Aerio (1st)
Engine Reliability Ratings
Suzuki Aerio Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.3-I4-Gas
2.3L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0-I4-Gas
2.0L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Suzuki Aerio regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (2)
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 5-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS, DUE TO IMPROPER SHAPE OF THE CLIP, THE RETAINING CLIP THAT KEEPS THE GEAR SHIFT CABLE ATTACHED TO THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER CAN CONTACT THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER HOUSING IF EXCESSIVE LATERAL FORCE IS APPLIED WHEN SHIFTING TO FIRST GEAR.
CERTAIN PASSENGER (111 MY 2002 ESTEEM, 777 MY 2002 AERIO, 2,368 MY 2003 AERIO) AND SPORT UTILITY (324 MY 2002 GRAND VITARA, 274 MY 2003 GRAND VITARA, 684 MY 2002 GRAND VITARA XL-7, AND 781 MY 2003 GRAND VITARA XL-7) VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 212, 'WINDSHIELD MOUNTING." THE WINDSHIELD MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SECURED TO THE VEHICLE BODY DUE TO INSUFFICIENT ADHESION BETWEEN THE PAINT APPLIED DURING THE SECOND-STAGE PAINTING PROCESS AND THE PAINT APPLIED DURING FINAL-STAGE PAINTING.
Alternatives in Subcompact Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio problems?
The 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio has accumulated 118 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Brakes, Wheels & Tires, Transmission. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Suzuki Aerio engine is most reliable?
The 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio was offered with 3 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.3L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio a good used car?
The 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 118 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio have?
The 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio has 118 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio?
There are 2 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Suzuki Aerio?
Before buying a used Suzuki Aerio, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Brakes, Wheels & Tires, Transmission, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Does the Aerio have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2002-2007 Suzuki Aerio. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 118 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.