American Suzuki Motor Corp. is recalling more than 32,000 vehicles because the drive belt could potentially come off, making it more difficult to steer the vehicle, posing a crash risk. The company received five field reports in the U.S. and one in Japan, but no accidents or injuries have been reported.
The recall affects certain Grand Vitara and SX4 vehicles:
- 2009 Grand Vitara (4-cyl), produced from June 2, 2008 through January 30, 2009
- 2010 Grand Vitara (4-cyl.), produced from July 1, 2009 through May 31, 2010
- 2011 Grand Vitara (4-cyl.), produced from June 1, 2010 through October 16, 2010
- 2010 SX4, produced from July 10, 2009 through May 31, 2010 (all 2010 SX4 vehicles)
- 2011 SX4, produced from June 1, 2010 through October 13, 2010
In a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Suzuki said that an internal spring for the tension adjuster pulley for the drive belt was improperly manufactured and can break due to repeated stress. The pulley is manufactured by Dayco Products of Troy, Michigan. The drive belt operates the alternator, water pump, air conditioner compressor, and power steering pump.
The drive belt coming off could cause the driver to use more effort to steer the vehicle. I t can also cause a rising coolant temperature, which can lead to engine overheating or engine stall.
Suzuki, with American operations based in Brea, California, will notify owners beginning February 16, 2011. Dealers will replace the tension adjuster pulley at no charge. Owners may contact Suzuki at 1-887-697-8985.
Suzuki recalled some SX4s in October, 2010, to fix the outside mirrors.
