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: 2002
I've owned two 2002 XL7s and they have been great for off-road travel in southern British Columbia. While they are not ideal for trail travel due to their long wheelbase, I was able to solve 90% of the breakover issues by lifting mine 2.5 inches and adding 215 85/16 tires. The full frame makes it easy to add a winch and the roof rack is sturdy enough for a 12 ft boat. I even have a raised cargo floor bunk in the back for sleeping, which provides ample space to stretch out. Overall, these trucks are comfortable, roomy, fuel efficient, and capable off-road with just a bit of lift. However, there are a few downsides to consider. Firstly, the automatic version comes with an aluminum front differential that tends to break easily. Secondly, the timing chain tensioner and plastic chain guides tend to go after 200,000 kms, but it's a job that can be done yourself with a few shortcuts and some YouTube tutorials. Thirdly, the catalytic converter under the body can get clogged with too much slow driving or bad fuel, but it can be easily fixed by taking it off and reaming it out with rebar rod. Lastly, they can be a bit tippy, especially when pushed, so it's important to be cautious when driving. Overall, I highly recommend the 2002 XL7 for off-road enthusiasts who are looking for a comfortable and capable vehicle.Drive safely and remember that accidents can happen in an instant. The modifications that improve off-road performance are definitely worth it. Overall, this is a great little truck. It's a shame that Suzuki is no longer available in North America and that the new Jimny is not yet available. I would buy one without hesitation.
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Vehicle year: 2001
I've had my XL-7 for 2 years now and I must say, I'm really happy with it! I bought it to give me more room for hauling things, or for camping, etc. I was a bit unsure about leaving my nice and reliable Honda Accord behind, but the XL-7 has really impressed me overall. It is so versatile, comfortable, and gives great overall performance. Plus, it is a great value for the money given all the standard features. And, it is nice to have a vehicle that isn't like every other one on the road. I consistently get better fuel economy than posted--about 21mpg mixed/24mpg highway. It may be utilitarian and simple for some people, but that's why I like it so much!
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Vehicle year: 2006
Your 2005 Suzuki XL-7 sounds like a fun ride! It handles city traffic well and has convenient door handles for easy entry. Although, it seems like the driver's seat may not be the most comfortable for long drives. Additionally, wind noise can be a bit of a distraction when driving over 65 MPH, which can make it difficult to enjoy the radio. The interior could also use some improvement, as it seems to have a lot of cheap plastic. However, the vehicle looks great and the engine runs fast, especially in cold weather. It's good to know that the engine noise is normal for all models. Overall, it sounds like a great car with some minor drawbacks.
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Vehicle year: 2002
You made an excellent choice with your XL-7 purchase! With 60,770 miles on it, it's clear that you got a great deal. It's wonderful to hear that you're enjoying your new vehicle, especially since you never thought you would like a utility vehicle. The XL-7 is a great choice for anyone who needs a 4X4, and it's fantastic that it has plenty of room and a third row seat for your grandchildren. Even your teenage daughter likes to drive it! It's a stylish and practical vehicle that I would highly recommend to anyone. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2003
I've had my Suzuki XL7 for 7 years and have put 223,000 miles on it. In that time, I've only had one minor repair! The body has held up as well as the engine. This car is comfortable, looks great and is the most reliable car I've ever owned. Hoping to get another 100,000 reliable miles out of it :)
Are you having problems with your Suzuki Xl-7?
Reyes Keeling 2025-04-18
Vehicle year: 2003
After shopping around for SUVs from various well-known brands, my wife and I test drove a Suzuki and ultimately decided to purchase it. We were convinced by several factors: 1) The engine is significantly quieter than any other SUV we test drove in the under 35K range. 2) The ride is smooth and comfortable, more like a car than an SUV. 3) The exterior and interior are both satisfactorily decent. 4) The value for the price you pay is hard to beat. 5) The size of the vehicle is just right for someone looking for an SUV that is not too compact or too bulky.
Milo Satterfield 2025-04-16
Vehicle year: 2003
Your Suzuki sounds like an amazing 4WD SUV! You bought it used with 10,000 miles on it and have already put 40,000 more miles on it. It's great to hear that it has a trailer hitch and can pull your motorcycle with ease, even in the mountains. The off-road performance is excellent, which is impressive. Although the factory tires, Brigestones, only lasted 30,000 miles, you found a great replacement in Kumos for only $350.00 for four. It's good to know that your Suzuki has been very reliable.
Floy Huels 2025-04-13
Vehicle year: 2003
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your XL 7! It sounds like it's meeting your needs perfectly. Thank you for sharing your positive experience and recommendation!
Rory Hudson 2025-04-04
Vehicle year: 2004
The Suzuki XL7 is a great midsize SUV option that comes at a reasonable price. I was able to purchase mine for only $17K after discounts, which is a great deal considering the features it comes with, such as automatic temperature control air conditioning, CD player, cruise control, and antilock brakes. I have driven it for 11,000 miles and have not encountered any issues. The build quality is impressive, and the doors sound solid when closed. The driving position is comfortable, and it performs well, except in high winds. Although the gas mileage is not as good as I expected for a 6 cylinder midsize SUV, and the engine could use more power, overall, it is a great choice.
Kareem Halvorson 2025-03-19
Vehicle year: 2003
Overall, the car is very reliable and works well. It has power when I need it and is fuel efficient for its size when I drive it carefully. However, the 4WD failed and my mom has been complaining about it for years. Mechanics have said that this is just how Suzuki 4WDs work. I finally brought it to the Suzuki dealership where they confirmed the same thing. However, I asked them to take a look and their senior mechanic said that he has never seen a 4WD fall apart like that. He said that it would cost at least $800 just to take it apart and see what is wrong. Another minor issue is that the belt they used is too skinny, so it squeaks every morning if it is under 40 degrees. If the 4WD still worked, it would be a perfect car. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!