2001 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.
Social links
Common 2001 Suzuki Xl-7 problems
The Suzuki XL-7, produced in 2001, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include:
- Steering/Suspension Problems: Some Suzuki XL-7 owners have reported steering and suspension problems, including a knocking noise coming from the front suspension area and play in the steering wheel. These issues are often caused by faulty roll bar links and steering linkage. Replacing the roll bar links and steering linkage can help resolve these problems.
- Engine Management Warning Light: The engine management warning light appearing on the dashboard is a common problem in the Suzuki XL-7, often caused by a faulty oxygen sensor. This can lead to increased fuel consumption and reduced engine performance. Replacing the oxygen sensor can help resolve this issue.
- Timing Chain Problems: The timing chain in the Suzuki XL-7 has been reported to have problems, often caused by poor servicing and the tensioners sticking. This can lead to a rattling noise coming from the engine. Flushing the engine and changing the oil can often fix this problem. If it does not, replacing the timing chain may be necessary.
- Rear Door Handle Problems: The rear door handles in the Suzuki XL-7 are prone to breaking. If the rear door handles are not working or are broken, they will need to be replaced to resolve the issue.
- Transmission Problems: Some Suzuki XL-7 owners have reported transmission problems, including difficulty disengaging the 4-wheel drive system and high revving when starting the car. These issues can be caused by improper use of the 4-wheel drive system, mismatched tires, or other tire-related problems.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical problems, such as issues with the remote not working, have also been reported by Suzuki XL-7 owners. These issues can often be resolved by replacing the contact plates on the doors or by checking the owner's or car warranty manual for coverage under the federal emissions warranty.
- Brake Problems: Some Suzuki XL-7 owners have reported brake problems, including the need to replace the brake shoes more often than desired. Regular maintenance and replacement of the brake shoes as recommended by the manufacturer can help prevent this issue.
In conclusion, while the Suzuki XL-7 has several common problems, many of these issues can be prevented or resolved through regular maintenance and replacement of parts as recommended by the manufacturer. It is important for owners to stay up-to-date on their vehicle's maintenance and to address any issues as soon as they arise.
What is the common problem with Suzuki XL-7?
Timing chain problem
If you can hear a rattling noise coming from the engine, then the most likely cause is a problem with the timing chain. The main cause of this problem is poor servicing, which results in the tensioners sticking. Does the video below sound anything like your issue?
Is a Suzuki XL-7 reliable?
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.
Why did they stop making Suzuki XL-7?
In May 2009, Suzuki halted production of the XL7 indefinitely due to low demand. Through May 10, 2009, CAMI Automotive had only produced four XL7s for Suzuki after producing more than 12,000 units the previous year.
Why is my Suzuki XL-7 not starting?
The most common reasons a Suzuki XL-7 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
2001 Suzuki Xl-7 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Suzuki Xl-7 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Equipment problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Visibility problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Suzuki Xl-7 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2001 Suzuki Xl-7 complaints
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Suzuki Xl-7.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-07
- 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.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-01
- 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.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-19
- 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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-15
- 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
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-27
- 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
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-01
- 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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-05
- 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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-05
- 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
STRUCTURE,INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-11
- Components: STRUCTURE,INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHEN ACCELERATING AT ANY TIME DOOR AJAR SENSOR LIGHT CAME ON. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- 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
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JS3TX92V614
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, AIR WAS COMING THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD. THE WINDSHIELD WAS REPLACED ONCE BEFORE FOR A SIMILAR PROBLEM. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- 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
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-22
- VIN: JS3TY92VX14
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON. TOOK IN TO BE CHECKED, SEEMS THAT THE CLOCKSPRING HAS A SHORT. *AK
2001 Suzuki Xl-7 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2001 Suzuki Xl-7.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE CASING CAP THAT IS ATTACHED TO THE VEHICLE FIREWALL CAN CRACK DUE TO EXTENDED EXPOSURE TO FORCES FROM THE ACCELERATOR CABLE AND INSUFFICIENT LONG-TERM DURABILITY OF THE PLASTIC CASING CAP. IF THE CASING CAP BECOMES CRACKED, MOVEMENT OF THE INNER ACCELERATOR CABLE THROUGH THE CAP CAN CAUSE THE INNER ACCELERATOR CABLE TO BECOME FRAYED.
- Consequence: IF THE INNER ACCELERATOR CABLE BECOMES FRAYED, IT CAN STICK DURING VEHICLE OPERATION. IN THE CASE WHERE AN ACCELERATOR CABLE STICKS, THE DRIVER COULD HAVE DIFFICULTY CONTROLLING VEHICLE SPEED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR CABLE, WHICH INCLUDES THE PLASTIC CASING CAP. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JANUARY 5, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SUZUKI AT 1-800-934-0934.
