1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara Problems
- Complaints
- 108filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 57,000miles, 25 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 4campaigns on record
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- —overall rating starts with 2011 models
- EPA fuel economy
- 18 mpgcombined, 2.5L 6-cyl RWD · 17 city / 19 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara (complaints, recalls, investigations), EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of this model year most often write about sudden unintended acceleration or a sticking gas pedal, and about engines that lose power, stall or make rattling noises. A large share of the remaining complaints concern difficulty getting safety recall work (fuel pressure regulator and accelerator cable campaigns) completed because parts or dealers were unavailable, and complaints span a wide mileage range from a few thousand miles to well over 150,000.
- Fuel system
Recall fuel-system repairs not completed (parts/dealers)
- 20 complaints (19%)
- typically at 2.8 yrs old
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2001–2005
Many complaints are about the fuel pressure regulator and fuel pipe/hose recalls rather than a new fault: owners received notices but were told parts were unavailable, appointments were cancelled, or no dealer was nearby. A later complaint describes a fuel smell and visible leak at 163,000 miles, with the dealer citing the same campaigns but not repairing the vehicle. Mostly filed in 2001-2005 shortly after the recalls were issued; the leak complaint came at about 163,000 miles.
Recall 01V146000Recall 04V427000
What to check: Check for open recalls by VIN and confirm the fuel pressure regulator and fuel pipe/hose campaigns were performed; look and smell for fuel around the pipe and hose connections.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Consumer received a recll notice 01v146/ manufacturer's recall x4, and called dealer to make an appointment to get recall repairs done. Dealer stated parts were on backorder until end of november. Consumer called again in december, and dealer stated again that parts were still not in. Please add VIN.”
NHTSA complaint #8001136, filed 2001-12“Consumer received notification that vehicle was included in recall 01v146000. Dealership has informed consumer that components to correct defect are not available. No time frame has been given as to when the parts will be available. Please provide any additional information / attachments.”
NHTSA complaint #896795, filed 2001-09 - Engine cooling
Engine rattle, timing chain noise and stalling
- 13 complaints (12%)
- median 40,000 mi at 4.7 yrs old (7 state mileage, few)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2001–2004
Owners describe a loud rattling or clicking from the engine that sometimes ended in stalling or a tow, with mechanics identifying a loose or failed timing chain and, in one case, engine seizure. Some also report a broken exhaust pipe near the engine making a loud noise, and a rear main seal oil leak leaving a burning-oil smell. Dealers sometimes found no fault before an independent mechanic diagnosed the chain. Spread from about 5,000 to 95,000 miles; several reports sit in the 30,000-90,000 mile range.
What to check: Listen for chain rattle or ticking at cold start and ask for service records on timing chain, tensioner and main bearing work; check under the engine for oil seepage at the rear main seal.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“While driving the vehicle started making a rattling noise. Upon inspection of the vehicle by the dealership they indicated that the noise was due to the tensioner going bad. The hub bearing and senor also went bad and needed to be replaced at 40,000 miles. Please provide any additional information.”
NHTSA complaint #10052100, filed 2003-12, 30,000 miles“The engine suddenly started making a loud noise as if the muffler was broken. A mechanic inspected the vehicle and indicated that the exhaust pipe was broken where it comes out from the engine. Mechanic indicz=ated that problem was very common for Suzuki.”
NHTSA complaint #10096577, filed 2004-10, 84,000 miles - Vehicle speed control
Gas pedal sticks or engine races unexpectedly
Mentioned in 7 of 60 sampled complaints
Complaints describe the accelerator pedal or cable sticking, sometimes going to the floor on its own, and instances where the vehicle kept accelerating after the driver lifted off and braked, so the ignition had to be switched off to stop it. Several owners mention the accelerator cable casing cap and linkage; one vehicle reportedly rolled over after accelerating at highway speed. Dealers sometimes could not reproduce the symptom or replaced pedal/linkage parts. Reported from a few thousand to about 90,000 miles, with several complaints filed soon after a recall repair on the accelerator cable.
What to check: Ask whether recall 03V512000 (accelerator cable casing cap) was completed; have a mechanic inspect the cable, casing cap and pedal linkage for fraying or binding.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I have 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. I had a problem with the accelerator sticking to the floor about a year and a half ago. It was still under warranty when it was repaired. The dealer said it was a broken linkage. Now the problem is when I accelerate at low speed it makes a weird grunting gurgling sound. I planning on having it checked out when I have my 3000 mile oil change in september.”
