Used Suzuki Jimny

What to know before buying: Suzuki Jimny

From 4 forum threads and 2 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The Jimny excels off-road, while its compact size and selectable four-wheel drive also help in town and snow.[1][2]
• The fourth-generation Jimny is simple and rugged; low weight offsets the modest output of its naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine.[2]one sourceFourth generation
• The third generation lacks pace and comfort, has little rear-seat and luggage space, and can feel bouncy even on asphalt.[3]one sourceThird generation
• Wind and road noise are noticeable at speed; its space and comfort suit one or two occupants better than long family journeys.[6]one source

Typical faults

• On the third-generation engine, oil consumption may rise around 150,000 km, while the timing chain may need replacement at 180,000–200,000 km.[3]one sourceThird generation

  150 000–200 000 km · 2012–2018

• The third-generation five-speed R72 manual can show bearing wear around 150,000 km and synchroniser wear around 200,000 km.[3]one sourceThird generation

  150 000–200 000 km · 2012–2018

• The third-generation 4WD system is generally trouble-free to about 200,000 km, after which the axles, transfer case and shafts may need repair.[3]one sourceThird generation

  200 000+ km · 2012–2018

• Age and dirt degrade suspension rubber-metal components; weak air-conditioning and heater-matrix performance are also reported.[3]one sourceThird generation

  2012–2018

• Owner-forum discussions repeatedly report problems with both vacuum-operated and manual 4WD engagement.[4]one source
• Owners report intermittent steering shake at about 80–90 km/h, described on the forum as a recurring Jimny issue.[5]one source

Which engine and version to take

• The fourth-generation naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol is a simple choice without a turbocharger or complex hardware.[2]one sourceFourth generation
• The updated third-generation engine is rated as highly durable and capable of 300,000 km, though oil use and the chain need attention at high mileage.[3]one sourceThird generation

What to check at the inspection

• On a third-generation car, check oil consumption and listen to the chain from cold, especially beyond 150,000 km.[3]one sourceThird generation
• Test the R72 manual in every gear and verify its oil-change history; the source recommends 40,000–45,000 km intervals.[3]one sourceThird generation
• Confirm that four-wheel drive and low range engage correctly, and inspect the axles, transfer case and shafts.[3][4]
• Inspect suspension rubber-metal parts and test both the air conditioning and cabin heater.[3]one sourceThird generation
• Check chassis rust protection and look for corrosion, especially on vehicles used in hot, wet climates.[6]one source
• During the test drive, reach 80–90 km/h and check the steering wheel for vibration.[5]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]forum.110km.ru — Форум Suzuki Jimny Сузуки Джимни · forum
2. [2]iauto.lv — Ardievu, mazais! Braucam ar gandrīz pēdējo Suzuki Jimny ... · forum
3. [3]ufacitynews.ru — Эксперты назвали типичные неисправности Suzuki Jimny · press
4. [4]suzuki-club.ro — Probleme tehnice Jimny · forum
5. [5]problemcar.nl — Suzuki Jimny Forum · forum
6. [6]pcauto.com — What are the Suzuki Jimny Problems? Learn Before You Buy · press

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