JS2YB5A38C63067762012 SUZUKI SX4Crossover (US)/Crossover Premium (US)/Crossover Tech (US)/JX (Canada)/Sedan LE (US)/Sedan LE Pop Pkg. (US)/Sedan Base (Canada)
2012 SUZUKI SX4 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 40 owner complaints include 2 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
Executive Summary
2012 SUZUKI SX4
2012 SUZUKI SX4 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 40 owner complaints include 2 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
- 3 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
- 2 injuries reported across 40 owner complaints
- Common owner-reported issues: airbag warning, steering issues
- Complaint rate is accelerating — issues appear to be getting worse, not better
- Steering is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
- Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
40 owner complaints filed — top areas: Steering (38%), Safety Systems (33%), Engine/Powertrain (15%). Common issues: airbag warning, steering issues. 2 crashes reported.
Title Brand Check
Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
Vehicle Specifications
Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database
- Make
- SUZUKI
- Model
- SX4
- Year
- 2012
- Trim / Series
- Crossover (US)/Crossover Premium (US)/Crossover Tech (US)/JX (Canada)/Sedan LE (US)/Sedan LE Pop Pkg. (US)/Sedan Base (Canada)
- Body Style
- Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback
- Vehicle Type
- PASSENGER CAR
- Drive Type
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- Engine
- 4-cyl 2L
- Doors
- 5
- Manufacturer
- SUZUKI MOTOR OF AMERICA, INC
- Assembly
- SAGARA, KUMAMOTO PREFECTURE, JAPAN
- GVWR
- Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Assembly Plant Quality
Plant: SAGARA, KUMAMOTO PREFECTURE
No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.
Safety Intelligence
Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data
- ▸Steering system recall
- ▸1 complaint(s) involved a fire
- ⚠2 recalls on same component: Steering
- ⚠Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
Driver Assistance Features
ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database
Fuel Economy & Environment
EPA fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov
Deferred Failure Risk
Components and defects approaching or past their known service milestones
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA Safety Recalls
3 RECALLSNHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 3 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 3 recalls is ~68%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
Recall completion rate data not available for SUZUKI. Industry average is ~85%. Verify any open recalls with a dealer before purchase.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~20 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP
SummarySuzuki Motor America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Suzuki SX4 vehicles. The power steering pump may seize causing a loss of steering assist.Read full details...
~27% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
SummarySuzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 SX4 vehicles manufactured July 16, 2009, to November 1, 2012, and 2010-2013 Kizashi vehicles manufactured October 13, 2009, to October 31, 2012. The shift selector can be moved out of the "Park" position without depressing the brake pedal.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP
SummarySuzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2012-2103 Suzuki SX4 vehicles manufactured September 3, 2011, to April 5, 2013. In the affected vehicles, insufficient clearance between the power steering pump body and the power steering fluid control valve may cause improper movement of the valve, and as a result, the power steering pump may seize.Read full details...
~32% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
Recall Intelligence
Detailed analysis of recall history and severity
Complaint Intelligence
40 complaints analyzed across 6 system categories
⚠ Complaint rate is accelerating — issue may be getting worse
38% of complaints filed in Feb & Nov — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.
Owner Complaints
HIGH VOLUME40 safety complaints filed with NHTSA
The contact owns a 2012 Suzuki SX4. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked and the engine was running, the air bags independently deployed. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while the contact was on the outside of the vehicle, removing items from the rear seat on the rear passenger's side of the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear seat lever was lifted to lower the rear seat, and the front driver's side curtain air bag, and the rear passenger's side pillar air bag independently deployed. The failure occurred instantly when the rear seat was lowered. There was a loud sound but no smoke. The contact fell to the ground when the air bags deployed. The front passenger's seat belt was latched at the time; however, the front passenger's seat was unoccupied. The front passenger's seat belt became inoperable after the failure. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 153,750.
The contact owns a 2012 Suzuki SX4. The contact stated while driving at approximately 73 MPH, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the power steering pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was previously serviced under an undisclosed NHTSA recall that was associated with the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 121,000.
