2011 Suzuki Kizashi
2011 Suzuki Kizashi
Overview
The 2011 Suzuki Kizashi was a compact executive sedan praised for its sporty handling, upscale interior, and available all-wheel drive. It aimed to compete with more established players in the segment. While generally considered a solid vehicle, like any car, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder (J24B)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, requiring frequent top-offs. May be accompanied by blue smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential repair of piston rings or valve seals. In some cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $1,000 - $3,500
Timing Chain Rattle
- Symptoms: Rattling or ticking noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup or at idle.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
- Cost: $800 - $1,500
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Hesitation and Shuddering
- Symptoms: Jerking, shuddering, or hesitation during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds.
- Solution: Software update for the transmission control module, or in more severe cases, transmission fluid flush or replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $800
6-Speed Manual Transmission
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
General Electrical System
Keyless Entry/Start Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Intermittent issues with the keyless entry system not recognizing the fob, or the push-button start failing to engage.
- Solution: Reprogramming of the key fob, or replacement of the smart key module or related sensors.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, or audio cutting out.
- Solution: Software updates or potential replacement of the head unit.
- Cost: $500 - $1,200
Exterior
Body and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2011 Suzuki Kizashi offers a compelling driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of a few common reliability concerns. The 2.4L engine can exhibit oil consumption and timing chain noise, while the CVT transmission may experience hesitation or shuddering. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the keyless entry and infotainment systems, have also been noted. The manual transmission and the suspension, exterior, and interior components generally appear to be more robust. Addressing these potential issues proactively can help ensure a more reliable ownership experience with the Kizashi.