2005 Suzuki Forenza

The 2005 Suzuki Forenza was a compact sedan offering a somewhat budget-friendly option in its class. It was equipped with a 2.0L DOHC inline-4 engine producing approximately 127 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque. The Forenza wasn’t particularly known for its performance or refinement, but some owners appreciated its affordability, distinctive styling, and relatively spacious interior. Common criticisms included build quality issues, unrefined engine, and reliability concerns. It came with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

2.0L DOHC Inline-4

• Failed Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall, run rough, or fail to start. The check engine light will illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Camshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall, run rough, or fail to start. The check engine light will illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, rough idling, stalling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, and visible coolant leaks. This can be from hoses, water pump, or radiator.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the source and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission shifts roughly or slips between gears.
  • Solution: Could indicate low transmission fluid, a faulty sensor, or damage to internal transmission components. Start with a fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, further diagnostics and possible transmission rebuild/replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $2500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per pair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that are slow to move, get stuck, or fail to operate.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated. This may be due to any number of reasons.
  • Solution: Plug in an OBDII scan tool to read the diagnostic trouble codes. Fix the issue depending on what the code is for.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ Depending on the source of the problem.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handles Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles become brittle and snap.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per door handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2005 Suzuki Forenza suffers from a number of issues across multiple components. Engine issues are common, especially with sensors, leading to rough running or stalling. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, can result in harsh shifting or slipping. Suspension problems lead to a decline in ride quality and handling. Electrical and exterior issues, such as window regulators and door handles, add to the list of potential problems. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially major repairs. The cost to fix these problems can vary widely depending on the specific issue, ranging from a few hundred dollars for sensor replacements to thousands for transmission repairs.