The airbag sensor in the passenger seat failed. There is a known Supplemental Restraint System issue/recall in 2007-2011 Suzuki SX4s, however there has not been a recall for the 2012 model despite this being an issue beyond the aforementioned years. Affected vehicles may develop an electrical circuit disconnection within the front passenger sensing system sensor mat that is built into the front passenger seat bottom cushion. The disconnection is due to repeated flexing of the sensor mat from use of the front passenger seat. If this condition occurs, the “AIR BAG” light in the instrument cluster and, the front passenger’s seat belt reminder light will come on. Also, the “PASS AIR BAG OFF” indicator light will remain off because the front passenger air bag will remain enabled. In a frontal impact of significant magnitude, the front air bag will deploy with full force - even with a child, or small adult, in the front seat. Air bag deployment with a child or small adult in the front passenger seat increases the risk of severe injury or death to that occupant. Replacement front seats are backordered, likely because of the recall in 2007-2011 vehicles, and despite placing an order for a new seat in May 2023, I have been waiting 9 months for a pallet to ship from Suzuki. Given the danger of traveling with a passenger given the vehicle's condition, and the fact that this was a known issue for the 5 prior years of this vehicle, this is an unacceptable amount of time to wait for a replacement part, and this should be investigated as a potential necessary recall for 2012 Suzuki SX4s.
2012 SUZUKI SX4. CONSUMER WRITES SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR POWER STEERING PUMP SAFETY RECALL.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO SARASOTA MITSUBISHI (6826 S TAMIAMI TRAIL, SARASOTA, FL 34231) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BOTTOM MALFUNCTION. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS INFORMED THAT HE WOULD RECEIVE A CALLBACK HOWEVER, NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 46,000.
I WAS SENT A RECALL NOTICE FOR MY CAR AND THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE SERVICE PROVIDER THAT IS NEAR MY HOME HAS CLOSED DOWN AND THE OTHER ONE THAT IS ON THE LIST IS 50 MILES AWAY FROM MY HOME. ALL OTHER PLACES ARE OUT OF MY STATE. HELP
NOTHING YET. I CONTINUE TO GET RECALL NOTICED BUT NO ONE HAS PARTS FOR IT ANYMORE AND CAN'T GET THEM IN. THE CAR IS DRIVABLE BUT I WORRY ABOUT AN INCIDENT HAPPENING ONE DAY
2012 SUZUKI SX4. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE POWER STEERING PUMP. *LD *JS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V587000 (STEERING). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND STATED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. THE CONTACT CALLED NHTSA REGARDING NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V587000 (STEERING). WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT A COMPLETE STOP, THE ENGINE STARTED TO RATTLE UNCONTROLLABLY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 36,000.
I WAS NOTIFIED OF A SECOND RECALL (18V-804) OF THE POWER STEERING AT THE END OF 2018 STATING THAT THE POWER STEERING MAY GO OUT UNDER REALLY COLD CONDITIONS. I LIVE IN MINNESOTA, THERE IS NO WAY TO AVOID THE COLD! MY POWER STEERING WENT OUT ON JANUARY 18, 2019. I COULD NO LONGER HOLD OUT AND GOT SOMETHING FIXED ON IT BUT IT HAS GONE OUT AGAIN. OUR MECHANIC IS NOW TELLING ME IT IS A HAZARD TO DRIVE BECAUSE THE POWER STEERING FLUID HAS LEAKED ALL OVER AND COULD CAUSE A FIRE. SUZUKI HAS YET TO SEND ANY NEW INFORMATION AND IS USELESS WHEN I CALL THEM (TODAY THE PHONE JUST KEPT RINGING WHEN I TRIED).
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE STEERING LOST POWER. THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V587000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
DURING THE POLAR VORTEX, THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT.
CAMPAIGN NUMBER 18V804000, SUZUKI HAS NO PLAN TO CORRECT POWER STEERING ISSUE. I HAD IT FIXED MYSELF AND SENT SUZUKI A COPY OF THE BILL REQUESTING REPAYMENT, DENIED BECAUSE OF A USED PART INSTALLED. I SPOKE WITH SUZUKI HEADQUARTERS AND THE CAR DEALERSHIP I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM NEW, THEY WERE NO HELP.
