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Suzuki · Mid-Size SUV · 2005–2008

Suzuki Grand Vitara JT

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
4.3 / 5.0 · Based on 3 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

166–169 PS

2.4L Benzin

Strong petrol in an off-road package

Fun to Drive!
Most Reliable Engine

140 PS

2.0L Benzin

3 weaknesses

Good Choice

Generations

Engine Overview

The Suzuki Grand Vitara JT is available with 3 engine variants — from 129 to 169 hp.

1.9L DDiS · Diesel· 129 PS
2005 2008
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2.0L · Benziner· 140 PS
2005 2008
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
2.4L · Benziner· 166–169 PS
2005 2008
Good Choice 3 weaknesses

The Suzuki 1.9L DDiS (Diesel, 129 PS) has the F9Q (1.9L DDiS) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

The Suzuki 2.0L (Benziner, 140 PS) has the J20A (2.0L) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

The Suzuki 2.4L (Benziner, 166–169 PS) has the J24B (2.4L) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Rust on underbody, engine mounts, and subframes

From the fourth year of operation onwards, rust on load-bearing underbody components is well known. Engine and subframe crossmembers corrode significantly. Behind the wheel arch liners there is no factory corrosion protection whatsoever.

Symptoms: Visible rust on underbody and subframes; rust behind wheel arches; drip marks under the vehicle
from 120,000 km
Ad Unterbodenschutz Grand Vitara JTAchsträger Grand Vitara rostgeschützt
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
261 complaints · 2005–2008
Airbags
80 ⚠ 9
Lighting
66
Electrical
49 ⚠ 1
Steering
23 ⚠ 1
Seat Belts
16 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (80 complaints)
⚠ Lighting (66 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (49 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 16 weaknesses have been documented for the Suzuki Grand Vitara JT (2005–2008) — 10 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Brakes, Gearbox, Electronics. Considered reliable: J20A (2.0L), J24B (2.4L).

Grand Vitara (F9Q, 2005–2012) — Be Careful: Variable turbo system (VNT) vanes seized, Injectors leaking or worn, DPF blockage from short trips and faulty injectors. Power: 129 PS.

What to watch out for with the Suzuki Grand Vitara? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Suzuki Grand Vitara JT have? +
The Suzuki Grand Vitara JT has 10 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Suzuki Grand Vitara JT? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: J20A (2.0L), J24B (2.4L). The most reliable engine is the J20A (2.0L) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the J24B (2.4L).
Which Suzuki Grand Vitara JT engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Suzuki Grand Vitara JT. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Suzuki Grand Vitara JT engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Suzuki Grand Vitara JT — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} With 122 kW the Grand Vitara has plenty in reserve for both off-road and motorway. The suspension is surprisingly comfortable for a genuine off-roader.
Is the Suzuki Grand Vitara JT worth buying used? +
The Suzuki Grand Vitara JT is a good choice as a used car — 2 of 3 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Suzuki Grand Vitara JT? +
The Suzuki Grand Vitara JT is available with engine variants from 129 to 169 hp. Petrol: J20A (2.0L), J24B (2.4L). Diesel: F9Q (1.9L DDiS).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee