1994 Suzuki Swift 3 door 1.3
Summary:
Practical car with excellent endurance
Faults:
Alternator replaced 120,000-caused main fuse to open as well.
Several distributor caps have been replaced due to aluminum contact burnout. These might last 40,000 or so. The engine runs much better after an old one is replaced.
No major mechanical problems, other than usual wear items. Some body damage from an ice storm and mishaps, but not manufacturer related.
General Comments:
This is an excellent car as far as reliability, fuel economy, and ability to absorb punishment.
The oil is changed every 3,000-4,000 miles without fail.
It is fun to drive although it's a little tiring on long trips. It is somewhat noisy inside esp at 65mph.
On the plus side it handles very well, is easy to put in tight spots, and great in urban settings.
I have found that despite the fact it's a little low on creature comforts, it's a car of great economy and fun to drive.
This car's history:
Used for trips between cities average 100 miles/day for 2 years.
Ice storm froze entire body, forced off window trim and bent transport levers trying to roll down.
Hood was not latched after a jump start and hood flew open at 55mph, breaking off 1 hinge and damaging hood and wipers.
Car stolen in 2001. Thieves lived in it for 3 days, drove about 300mi and used as a getaway car in at least 1 shoplifting scheme by same. Taken off road (weeds still dragging when recovered) and right wheel bent and tire damaged. Recovered 3 days later with a lot of mud, but none the worse for wear.
Windshield cracked during another ice event by ice scraper.
The paint has held up very well and other than a few dents in the hood, all damage has been fixed. It looks and runs good!
Well pleased with this car!
It is simple, low cost per mile, and hard to destroy.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 8th January, 2004
30th Aug 2004, 02:36
I have never bought a car like this kind, now that I bought one I don't see why I didn't get one sooner. I have a 1994 swift, I have had no problem what so ever out of it. I have owned it for almost a year an a half. I had to replace a couple of parts in the engine, but that was from the age of the parts, nothing to do with the makers. I wish that the one I have had power steering, but what can you do. I would buy another car like this if I could, I really do like these cute little thing. Plus they are really good on gas as gas prices keep going up.