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2022 Suzuki Vitara

The 2022 Suzuki Vitara is a subcompact crossover SUV known for its fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and value. Engine options vary by market, but a common configuration includes a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing around 127 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque. A less powerful naturally aspirated 1.6-liter engine is also available in some markets. Transmission options typically include a 6-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual. Owners often praise its affordability and ease of parking, while some common complaints involve the relatively small cargo space and somewhat basic interior materials.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Engine

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation or overboosting.
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Diagnose and address the root cause of the failure to prevent recurrence.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warning light illuminates frequently, needing to add oil between services, blue smoke from exhaust.
    • Solution: Inspect for leaks, perform a compression test to check for worn piston rings or valve seals. Replace faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the cause.
    • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Naturally Aspirated Engine

No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears.
    • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnosis may reveal worn solenoids or valve body issues requiring replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shaking during light acceleration at highway speeds.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush with updated fluid formulation designed to eliminate shudder. If the problem persists, replacement of the torque converter may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Premature Wear of Rear Shock Absorbers
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noise from the rear suspension.
    • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or reboots randomly.
    • Solution: Software update. If the problem persists, the head unit may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies overnight or after short periods of inactivity.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain. Check for faulty door switches, lights, or aftermarket accessories drawing power.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Poorly Aligned Body Panels
    • Description/Symptoms: Uneven gaps between body panels, doors that don’t close flush.
    • Solution: Adjust body panels to ensure proper alignment.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Rattling from Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noise coming from the dashboard area, especially on rough roads.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the rattle and secure loose components or apply sound-deadening material.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Suzuki Vitara generally experiences minor to moderate issues. Turbocharger failures and rough shifting in the automatic transmission are among the more serious and potentially costly problems. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and suspension wear are also reported. While some issues can be resolved with relatively inexpensive repairs, others, like turbocharger replacement, can be more significant investments.

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