2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara

The 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and relatively simple design. It was offered with a 2.4L inline-4 engine producing 166 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual (rare) and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate its affordability and ruggedness, but often dislike its fuel economy, dated interior, and limited cargo space.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, especially when cold. This can progress to poor engine performance and eventually catastrophic engine failure if the chain stretches or breaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVT Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, and potential engine stalling. Can also trigger the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty VVT actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, especially 1st and 2nd, or a noticeable delay when shifting.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and replacement, valve body repair or replacement, or in severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid flush, $500 - $1500+ for valve body work, $2000 - $4000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can also cause uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the rear shocks, bouncy ride, and reduced handling stability.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all, or makes a grinding noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking with the key fob or interior switch.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the central locking system, which may involve replacing the door lock actuators, wiring repair, or BCM replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch handle can become brittle and break, making it difficult or impossible to open the rear hatch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear hatch handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement. Some owners opt for aftermarket dashboard covers as a cheaper alternative.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ for replacement, $50 - $200+ for a cover.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara has some known issues, with engine timing chain problems and transmission shifting issues being potentially the most costly to address. Suspension and electrical issues are also fairly common. Overall, while the Grand Vitara is a capable vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential repair costs.