1996 Suzuki Esteem
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 5
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1996: 5 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 13 |
| 1996 | 5 |
| 1997 | 7 |
| 1998 | 24 |
| 1999 | 20 |
| 2000 | 26 |
| 2001 | 21 |
| 2002 | 5 |
Known problem areas
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Service brakes
3 of 5 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Tires
1 of 5 total reports mentions: tires, most commonly citing tread/belt.
Show complaint excerpts
After 31,000 miles, 4 goodyear aquatread tires developed feathered tread blocks on all 4 tires. This resulted in road noise from the tires that was similar to that of all 4 wheel bearings failing simultaneously.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-05-01
Power train
1 of 5 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Engine and engine cooling
1 of 5 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine.
Electrical system
1 of 5 total reports mentions: electrical system, most commonly citing front underhood.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1996 Suzuki Esteem — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Service brakes: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Tires: 1 report on file for this year.
- Power train: 1 report on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1996 Suzuki Esteem reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1996 Suzuki Esteem?
- The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 60% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1996 Suzuki Esteem have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-20 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.