2015 Suzuki Grand Vitara

The 2015 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a compact SUV known for its off-road capability and simple design. It came standard with a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine producing 166 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its ruggedness and relatively low price point, while others find the fuel economy poor and the interior dated. It is the last production year of the Grand Vitara for the US market.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on cold starts. This is caused by a faulty timing chain tensioner that allows the timing chain to become loose. This can lead to poor engine performance, misfires, and eventually, engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner. It is recommended to also replace the timing chain and guides at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced fuel economy, rough idling, and potential stalling. This is typically due to a faulty oxygen sensor reporting incorrect data to the engine control unit (ECU).
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or difficulty shifting into certain gears. This can be caused by worn clutches, low transmission fluid, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Start by checking and replacing the transmission fluid. If the problem persists, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid change; $2,000 - $4,000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, or clutch pedal sticking. This is generally due to normal wear and tear of the clutch disc and pressure plate.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive rear-end sway. Leaking fluid from the shock absorbers may also be observed.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (for both)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replace the worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating, intermittent operation, or slow operation. This can be due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty electrical component, such as an aftermarket alarm system or a malfunctioning module.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may require diagnostic testing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels. This is more common in areas that experience harsh winters or have high humidity.
  • Solution: Address the rust by sanding, treating, and repainting the affected areas. More extensive rust may require panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning system blowing warm air or not blowing at all. This could be due to a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or a malfunctioning blend door actuator.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the A/C system. This may involve recharging the refrigerant, replacing the compressor, or replacing the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelts do not retract properly, or are difficult to buckle or unbuckle.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the seatbelt assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Suzuki Grand Vitara has a few notable issues. Engine problems such as timing chain tensioner and oxygen sensor failures can cause performance and reliability concerns. Transmission issues such as harsh shifting or slipping can cause issues. Rust on the exterior is something to be aware of. Suspension and electrical problems may also arise. The severity and cost of repairs vary depending on the specific issue, but some repairs can be costly, particularly those involving the engine or transmission.