NHTSA complaint #10033289, filed 2003-08, 69,178 miles“After purchasing my used vehicle in april of 2003 the vehicle seemed to shift hard when taken out of park, or switching from forward to reverse and so on. Occasionally if felt like the gas pedal may be sticking a bit. The check engine light came on & the dealer had a mechanic look at it and replaced the oxygen sensor. But it didn't seem to help the shifting problem. On december 11, 2003 around 4:00 am, I was returning from down state on a two-lane highway, it was raining and around 34 degrees. …”
NHTSA complaint #10054708, filed 2004-01, 88,000 miles - Air bags
Airbags not deploying in a crash; airbag light on
- 12 complaints (11%)
- median 78,880 mi at 5.3 yrs old (4 state mileage, few)
- 10 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2000–2006
Owners report front impacts, including a rollover and a tree strike, after which neither airbag deployed, and one complaint notes the airbag light staying on in cold weather or after module replacement. Separate complaints describe front seat belts that lock or fail to release. Crashes described occurred at moderate speeds; airbag-light reports appear from new to about 33,000 miles.
What to check: Confirm the airbag warning light self-tests and goes out after start, and ask whether the airbag module or clockspring has ever been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“While driving 50 MPH vehicle accelerated to a high rate, causing it to roll over. Dealership notified, but did not resolve the problem. When vehicle hit snow, airbags failed to deploy. Also, when incident occurred, consumer was driving home from having recall repair made on accelerator cable.”
NHTSA complaint #10055632, filed 2004-04, 71,761 miles“Driving southbound through intersection & another vehicle made left turn in front. Applied brakes suddenly but hit driver's side. Upon impact, neither air bags deployed. Passenger went through windshield & sustained injuries. Also, driver suffered injuries. Had emergency room treatment.”
NHTSA complaint #866258, filed 2000-07
Buying note. These vehicles are old enough that recall completion and maintenance history matter more than mileage: verify open campaigns by VIN and have the accelerator cable, timing chain noise and airbag warning light checked before purchase. A pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic familiar with the model is worthwhile given the reports of sticking pedals and engine rattle.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 108 consumer complaints for the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. 25 of the complaints include a mileage, and 40% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 57,000 miles. Of all complaints, 16 involved a crash, 2 a fire, 12 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns and 5 technical service bulletins for this model year.
Not compared (before 2008). Model years 2008–2023 of the same vehicle that have at least 25 complaints are compared, and a model needs at least 3 of them.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Fuel system24 22%
- Engine cooling20 19%
- Brakes16 15%
- Air bags12 11%
- Vehicle speed control10 9.3%
- Equipment8 7.4%
- Seat belts4 3.7%
- Steering4 3.7%
- Suspension4 3.7%
Also reported: Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) (4), Electrical system (3), Body and structure (3), Tires (3), Other or unknown (2), Latches, locks and linkages (1), Seats (1), Wheels (1).
Example complaints
Fuel system: “The vehicle at highway speeds from 45 to 55 miles per hour will lose complete power dropping from 45 or 55 to 10 or 15 MPH very rapidly when this happens you have no control of acceleration or vehicle till it reaches the 10 to 15 MPH range leaving you in a very dangerous position if you are not close enough to the shoulder of the road to pull off leaving you the possibility of being in a collision with faster approaching vehicles from the rear this is a serious problem that could result in death from a rear end collision and appears to be a common problem with this vehicle. …”
NHTSA complaint #10496399, filed 2013-02, 131,559 milesEngine cooling: “The vehicle was taken to the dealer at 30,000 miles because of a clicking noise coming from the engine. The dealer stated there was no problem with the engine. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who found a problem with the tension on the timing chain. The part was on back order.”
NHTSA complaint #10017956, filed 2003-06, 30,000 milesBrakes: “When I brake my car pulls to one side and loses control. It is like it is on ice and one time it spun around, even thought I was going slow. My car is regularly maintained.”
NHTSA complaint #10214831, filed 2008-01Air bags: “The contact stated the airbag light is constantly illuminated. The dealership has replaced the airbag system module twice, but the problem returned. The windshield wipers were inoperative. Updated 06/19/06.”
