1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara Car Idling Rough

Common Causes of Rough Idling in Your 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Customers with drum brake systems often specify they have lost braking power, or that the vehicle's brakes are making noise. This is because brake drums do not dissipate heat very well, so the heat from hard braking will cause stress fractures. These fractures make can make noise on the brake shoes as the drum revolves around the shoes. Lastly, the brake shoes may not be problematic, but may cause a grinding noise while stopping. This would indicate the shoes have no braking material left, and the brake shoes must be changed before the vehicle can be safely driven.

Learn more about brake shoe symptoms

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What steps should I take to diagnose the rough idling issue in my 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara?

To effectively diagnose the rough idling issue in your 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by using an OBD-II scanner to check for any trouble codes, as this can provide immediate insights into potential issues. Next, inspect basic components such as spark plugs and wires, which are often the culprits behind rough idling. If these are in good condition, move on to checking the O2 sensors, MAP sensor, and fuel filter, as these can significantly impact engine performance. Additionally, look for vacuum leaks in the intake system, as they can disrupt the air-fuel mixture. The Idle Air Control Valve (IAC) is another critical component to examine, as it regulates air intake during idling; cleaning or replacing it may resolve the issue. Don’t overlook the fuel injectors and fuel pressure regulator, as clogged injectors or inconsistent fuel pressure can lead to rough idling. Lastly, ensure that the throttle position sensor (TPS) is functioning correctly, and check the exhaust system for any blockages. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the root cause of the rough idling in your vehicle. If the problem persists after these checks, consulting a professional mechanic may be necessary for further diagnosis.

What are the common problems that could cause a 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara to idle roughly?

When diagnosing a rough idle in a 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first areas to inspect is the ignition system, particularly the spark plugs, coils, and wires, as worn or faulty components can lead to misfires and unstable idling. Additionally, issues within the fuel system, such as clogged fuel injectors or a malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator, can disrupt the engine's performance, causing it to idle roughly. It's also crucial to check the oxygen sensors and the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor, as these components play a vital role in maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture; cleaning or replacing them can often resolve idle issues. The Idle Air Control (IAC) valve is another critical component that regulates engine idle speed, and a malfunction here can lead to instability. Furthermore, vacuum leaks can introduce unmetered air into the engine, exacerbating rough idling, while problems with the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) can hinder the engine's ability to maintain a steady idle. Lastly, don't overlook the exhaust system; blockages, particularly in the catalytic converter, can significantly impact engine performance. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve rough idle issues in their Suzuki Grand Vitara.

How urgent is it to address the rough idling issue in a 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara?

Addressing the rough idling issue in your 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that demands immediate attention. A rough idling engine can lead to unpredictable stalling or hesitation, particularly in high-traffic situations, which poses a significant risk to both the driver and other road users. Moreover, neglecting this issue can result in severe engine damage over time. Components such as fuel injectors, ignition systems, and airflow sensors may become increasingly inefficient, leading to costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. Additionally, a rough idle often correlates with poor fuel economy, meaning you could be spending more on gas while experiencing a noticeable drop in power. Symptoms like violent shaking or unusual noises during acceleration indicate that the problem may be more complex, potentially involving multiple engine components. By addressing these symptoms promptly, you not only enhance your vehicle's safety and efficiency but also simplify the diagnostic process, preventing the escalation of issues that could lead to more extensive and expensive repairs. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize resolving the rough idling problem to maintain the integrity and reliability of your Suzuki Grand Vitara.

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