2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara

The 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a compact SUV known for its affordability and off-road capabilities. It was available with two engine options: a 2.0L inline-4 producing 127 horsepower and 134 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L V6 generating 165 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate its compact size, maneuverability, and value. Common complaints revolve around fuel economy, limited interior space, and some reliability issues.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Can lead to timing chain skipping and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner, chain, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor idle, stalling, check engine light (often with EGR-related codes).
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak points are valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter replacement may help minor issues. More severe problems often require transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter) - $2000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when going over bumps, especially at lower speeds. Poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts and possibly struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light on, difficulty starting, dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair and paint, or panel replacement for severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara is prone to some common issues. Engine problems such as timing chain tensioner failure in the 2.0L and oil leaks in the 2.5L can be costly. The automatic transmission can also experience shifting problems requiring expensive repairs. Suspension components like strut mounts and ball joints tend to wear out over time. Electrical gremlins such as power window and alternator failures are common. Rust is also a concern. The severity and cost of these issues can vary greatly, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems.