2012 Suzuki Kizashi Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2012 Suzuki Kizashi and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2012 Suzuki Kizashi engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
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 2012 Suzuki Kizashi engine is stalling?

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.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a 2012 Suzuki Kizashi experiencing engine stalling?

When faced with engine stalling in a 2012 Suzuki Kizashi, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the most straightforward checks. Start by ensuring that the emergency brake is fully disengaged, as a partially engaged brake can lead to stalling issues. Next, utilize an OBD-II code scanner to retrieve any trouble codes from the vehicle's computer, which can provide valuable insights into potential problems such as fuel system failures or sensor malfunctions. Pay close attention to any additional symptoms like rough idling or sputtering, as these can help pinpoint the issue. Inspect the fuel and air systems for leaks, adequate fuel levels, and clogged filters, as these are common culprits in stalling scenarios. Additionally, check the cleanliness and connections of critical sensors, such as the mass airflow and throttle position sensors, since a simple cleaning can sometimes resolve the problem. If necessary, perform a drive cycle to reset any trouble codes and ensure the vehicle is operating correctly. Should these steps not yield results, consulting a professional mechanic may be the best course of action for a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve engine stalling issues in your Suzuki Kizashi.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2012 Suzuki Kizashi?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2012 Suzuki Kizashi, it's essential to consider several common problems that may be at play. Fuel system issues, such as low fuel pressure from a failing fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter, can disrupt the fuel supply, particularly during deceleration. Additionally, dirty or malfunctioning fuel injectors can lead to inconsistent fuel delivery, exacerbating stalling. Electrical and ignition problems, including loose or corroded wiring, can cause the ignition system to misfire, while a failing alternator may prevent the battery from supplying adequate power. Airflow restrictions, often due to a clogged air filter or a dirty throttle body, can also hinder engine performance, leading to stalling when slowing down. Furthermore, sensor malfunctions, particularly with the throttle position sensor or idle air control actuator, can disrupt the engine's idle stability. Transmission issues, such as a faulty torque converter or low fluid levels, may also contribute to stalling in automatic models. Lastly, don't overlook the potential impact of a clogged EGR valve or contaminated fuel. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue in their Suzuki Kizashi.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2012 Suzuki Kizashi?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2012 Suzuki Kizashi is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. Frequent or unpredictable stalling can lead to dangerous situations, especially in traffic or at intersections, where losing power can compromise vehicle control. Moreover, neglecting this issue can result in further damage to the engine and its components, as repeated stalling may strain the starter motor and battery, leading to more costly repairs down the line. The complexity of diagnosing the problem increases the longer it is left unaddressed, as multiple potential causes can become intertwined, complicating the repair process. Additionally, ensuring the vehicle's reliability is crucial for everyday use; addressing the stalling issue promptly not only enhances safety but also prevents the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the inspection and repair of any stalling symptoms to maintain the vehicle's performance and safety.

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2012 Suzuki Kizashi Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs