The Suzuki Kizashi, a name meaning "omen" or "sign" in Japanese, promised a lot. Introduced as Suzuki's ambitious entry into the mid-size sedan market, it aimed to challenge established players like Toyota Camry and Honda Accord with its sporty handling and refined interior. However, despite its initial appeal, the 2011 Kizashi has faced its share of problems, some of which have impacted its reliability and long-term ownership experience. This article delves into the common issues reported by Kizashi owners, helping you understand potential pitfalls and make informed decisions.

So, What's the Deal with the 2011 Kizashi?

The 2011 Suzuki Kizashi, while praised for its driving dynamics and upscale feel, unfortunately, wasn't immune to typical car problems. Some of these issues are relatively minor and easily addressed, while others are more significant and could lead to costly repairs. Before jumping to conclusions, it's important to remember that not every Kizashi will experience every problem listed below. However, awareness is key to being a prepared owner.

Transmission Troubles: The CVT Conundrum

One of the most frequently discussed and concerning issues with the 2011 Kizashi, particularly models equipped with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), revolves around its reliability.

  • Slipping and Hesitation: Owners have reported instances of the CVT slipping, especially during acceleration or when climbing hills. This can manifest as a delay in power delivery or a feeling that the engine is working harder than it should be for the given speed.

  • Jerky Shifting: Even though a CVT is designed for smooth, stepless gear transitions, some Kizashi owners have experienced jerky or uneven "shifting," defeating the purpose of the CVT.

  • Complete Transmission Failure: In the worst-case scenario, the CVT can fail completely, requiring a costly replacement. This is less common than the slipping and hesitation issues, but it's a significant concern nonetheless.

Why is the CVT problematic? Several factors could contribute to these issues. CVTs are known to be more sensitive to fluid condition than traditional automatic transmissions. Neglecting regular CVT fluid changes can accelerate wear and tear, leading to performance problems. Furthermore, the Kizashi's CVT may not have been robust enough to handle the engine's power output consistently over the long term.

What can you do? If you're considering a 2011 Kizashi with a CVT, thoroughly inspect the transmission's performance during a test drive. Pay attention to any signs of slipping, hesitation, or jerky behavior. Furthermore, ensure the car has a documented history of regular CVT fluid changes. If you already own a CVT-equipped Kizashi, stick to the recommended maintenance schedule and consider having the fluid changed more frequently if you notice any warning signs.

Electrical Gremlins: When Things Go Haywire

Electrical problems are another common concern reported by 2011 Kizashi owners. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to more serious malfunctions that affect vehicle operation.

  • Battery Drain: Some owners have experienced unexplained battery drain, even when the car is parked and all accessories are turned off. This can lead to a dead battery and the need for frequent jump-starts.

  • Sensor Malfunctions: Various sensors throughout the car, such as the oxygen sensor, mass airflow sensor, and ABS sensor, can fail, triggering warning lights on the dashboard and potentially affecting engine performance.

  • Power Window and Door Lock Issues: Intermittent problems with the power windows and door locks are also relatively common. These issues can be caused by faulty switches, wiring problems, or malfunctioning actuators.

Why do these electrical problems occur? Several factors could contribute to these issues, including:

  • Wiring Harness Problems: The Kizashi's wiring harness may be prone to corrosion or damage, leading to electrical shorts and malfunctions.

  • Sensor Quality: Some of the sensors used in the Kizashi may have a shorter lifespan than expected, leading to premature failure.

  • Grounding Issues: Poor grounding can also cause electrical problems by disrupting the flow of electricity throughout the car's electrical system.

What can you do? If you experience electrical problems with your Kizashi, it's essential to have a qualified mechanic diagnose the issue accurately. They can use diagnostic tools to pinpoint the source of the problem and recommend the appropriate repair. Regularly inspecting the battery terminals for corrosion and ensuring they are clean and tight can also help prevent battery drain issues.

Engine Issues: A Mixed Bag

While the Kizashi's engine is generally considered reliable, some owners have reported a few issues worth noting.

  • Oil Consumption: Some Kizashi owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil more frequently than expected. This can be a sign of worn piston rings or valve seals.

  • Timing Chain Issues: Although less common, there have been reports of timing chain problems, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.

  • Cooling System Problems: Overheating can occur if the cooling system is not properly maintained. Leaks in the radiator, hoses, or water pump can cause the engine to overheat, leading to serious damage.

