1998 Suzuki Esteem
Only 24 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 24 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 24
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1998: 24 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 24 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Structure
7 of 24 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing frame and members and door.
Show complaint excerpts
98 Suzuki Esteem cross member(Engine cradle) on the Suzuki Esteem the engine cradle or cross member rot causing the vehicle to collapse causing into an accident ,crossmember or engine cradle supports lower control arms which if the crossmember let...
NHTSA ODI report, 2009-11-17
Suspension
6 of 24 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing front.
Show complaint excerpts
Was driving on the highway , slowed down to take a right turn onto side road....there was a terrible grinding noise and immediate pull of car to right...had to fight to keep control of car...was hard to steer but drove home at about 5 miles per...
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-12-06
Air bags
6 of 24 total reports mention: air bags, most commonly citing frontal.
Show complaint excerpts
Consumer was involved in a vehicle accident which caused the vehicle to roll over four times, neither airbags deployed. Dealer notifed.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-11-16
No deployment of air bag during collision, also seat belt did not lock up, resulting in injuries. (Qcaw)
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-08-26
Also filed under Seat belts
Air bags lights went on yesterday, I never had any accident. Seat bet gets stocks. Suzuki Esteem 1998.[xxx] VIN # information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (Foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA ODI report, 2019-09-04
Also filed under Seat belts and exterior lighting
Seats
3 of 24 total reports mention: seats, most commonly citing head restraint.
Seat belts
3 of 24 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing anchorage.
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
1998 Suzuki Esteem — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Structure: 7 reports on file for this year.
- Suspension: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 6 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1998 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 1998 Suzuki Esteem?
- The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1998 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.