2004 Suzuki Forenza

The 2004 Suzuki Forenza is a compact sedan known for its affordable price point and relatively spacious interior for its class. It came standard with a 2.0-liter DOHC inline-four engine producing approximately 127 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Forenza’s value and roomy cabin, but common complaints often revolve around its reliability, particularly concerning electrical issues, and less-than-stellar fuel economy.

Engine

2.0L DOHC Inline-Four

• Check Engine Light Due to Emission Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates, often accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the evaporative emission (EVAP) system or oxygen sensors. May also notice poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty oxygen sensors, purge valves, or the EVAP canister.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from various locations, including the water pump, radiator hoses, or the radiator itself. Overheating may occur.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking component, such as the water pump, hoses, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Timing belt failure due to age or wear. Can cause catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing belt and tensioner at recommended intervals (typically every 60,000 miles).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (preventative maintenance); much higher if the belt breaks and causes engine damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Experiencing rough or jerky shifts between gears. Transmission may slip or hesitate during acceleration.
  • Solution: Fluid change, valve body repair, or transmission replacement depending on severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ (fluid change); $300 - $800+ (valve body); $1500 - $3500+ (replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn shocks/struts, ball joints, tie rod ends, or sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per corner, depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working, either intermittently or completely.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with various sensors (e.g., crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor) leading to engine performance problems and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system malfunctioning; doors not locking or unlocking with the key fob or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator or checking the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and other areas.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per area, depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior door handles may break
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Suzuki Forenza, while affordable, suffers from a range of potential issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Electrical problems, emission-related issues, and general wear and tear on suspension components are common. Engine and transmission issues, although less frequent, can be costly to repair. The severity of these issues varies, but many can lead to moderate to high repair costs, making a thorough inspection essential before purchasing.