1997 Suzuki Esteem
Only 7 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 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 7
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 7 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 7 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Service brakes
3 of 7 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic and air.
Structure
2 of 7 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing underbody shields and frame and members.
Show complaint excerpts
Driving along big timber straight at 40 MPH then all of a sudden car started pulling to the right and started to shake, I managed to stay straight until I turned left to meadows rd.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-01-15
Also filed under Suspension
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 Suzuki Esteem. The contact stated that the part that supports the a-frame was rusted in half. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but they could not repair the failure.
NHTSA ODI report, 2009-08-05
Electrical system
2 of 7 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing horn.
Show complaint excerpts
Consumer has been exeperiencing problems with electrical system. Vehicle had a total electrical shutdown. In addition, vehicle made a clicking noise when applying brakes. The manufacturer has yet to be contacted.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-02-08
Suspension
1 of 7 total reports mentions: suspension.
Seat belts
1 of 7 total reports mentions: seat belts, most commonly citing retractor.
Show complaint excerpts
During a collision, passenger's seat belt failed to work properly. Passenger suffered broken ribs. Also, vehicle was totaled.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-05-06
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
1997 Suzuki Esteem — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Service brakes: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Structure: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1997 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 1997 Suzuki Esteem?
- The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 43% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 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.