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP, THERE WAS A RECALL AND I CALLED SUZUKI AND ALL THEY DO I HANG UP ON ME. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE RPMS INCREASED AND THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD. AFTERWARDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD ONLY REACH 20 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO SUBARU OF WICHITA (11610 E KELLOGG DR N, WICHITA, KS 67207, (316) 264-7777) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED; HOWEVER, THE DEALER STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE WAS NOT READING THE COMPUTER INSIDE THE TRANSMISSION, WHICH ALSO NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEALER PERFORMED AN OIL CHANGE ON THE VEHICLE SEVEN DAYS PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS CURRENTLY IN THE DEALER'S POSSESSION AND HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AGAIN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 168,806.
RECALL FOR GEAR SHIFT LEVER REPLACED WITH DEFECTIVE GEAR SHIFT LEVER THAT CAN BE BUMPED INTO REVERSE WHILE IN DRIVE.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TACHOMETER AND SPEEDOMETER WERE STRUCTURALLY UNSOUND AND MOVED OUT OF POSITION. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CORRECT INFORMATION ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL/CLUSTER. THE CONTACT WAS UNCERTAIN IF THERE WAS AN INTERNAL SHORT OR FRACTURE. THREE DEALERS WERE CONTACTED: ADVANTAGE SUZUKI (760 CENTRAL AVE, ALBANY, NY 12206, (518) 482-0500, (WHICH IS PERMANENTLY CLOSED AND NOW GOES BY DESTINATION KIA, (518) 478-8036)), LINCOLN OF WAYNE (1910 NJ-23, WAYNE, NJ 07470, (973) 696-9700), AND MILFORD SUZUKI (500 6TH ST, MILFORD, PA 18337, (570) 296-2636). ALL THREE DEALERS INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE DIAGNOSED AND THAT THEY HAD NEVER HEARD OF THIS TYPE OF FAILURE. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WAS TEST DRIVEN BY AN INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED MECHANIC (MIKES AUTO CARE, 6 WEST MAIN STREET EXTENSION, GOSHEN, NY 10924, (845) 294-8284). THE CONTACT WAS UNCERTAIN IF A FAILURE COULD OCCUR DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER AND WHILE DRIVING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 87,036.
THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT SENSOR HAS FAILED TO REGISTER A PASSENGER AND COMMUNICATE WITH THE COMPUTER. THIS WILL CAUSE THE AIRBAGS TO NOT DEPLOY AND CAN SERIOUSLY INJURE THE PASSENGER. SUZUKI WAS NOTIFIED AND REFUSES TO REPAIR THE ISSUE. INSTEAD THEY WANT OVER $2000 FOR A NEW SEAT. YEARS 2007 - 2011 HAD THE SAME ISSUE AND WAS RECALLED FOR THE EXACT SAME THING. PLEASE MAKE THEM ACCOUNTABLE AND DO A RECALL FOR THIS.
HELLO THE PASSAGER AIR BAG FAIL THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE BUT I NEVER RECEIVED ONE ON MY CAR BUT A FEW OF MY FRIENDS RECEIVED THERE RECALL ON THERE SX4 2012 WHY DID NOT I RECEIVE MINE ? THIS IS A MATTER OF LIFE OR INJURY DEALERSHIP SAID SUZUKI SHOULD REPLACE BUT SUZUKI REFUSE TO DO ANYTHING. DEALERSHIP RAN THE HARD CODE AND THE PASSAGER SEAT MUST BE REPLACED
BOTH AIRBAGS FAILED AT THE SAME TIME I CONTACTED SUZUKI AND THEY REFUSE TO DO ANYTHING. FRIENDS OF MINE OWN SAME CAR AND THEY RECEIVED A RECALL I DID NOT.. TOOK CAR TO DEALERSHIP THEY CAN NOT FIGURE OUT WHY BOTH FAILED AT THE SAME TIME TOLD ME SUZUKI SHOULD REPLACE BOTH SEATS.. DRIVER AND PASSER SEAT.. AS THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE THAT COULD CAUSE DEATH OR INJURY AND THIS IS NOT PART OF MAINTENANCE OR WEAR ... THIS IS ABOUT SAVING LIVES,
THE MAT THAT YOU SIT ON THAT TURN ON THE SAFETY AIR BAGS FAILED CONTACTED SUZUKI THERE IS A RECALL BUT REFUSE TO FIX MINE.. FOUR OF MY FRIENDS OWN SAME CAR AND THEY RECEIVED THERE RECALL FROM SUZUKI ON THERE SX4 THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE WHICH COULD CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH
TAKATA RECALL I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT WHERE I REAR ENDED A CAR THAT WAS STOPPED AT A LIGHT ON A CITY STREET, SPEED LIMIT 25-35, GOING UPHILL. UPON IMPACT AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE FRONT OF MY CAR WAS SEVERELY CRUSHED HAVING GONE UNDER THE SUV. SPARE TIRE ON SUV SAVED MY LIFE. I BELIEVE THAT THE AIRBAGS SHOUD HAVE DEPLOYED.
