2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara

The 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a compact SUV that comes with two engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 166 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2-liter V6 engine with 266 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4-liter engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic or 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.2-liter engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Vitara is praised for its off-road capabilities, spacious interior, and affordability, but it also has some drawbacks, including poor fuel economy and outdated interior design.

Engine

2.4-liter Four-Cylinder Engine with 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Timing Chain Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain may stretch or break, causing the engine to lose power or stall.
  • Solution: The timing chain and related components need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500
• VVT Solenoid Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The VVT solenoid valve may fail, causing the engine to run rough or stall.
  • Solution: The VVT solenoid valve needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

2.4-liter Four-Cylinder Engine with 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• No Issues Found

3.2-liter V6 Engine with 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The cylinder head gasket may fail, causing coolant and oil to mix, leading to overheating.
  • Solution: The cylinder head gasket needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,800
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket may fail, causing vacuum leaks and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: The intake manifold gasket needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Flares
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may experience harsh or delayed shifts.
  • Solution: The transmission fluid and filter may need to be replaced or the transmission may need to be rebuilt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• No Issues Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter may fail, causing the transmission to slip or shudder.
  • Solution: The torque converter needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500

Suspension

• Front Strut Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The front struts may wear out prematurely, causing a rough ride and poor handling.
  • Solution: The front struts need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail, preventing the battery from charging.
  • Solution: The alternator needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900

Exterior

• Tailgate Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The tailgate handle may break or become loose, making it difficult to open the tailgate.
  • Solution: The tailgate handle needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Interior

• Heater Core Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The heater core may leak, causing coolant to leak into the cabin and fog up the windows.
  • Solution: The heater core needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200

Summary

The 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara has some notable issues that can be expensive to fix, such as timing chain failure, cylinder head gasket failure, and torque converter failure. However, it’s important to note that these issues are not common and most Grand Vitaras do not experience these problems. The Grand Vitara also has several recalls, so it’s important to check with a Suzuki dealer to see if your vehicle is affected by any recalls.