Used 2001 Suzuki Vitara Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2001 Vitara, so we've included reviews for other years of the Vitara since its last redesign.
4X4 2-Door Vitara
gregggg, 02/08/2013
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLX 4WD 2dr Soft Top SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I have had my Vitara about 9 yrs with over 130,000 miles. No repairs needed except an o2 sensor at 100,000 mi I live in the mountains at about 5000 ft I go off road and drive in snow all the time * I gave it a 5 for comfort taking into consideration it is a body on frame 4x4 getting 20-25 mpg
Run around, over and through
JM Hufstedler, 04/13/2005
2000 Suzuki Vitara JLX 4dr SUV 4WD
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I bought my Suzuki with 850 miles on it and after 4 years and 60,000 miles it has never disappointed me once. Not in snow, heat, short jaunts or long highway trips. The back seat is cramped, but there's tons of headroom and at 6'1" I always have plenty of leg room in either of the front seats. I've had no body or engine complaints, and the interior material is incredibly durable and cleans up nicely.
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See all 0 listingsLove it!
spotgofast, 02/07/2004
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2.0 2dr SUV 4WD
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used with 82,000 on it. So far I've had it a week, and am in love with it. I haven't tried to take the top off yet, looks a little complicated, but only time will tell. I like how it handles and the fuel efficiency. I was suprised at how roomy this little car is. My biggest friend fits (6'5") and people have more room in the back than in a jeep, not to mention it handles better. I'm very happy with my purchse and would recomend this mini suv to anyone. I have a samurai and really had fun with it...but needed something that could go freeway speeds. It's a little mountain goat in 4wd!
Falls apart after 6-7 years
Patrick J., 11/17/2016
updated 05/17/2017
2001 Suzuki Vitara JS 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2001 Suzuki Vitara used in February 2002 with one previous owner and 14K miles on it. It was in perfect running condition and I pampered the car the entire time I owned it with monthly trips to the car wash and oil changes every 3,000 miles at Jiffy Lube with all recommended service being performed as well. Before I get into the demise of this vehicle I will warn anyone considering buying one of these, they have a "known issue" with O2 sensors failing every 2-3 years. Read various Suzuki forums if you don't believe me, it is notorious for this issue and Suzuki never did anything to resolve it. Expect to spend $150-$300 depending on the morals of the repair shop to have the sensor replaced, every 2-3 years. So, in 2008 my radiator sprung a leak, then the radiator hoses, then the pulleys started failing. First it was the accessory pulley, then the crank shaft pulley. Then the AC compressor and condenser both failed in the same month. Then the front brake calipers failed followed by the rear drum brake shoes. Then the tail pipe fell off, the manifold developed a leak and then the exhaust mounts failed. Thermostat failed, engine coil failed, and the rear brake light fell down. Pins that hold the bumpers on started disappearing, the handle of the oil dip stick snapped off, the interior driver door handle broke off, the exterior driver door handle snapped, the hood brace clip broke and the hinge for the fuel door has disintegrated. Now, I am not saying this vehicle isn't reliable, I put 220,000 miles on mine, but it has cost over $5,000 in repairs to keep it running. Once it hit that 6 year mark there was something each year that failed on the vehicle requiring repair. Suzuki left the US market, as a result, I would not recommend buying any Suzuki vehicle. You will run into difficulty finding parts to keep it running and the O2 sensor can and will fail on you frequently. I forgot to mention the steering knuckle also failed which required me having to find a part from China on eBay to get it repaired as the repair shop couldn't find one from any of their suppliers. I'm sending mine off to the junk yard to get whatever scrap value I can out of it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I like my Zuki
Tam, 05/15/2002
2001 Suzuki Vitara JX 4WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchases a nearly new 2001 Vitara a couple months ago. I really love it. It's my first 4 wheel drive but we looked at several before purchasing (including the Liberty and the RAV4). I enjoy driving it and it works great on the snow in 4 wheel drive! I would recommend it to others who are looking for a decent priced 4 wheel drive SUV.
Good car, expected maintenance
shelbyk, 01/05/2014
2001 Suzuki Vitara JX 4WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car used in 2009 with 118K miles on it. Had a problem with a very squealy belt, replaced, still squealed. Honestly don't remember what resolved this issue. Radiator cracked at 140K for the first time. Cracked twice after (warrantied), turns out the water pump was building too much pressure, replaced water pump. O2 sensors replaced at 160K. Maybe have spent $1000 over 5 years on maintenance (excluding oil changes, brakes, filters, tires, etc., also all labor done by my loving father). Overall this car has been very reliable and required little maintenance for an older car with exponential miles. 22-26 mpg, no difference between highway/city but winter/summer.