I HAD MY CAR REPAIRED IN A RECALL IN JAN 2015 (ITS CODE IS VL). AFTER ABOUT ONE MONTH I FOUND SOMETIMES IT WAS DIFFICULT TO MOVE THE STICK OUT OF PARK. IT WAS A RANDOM ISSUE SO I DIDN'T TAKE IT SERIOUS AT THAT TIME. RECENTLY THE ISSUE HAPPENS MORE FREQUENTLY. I CALLED SUZUKI CUSTOMER SERVICE ON MARCH 28, 2016 AND THEY TOLD ME TO HAVE THE CAR DIAGNOSED AT A LOCAL AUTHORIZED DEALER. I WENT TO THE DEALER ON THE SAME DAY. THE DEALER TOLD ME THE PART THAT WAS REPLACED IN THE RECALL IN JAN 2015 NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AGAIN, BUT IT ALREADY PASSED THE WARRANTY WHICH IS ONE YEAR. I CALLED THE SUZUKI CUSTOMER SERVICE AGAIN AND THEY GAVE ME THE SAME ANSWER: THEY WARRANTY ON THAT PART ALREADY EXPIRED. I JUST FIND ON THE NATSA WEBSITE SUZUKI RELEASED A REVISED DOCUMENT (RCORRD-14V811-4872.PDF) ON FEB 18, 2015 SAYING THEY "HAVE RECEIVED REPORTS OF SHIFTING DIFFICULTY IN SOME SX4 VEHICLES AFTER THE RECALL REPAIR HAS BEEN PERFORMED." AND THEY RELEASED A REVISED TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (RCRIT-14V811-3386.PDF) ON FEB 27, 2015. MY CAR WAS REPAIRED IN JAN, 2015, AND AFTER THAT I DID NOT RECEVIE ANY NOTICE ABOUT THE REVISED TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN. I THINK THE CAR ISSUE I AM HAVING IS DUE TO THEY DID NOT FOLLOW THE REVISED TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN. AND I THINK SUZUKI SHOULD REPAIR IT AT NO CHARGE. THANKS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V587000 (STEERING) HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. WHILE DRIVING AT 10 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL LEFT, THE CONTACT OBSERVED AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT FAILED TO SWITCH INTO THE PARK POSITION WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V811000 (POWER TRAIN), BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. IN ADDITION, WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE STEERING WHEEL WAS DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V587000 (STEERING). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,502.
I WAS DRIVING FROM PA TO MD FOR VACATION. SUDDENLY THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON IN MY DASH PANEL. THE LIGHT HAS STAYED ON TO THIS DAY. I HAVE CONTACTED SUZUKI AND BECAUSE IT IS PAST WARRANTY ON THAT PART OF THE CAR, THEY WILL NOT EVEN LOOK AT WHY. I WOULD HAVE TO PAY SOMEONE ALMOST $100 TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT, NOT REPAIRED! I DON'T THINK THAT I SHOULD HAVE TO DO THIS SINCE THEY HAVE A HISTORY OF HAVING ISSUES WITH THEIR AIRBAGS! I WANT THEM TO LOOK AT IT - NO CHARGE - AND REPAIR THE ISSUE! IT HAS TO BE FIXED BEFORE JANUARY 2016 OR MY CAR WILL NOT PASS ANNUAL INSPECTION.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH TO TURN INTO THE CONTACT'S DRIVEWAY, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED. THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE NEAR THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITH FORCE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE FACE, A BLOODY NOSE, ARM AND BACK PAINS, AND EXTENSIVE INTERNAL BRUISING. THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG HAD BLOOD ON IT DUE TO THE FORCE AND IMPACT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED MEDICAL TREATMENT. THE INSURANCE COMPANY TOWED THE VEHICLE TO A REPAIR SHOP FOR INSPECTION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND WAS TO SEND A TECHNICIAN TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS WAITING ON THE MANUFACTURER TO DETERMINE THE REMEDY TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE EVERY TIME YOU SHIFT GEARS THE CLUTCH MAKES UNUSUAL SOUND.
