1996 Suzuki Sidekick LX 1.6 Gas

Summary:

Sturdy little rock hopper

Faults:

- Rear door's rubber seal allowing water into cargo compartment - apparently the car had rear door bent before, this results in water leakage into car.

- Leak from water pump - replaced for little money.

- Driver's airbag actuator broken while realigning front axle (bought it like that)

General Comments:

I bought this car mainly because I was destroying the Jetta's suspension driving 12km of really bad road to my home. There is no point of comparison in terms of comfort and attention to detail, but when it comes to bad roads and 4x4ing, this car rocks.

Miss the roomy trunk though, but this little beast takes me where I want to go for less and without any expensive maintenance.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th December, 2008

1996 Suzuki Sidekick 4X4 1.6

Summary:

Small rock hopper

Faults:

The A/C vents in the dashboard are broken (both).

Airbags have not been used, but are no longer functioning.

Headlamps' fuse blown because of a short circuit shortly after I bought it (repaired easily)

Rear door is not closing well, allowing rain water into vehicle.

General Comments:

I had a Tracker some time ago, and fell in love with the type of vehicle. This time I was looking for a reliable, cheap 4x4, and got this one as an offer. I really like it, compared to my previous Jetta obviously falls short in terms of accessories, but I know this little beast will take me farther for less.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th October, 2008

7th Nov 2008, 19:11

The owner. I have had it for quite some time now and have been making 460km trips every two weeks, and must tell you, every time I use it, it uses less fuel, cruise speed is also acceptable and handles very nicely and easily around the tight bends on the road to the North of Guatemala. Very nice vehicle indeed. Accelerates easily and has never made me feel like it will not keep up to my demands on the road.

3rd Nov 2014, 17:20

Hi. Owner again. Due to the birth of our little baby, we no longer fit in our Sidekick. So, sadly, 60,000 miles, 2 clutch cables, 1 clutch pedal assembly, 1 full clutch kit, and its routine maintenance services, I decided to sell it. I am very pleased with the little beast and I'm sure the new owner will come to love it as much as we did.