2004 Suzuki Aerio

The 2004 Suzuki Aerio is a compact car offered as both a sedan and a wagon (Aerio SX). It came with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 141 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciated the Aerio for its spacious interior and fuel efficiency, but criticized its unremarkable styling and somewhat unrefined driving experience. Common complaints often revolved around reliability issues and the availability of parts.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 (M13A)

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall intermittently, run roughly, or fail to start. The check engine light may illuminate, and a code related to the crankshaft position sensor is stored.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar symptoms to the crankshaft position sensor failure, including stalling, rough running, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, and a rotten egg smell from the exhaust. The check engine light will likely be on, indicating a catalyst inefficiency code.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may hesitate to shift, shift harshly, or slip out of gear. This can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, sensor replacement, or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll in corners, and increased stopping distance.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Sway Bar Bushings/Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replace the worn sway bar bushings and/or links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows may operate slowly, intermittently, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found
• Grounding Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as flickering lights, malfunctioning sensors, or starting problems.
  • Solution: Inspect and clean all grounding points. Repair or replace corroded ground wires.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can occur around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage, especially in areas with harsh winters.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity.

Interior

• Broken Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: The interior door handles can break easily, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2004 Suzuki Aerio can be an economical choice, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues, particularly those related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. While some issues, like sensor replacements, are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, such as transmission problems or catalytic converter failure, can be more costly. Rust is also a significant concern, especially in certain climates. Due to the age of the vehicle and Suzuki’s departure from the US market, parts availability may also pose a challenge.