Faults:
A faulty wheel speed sensor caused the parking brake indicator light to come on (indicating a fault in the ABS system) at about 90,000 km. One dealer told me it was the ABS module, a CDN$700 fix. Ouch. I decided I could live with the indicator light. When I replaced the timing belt at 100k, a different dealer diagnosed the problem correctly and fixed it for $250.
The sheet metal shroud that protects the exhaust muffler is loose and it rattles a bit at low rpm.
The cruise control "set coast" button doesn't always work.
The shocks and struts need to be replaced, but that is to be expected at this age.
General Comments:
This car is bullet-proof reliable. Aside from replacing the wheel speed sensor I've never had to do anything more than routine maintenance on the car. The other complaints are too minor to bother with.
My biggest complaint is that the car is very low on power and can barely get out of its own way on a hill. I've taken it on long highway trips, and it can manage, but on single-lane roads you will get stuck behind motor homes because you won't be able to pass them until you get a dedicated passing lane. (I have the automatic transmission; I'm told the five-speed is a little more responsive.)
It is, however, a terrific city and commuter vehicle. It is comfortable for four people, and its small size makes it very easy to park in small spaces. Fuel mileage is good, though not great.
The short wheelbase makes for a bouncy ride, but you get used to it. If you have a chronic bad back, then you may find it a little aggravating.
On the whole, this has been a great vehicle, and has served my wife and I well for 8 years. We plan keep this car until the wheels fall off. I would not be surprised to see 300,000km on this car without major problems.
27th Aug 2021, 11:36
"Make a 2021 upgrade"?
News flash, Suzuki pulled out of the US market over 10 years ago, and a return is highly unlikely.