Report Received Date: 2010-06-09
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP
- Summary: SUZUKI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR MODEL YEAR 2006 GRAND VITARA AND MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 XL-7 VEHICLES. THE TENSION ADJUSTER PULLEY FOR THE DRIVE BELT THAT OPERATES THE POWER STEERING PUMP AND AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR (IF EQUIPPED) HAS AN OUTER PORTION THAT IS MADE OF PLASTIC. REPEATED HEAT STRESS CAN CAUSE THE PLASTIC MATERIAL TO DETERIORATE AND PIECES OF THE PULLEY CAN BREAK OFF.
- Consequence: BROKEN PIECES OF THE PULLEY CAN GET CAUGHT BETWEEN THE PULLEY AND THE DRIVE BELT, CAUSING THE DRIVE BELT TO COME OFF AND RESULTING IN THE DRIVER NEEDING INCREASED EFFORT TO STEER THE VEHICLE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER STEERING PUMP DRIVE BELT TENSION ADJUSTER PULLEY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 28, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI AT 1-800-934-0934.
- Model: Suzuki Xl-7 2005
- Report Received Date: 2005-10-05
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 16-INCH WHEELS, THE FRONT BRAKE DISCS MAY BREAK UNDER SEVERE DRIVING CONDITIONS. THE BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR IN CONDITIONS WHERE THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN ON A REGULAR BASIS ON EXTREMELY STEEP PAVED DOWN-SLOPES WHILE CONTINUOUSLY APPLYING THE BRAKES.
- Consequence: THE FRONT BRAKES MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE AND THE VEHICLE MAY PULL TO ONE SIDE. THIS COULD RESULT IN A CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT BRAKE DISCS ON THESE VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 10, 2005. THESE VEHICLES ARE LOCATED ON ST. THOMAS ISLAND (VIRGIN ISLANDS). OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI DEL CARIBE AT 787-622-0600.
- Model: Suzuki Xl-7 2001
- Report Received Date: 2005-10-05
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 16-INCH WHEELS, THE FRONT BRAKE DISCS MAY BREAK UNDER SEVERE DRIVING CONDITIONS. THE BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR IN CONDITIONS WHERE THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN ON A REGULAR BASIS ON EXTREMELY STEEP PAVED DOWN-SLOPES WHILE CONTINUOUSLY APPLYING THE BRAKES.
- Consequence: THE FRONT BRAKES MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE AND THE VEHICLE MAY PULL TO ONE SIDE. THIS COULD RESULT IN A CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT BRAKE DISCS ON THESE VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 10, 2005. THESE VEHICLES ARE LOCATED ON ST. THOMAS ISLAND (VIRGIN ISLANDS). OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI DEL CARIBE AT 787-622-0600.
- Model: Suzuki Xl-7 2003
- Report Received Date: 2005-10-05
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 16-INCH WHEELS, THE FRONT BRAKE DISCS MAY BREAK UNDER SEVERE DRIVING CONDITIONS. THE BREAKAGE CAN OCCUR IN CONDITIONS WHERE THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN ON A REGULAR BASIS ON EXTREMELY STEEP PAVED DOWN-SLOPES WHILE CONTINUOUSLY APPLYING THE BRAKES.
- Consequence: THE FRONT BRAKES MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE AND THE VEHICLE MAY PULL TO ONE SIDE. THIS COULD RESULT IN A CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT BRAKE DISCS ON THESE VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 10, 2005. THESE VEHICLES ARE LOCATED ON ST. THOMAS ISLAND (VIRGIN ISLANDS). OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI DEL CARIBE AT 787-622-0600.
Latest negative Suzuki Xl-7 car reviews
Latest positive Suzuki Xl-7 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2005
I really like how it handles and the interior storage for five people. I was very happy with the space and comfort on long trips. The seats are firm, providing good support for the legs, seat and back on both short and long trips. I was also impressed with the braking in emergency conditions.
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Vehicle year: 2006
I really enjoy driving my 4WD Suzuki XL-7, especially after driving front wheel drive vehicles for the past 13 years. The vehicle comes equipped with everything I need and is a great package. The sound system is outstanding and I particularly love the heated leather seats. Compared to other mid-size SUVs, the XL-7 is considerably more affordable. While it may not have the same power as some of its competitors' 3.0 engines, it still takes me where I want to go comfortably and with all the luxury of a more expensive vehicle. I'm willing to forego the power for the luxury.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I usually review newer or previous cars I've owned, but I haven't shared my experience with the best car I ever owned - my 2004 Suzuki XL7. I bought it brand new in 2004 and thought paying $30,000 (after financing) was a lot for a vehicle back then, but it's more than paid for itself after 15 years of ownership and almost 280,000 miles later. The only major problems I've had with it are the power steering rack which developed leaks that I had to repair twice, rear wheel bearings which was a quick repair, and had to get the AC serviced. I've done most of the maintenance myself, including oil changes and even replacing the radiator, which were fairly simple jobs for a DIYer. I wouldn't let a dealership shop near it if at all possible. But it's still on its original engine and transmission, and I haven't changed the differential fluid since 100,000 miles because I thought it wouldn't last too much longer than that, but it's gone almost another 180,000 miles! Alas, it's getting tired and the engine valve covers and oil pan gaskets are now leaking, and there's a tiny exhaust leak. I just fill it with oil periodically and it's still going. I suppose I can put in some money for it to replace all the gaskets, get the exhaust fixed as well as the alternator pulley which is starting to wobble, but not sure if it's worth extending the car anymore, as it's seemingly fulfilled its useful purpose being the family mover for 15 years, taking it cross-country many times in between. Now, it's just put out to semi-pasture for short drives as a spare car. If I can find a newer one with less mileage, I may consider it, or just put in the repairs to see if I can get it to 300,000 miles as it's oh so close.But it's great to hear that you've had a positive experience with this car! It's unfortunate that they don't make them like this anymore. If you're considering purchasing a used one, I would recommend sticking to the 2000-2004 models, even if they have over 100,000 miles. As long as they are well maintained, they can still be a great vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2002
After five months and 7200 miles, we are still in love with our XL-7! My wife was hesitant about getting an SUV since she previously drove a Cutlass, but now she says she will never go back to driving a car again! The truck rides and drives GREAT, and I no longer get tired on long trips. Our daughter loves the rear air, extra leg room, and reclining rear seats. Although we didn't need third row seating, we had to buy that way to get rear air. We removed the third row seat cushion, which provided a flat load floor. We just need a cargo net to keep our groceries from falling out on our feet when we open the rear door. The truck has not been back to the dealer since the day we left, and there has been no need! Thank you for such a great vehicle!
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Vehicle year: 2002
This little SUV is quite impressive! The features are outstanding, especially considering the price. While the third row seat is great for kids, it can be a little cramped for adults on long trips. The visors could be improved as the soft plastic is flimsy and not long enough to block the sun when used on the side. Overall, this SUV is definitely worth the price and has plenty of room. Using the 4 Wheel drive is also a lot of fun! I do have one issue, however, which is that sometimes the radio LEDS go dim in the daylight, making it hard to see the station and clock. I plan to have this issue addressed when I have time to go to the dealer. Thank you for considering this SUV!
Are you having problems with your Suzuki Xl-7?
Agustin Haag 2025-05-28
Vehicle year: 2006
I'm not completely satisfied with how quickly the gas seems to deplete in my XL-7. Additionally, I experienced some issues with my air conditioning less than a year after purchasing it, and my CD player is not functioning optimally at the moment. Although most of these issues are covered under warranty, it's still frustrating to have to deal with them so soon. When I first purchased the car, it served its purpose as I needed a vehicle that could seat seven people. However, now that I no longer require the extra space, I feel somewhat limited as the car's value has decreased significantly. Despite these challenges, I remain hopeful that I can find a solution that works for me.
Dayne Senger 2025-05-25
Vehicle year: 2004
I really like driving my XL-7 around town, but I find it uncomfortable on long trips due to the bumpy ride. However, I read that the '07 model will have a smoother ride, which is great news! If that's the case, I wouldn't hesitate to consider purchasing one, especially since the price and warranty are good, and it has a good reputation for reliability. I haven't had any problems with mine so far.
Damion Zieme 2025-05-17
Vehicle year: 2001
I have had several issues with my Suzuki XL-7 and unfortunately, the dealer has been unresponsive to my concerns. As a result, I have lost confidence in the brand and will not be purchasing any Suzuki vehicles in the future. I will also be advising my friends to consider other options.
Colton Heidenreich 2025-05-09
Vehicle year: 2006
In 2010, we were lucky enough to find a great deal on an '06 XL7 with only 37K miles. We were looking for a replacement for our '00 Honda Odyssey, but Toyotas and Hondas were too expensive, even with 100K miles. While the XL7 may not have the smoothest ride, with poor acceleration and gas mileage averaging 17 city and 20 highway, it has been incredibly reliable with no problems whatsoever at 72K miles. With our three kids aged 11, 8, and 7, we can still fit 1-2 of them in the fold-down 3rd row, and on long trips, we simply flip down one side of the 3rd row and pack plenty of luggage. However, it's important to note that the vehicle does not perform well in snow, and we regret not purchasing a 4x4. Overall, we miss our minivan, but the XL7 is the next best thing.
Alessandro Corkery 2025-05-01
Vehicle year: 2002
Overall, you have a very reliable vehicle. While it may not be a luxury SUV, it is definitely a great value for the price. Although the build quality may be somewhat questionable, you can rest assured that the dealer support and service that accompanies it are both excellent.