2004 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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Common 2004 Suzuki Xl-7 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2004 Suzuki XL-7, several common problems have been identified:
- Steering/Suspension Problems:
- Owners have reported issues with the steering and suspension system, particularly experiencing a knocking noise from the front suspension area when driving over speed bumps or poorly surfaced roads. This problem can affect the handling and overall driving experience of the vehicle.
- Engine Management Warning Light:
- Another common problem is the illumination of the engine management warning light on the dashboard, often caused by a faulty oxygen sensor. This issue can impact fuel consumption and overall engine performance, requiring the replacement of the oxygen sensor to resolve it.
- Rear Door Handle Breakage:
- The rear door handles of the Suzuki XL-7 are prone to breaking, leading to difficulties in opening and closing the rear doors. This issue can be inconvenient for owners and may require the replacement of the door handles to ensure proper functionality.
- Exterior Noise and Wind Handling:
- Owners have also reported complaints about exterior noise levels within the vehicle, particularly related to thin windows and insulation. Additionally, the Suzuki XL-7 has been noted to have handling issues in windy situations, where the car can be affected by strong winds, impacting stability on the road.
These common problems with the 2004 Suzuki XL-7 highlight various areas of concern for owners, ranging from engine-related issues to steering, suspension, and door handle problems. Addressing these issues promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
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.
What is the fuel consumption of a 2004 Suzuki XL7?
Suzuki XL-7 2004 Fuel consumption
The Suzuki XL-7 currently offers fuel consumption from 10 to 10.5L/100km.
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.
2004 Suzuki Xl-7 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Suzuki Xl-7.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2004 Suzuki Xl-7 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2004 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.
Positive 2004 Suzuki Xl-7 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Suzuki Xl-7 problems:
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 ...
Suzuki XL-7 Questions - I am thinking to buy a SUZUKI XL7 ...
Aug 17, 2015 ... This vehicle has some bad issues concerning the engine timing chain tensioner going bad..causing the chains to stretch and do damage to ...
2004 Suzuki XL-7 Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2004 Suzuki XL-7? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
My 2004 Suzuki XL7 will not switch back from 4WD to 2WD | Suzuki ...
Jan 25, 2014 ... You're welcome - now please - use google to research drive train windup - it's a common problem that occurs when a part time 4WD (which is what ...
Suzuki XL-7 Q&A: 2004 Model, 4WD Problems & Indicator Switch ...
Feb 8, 2013 ... Following Suzuki's diagnostic routines led to "replace 4wd control module with known good module and retest" We've done that (new Suzuki ...
Other years of Suzuki Xl-7
Are you having problems with your 2004 Suzuki Xl-7?
Loy Bogisich 2025-01-28
This is my fifth Suzuki. They are incredibly reliable, with conservative engineering and excellent fuel economy. I found that the XL-7 is geared a bit low, so I fitted the biggest Michelin tires that would fit in the wheel wells, making the gearing 'taller' by about 5%. Even with this modification, the car still climbs the 6% grade between 6000 and 7000 feet on the east side of Donner Pass in 5th gear.
Javonte Kuhlman 2025-01-25
The vehicle is peppy and fun to drive. It turns well and handles like a sports car. The suspension is solid and feels tough, and the transmission is smooth and quick. This is a great car at a great price!
Keagan Labadie 2025-01-18
I purchased this SUV in January 2004 and have only put 12,000 miles on it. I am extremely pleased with it and love taking it on long road trips. The three rows of seats provide ample room, and I especially appreciate the ability to fold the seats down to create a comfortable sleeping area in the back. The rear air conditioning is also a great feature, allowing passengers to control their own comfort levels. I have taken several trips from New Orleans to Nashville and Dallas, and have averaged an impressive 24 miles per gallon. I researched this SUV against other models such as Kia, Hyundai, and Toyota, and found that rear air conditioning was only an optional feature. Overall, I highly recommend this SUV to anyone in the market for a reliable and comfortable vehicle.
Brody Shanahan 2024-11-28
Love the truck! I traded my van and I'm really happy with the move. The dash and wood panel are great, and the auto A/C is a really nice feature to have. Plus, the rear A/C is great for keeping everything under control.
Jonathan Sauer 2024-11-22
When I visited the dealership, I didn't plan on buying this vehicle. However, when I sat in one on the showroom floor, I was amazed! Compared to our 2003 Ford Explorer Limited, the XL-7 is a steal at $9000 less and it blows it away. The only option missing is power seats, but that's not a deal breaker. Although fuel economy is a little lower on the highway than rated, I mostly travel above 70 mph and still find it to be a quiet and smooth ride. Plus, everything is standard on the EX version, so you don't have to worry about missing out on any options.