Negative 2001 Suzuki Xl-7 car reviews
Positive 2001 Suzuki Xl-7 car reviews
-
I'm also a Honda enthusiast who was looking for more features for the money this time around. We already have a CRV and were looking for something similar but with a V-6 engine because of the challenges of driving on I-35 down here. You need to be able to accelerate quickly and move out of the way! Overall, we're quite pleased with this little SUV.
-
I bought it new and, other than regular maintenance, it has never let me down or given me any trouble. With 260000 km and still going strong, I'm very pleased with it!
-
Your XL7 has carried you many miles through storms and ice, with great shift on the fly 4WD and lots of pep. It's understandable that your husband may want you to get a newer, more powerful SUV, but your XL7 has all the power you need. It's reliable, economically efficient, and affordably priced.
-
You've got yourself an extremely reliable vehicle! It's amazing that you haven't needed any major repairs outside of routine maintenance for the 86,000 miles you've driven so far.
-
This SUV is not only sturdy and well-equipped, but it is also incredibly comfortable to drive. It feels just like driving a car, but with the added safety of a heavy truck. Additionally, it has great gas mileage for its size. The seats are the most comfortable I have ever experienced, which is especially important for me as I have a bad back. Overall, this is an excellent value for the money and I highly recommend it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Suzuki Xl-7 problems:
2001 Suzuki XL-7 Reliable? | Suzuki Forums
May 4, 2008 ... Now I would like to know common problems, real stories about xl-7 2.7 V6 Engine. I would like to know other problem to if there are any..
Suzuki XL-7 Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Top Suzuki XL-7 Problems · Timing Chain Tensioner May Fail. 283 people have reported this. 134 · Revised Seal to Correct Leak at Right Front Axle. 16 people have ...
My Suzuki XL7 Problems to date! | Suzuki Forums
Oct 26, 2011 ... My Suzuki XL7 Problems to date! · Entire dash board. Passenger Air bag was lifting. $1200 :eek: · One front strut. It was leaking. $400 · Rear ...
2001 Grand Virtara XL7 timing chain questions - Suzuki Forum ...
Jun 27, 2011 ... Reading here on this forum I also learned that the #1 tensioner on the main timing chain is a common problem. So I thought while I had the front ...
Common Power Steering Issues on 2007 Suzuki XL7 - Q&A
May 8, 2017 ... Power steering issues, yes, 2007 Suzuki XL7 3.6l, I am a mechanic and cannot pinpoint this issue, no - Answered by a verified Auto Mechanic.
Other years of Suzuki Xl-7
Are you having problems with your 2001 Suzuki Xl-7?
Jarvis Dach 2024-10-20
This was a great car for the money! The dealership was so accommodating. I'm happy to report that I haven't had any major problems and have found it to be very reliable. Although the trade-in value was low, overall I'm very satisfied with my purchase.
Norbert Bogisich 2024-05-17
I loved this car when I bought it. However, the tires wear out soon. The major problem is the timing chain tensioner, which is a bad design. Unfortunately, Suzuki is not offering any help with this and the repair costs around $1600.00.
Tristian Batz 2024-04-23
I bought my Suzuki for the same reason as most - it cost less than the others. However, I have found that you do get what you pay for. I have had many problems with mine, such as the door locks falling out (the screws were not secured) and a transmission oil leak (which they did repair). Additionally, there is no gas light, which has caused me to run out of gas four times. Before purchasing this car, I owned a Toyota RAV4, which I loved. I drive a standard shift, and this one is much harder to drive. The tires are shot after only 20,000 miles, and there is no happy medium with the heat - either your face is on fire or you're freezing, and your feet never get warm even when it's on feet only. Despite these issues, I still appreciate the affordability of my Suzuki.
Bryon Fisher 2024-04-02
The Suzuki XL-7 has a cute exterior, but the interior is compact and small in all rows of seating. The dash organization could be improved, and the radio's placement at the bottom of the dash makes it difficult to reach and see, which could be a potential safety hazard when changing stations while driving. In terms of driving, it performs well on a calm day, but in windy conditions, it can be challenging to handle, especially for female drivers. We have even been mistaken for drunk drivers, but we know it's the car and not our driving skills.
Elian Cole 2024-02-23
I own a 2001 XL7 and unfortunately, I have had many problems with it since day one. Within the first few weeks, I experienced a transmission leak, which the dealer was able to fix. However, after only 2 years and 24000 miles, the tires were already bald. Although I was told that it was not a Suzuki problem, it is widely known that the tires are not the best on the XL7. Recently, I lost the gas door cover because the clamp inside rotted, but again, it was not the dealer's fault. The third-row seat is unusable, as it is too small for even children, let alone adults. Additionally, the gas mileage is not great and the interior looks cheap. However, it does have many cup holders and a light in the ashtray. Based on my experience, I would not recommend this SUV. Instead, I would suggest getting a Toyota Rav 4, which I had before and was much happier with.