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 PER YEAR
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.
2 of 7 total reports mention: service brakes, hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
BRAKES FAILED RESULTING IN VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
NHTSA ODI report, 19981014
1 of 7 total reports mentions: suspension.
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, 20130115
1 of 7 total reports mentions: structure.
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, 20130115
1 of 7 total reports mentions: structure.
Show complaint excerpts
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, 20090805
1 of 7 total reports mentions: service brakes, air.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 Suzuki Esteem — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (1 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, hydraulic:foundation components, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1997 Suzuki Esteem have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.