Reno (1st)
Engine Reliability Ratings
Suzuki Reno Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0-I4-Gas
2.0L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Show 2 additional engine variants with limited data
2.5-I6-Gas
2.5L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
1.4-I4-Gas
1.4L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Suzuki Reno regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (4)
Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 Forenza vehicles, and 2005-2008 Reno vehicles manufactured from September 1, 2003, through July 30, 2008. In the affected vehicles, heat may be generated in the headlamp switch or daytime running light (DRL) module which could melt the headlamp switch or the DRL module.
Suzuki is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 Forenza and model year 2005-2006 Reno vehicles manufactured from September 23, 2003, through March 7, 2006. Increased resistance due to poor contact between the terminals of certain wires can generate heat that can melt the splice pack used to connect the power circuit wires for the headlamps. This can result in intermittent or total loss of low/high beam headlamp function.
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, HEADLAMP LOW BEAM OR DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHT (DRL) FUNCTION MAY BE INOPERATIVE DUE TO A MELTED SPLICE PACK ON THE WIRING HARNESS.
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FRONT SEAT BELT TONGUE WILL NOT LATCH INTO THE BUCKLE AND, IN RARE CASES, EVEN THE LOCKED TONGUE WILL POP OUT BY LOW STRETCHING FORCE. IF THE BUCKLE DOES NOT LATCH COMPLETELY, THE BUCKLE COULD RELEASE WITHOUT PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON.
Alternatives in Subcompact Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno problems?
The 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno has accumulated 173 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Transmission, Safety Systems, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Suzuki Reno engine is most reliable?
The 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno was offered with 4 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.0L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno a good used car?
The 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 173 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 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno have?
The 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno has 173 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 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno?
There are 4 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno 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 Reno?
Before buying a used Suzuki Reno, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Transmission, Safety Systems, Electrical System, 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 Reno have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2005-2008 Suzuki Reno. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 173 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.