1995 Suzuki Sidekick

Introduction The 1995 Suzuki Sidekick is a compact SUV that was offered with two engine options: a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Both engines were available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The Sidekick was praised for its off-road capabilities, affordability, and fuel efficiency, but it was criticized for its lack of power and outdated interior.

Engine 1.6-liter Four-Cylinder Engine No Issues Found

2.0-liter Four-Cylinder Engine Valve Cover Gasket Leaks Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the top of the engine, visible in the spark plug tubes. Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found

Transmission Five-Speed Manual Transmission Shifter Bushing Wear Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into reverse. Solution: Replace the shifter bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission No Issues Found

Suspension Front Suspension Struts Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the front suspension struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found

Rear Suspension Shocks Description/Symptoms: Bouncing or swaying when driving, difficulty controlling the vehicle over bumps. Solution: Replace the rear suspension shocks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found

Electrical Alternator Failures Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim headlights, electrical system problems. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found

Starter Solenoid Issues Description/Symptoms: Engine cranks but does not start, clicking noises when starting. Solution: Replace the starter solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found

Exterior Rusty Tailgate Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the tailgate, visible on the outside and inside. Solution: Repair or replace the tailgate. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ Recalls: None Found

Interior Dashboard Cracking Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight. Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1995 Suzuki Sidekick is a reliable and affordable compact SUV with decent off-road capabilities. However, it does have some common issues, including valve cover gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, starter solenoid issues, rusty tailgates, and dashboard cracking. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to fix them can range from $100 to $600 or more. Overall, the Sidekick is a good value for the price, but buyers should be aware of these potential problems.