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Suzuki · Supermini · 2010–2017

Suzuki Swift 5

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
4.3 / 5.0 · Based on 3 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

107–136 PS

1.6L Benzin

Lightweight flyer with real bite

Fun to Drive!
Most Reliable Engine

86–94 PS

1.2L Benzin

3 weaknesses

Good Choice

Generations

Engine Overview

The Suzuki Swift 5 is available with 2 engine variants — from 69 to 136 hp.

1.3L DDiS · Diesel· 69–75 PS
2010 2013
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.2L · Benziner· 90–94 PS
2010 2017
Good Choice 3 weaknesses

The Suzuki 1.3L DDiS (Diesel, 69–75 PS) has the D13A (1.3L DDiS) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

The Suzuki 1.2L (Benziner, 90–94 PS) has the K12B (1.2L) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Steering rack worn — front axle rattling

Worn steering racks produce loud rattling and knocking from the front axle, frequently flagged at MOT. The steering rack usually needs to be replaced as a complete unit.

Symptoms: Loud rattling or knocking from the front axle, particularly at low speed with steering input; imprecise steering feel
from 90,000 km
Ad Suzuki Swift NZ steering rackSuzuki Swift FZ Zahnstange Lenkung
 Medium
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Average
89 complaints · 2010–2017
Airbags
27 ⚠ 7
Steering
22
Powertrain
14
Electrical
9
Cruise Control
6 ⚠ 2

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (27 complaints)
⚠ Steering (22 complaints)
⚠ Powertrain (14 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 18 weaknesses have been documented for the Suzuki Swift 5 (2010–2017) — 11 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Steering, Suspension, Electronics, Gearbox. Considered reliable: M16A (1.6L), K12B (1.2L).

Swift (D13A, 2010–2013) — Be Careful: Timing chain tensioner wears before 70,000 km, EGR valve coked up and stuck, Particulate filter blocked by short-trip driving. Power: 69–75 PS.

What to watch out for with the Suzuki Swift? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Suzuki Swift 5 have? +
The Suzuki Swift 5 has 11 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Suzuki Swift 5? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: M16A (1.6L), K12B (1.2L). The most reliable engine is the K12B (1.2L) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the M16A (1.6L).
Which Suzuki Swift 5 engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Suzuki Swift 5. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Suzuki Swift 5 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Suzuki Swift 5 — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} With 92 kW and the Swift's light body, a genuinely fun hot hatch emerges: agile chassis, direct handling, and a naturally aspirated engine that loves to rev.
Is the Suzuki Swift 5 worth buying used? +
The Suzuki Swift 5 is a good choice as a used car — 2 of 3 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Suzuki Swift 5? +
The Suzuki Swift 5 is available with engine variants from 69 to 136 hp. Petrol: M16A (1.6L), K12B (1.2L). Diesel: D13A (1.3L DDiS).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee