2012 Suzuki Kizashi
2012 Suzuki Kizashi
Overview
The 2012 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, offering a compelling blend of performance and value. While generally considered a reliable 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, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
- Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. In some cases, internal engine repairs or component replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $500 - $2000+
Timing Chain Rattle
- Symptoms: Rattling or ticking noise from the engine, especially on startup, indicating potential wear in the timing chain system.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Hesitation or Jerking
- Symptoms: Noticeable delays in acceleration, rough shifting, or jerky movements during operation.
- Solution: Software updates, transmission fluid flush and replacement, or in severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Cost: $1500 - $4000+
6-Speed Manual Transmission
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Electrical
General Electrical System
Keyless Entry/Start Issues
- Symptoms: Problems with the key fob not being recognized, or the start button failing to engage the engine.
- Solution: Battery replacement in the key fob, reprogramming of the system, or replacement of the start button module.
- Cost: $100 - $500
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, or audio system malfunctions.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the head unit.
- Cost: $300 - $1000
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Cabin Materials and Features
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi offers a generally solid ownership experience, particularly with its manual transmission and standard chassis components. However, potential buyers should be aware of a few key areas. The 2.4L engine can exhibit oil consumption and timing chain noise, requiring diligent monitoring and potential repairs. The CVT transmission has been associated with hesitation and rough operation, which can be costly to address. Electrical gremlins, such as issues with the keyless entry system and infotainment, are also noted. While not overwhelmingly problematic, these points suggest that thorough pre-purchase inspection and budgeting for potential repairs are advisable for the 2012 Kizashi.