2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara recalls and problems
The 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara has 2 safety recalls and 42 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Suzuki dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara recalls
Recall 19V-187: Air Bags, Seats
Problem: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kizashi and 2006-2013 Grand Vitara vehicles. The front passenger leather seat may shrink due to high humidity and high temperature. As a result, the occupant classification system (OCS) sensor mat may not accurately detect if an adult or child is occupying the seat.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating airbag deployment, an incorrect classification may result in the passenger frontal air bag deploying even if there is a child in the front passenger seat, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix: Suzuki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat bottom cushion, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on May 3, 2019. All second letters notifying owners of the remedy were mailed by April 10, 2020. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's numbers for this recall are 4011 and 4012.
Recall 13V-405: Air Bags
Problem: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Grand Vitara and 2007-2011 SX4 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, over time, the OCS sensor mat installed in the front passenger seat may fail due to repeated flexing of the mat from use of the seat. As a result, during a crash necessitating deployment, the air bag will deploy regardless of whether the front seat occupant is an adult or a child.
Risk: Air bag deployment with a child in the front passenger side seat increases the risk of injury to that child.
Fix: Suzuki will notify owners and dealers will replace the front passenger seat cushion assembly (which includes the OCS sensor mat) free of charge. Sufficient quantities of parts are not currently available to fix all of the affected vehicles. Owners will be notified of the recall in October 2013 and will receive a second notification when parts are available to have their vehicle repaired. The recall began on May 23, 2014. Owners may contact Suzuki at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's recall campaign number is VD.
2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Lighting | 20 | |
| Air Bags | 12 | |
| Electrical System | 10 | |
| Engine | 3 | |
| Suspension | 2 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 1 | |
| Seat Belts | 1 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 1 | |
| Wheels | 1 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 40,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Suzuki Grand Vitara years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara: 19V-187 (air bags, seats), 13V-405 (air bags). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara?
Owners report exterior lighting problems most often (20 reports), followed by air bags (12). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 40,000 miles.
Are Suzuki recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Suzuki dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.