Suzuki Vitara Common Problems and Solutions
Low Beam Headlights Not Working
Problem:
Your low beam headlights are no longer turning on.
Solution:
The low beam headlights on the Vitara are well-known for burning out very quickly. Find higher-quality bulbs on our parts list and replace them with the burnt-out ones. Remember to avoid touching the new bulbs with your fingers, as this can help ensure they last longer.
Difficulty level
Dropped Clutch
Problem:
The clutch pedal has dropped to the floor and now feels loose.
Solution:
A broken weld on the pedal pivot assembly is the issue here. The only solution is to order a new clutch assembly from our parts page for the Vitara, remove the old one, and fit the new one.
Difficulty level
Car Popping Out Of Gear (All Manuals)
Problem:
When you're driving in fifth gear, it jumps out into a lower gear.
Solution:
You have a faulty 5th gear synchroniser, which is a common issue reported with the Vitara. There is a revised design available for this problem, and we always stock the updated version. Replacing the synchroniser is a fiddly job, but it doesn't take much time.
Difficulty level
Rough Idle
Problem:
The car runs roughly and occasionally stumbles when you accelerate.
Solution:
It's very likely you have an engine vacuum leak from your throttle-body base gasket. The only solution is to replace the failed gasket, which you can easily find on the BreakerYard parts list.
Difficulty level
Throttle Body
No Cold Air From AC
Problem:
The air conditioning has stopped producing cold air.
Solution:
The condenser fan motor tends to fail quite quickly on the Vitara. The good news is that we always keep them in stock for you to order, and replacing the motor is a quick and straightforward process job.
Difficulty level
Oil Patches On Road
Problem:
When your car has been stationary for a while, you may notice visible oil spots on the road, often accompanied by coolant.
Solution:
Your coolant system is faulty, likely causing a cracked cylinder head. This is a significant repair but can be managed if you have patience and the right tools. Start by inspecting for obvious cracks or damage to the coolant system. If the damage is too extensive to repair, order a new coolant system from us and follow an online guide for installation. Afterwards, you'll need to replace the cylinder head entirely, which may take some time but is achievable.
Difficulty level
Unresponsive Brakes
Problem:
The brakes appear unresponsive, and the vehicle has an extremely long stopping distance.
Solution:
A common issue with the Vitara is caused by seized brake callipers. This can be an expensive repair if you have a mechanic fit replacements, but you'll find callipers for the Vitara in our online store, and it's a simpler DIY job than you might think.
Difficulty level
Brake Caliper
Dirty Exhaust Smoke
Problem:
The smoke coming from your exhaust is thicker and darker than it used to be.
Solution:
If the car hasn't been getting regular oil top-ups and oil changes, then your diesel particulate filter (DPF) will eventually block. A clogged-up DPF will eventually lead to the car going into limp-home mode. You can try taking your Vitara for a long run on the motorway to try and clear it, but you may have to take the unit apart and clean it by hand. In extreme cases, you will have damaged the DPF and will have to order a replacement from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Car Diesel Particulate Filter
Engine rattling noise
Problem:
Can you hear a metallic rattling noise coming from the engine? If so, then this is most likely caused by an issue with the timing chain. The tensioners are known to fail, if the vehicle has been poorly serviced.
Solution:
At the very least, you will need to replace the timing chain tensioners, and you may also need to replace the timing chain, if it is damaged. Once you have carried out the needed work, it is recommended that you have an oil change, if you have not had one in a while.
Difficulty level
Poor engine idling/lack of power
Problem:
Are you suffering with poor engine idling? Does the vehicle lack power, when you press your foot on the accelerator? The EGR (Exhaust Gas-Recirculation) valve on this vehicle is known for getting clogged up with carbon, causing the above problems.
Solution:
You can remove the EGR valve and clean it with some carb cleaner and a tooth brush. Once cleaned out and re-fitted, this should resolve the issue. Watch the video below, to see how to unblock an EGR valve:
Difficulty level
EGR Valve
Over fuelling/Starting problems
Problem:
If you are having problems starting your Vitara, then the carburettor is failing. The carburettor is known for over-fuelling the engine, due to a problem with the float.
Solution:
You will need to replace the carburettor, in order to fix this problem. We can help you to find a replacement carburettor, at a very low price.
Difficulty level
Carburettor
Ticking Noise From Engine
Problem:
You can hear a loud ticking noise coming from the engine when it is running.
Solution:
That ticking sound is often a sign that your drive belt is either on the way out or has become too stretched. However, if your Vitara was built in 2011, then there was a Suzuki recall due to a faulty internal spring in the drive belt tension pulley. That means your belt is too loose. Although you will find the relevant spring on our parts list, taking apart the tension pulley is a very complex job. It's a lot easier to order a complete tension pulley from us and replace the faulty one entirely.
Difficulty level
Unstable Car
Problem:
The car feels insecure when driving, with too much play across the whole body.
Solution:
If your Vitara was built in 2015, then there's a chance that you have had the wrong rear axle bolts installed. That's why the vehicle feels unstable. You'll need to browse our parts list for the fixing bolts that have had the anti-friction coating applied, but these are very simple to install.
Difficulty level
Sudden Braking
Problem:
When you're driving the car, it unexpectedly brakes without you applying the pedal.
Solution:
Although not many Vitaras are affected by this issue, those built between January and May 2015 are very likely to have suffered from a programming error that affects the automatic emergency brake system. There's no real fix for this apart from going to a Suzuki dealer and getting the software update.
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