Is the Suzuki Sidekick Reliable?
1992–1998 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other suvs — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Suzuki Sidekick? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Suzuki Sidekick Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 0 | 20 | 6 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1997 | 0 | 38 | 3 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1996 | 1 | 45 | 2 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1995 | 0 | 15 | 4 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1994 | 0 | 17 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1993 | 0 | 7 | 2 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1992 | 0 | 7 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Sidekick Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Sidekick scores 3 points above the average suv — a strong result.
Known Suzuki Sidekick Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 149 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Suzuki Sidekick reliable?+
The Suzuki Sidekick scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 7 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 1 recall campaigns and 149 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Sidekick is most reliable?+
Reliability varies by model year. Check the year-by-year table above for a direct comparison.
How many miles does a Sidekick last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Suzuki Sidekick owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Sidekick will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Suzuki Sidekick Research
Check a Specific Suzuki Sidekick VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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