1994 Suzuki Sidekick Reviews

Nothing yet.

I have always wanted to get one of these and so far I have no regrets. This is not a speed machine (you will not win any stop light drag races) and it does ride a bit rough. None of these things are a surprise to me as this vehicle has a small engine with an auto transmission, a short wheel base, narrow track and is a 4x4. It is fun to drive and I was fortunate to find one that has been extremely well cared for and has all options (all of which still work perfectly). I am wondering if I can tow this vehicle behind a motor-home with all four wheels on the ground? I have asked around and am getting conflicting responses. My concern is that this vehicle has an auto transmission. It is my understanding that you have to use a dolly or trailer when towing vehicles with auto trans. I am wondering if you put the transfer case in neutral why you couldn't tow the vehicle without a dolly or trailer. Any info would be appreciated.

Idling at 1500 rpm.

Car is comfortable, gets descent gas mileage, but idling way to high.

A faulty wheel speed sensor caused the parking brake indicator light to come on (indicating a fault in the ABS system) at about 90,000 km. One dealer told me it was the ABS module, a CDN$700 fix. Ouch. I decided I could live with the indicator light. When I replaced the timing belt at 100k, a different dealer diagnosed the problem correctly and fixed it for $250.

The sheet metal shroud that protects the exhaust muffler is loose and it rattles a bit at low rpm.

The cruise control "set coast" button doesn't always work.

The shocks and struts need to be replaced, but that is to be expected at this age.

This car is bullet-proof reliable. Aside from replacing the wheel speed sensor I've never had to do anything more than routine maintenance on the car. The other complaints are too minor to bother with.

My biggest complaint is that the car is very low on power and can barely get out of its own way on a hill. I've taken it on long highway trips, and it can manage, but on single-lane roads you will get stuck behind motor homes because you won't be able to pass them until you get a dedicated passing lane. (I have the automatic transmission; I'm told the five-speed is a little more responsive.)

It is, however, a terrific city and commuter vehicle. It is comfortable for four people, and its small size makes it very easy to park in small spaces. Fuel mileage is good, though not great.

The short wheelbase makes for a bouncy ride, but you get used to it. If you have a chronic bad back, then you may find it a little aggravating.

On the whole, this has been a great vehicle, and has served my wife and I well for 8 years. We plan keep this car until the wheels fall off. I would not be surprised to see 300,000km on this car without major problems.