1999 Suzuki Esteem GLX Wagon review from North America
"Low-cost, reliable, spacious for its category, not great comfort, but a good buy!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Occasionally water leaks into the fuse box area and the car behaves funny, turning lights on or (more embarrassing) honking by itself.
Ball joints/control arm (they come together) replaced on both sides and getting worn again. They are a little fragile.
Alternator replaced (170 000). Not sure if that was done before or not. Rest was just maintenance (brakes, etc.)
Heater fan broke. It turned out a mouse had crept into it. Can't blame Suzuki for that, unless you want to request a mouse-sealed fan compartment...
General comments?
The car is great value due to mileage vs space. Some parts are less sturdy than you might hope for, but replacements are reasonable.
One great asset is the use of a timing chain that does not need replacement like a belt.
Generally inside finishing and materials are from VW quality. If you are looking for a fancy or luxury car, forget it. If you are looking for a means of transportation at lower cost, this is what you need.
Not all wagons have the same kind of space in the trunk, due to length of the roof. This car has a very reasonable one.
A lot of wind noise while driving on the highway. Also don't expect to handle curves at high speed with this car. Keeps up fine with traffic though.
As far as I know I am the only one with the electrical problem. In general the electrical equipment not that reliable. All necessary equipment is doing fine, though.
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| 1999 - Esteem Sedan 1.6 liter 16v OHC. The first Asian car that I have truely loved to drive |
|
| Most reliable car I've ever owned |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 130000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 180000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mazda Protege |
| Date of Entry | 11th August, 2009 |