Are Suzuki Cars Reliable? 7 FAQs Answered!

Suzuki has long boasted a stellar reputation for reliability, consistently topping reliability indices and surveys. But are Suzuki cars reliable enough? How often do Suzuki cars actually break down? And which Suzuki models are the most dependable?

You’ve come to the right place if these questions have crossed your mind. This blog post will answer your 7 most frequently asked questions about Suzuki’s reliability. From average maintenance costs to common issues, we’ll cover it all.

So, let’s get started!

1. How Reliable are Suzuki Cars in 2024?

According to the WhatCar reliability survey released in June 2024, Suzuki secured an impressive 96.9% reliability rating, placing it in the 4th position behind Lexus, Toyota, and Mini.

Further bolstering Suzuki’s credibility is its performance in the 2024 Honest John Satisfaction Index. Here, Suzuki claimed the second spot for reliability with a commendable average score of 9.75. Only Lexus, with a marginally higher score of 9.89, surpassed Suzuki.

With only 8% of Suzuki owners facing an issue with their cars, these results demonstrate that Suzuki vehicles are exceptionally dependable. If you prioritise reliability in your next car, Suzuki undoubtedly deserves serious consideration.

2. Is Suzuki Swift Still the Most Reliable Car?  

The Suzuki Swift continues to be regarded as one of the most reliable small cars available. With a reliability rating of 99.5% in the latest WhatCar survey, it has outperformed its rivals, such as the Toyota Yaris and Hyundai i10, in terms of reliability.

In the WhatCar survey, only 4% of owners reported issues with the interior trim, which were minor and resolved quickly at no cost. In another survey done on Suzuki Swifts driven over 39,200 miles, only 6% developed any kind of fault.

This shows that the Suzuki Swift is still one of the most reliable cars in the UK!

3. What are the Most Reliable Suzuki Cars?

Here are some of the most reliable Suzuki cars that you might want to consider:

• Suzuki Swift: With an impressive reliability score of 99.5%, the Swift is a top choice for many drivers. Owners report very few issues, and those that do occur are typically minor and quickly resolved, often at no cost.
• Suzuki Ignis: Another standout is the Suzuki Ignis, with a reliability score of 99.4%. Like the Swift, it offers peace of mind with its low fault rate. Suzuki Ignis is a dependable choice for you if you’re looking for a small, practical car.
• Suzuki Vitara: For those seeking a slightly larger vehicle or a rugged SUV, the Suzuki Vitara is a solid choice. It has a reliability rating of 96.7% and a low incidence of faults, ensuring minimal downtime.

4. What are the Least Reliable Suzuki Cars in the UK?

While Suzuki is generally a reliable brand, there are a couple of models that haven’t quite reached the same high standards:

• Suzuki Baleno: Suzuki Baleno is often mentioned as the least reliable Suzuki. While it’s not considered unreliable overall, Suzuki Baleno does have a higher rate of minor issues compared to other Suzuki models.
• Suzuki Celerio: Suzuki Celerio has received mixed reviews about its reliability. Despite offering good fuel economy and practicality, it hasn’t performed as well as other Suzuki models in reliability tests. Some owners have reported gearbox and clutch issues.

5. How Long Do Suzuki Cars Last?

Suzuki cars are renowned for their longevity. While they might not last as long as Toyota or Honda, you can expect a Suzuki to last well over 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. Many owners report driving their Suzuki cars for the last 15 years or more without major issues.  

The key to maximising your Suzuki’s lifespan lies in consistent maintenance. Regular oil changes are essential for engine health, while timely replacement of worn components such as brake pads, tires, and filters helps prevent more serious issues from developing.

Addressing minor problems in your Suzuki promptly can also prevent them from escalating into costly repairs. Conversely, neglecting routine maintenance can accelerate wear and tear, significantly reducing your Suzuki’s overall lifespan.

6. What is the Average Maintenance Cost of Suzuki Cars?

The average annual maintenance cost for a Suzuki car in the UK is around £300–£500. Suzuki cars are designed with your wallet in mind. Not only are they affordable to buy, but they’re also kind to your pocket when it comes to maintenance.

Suzuki’s reputation for reliability means you’re likely to experience fewer unexpected repair bills. When issues do arise, they’re often minor and quickly resolved, saving you both time and money. In fact, three-quarters of Suzuki repairs cost less than £100, and one in four is completely free!

You’ll also appreciate Suzuki’s commitment to minimising downtime. With an average of just 1.93 hours spent off the road per warranty claim, you can get back to enjoying your car quickly. Plus, Suzuki has the lowest average repair cost of any manufacturer, at just £256 per repair.

7. What are the Most Common Issues with Suzuki Cars?

Suzuki vehicles, while generally reliable, do have some common issues that you as an owner should be aware of:

• Headlights Overheating: This is a frequent issue with many Suzuki cars where the electrical system can cause the headlights to overheat and burn out quickly.
• Power Steering Problems: The 2012 and 2013 Suzuki SX4 models have experienced power steering issues, especially in cold weather, which can make steering difficult.
• Battery Issues: Certain Suzuki Swifts built between January and November 2017 had a software issue that could prevent the main battery from charging while driving.
• Interior Trim Problems: The interior trim of Suzuki vehicles, including the Swift, can sometimes be problematic, with owners reporting issues like dashboard rattling.

Wrapping Up: Are Suzuki Cars Reliable?

Suzuki has undeniably built a strong reputation for reliability, consistently ranking high in industry surveys. While no car is perfect, Suzuki models generally exhibit excellent performance, low maintenance costs, and minimal downtime.

However, it’s essential to remember that individual experiences may vary, and proper maintenance is crucial for prolonging your car’s life.

If reliability is a top priority for you, Suzuki certainly deserves a place on your shortlist.