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.
Negative 2004 Suzuki Xl-7 car reviews
Positive 2004 Suzuki Xl-7 car reviews
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I've owned two Suzukis - a Grand Vitara and now an XL-7 - and I love them both. They're so much fun to drive and incredibly reliable. They're great little cars!
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I've received many compliments on this vehicle - people love how nice and sharp it looks, the sound system, and the price. I was worried that driving an SUV would feel like driving a bus, but it's actually really easy to handle and has a smooth ride. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase!
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Hi there! It's great to hear that you've been enjoying your Suzuki XL-7 for the past 1 1/2 years. I can definitely understand why you chose it with the warranty, design, and trade-in deal. As someone who is 6 feet tall, it's wonderful to hear that there's plenty of headroom and that it feels solid and handles well. While the XL-7 could be a bit longer, it's still adequate for smaller kids. I can imagine that the 3rd row seat might be a bit tight, but it's great that you have it as an option. It sounds like you got a fantastic deal on your XL-7 with only 6,000 miles for $20,000, and the trade-in deal was a great bonus. It's wonderful to hear that your wife finds it easy to navigate and feels safe driving in snow with the 4WD. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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This vehicle is fantastic! The handling is smooth and comfortable, and the headlights are remarkably bright. While it would be great to have a DVD player for the family, the lack of one doesn't detract from the overall experience. I do have a couple of suggestions for improvement, though. A wider wheel base and extended flaps on the visors would help block the sun from the driver's eyes. Additionally, a back door that opens away from the curb would be more convenient. Have you ever considered removing the '7 passenger' title to create more leg room and rear storage? It might be worth exploring!
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We owned a 2003 lxiii 2 wheel drive and traded for the 04 4 wd and the difference is noticeable. It seems to have better handling and the ABS brakes are a plus. The interior is great and the new 5-speed automatic has improved fuel economy. Keep up the good work, Suzuki! :-)
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?
Mackenzie Rohan 2025-06-25
The Suzuki XL-7 is a great SUV! However, it could be even better if it offered more power and towing capacity. I think the 2.7 liter engine might be a bit weak.
Dayne Senger 2025-05-25
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.
Rory Hudson 2025-04-04
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.