2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara

Introduction

The 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride and ample cargo space. It is available 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 with 233 horsepower and 213 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a five-speed manual transmission and a four-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its many positive attributes, the Grand Vitara has several common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• 2.4L Engine
  • Timing chain tensioner failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. This can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, loss of power, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: The timing chain tensioner and timing chain must be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 3.2L Engine
  • Piston ring failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The piston rings can fail, allowing oil to leak into the combustion chamber. This can cause blue smoke from the exhaust, increased oil consumption, and a loss of power.
    • Solution: The engine must be rebuilt or replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutch can fail, causing difficulty shifting gears or a slipping clutch.
    • Solution: The clutch must be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• Four-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip between gears or fail to engage properly.
    • Solution: The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The struts can fail, causing a rough ride and poor handling.
  • Solution: The struts must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to drain.
  • Solution: The alternator must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on frame
  • Description/Symptoms: The frame can rust, leading to structural damage.
  • Solution: The frame must be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000

Interior

• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: The dashboard must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Summary

The 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara has several common issues that can be costly to repair. The most serious issues affect the engine, transmission, and suspension. While the Grand Vitara offers a comfortable ride and ample cargo space, potential buyers should be aware of these issues before making a purchase.