2004 Suzuki Verona

2004 Suzuki Verona

Overview

The 2004 Suzuki Verona, a compact sedan, offered a blend of European styling and practicality. It was available with a choice of gasoline engines and a manual or automatic transmission. While generally considered a decent performer for its class, like any vehicle of its age, it has certain areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.

---

Engine

2.5L Inline-6 (L6-25)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil stains under the vehicle, low oil level warnings, burning oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $300 - $700

Cooling System Issues

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, heater not working.
• Solution: Replacement of radiator, thermostat, water pump, or hoses.
• Cost: $400 - $900

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises.
• Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $600 - $1200

4-Speed Automatic

Harsh Shifting

• Symptoms: Jerking or rough shifts between gears, delayed engagement.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $2500

Suspension

Standard Suspension

Worn Ball Joints and Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and suspension bushings.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

General Electrical System

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow or stuck windows.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated, engine stalling.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Body and Paint

Rust Formation

• Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, wheel arches, and undercarriage.
• Solution: Rust treatment and repair, panel replacement if severe.
• Cost: $200 - $1500+

Interior

Cabin Components

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents or intermittent airflow, regardless of fan speed setting.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor.
• Cost: $250 - $500

---

Summary Verdict

The 2004 Suzuki Verona presents a mixed reliability profile. Common issues tend to revolve around age-related wear, particularly with oil leaks from the engine, and potential problems with the transmission, especially the automatic variant. Suspension components like ball joints and bushings are also noted for wear. Electrical gremlins, such as failing window regulators and alternators, can occur. Exterior rust is a concern for vehicles in certain climates. While not plagued by widespread catastrophic failures, owners should be prepared for potential repairs related to seals, gaskets, and aging electrical and mechanical parts. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms are crucial for maintaining this vehicle.