2001 Suzuki Esteem
Only 21 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 21 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 21
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2001: 21 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 21 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Structure
10 of 21 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing frame and members and body.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2001 Suzuki Esteem. The contact stated that the front sub frame was completely rusted out, causing the vehicle to be unstable.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-05-16
Suspension
5 of 21 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing front.
Show complaint excerpts
Husband was driving vehicle when the front tire gave way and bent in from frame. Took to the repair shop and was informed that the entire frame was rotted out. The vehicle could not be repaired as the part is not available.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-05-29
I was driving the car on the highway and took the exit and then turning right from stop sign about 5 miles per hour and then heard a click and then tire were rubbing against the car body the kframe got rusted and twisted pushing the tire back and...
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-05-15
Engine and engine cooling
3 of 21 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine and exhaust system.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving, the engine make a ticking noise as if it needed oil, but it didn't. Upon inspection of the vehicle by the dealership they indicated that the noise was caused by an internal engine problem.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-10-14
Electrical system
2 of 21 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing wiring and ignition.
Show complaint excerpts
Purchased a new Suzuki Esteem in 2001. About 30000 miles the key beagn to stick in the ignition and you could not take it out. Once you turned the car on, you could not move into park. Have had it "Fixed" 3 times now.
NHTSA ODI report, 2005-04-16
Was driving at night when entire electrical system died. Vehicle stopped running. This was second time that problem has happened. Vehicle was able to be restarted when driver lifted hood and jiggled master control fuse (80 amp) come loose.
NHTSA ODI report, 2001-08-09
Tires
1 of 21 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
Vehicle purchased with yokohama A460 P195/55R15 tires. In wet road conditions vehicle skids when making a turn, in rain it slides.
NHTSA ODI report, 2001-03-12
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
2001 Suzuki Esteem — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Structure: 10 reports on file for this year.
- Suspension: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 2001 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 2001 Suzuki Esteem?
- The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 48% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2001 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.