SUZUKI IS CONDUCTING A RECALL UNDER CAMPAIGN 14V811000. WHEN I CONTACTED THE DEALER LISTED ON MY NOTIFICATION LETTER FROM SUZUKI, I WAS INFORMED THAT THEY HAD ENDED THEIR CONTRACT WITH SUZUKI, AND THAT, ALTHOUGH THEY COULD DO THE WORK, SUZUKI WOULD NOT REIMBURSE THEM FOR IT. BECAUSE THE NEAREST DEALER OTHER THAN THAT LOCATION IS A ONE-WAY 2.5 HOUR DRIVE, I CONTACTED SUZUKI. THEY TOLD ME THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO, AS NHTSA PROHIBITED THEM FROM REIMBURSING FOR REPAIRS OUTSIDE THEIR CURRENT DEALER NETWORK. SINCE SUZUKI STOPPED SELLING PASSENGER CARS IN NORTH AMERICA, THEY HAVE LET THEIR SERVICE NETWORK ATROPHY, DESPITE PUBLIC PROMISES TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TO VEHICLE OWNERS.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER:14V811000 (POWER TRAIN) AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WERE ONLY FIVE PARTS A MONTH BEING RECEIVED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
UPON ENTERING AN INTERSECTION, THE POWER STEERING FAILED TO OPERATE RESULTING IN A DRAMATIC INCREASE IN THE FORCE REQUIRED TO MANEUVER THE VEHICLE. THIS COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A COLLISION WITH OTHER VEHICLES OR PEDESTRIANS. *TR
AT 48648 MILES THE DRIVER SIDE AND PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON INDICATING AN ISSUE. I CONTACTED SUZUKI IN CALIFORNIA AND THEY IN TURN INFORMED ME THAT I WOULD NEED TO PAY TO GET THIS FIXED. THE COST CAN BE UP TO $3000 BEING THERE IS NO RECALL AND NO WARRANTY AFTER 36000 MILES. I HAVE A ISSUE WITH THAT ISSUE SEEING THE FACT THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR YEARS 2007 - 2011 FOR THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. I WOULD LIKE TO ASK THAT WE INCLUDE ALL YEARS FROM 2007 - 2014 BECAUSE IT IS THE SAME ISSUE AS THE YEAR 2007 - 2011. *TR
PASSENGER FRONT SIDE AIR BAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON, SENT TWO NOTES TO DEALER-NO REPLY WITH ALL THE TALK OF RECALLS OF SUZUKI I AM CONCERNED, WITH NO REPLY FROM DEALER EVEN MORE CONCERNED (5 STAR, ALTOONA, PA) (NEED TO VERIFY YEAR AND MILEAGE, CAR IS NOT HERE NOW). *TR
THE AIRBAG LIGHT HAS ILLUMINATED AND WILL NOT TURN OFF. I AM AFRAID THAT A SENSOR OR CONNECTION MAY CAUSE THE AIRBAG TO EITHER DEPLOY WHILE DRIVING OR NOT DEPLOY IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT. THIS IS A SENSITIVE ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED!!! *TR
TL-THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUZUKI SX4. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE CUSHION IN THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SEAT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000. NE
I HAVE BRIDGESTONE TIRES ONLY ABOUT 29,500 MILES AND HAVE UNEVEN WEAR ON ALL MY TIRES I HAVE THEM ROTAED AT EVERY 3000 MILES THAT SHOULDN'T BE AND MY AIR BAG LIGHT ON THE PASSANGER SIDE IS OFF WHEN YOU SIT IN THE SEAT AND ON WHEN NO NONE SITS IN IT TVI TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES AND THEY JUST SAY THAT THE PERSON DOES NOT WEIGH ENOUGH FOR IT TO COME ON. *JS
THE SUN MELTED MY SEAT AND SHIFTER AREA HERE IN FLORIDA. I IN FORM SUZUKI CORP. BUT THEY REFUSE TO REPLY TO THE ISSUE EVEN AFTER SUBMITTING PHOTOS AND GOING TO THE DEALERSHIP . I AM ALSO VERY CONCERN ABOUT FIRE STARTING IN THE CAR AS THE SUN MELTED THE INSIDE COULD AS WELL START A FIRE. THE CAR IS UNDER WARRANTY AND SUZUKI REFUSE IS TO REPLY. *TR
WHILE BRAKING TO STOP AT AN INTERSECTION, THE ENGINE SURGED RADICALLY AND COULD NOT STOP VEHICLE. THE CAR COASTED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION BEFORE VIOLENTLY JOLTING TO A STOP BEFORE HITTING THE CURB. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS SOLID AS A ROCK WHILE APPLYING. THIS HAPPENED A SECOND TIME TWO DAYS LATER. BOTH INCIDENCES WERE REPORTED TO THE DEALER WHEN THEY COULD FIND NO PROBLEM AND SUGGESTED PERHAPS I WAS EITHER DRIVING USING TWO FEET ON THE PEDALS, OR ONE FOOT ON BOTH THE GAS AND BRAKE. THIS WAS NO SO...! THE DEALER HAS OFFERED TO SEND AN OUTSIDE ENGINEER TO INVESTIGATE PROBLEM BUT THE CAR HAS BEEN OPERATING WITHOUT INCIDENT AND TOLD THEM I WOULD CALL IF THIS SHOULD HAPPEN AGAIN. I LOVE THE CAR AND TRADED A 2002 SUZUKI WHICH I OWNED FOR 10 YEARS AND LOVED IT. *TR
Component Failure Cascade Risk
Known patterns where one defect leads to more severe downstream failures
▸ Loss of power steering assist — vehicle becomes difficult to control especially at low speeds and during parking
▸ Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
Complaint & Reliability Timeline
Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red
The blue line shows 40 total NHTSA complaints filed over 13 years, with the worst year being 2015 (9 complaints, including 1 crash report).
The amber reliability line averaged 97/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 89/100 in 2016.
Notably, despite 40 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.
Red dots on the amber line flag 2 years (2015, 2016) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
Legal & Regulatory Actions
Known class action lawsuits, settlements, and manufacturer extended warranty programs
5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate
Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs
Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $51,114 (~$852/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
Negotiation Ammunition
Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Tailored for the 2012 SUZUKI SX4 — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list
Recall Probability Forecast
Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals
20% estimated recall probability — some indicators present but not alarming.
- ▸Accelerating complaint rate — increasing pressure on NHTSA to act
Maintenance Schedule
OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Auction History
Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators
Searching Public Auction Records
Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for JS2YB5A38C6306776. Results appear automatically when found.
Insurance Cost Estimate
Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
State-Specific Legal Protections
What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Complete Data Table
All decoded fields in a single flattened view
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | JS2YB5A38C6306776 |
| Model Year | 2012 |
| Make | SUZUKI |
| Model | SX4 |
| Trim | Crossover (US)/Crossover Premium (US)/Crossover Tech (US)/JX (Canada)/Sedan LE (US)/Sedan LE Pop Pkg. (US)/Sedan Base (Canada) |
| Vehicle Type | PASSENGER CAR |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback |
| Doors | 5 |
| Drive Type | AWD/All-Wheel Drive |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Displacement (L) | 2 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | SUZUKI MOTOR OF AMERICA, INC |
| Assembly City | SAGARA |
| Assembly Country | JAPAN |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | JS2 |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 8 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | C |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | 6 |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 306776 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 3 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 40 |
VIN Structure Decode
ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 7/4/2026, 8:28:03 PM.