Snot rocket
Ish , 11/15/2021
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2.0 2dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I got this vehicle when I was fourteen. I painted it up and made it green. Did all the body work on it. Didn’t really do any maintenance when I got it. I think I did an oil change. It drives great and handles great even on high ways. I’ve only had to change a uv and my rear brakes after having it for two years
how you treat it is what you get back
tnrebel351, 10/17/2004
2000 Suzuki Vitara JX 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
bought for my wife in jan 01.we live in a very remote part of middle tn,at 37k took to dealer for a bad rear main seal replaced at no charge,had tranny rebuilt at 60k 5 speed man,seems like built with cheap bearing material.at 120k still going strong,good little truck.service myself at 5k with mobile 1 syn, other t5han drivers power window inop no prob.bought for the suzuki moter reilabilty,powertrain layout and affordability and more than eager in rough terrain.good little truck,just dont go on any long trips,you will get very unconftable in a short time
2001 Suzuki Vitara JX
Mary, 07/09/2009
2001 Suzuki Vitara JX 4WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I like my vitara very much and feel very safe driving it. It handles excellent in the snow and I have never had a problem with it when windy out.Its been very reliable and I have had it since it was new and I still love it. I would say to anyone looking to buy one that you really cant go wrong with this Vitara 2001. I have had mine 8 years now and its still going strong.I can understand why you don't see too many people selling them. Once you have one its hard to part with it.
Tough little car
Spud, 06/27/2008
2000 Suzuki Vitara JLS 4dr SUV
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used, and rolled it over 100,000 miles. Currently, it's 115,500 miles, and it's still going strong. I've had to replace the computer system, but that's the only major maintenance it's needed. I don't service it as often as I should, but it's a very forgiving vehicle.
Why the bad Rap?
Jen, 08/14/2002
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2.0 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I can't believe all the negative reviews! I've had mine 3 years and other than the occasional maintance and odd adjustments I've really enjoyed driving this little beauty! Same problem with the locked Park they did a recall. I also had a problem with the convertable roof but with any convertable you can expect problems. I think overall the reliabiliy of the vehicle comes down to with a reliable dealership, quality of the vehicle and how well someone looks after their vehicle. You really have to think about what you are buying and why. If its a fun convertible that is great on gas - this is the vehicle for you!!
2000 vitara convertible
Mindy, 05/07/2003
2000 Suzuki Vitara JLX 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
has been in shop eight times for oil leak/ manual transmission sticks in first gear, and grinds into reverse. interior scratches easy. no good for anybody over six ft tall!!
Fun Toy
Keeper, 04/11/2010
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLS 2WD 2dr Soft Top SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this new to replace my 1994 Geo Metro. With the exception of the air conditioning, this has been an ongoing issue that both the dealership and Suzuki have tried to resolve, even after the warranty had expired, but still goes out every year. I used this car for pizza delivery for many years and it has help up great. This is a great car especially with the top down. I also get between 24 and 27 mpg, in town or on the highway. I do not see differences in mileage in town or on the highway.
POS
msu7151, 06/15/2015
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLX 4WD 2dr Soft Top SUV (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle in 2012 with 88,000 miles on it. It looked brand new and when I needed new brakes, the repair shop thought it was a new SUV. Since then I have driven it only 5,000 miles and have had a myriad of problems with it. The battery has been replaced four times, brakes twice, and windshield wipers, twice (still noisy). I have had to replace the oil pan, alternator and door handles. The entire underside is rusting and a recent mechanic asked me if I parked in a field because of the rust.I park in my driveway. The rocker panels are rusting. Now the vehicle will not start again and the catalitic converter is loose, causing all kinds of noise. Also, the a/c no longer works.
Still love my Vitara
nb, 09/26/2007
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I wanted a Honda or Nissan, but the extra $2k or more for those or for the Grand Vitara were budget busters for me. I love the purple color I got (electric cat's eye blue) and the cute and fun look; I don't drive a lot (just to work; I'm efficient and green) but I got this for off-road and it is excellent for that. I've not been off-road as much as I wanted, but that's my personal life, not the car. I think this is an excellent value, and should be considered.
A Bad One
Buyers Remorse, 05/06/2002
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2dr SUV 4WD w/Soft Top
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I owned this vehicle for 19 months. I was at the service department 6 times during this short time period. The first time for an electrical problem that wouldn't allow the vehicle to shift out of park. This went in "3" times before they got it right. (I demanded they contact the Suzuki Tech Rep). Then it went in for a front axle shaft, then it went in for an engine seal. It's been in for defective windshield wiper switch, engine tapping of which the dealership said to change the oil and wait for two changes with anything but a "Fram" oil filter. Then they were going to try adjusting the valves ON MY DOLLAR!!!! When I made the complaint during the warranty period.
Great little Car!!
Chels, 07/07/2005
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2.0 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just bought this car about 2 months ago. I got a great price for it and it only had 49000 k. The gas mileage is amazing! (coming from an 89 oldsmobile). It is so much fun to drive! The manual transmission is just fun alone but zipping around in this car makes it better! I love to just open the sunroof and unzip the back window. Sits like a truck but drives sporty.
