2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara Consumer Reviews
Most Helpful Reviews
Positive Review
Overall I have found the grand vitara to be a very reliable car, i have never had any serious engine problems or very costly problems otherwise. the engine does leak oil VERY slowly from the rightside valve cover but so slowly the oil rarely needs to be added to before an oil change is due. The only serious problem i have encountered is that the underside of the car tends to rust (which may simply be a result of parking it on dirt for all 12 years of its existence and not really a reflection on the quality of the car). this rusting has resulted in replacing some exaust hangers, a brake line, and a small hole in the frame, non of which are extremely costly repairs. Onto the good, the engine has surprising pep for such a small v6, likely due to it's suzuki motorcycle inspiration. the rest of the drive train (transmission, differential, transfer case, etc.) is completely bulletproof, showing no problems whatsoever. i did finally have to replace the clutch a few weeks ago, but after 137,000 miles which is phenomenal life for a clutch! The suspension is a little stiff, but that comes with the territory of a mini suv, and has held up wonderfully to some moderate off-roading i do in my spare time.on the whole i am very impressed with the design and longevity of this car, and intend to keep it for many years to come
VS
Critical Review
Grand Vitara , It was cost u grands! The engine has a serious flaw. Timing tensioner #1 for the times chain has a bad design and will fail . U will hear a ticking noise when the engine is cold for about 5 seconds. This is the start of the problem. Noise will get worse over time and eventually it will fail all together causing the pistons to hit and bend the valves. Cost of repair before engine fails 1500.00 after engine fails oh about 3000.00.
2003 Grand Vitara Reviews
Showing 8 of 147 reviews.
Turns on a dime, always starts right up, fun .
I don't know any cons
This has been the best car l've ever owned. Never any problems, but all regular maintenance was done on time. I wish Suzuki still sold here, l would own another no doubt. The selling price and the amazing warranty on it were the greatest. The value surpassed the price miles and miles ago.
Fun Reliable transportation
Not a single thing to complain about at ALL!!!
Awesome Very reliable and has 3 row seating Tons of space to move things around.. Also has ability to tow/Haul a trailer and or smaller things plus 4×4 + 2Low ..Overdrive among several other fun additions to making the vehicle Appealing and ALL AROUND GREAT GO To if you like having a good Dependable vehicle.. EVERYTHING BEING SAID THIS IS MY INPUTS AND HOW I FEEL ABOUT THE VEHICLE!!!! So To EACH IS OWN ..BUT I'd not even consider getting rid of mine now owning it.
Great little car
We replaced the seatbelt
We love this dependable little car! Great as towing car for RV.
Decient gas mileage, utility and, road stability
Creature comforts.
Truly a dependable little SUV, with 4x4 and low range capability. Great cargo area comfortable leather seats, good A/C. I currently own a total of 11 vehicles (BMW 92' 850, BMW 98' M Roadster, Mini 03' Cooper S, Pontiac 85' Parisienne, Smart 09' Passion Cabriolet, Suzuki 84' SJ410, Dodge 33' Sedan Hot Rod, MG 52' TD, Mitsubishi 15' Mirage, Ford 94' E350 and a Ford 17' T350 High Roof) so I know first hand what a good Vehicle is!
fun to drive great on gas low milage car key fob
there are no cons
never had any problems always kept up with servicing new belts and timing chains oil change every 3 to 4000 miles tires are new about 7000 miles on them (Tiger Paw tires) never uses oil or has leaks on the driveway where In park..Interior is clean no rips or tears or worn seats has key fob entry and 2 keys...I love the car, but I am going to China to teach English to kids that can't afford it so I need the help I can get ... this is a great carI will add some Photos Blue and Mat Black
This has been the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned as well as being the longest lasting. 15 years old and still running the original engine with only a valve cover gasket and a few emissions sensors replaced. Aside from regular maintenance, I've replaced the CV axles and front wheel bearings. It has an aftermarket 2 1/2" lift on it. You can only do so much off road with CV axle front end but before I even lifted it I was all over Colorado going to difficult to reach trailheads and driving the Alpine Triangle many times in the San Juans. I would buy another one if I could. At 308K I am replacing the transmission and transfer case to keep it going. Yeah, I'm looking for a record but it still starts so good, runs quiet and drives well reliably. Yeah, the interior is nothing to write home about, especially with a cassette player (!) but those are not my priorities. For what I paid for this vehicle, it owes me nothing. I will get something new at maybe 340K. 4D, JLX+, manual transmission, 4WD. Bought new, single owner.
Economic, 4x4, loaded, clean.
13 years old , few minor scuffs on paint.
We bought this truck because it was the #1 tow behind vehicle on the market . It had a new engine put in under warranty at 72,000 mi. I installed a 2 1/2 " lift kit in order to install A larger diameter all terrain tire for better traction in the snow. It has a new Kenwood stereo and remote keyless start. Cold A/c power everything, 75% Big Of tires , 5 chrome wheels . New rear end .Excellent transportation, and descent gas mileage , excellent positron 4 wheel drive . $3200 cash (281)426-5675
was used in New Mexico and is a practical car but it needs radiator repair
