Wheel Related Problems of the 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara

Wheel problem

I purchased a Suzuki Grand Vitara in July of 2006. Shortly after purchase, 4 weeks at the most, the check engine light came on. I called the dealer faulkner Suzuki (harrisburg, PA) and took the car in for service. I was told that it was an oxygen sensor malfunction. They changed the sensors. But this did not fix the problem. Thereafter, approximately every 4 to 8 weeks, the check engine light came on - to which the service department at faulkner responded by changing the oxygen sensors and replacing the associated computer. Also of note, their was a problem with the wheels on the car (which impaired steering at highway speeds) to which the service department responded with having me purchase new tires - the car was 8 months old at this point (this did not fully resolve that problem, although it did improve somewhat). During all this, the car was emitting a smoke smell/exhaust into the cabin of the vehicle. The service department could not figure out what was causing this (I was told that the technicians could not detect the smoke smell/exhaust). With all of this in mind, I am writing to express concerns about the businesses practices of Suzuki. When the problems with the car began, I asked to have my trade in vehicle returned to me or to have a replacement vehicle (as I felt unsafe driving the car I purchased) neither request was honored. I had not expected to have any problems with a new car, no one does. So when a problem arose, my expectation was that it would be immediately resolved, this was not the case. Overall, in my opinion, this matter was poorly handled - it took over a year and legal involvement before Suzuki would buyback their faulty vehicle. As a consumer, I feel that this company showed little concern for my safety, time, or money. I implore you to investigate this matter and work to ensure that any future Suzuki customers receive better service and a better (safe) product.