Generations
T250 — First Generation
2010–2015
2.4L J24B
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Suzuki Kizashi problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Suspension pin, bush and joint excessive wear (T250)
The Kizashi experiences premature wear to multiple suspension bushes and ball joints, particularly affecting the front lower control arms and rear suspension links. MOT data shows this model fails suspension component tests at 31.2 times the national average between 40-60k miles. The high failure rate suggests undersized or inappropriate material specification for UK road conditions. This affects ride quality, handling precision, and tyre wear patterns.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components affect handling safety and cause rapid tyre wear. Complete front suspension refresh typically requires multiple components to be replaced simultaneously. The car remains driveable but handling precision is compromised and tyre costs increase significantly.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£500–£1,000
Main dealer
£800–£1,500
Parts only
£200–£500
Major
Suspension spring fracture (T250)
Coil spring fractures occur at 7.6 times the national average on the Kizashi, with the failure rate worsening over recent years. The springs appear to be susceptible to fatigue cracking, particularly affecting the rear suspension. This is a significant safety concern as a fractured spring can cause sudden loss of vehicle height and handling instability. The trend is worsening according to MOT data from 2020-2024.
What happens if ignoredA fractured spring creates immediate safety risks through unpredictable handling and potential wheel arch contact. Complete spring replacement is typically required and often reveals related damage to shock absorbers. The vehicle should not be driven at speed with suspected spring damage.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£700
Main dealer
£600–£1,000
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
Shock absorber leakage (T250)
Shock absorber failure occurs at 3.7 times the national average, with the trend worsening according to recent MOT data. The dampers appear to develop seal failures leading to oil leakage and loss of damping control. This significantly affects ride quality and vehicle stability, particularly under braking and cornering loads. Failed dampers often coincide with other suspension component wear.
What happens if ignoredFailed shock absorbers compromise braking stability and cornering safety. The vehicle remains legal to drive but stopping distances increase and handling becomes unpredictable in emergency manoeuvres. Replacement typically reveals associated suspension wear requiring additional repairs.
Independent garage
£250–£500
Specialist
£300–£600
Main dealer
£500–£900
Parts only
£120–£250
Major
CVT transmission control module failure
The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) control module can fail, causing the vehicle to enter limp mode with severely reduced performance. NHTSA data shows multiple owner complaints about transmission going into limp mode during acceleration or uphill driving, creating dangerous situations on motorways. The module may incorrectly detect CVT pulley ratio abnormalities and trigger protective shutdown modes.
What happens if ignoredControl module failure can cause sudden loss of power during driving, creating significant safety risks. The vehicle may enter limp mode restricting speed and acceleration. Module replacement or reprogramming is typically required and transmission fluid change is often needed simultaneously.
Independent garage
£800–£1,200
Specialist
£1,000–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,500–£2,500
Parts only
£400–£800
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Suzuki Kizashi fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 31x the fleet average
Sample: 366 tests
Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the req...
Tyres · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 9.4x the fleet average
Sample: 191 tests
Coil springs broken
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 7.6x the fleet average
Sample: 553 tests
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 6.6x the fleet average
Sample: 281 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 5.3x the fleet average
Sample: 113 tests
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Related
Suzuki Kizashi reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Suzuki Kizashi?
The Suzuki Kizashi has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Suspension pin, bush and joint excessive wear (T250) and Suspension spring fracture (T250).
Is the Suzuki Kizashi reliable?
The Suzuki Kizashi has 0 dangerous and 4 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Suzuki Kizashi problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Suspension pin, bush and joint excessive wear (T250)) costs £400–£800 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.