Credov's researched list of the 3 faults the Suzuki Swift Sport ZC31S is known for (2005–2011), 1 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: From cold, shift through every gear and feel for baulking, crunch or popping out of gear.
Why it matters: Worn synchros only get worse and a full gearbox rebuild is needed once the change is consistently rough, which is a major cost on a car this size.
Typical repair: NZ$1,500–NZ$3,500 in New Zealand · A$1,550–A$3,610 in Australia
What to look for: Lift the boot floor and check the spare-wheel well for standing water, damp carpet, rust or a musty smell.
Why it matters: A leak left alone rusts the spare-wheel well and boot floor and can ruin carpets and wiring in the boot. Finding and sealing every entry point is fiddly, so it is worth knowing before you buy.
Typical repair: NZ$150–NZ$600 in New Zealand · A$150–A$620 in Australia
Sources: 1
What to look for: Pull the handbrake and count the clicks; then after the drive feel each rear wheel for one much hotter.
Why it matters: A seized rear caliper makes the brakes uneven, drags on the car and can fail the warrant of fitness, and a weak handbrake may not hold the car parked on a hill. Calipers and cables are not dear, but they often need doing in pairs.
Typical repair: NZ$200–NZ$800 in New Zealand · A$210–A$820 in Australia
Got a question about a Suzuki Swift Sport ZC31S? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.