Why do these engine problems occur? Several factors could contribute to these issues, including:

  • Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting regular oil changes and other maintenance tasks can accelerate engine wear and tear, leading to problems like oil consumption and timing chain issues.

  • Driving Habits: Aggressive driving habits, such as frequent hard acceleration and high-speed driving, can also put extra stress on the engine.

  • Component Quality: The quality of some engine components may not be as high as expected, leading to premature failure.

What can you do? Regular maintenance is crucial for preventing engine problems. Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and pay attention to any warning signs, such as excessive oil consumption or overheating. If you suspect an engine problem, have it diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

Body and Interior: Little Annoyances

Beyond the major mechanical issues, some 2011 Kizashi owners have reported minor problems with the body and interior.

  • Paint Issues: Some owners have complained about the paint being prone to chipping or fading, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.

  • Interior Trim Problems: Rattling noises and loose trim pieces are also relatively common, particularly in older Kizashis.

  • Seat Wear: The seats may show signs of wear and tear, such as cracking or tearing, especially in high-use areas.

Why do these body and interior problems occur? Several factors could contribute to these issues, including:

  • Material Quality: The quality of some of the materials used in the Kizashi's body and interior may not be as high as expected.

  • Manufacturing Tolerances: Slight variations in manufacturing tolerances can lead to loose trim pieces and rattling noises.

  • Environmental Factors: Exposure to sunlight, heat, and humidity can accelerate the degradation of paint and interior materials.

What can you do? Regularly washing and waxing your Kizashi can help protect the paint from damage. Using interior protectants can also help prevent cracking and fading. Addressing any loose trim pieces or rattling noises promptly can prevent them from getting worse.

Parts Availability: The Suzuki Exit

One of the biggest challenges facing 2011 Kizashi owners is the limited availability of parts. Suzuki withdrew from the US market in 2013, which has made it more difficult to find replacement parts for their vehicles, including the Kizashi.

Why is parts availability an issue? With Suzuki no longer operating in the US, there is less demand for Kizashi parts, which has led to fewer parts being manufactured and stocked by suppliers. This can make it difficult and time-consuming to find the parts you need to repair your Kizashi.

What can you do? If you need to find parts for your Kizashi, here are a few tips:

  • Check with online retailers: Many online retailers specialize in selling parts for discontinued vehicles.

  • Contact Suzuki dealerships: Some Suzuki dealerships may still have parts in stock.

  • Explore aftermarket options: Aftermarket parts may be available for some Kizashi components.

  • Consider used parts: Used parts can be a more affordable option, but be sure to inspect them carefully before buying.

Is the 2011 Kizashi Still Worth Considering?

Despite the potential problems, the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi can still be a decent car, especially if you find one in good condition with a well-documented maintenance history. The Kizashi offers a unique blend of sporty handling, a refined interior, and a relatively affordable price point. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential issues and factor them into your decision-making process.

Before buying a 2011 Kizashi, have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic. Pay particular attention to the transmission, engine, and electrical systems. Ask the seller for a detailed maintenance history and look for any signs of neglect or abuse. If you're comfortable with the potential risks and are willing to invest in regular maintenance, the Kizashi can be a rewarding car to own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the CVT in the 2011 Kizashi known to be unreliable? A: Yes, the CVT in the 2011 Kizashi has been known to have issues, including slipping, hesitation, and, in some cases, complete failure. Regular fluid changes are crucial for maintaining its health.

Q: Are electrical problems common in the 2011 Kizashi? A: Yes, electrical problems such as battery drain, sensor malfunctions, and power window/door lock issues have been reported by owners. These can often be attributed to wiring problems or sensor quality.

Q: Is it difficult to find parts for the 2011 Kizashi? A: Yes, parts availability can be a challenge due to Suzuki's exit from the US market in 2013. Online retailers and some dealerships may still have parts available, but it can take more effort to locate them.

Q: Does the 2011 Kizashi have any engine problems? A: Some owners have reported issues such as excessive oil consumption, timing chain problems, and cooling system leaks. Regular maintenance is important to prevent these issues.

Q: Is the 2011 Kizashi a good car to buy used? A: The 2011 Kizashi can be a good car if you find one in good condition and are aware of the potential problems. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.

Final Thoughts

The 2011 Suzuki Kizashi, while offering a unique driving experience, isn't without its potential flaws. Understanding these common problems and taking proactive steps to address them can help you make an informed decision and ensure a more enjoyable ownership experience.