Note that the SX4 is equipped with a cabin air filter to keep the climate control system internals clean, and provide more pleasing air quality to those on board. Many owners forget that this filter, like all filters, needs to be occasionally replaced. So, if the heat, AC or performance of the climate control system in general seems poor, check the cabin air filter first. Ditto if the air being pumped into the cabin smells like old socks.

Some owners have had their SX4 chew up a crank bearing , which causes catastrophic engine failure. Most owners haven’t. This seemed to be an issue with some of the bearings used in earlier models, and the owners community suggests avoiding an early (2007) model to be absolutely safe. Further, this issue seems to happen at lower miles – so if you’re considering a higher-mileage 2007 model, the crank bearing would likely have failed already if it was going to do it at all.

A Check Engine light is the car’s way of saying “HEY!! YOU!! I HAVE A GREAT BIG SECRET!! JUST PLUG IN A CODE READER AND I’LL TELL YOU WHAT IT IS!”

2012 Suzuki SX4 2012 Suzuki SX4 2012 Suzuki SX4 2012 Suzuki SX4 Sport sedan
2012 Suzuki SX4. Click image to enlarge

An SX4 with both a Check Engine light lit up and non-functional cruise control is likely in need of a throttle-position sensor. Several engine trouble codes disable the cruise control system as a precaution. If you see a Check Engine light lit up, be sure to have the computer system scanned by a mechanic to determine why. The fix could be as easy as tightening a fuel cap, or as complicated as changing ignition system components and engine sensors.

Other checks look fairly minor. A hood or hatch that won’t stay open on its own may need new hood struts, which are cheap and easy to repair. A rattle from beneath the car is likely an exhaust heat shield that’s’ become rusted and loose. It should be replaced, but it can likely be removed with a pair of channel-locks and some biceps, for free.

Non-functional air conditioning is likely caused by a bad compressor and / or compressor clutch. These repairs build on each other – so have a mechanic determine whether the SX4 needs a new compressor clutch, or the entire compressor and clutch assembly.

2012 Suzuki SX4 2012 Suzuki SX4 Hatch
2012 Suzuki SX4 Sedan, Hatchback. Click image to enlarge

Finally, note that AWD-equipped SX4 models have more rigorous servicing requirements related to fluid changes for their extra All Wheel Drive hardware, with 30,000 kilometre intervals specified for certain fluids. Following this servicing regimen is absolutely key in long-term durability and confidence, so determine when the fluids were last changed, and budget for a fluid change and tune-up if the service records are unclear.

Manufacturer’s Website:
Suzuki Canada

The Verdict: Providing that the SX4 you’re considering passes some fairly simple mechanical checks, a well-maintained model will likely provide affordable access to a fairly reliable car loved for its all-season confidence, uniqueness and sporty driving character.

A list of recalls

Crash Test Results:
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): 4/5 Stars
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): detailed results

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