2002 Suzuki Esteem problems, complaints & recalls
Most-reported problem areas: Wheels (2) · Tires (1) · Steering (1)
🧭 Reliability snapshot
Compared against other Suzuki Esteem model years — complaint volume vs the model's median year, recalls and severity. How we score →
Safety recalls (0)
No recalls on record for this model year (campaigns announced since 2010).
Service bulletins (4)
Technical service bulletins are repair instructions manufacturers send dealers for known issues. Unlike recalls, the fix is not automatically free — but naming the bulletin at the service desk can save diagnosis time and support goodwill repairs.
Suspension 2022-07-08 · SUZ_016008 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
reminder of the importance to conduct safety inspections for rust damage to suspension and related parts that could be caused by road salt or other chemicals applied to the roadway.
Suspension 2018-11-20 · N-Q-G-045 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
this service bulletin was sent by suzuki motor corporation to its authorized suzuki automobile distributors in the u.s., explaining the importance of proper inspection and maintenance of suspension lower arm ball joints to prevent the ball stud from becoming separated from the suspension lower arm.
Engine And Engine Cooling:cooling System 2005-05-10 · 0204145 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
correct coolant usage. *eh
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control:gas Recirculation Valve (Egr Valve) 2002-02-28 · SC18 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
some vehicles may have damage to the vapor control valve. *slc
What owners report
2014-05-20 · Wheels“tl* the contact owns a 2002 suzuki esteem. the contact occasionally heard a loud noise from the front of the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the shielding needed to be replaced around the muffler. the vehicle was repaired however,the failure recurred. the right axle shaft was broken on the subframe which…”
2008-12-10 · Wheels · 67,050 mi“sole owner 2002 suzuki esteem wagon with rotted k-frame and rusted wheels. suzuki will only cover k-frame part and dealer wants $390. for labor. are there other suzuki vehicles with reported rotted k-frames?. i've owned this vehicle since april 2002. this vehicle will not pass state inspection due to rotted frame. *tr…”
2002-10-02 · Fuel System, Other:storage:fuel Gauge System“check engine light has come on 6 times and there is no computer code. gas gauge is inaccurate. *jb *nlm *****dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis****768037 *ts…”
2002-04-29 · Tires“original tire on suzuki, esteem 2002, p18560r14 dot elbodeh340. while traveling at 10 mph on slightlty wet pavement consumer was making a right turn when vehicle began to skid. vehicle felt like it was going to tip over. consumer feels there is a defect in tires. *ak *jg…”
2002-03-25 · Steering · 💥 crash“while traveling another vehicle crossed into consumer's vehicle's lane and hit it. steering wheel had played into wheel, enabling him to steer.*ak…”
Excerpts of consumer complaints filed with NHTSA, lightly truncated. They are owner statements, not verified findings.