NHTSA complaint #10159127, filed 2006-06, 33,000 milesMileage when problems were reported
40% of the 25 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 40,000 and 88,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: stable. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Vitara 4Door 2WD | 2.5L 6-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 17 | 19 | 18 | $3,700 |
| Grand Vitara 4Door 2WD | 2.5L 6-cyl | 5-speed manual | 17 | 20 | 18 | $3,700 |
| Grand Vitara 4Door 4WD | 2.5L 6-cyl | 5-speed manual | 17 | 20 | 18 | $3,700 |
| Grand Vitara 4Door 4WD | 2.5L 6-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 16 | 19 | 17 | $3,950 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
- 05V452000Oct 5, 2005Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Disc › RotorCovers: Suzuki Grand Vitara 1999–2005, XL7 2001–2006
On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with 16-inch wheels, the front brake discs may break under severe driving conditions. The breakage can occur in conditions where the vehicle is driven on a regular basis on extremely steep paved down-slopes while…
- 04V427000Aug 30, 2004Fuel system, gasolineCovers: Suzuki Grand Vitara 1999–2003, Grand Vitara XL-7 2001–2004, Vitara 2004
On certain passenger vehicles, under ambient temperatures below -25 degrees celsius, moisture can freeze in the fuel pressure regulator. As a result, fuel system pressure may increase at the time of engine start up, causing fuel loss at the fuel pipe/fuel…
- 03V512000Dec 5, 2003Vehicle speed control › CablesCovers: Suzuki Grand Vitara 1999–2004, XL7 2001–2004
On certain sport utility vehicles, the accelerator cable casing cap that is attached to the vehicle firewall can crack due to extended exposure to forces from the accelerator cable and insufficient long-term durability of the plastic casing cap. If the…
- 01V146000Apr 27, 2001Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection systemCovers: Suzuki Grand Vitara 1999–2001
Vehicle description: sport utility vehicles. Under temperatures below -25 degrees, moisture can freeze in the fuel pressure regulator. Fuel system pressure could increase at the time of engine start up, causing fuel loss at the fuel pipe/fuel hose connection.
Recall details for the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 5 on record; the latest 5 are shown.
- 10216558Jul 8, 2022Suspension, Body and structure. Reminder of the importance to conduct safety inspections for rust damage to suspension and related parts that could be caused by road salt or other chemicals applied to the roadway.
- 10152052Nov 20, 2018Equipment, Suspension. This Service Bulletin was sent by Suzuki Motor Corporation to its authorized Suzuki automobile distributors in the U.S., explaining the importance of proper inspection and maintenance of suspension…
- 10019614Apr 5, 2006Engine cooling. Exhaust noise can be heard from under the vehicle.
- 10017455Nov 9, 2005Engine cooling. Modification of main bearing oil clearance and the bearing selection procedure.
- 10015910Aug 16, 2005Engine cooling. Modification of main bearing oil clearance and the bearing selection procedure. 1999-2005 suzuki vitara sq420/sq625l, grand vitara sq625w, and xl-7 ja627
Other model years of the Suzuki Grand Vitara
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 13 | 36,750 | 2 | — | 22 | — | Not enough data |
| 2011 | 11 | 35,913 | 4 | — | 22 | — | Not enough data |
| 2010 | 20 | 50,000 | 5 | — | 21 | — | Falling |
| 2009 | 14 | 42,000 | 4 | — | 21 | — | Not enough data |
| 2008 | 42 | 40,000 | 2 | — | 19 | Not compared (fewer than 3 comparable model years) | Rising |
| 2007 | 58 | 37,000 | 3 | — | 19 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 2006 | 161 | 46,352 | 6 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 8 | 35,500 | 2 | — | 18 | — | Not enough data |
| 2003 | 29 | 50,000 | 4 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 2002 | 47 | 28,000 | 4 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2001 | 38 | 52,750 | 5 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 2000 | 85 | 59,000 | 4 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
| 1999 | 108 | 57,000 | 4 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
All Suzuki Grand Vitara model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara?
Owners of this model year most often write about sudden unintended acceleration or a sticking gas pedal, and about engines that lose power, stall or make rattling noises. The issues reported most often: Recall fuel-system repairs not completed (parts/dealers); Engine rattle, timing chain noise and stalling; Gas pedal sticks or engine races unexpectedly.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara have?
NHTSA recorded 108 consumer complaints for the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara as of Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara is reported most often?
Fuel system is named most often, in 24 complaints (22% of the total), followed by engine cooling with 20.
Has the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara been recalled?
NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What gas mileage does the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara get?
The EPA rates the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara (Grand Vitara 4Door 2WD, 2.5L 6-cyl) at 18 mpg combined, 17 city and 19 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $3,700 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara reported?
Among the 25 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 57,000 miles and the middle half falls between 40,000 and 88,000 miles; 40% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.