2014 Suzuki Kizashi
2014 Suzuki Kizashi
Overview
The 2014 Suzuki Kizashi, a compact executive sedan, was known for its sporty handling and upscale interior for its class. While generally considered a reliable vehicle, like any car, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear. The Kizashi offered a single engine and transmission option for the North American market, simplifying some aspects of reliability tracking. Understanding these potential issues can help owners with proactive maintenance and informed repairs.
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder
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, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
CVT Transmission Issues
- Symptoms: Hesitation, slipping, or rough shifting, particularly at lower speeds or during acceleration.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and replacement. In severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement may be required.
- Cost: $2000 - $4500
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Overheating/Failure
- Symptoms: Jerking, slipping, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure, often exacerbated by heavy use or towing.
- Solution: Regular fluid changes with the correct type of CVT fluid. Cooler upgrades can be considered for heavy-duty use. Transmission replacement is the ultimate solution for severe failures.
- Cost: $2500 - $5000
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
Infotainment System
Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, or inability to play audio.
- Solution: Software updates for the infotainment system. Sometimes, a full system reset or replacement of the module is needed.
- Cost: $100 - $500
Keyless Entry/Start System
Intermittent Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Key fob not recognized, difficulty starting the engine, or doors not locking/unlocking.
- Solution: Battery replacement in the key fob. Sometimes, reprogramming of the system or replacement of the receiver module is required.
- Cost: $150 - $400
Exterior
Paint and Body Panels
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2014 Suzuki Kizashi is a generally reliable vehicle, particularly praised for its driving dynamics. The most commonly cited technical issues revolve around the CVT transmission, which can experience overheating or rough shifting, and some instances of engine oil consumption. Electrical gremlins, such as with the infotainment system’s Bluetooth or the keyless entry, are also reported but are typically less severe. The engine and manual transmission variants are considered more robust. Owners should be mindful of regular CVT fluid maintenance and monitor oil levels to ensure long-term reliability.