2012 Suzuki Swift
The 2012 Suzuki Swift is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and relatively affordable price point. Engine options typically included a 1.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, producing around 94 horsepower and 95 lb-ft of torque. Depending on the market, other engine options might have been available. Transmission choices generally included a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Swift’s sporty feel and ease of parking, while some dislike its basic interior and limited cargo space.
Engine
1.4L Gasoline Engine
- Engine Misfires/Poor Performance
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, reduced power, and potentially a check engine light. Could be due to faulty ignition coils.
- Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oxygen Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, poor fuel economy, and possible rough running. Faulty oxygen sensors can disrupt the engine’s air-fuel mixture.
- Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Rough Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift properly.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, internal components may need repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush/filter), $800 - $2500+ (repair/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced handling precision and increased tire wear.
- Solution: Replace worn suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, especially in cold weather. Battery draining quickly or failing to hold a charge.
- Solution: Test the battery and charging system. Replace the battery if it is faulty.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Central Locking Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The central locking system may fail to work intermittently or completely. Can affect one or more doors.
- Solution: Check and replace the faulty door lock actuator or wiring harness.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report rust developing in areas prone to corrosion, such as wheel wells and underbody components, especially in regions with harsh winter conditions or road salting.
- Solution: Repair or replace rusted body panels. Apply rust protection treatments.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Air Conditioning Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air. Could be due to a refrigerant leak, faulty compressor, or other component failure.
- Solution: Diagnose the A/C system and repair or replace faulty components (e.g., compressor, condenser, evaporator). Recharge the refrigerant.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2012 Suzuki Swift, while generally reliable, can experience issues common to subcompact cars. The most frequently reported problems revolve around engine misfires, automatic transmission shifting issues, suspension wear, and electrical faults. The severity of these problems ranges from relatively minor (e.g., replacing an ignition coil) to more substantial (e.g., transmission repair). The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the repair shop, but owners should be prepared for potential expenses ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.