Topless in Tri-Cities Washington
Topless in Tri-City, 08/13/2005
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2dr SUV 4WD w/Soft Top
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a rather tinny little car but it's sharp looking particularly once you get rid of the boring wheels it comes with. This is our "summer" car, and it's got that season written all over it. Absolutely fun to ride in! Ours has the small motor - not powerfull - but adequote with the stick tranny. I like working on my own vehicles; everything is accessible and in plain view! Be carefull on the highway - I suspect this thing could roll if turned very sharply. Good brakes, smooth runner. We doubt we'll ever get rid of it! We've had it for three years. If you buy a newer one still under warranty, be warned, Suzuki does not honor expired warranties, even if they are just one mile over!
It's five, and still going strong!
TheMunt, 03/19/2004
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2.0 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great little truck for the price! I've had mine for five years, and it runs great. Just follow the maintenance in the owner's manual. I have the model with the manual 5-speed transmission, and the 2.0 motor. Have carried everything from bowling balls to kayaks and my spouse, 6'4. Only negative is some of the plastic pieces in the interior broke, but not a biggie. Good for long road trips. Convertible top easy to use.
Turned out to be a financial disaster.
mensacyclist, 12/27/2003
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLS 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
AVOID!!!! I bought my Vitara in June of 01, got a "good deal", got an extended warranty and planned on keeping it for 7-8 years. I've always bought Japanese in the past and would not consider anything else. At 56,000 miles the clutch went. The dealer wanted $993, local mechanic needed about $700. There are NO aftermarket parts for this car and the dealer parts are too expensive to be worth the while. I traded the Vitara in for $5000 less than I owed on it and rolled the debt into a Dodge truck. My $15500 Vitara was worth about $4000 just 2 1/2 years layer. Check the blue book.....you'll be amazed at the deprciation.
Wear your earplugs!!!
terpr, 05/26/2003
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLS 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my Vitara with the hopes of having a fun, dependable ride. What I got was a car that constantly creaks and makes noises. I've taken it in twice for the same problem and it still makes noise! It's the most infuriating thing! I dread going over a speed bump or an uneven road. It sounds like my car is going to fall apart!
everybody wants it !
art krause, 04/29/2023
2000 Suzuki Vitara JX 2dr SUV 4WD w/Soft Top
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought 6 years ago, 62K origional..Replaced clutch recently, precaution not problem...pedalm was way too low.. Great on gas.. AC marginal ..Cam sensor a wet weather issue, not expensive IF YOU DO IT YOURSELF>>> Great small 4wd..2.0 has good power, small enough to tow easily behind RV.. Very happy with this car..
2001 suzuki
aarika, 09/19/2002
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLX 4WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
very reliableand fun to drive. also a great looker always getting compliments. also great gas mileage
Almost perfect
SuperHippo, 02/26/2002
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLS 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Interior: The driver seat is big and extremely easy to get into and out of, something that Ford has never been able to accomplish. All controls are within easy reach, and spread out enough that they are easy to find without loooking. Air controls are straightforward, and easy to use. Exterior: I like it. Nowhere near as cool as the Saturn VUE, but you get what you pay for. I prefer the side opening rear tailgate rather than the hatchback style.
Excellent in this price
Chih-Hao, 12/20/2002
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLS 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Everything in this SUV is doing its job pretty well. The price is relatively cheaper. Easy to control. Beautiful exterier.
The Little SUV that Could
CryingFreeman, 02/13/2003
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLX 4WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've purchased a used 2001 Grand Vitara JLX with ABS and alloy wheels. I've love the styling and handling of the vehicle. It has a 155 V6 engine that's very quiet. Since I'm not 6' tall, there's no complaints coming from me concerning head and leg room. It's very comfortable for the driver as well as passengers. There's only one problem...I've noticed that during the cold days, the airbag light will stay on when you start the engine. It eventually goes away with the car is warmed up but after you restart it. As I'm writing this, the SUV is in the dealership because it's still under warranty to fix this problem.
2002 Suzuki Vitara 2.0 4-Door
Aaron , 11/24/2023
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLS 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It has 245000 miles.runs great love it have replace cv axles And normal maintenance I will get some Body work on it
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
No long-term reliability
SATX, 06/13/2008
2001 Suzuki Vitara JLS 2WD 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
My Suzuki was great for the first few years, but once my extended warranty ran out, it started falling apart between 80k~91k. First went the auto-entry device, then the A/C, then some electrical problems started flaring up where my headlights and interior lights pulse at night, then an automated window went out, then the interior dome light shorted, and the final two kickers--it was not starting up, then finally it started dying on the road randomly and shaking and needing a time-out before I can restart it. The worst part is, either we have terrible mechanics in Texas or this is a hard car to work on, because no one can figure it out! A car should not be rendered worthless at 91k!