Thank you for this review - I've put a deposit on a 2014 SZ3 today and this review came up as part of my search. Useful tip regarding the exhaust in the rain!
Thank you Scott. I'm sure you'll love this little car. The chap who bought this one from me lives across the road, and is always out and about in it...he loves it too. Good luck with yours when you get it. 👍👍
Very useful as looking at picking one up for a little runaround and it looks perfect for the planned use. Thanks for taking the time to make the video.
I've also got an Alto, from 2011. It has run 245.000km's at this moment. It still runs great. Around 180.000 I changed te gearbox for a used one, for free, and it still changes gears like new. The only other parts that needed to be renewed, were the brake calipers. I bought a 2nd hand set for 50euro. For the rest, just normal maintenance, oil, filters, wiper blades brakes, tires light bulbs etc. All the other parts are still original.
Hi Sander. That's what I liked about mine, generally very reliable. You were very lucky with your spares, and they've proved a worthwhile purchase. Your mileage is fantastic compared to mine...long may it run. Thank you for watching, and your comment. 👍👍
@@DavidGarside 1 week after my comment the catalytic converter broke in 2 pieces. And the heating radiator behind the dashboard cracked open (big coolant leak in the interior). I fixed the cat by replacing it with a barely used one, original Suzuki. And a bypass short-term solution for the coolant problem, everything is working fine, but I don't have heating in my interior anymore. (It's summer, so I don't need it at the moment). But this is very hard to fix, the whole dash needs to come out, incl airbags, steering wheel etc..
Oh no, that's bad news, and the first time I've heard of either of those being a problem. Glad you managed to change the Cat ok, but sorry you have two strip so much down to repair the heater matrix. Hooper you get out sorted ok. 🙏🤞
@harryw9598 . Hi Harry. I had all my servicing done by my local Suzuki dealer. If it was due then they would have done it. If I'm any doubt I would just get it changed as it's not expensive and it gives you peace of mind. Sorry I can't be more help. Thank you for watching.
I bought a new Alto in 2013 (63 plate) - can't fault it! 100% reliable.... Gutted Suzuki discontinued it, as i would certainly buy another! Most reliable car i've ever owned!
I had one of these from new. The engine mounts continually failed and needed replacing. Also the rear washer wipe hose used to pop off and flood the driver's footwell. Both were fixed under warranty several times. Once the warranty expired I got rid of it as the damned engine mounts were squealing again. This all happened within 33,000 miles - which was when I passed it on. On the plus side. This little car had the best air conditioning I have ever had on any car, and I have had many different cars. Suzuki know how to do AC. Nice review Mr Garside. :-)
Thank you Mark for your kind comment. You seem very unlucky with your engine mounts. I know a few other people with these and they've not had that problem at all. My old one is still going strong as it belongs to a lad over the road from me and loves it, as I did when I had it. Thanks again. David.
@@DavidGarside Sounds like Suzuki sorted out the engine mounts. My 2010 model was a sod for them. Suzuki was aware of the problem, so maybe they sorted the problem on later models. Lovely little cars overall though David. Good to hear yours is still going. 😎
@M T Mine was a 59 plate and had the mounts replaced on three separate occasions at three different Suzuki dealerships. Glad to read Suzuki sorted out a permanent fix for this.
This is a brilliant car. Engine smooth as butter. I have Hyundai grand i10 Neos too but I feel more comfortable with Alto. Don't know why but I suffer motion sickness in my Hyundai car. Most importantly it is super economical. Just around 150 € a year for general yearly service excluding parts. Mileage is around 15 km in city in India. But ...there is a but...With AC on, the car seems to struggle a bit for pick up...But overall a very dependable little car for 3 members family...
Great little car. I bought a 2014 Alto with 30 thousand miles. It had been reversed into in 2017 and consequently written off but repaired with a cat applied. We love it, it is economical, comfortable and nippy around town. My usual route is 10 miles to work and back - I would drive it any day over anything larger or more powerful for my daily commute. We are respraying it soon to give it a new lease of life. Great video, thoroughly enjoyed it.
Ah thank you for that. I thought I'd do it while I still had it. When I retire at the end of May it'll be going, will be sorry to see it go. You'll love yours when you get it, great little car. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
It's a great first car, nothing flash or fancy or over complicated for things to go wrong. Have it serviced regularly and it'll last you well. Drive safely in it and enjoy it.... Nothing like your first car. Lots of photos and maybe consider when you sell it to keep the registration number and transfer it to your new cars when you buy them in future. 😊😊
@@DavidGarside ah thank you so much! Im not a flashy person anyway to be honest, I like simple and efficient! 😁 Will definitely be taking lots of pictures! Thanks again
Hello my wife has the same exact car but its name is celerio here in Jordan as another car is named alto which is the 800. We have had it for 3 years and its an excellet car with an automatic transmission. Its a nice car and more than enough for work and school runs
Hello. The Celerio model replaced the Alto here I think in 2016, a little more room and more refinement. It was discontinued here in 2019 I believe. Yes, great little cars. Thanks you for watching and your comment. 👍😊
Morning Greg. Thank you, I'm pleased you like them. Unfortunately I've never had to do that job and I don't now have the car. From memory, I suspect that the bumper may have to be dropped, although it's possible it's accessible from behind. There's a Suzuki Alto Owners Club page on Facebook if you'd like to join, where someone will definitely be able to tell you. Sorry I can't be more helpful. Thanks again.
Hi Kamil. I can't answer that im afraid as I don't know, and I don't have the car now so can't check for you. Facebook has a Suzuki Alto group so if you join that I'm sure someone will be able to tell you. Thanks for watching.
Can you please tell me why there is a keyhole in the boot door, but yet the main key does not fit? Just bought my Suzuki Alto 63 reg at the weekend. but confused why there's a boot keyhole but even the garage didn't know why as there is no other key for this?
On mine the same key opened the boot from the outside. Maybe the lock has been changed at some time and the key not handed in. You may be able to get another rear door lock with a key from a breaker or on line. Fingers crossed for you.
Hello Ann. It may be worth trying to lubricate the lock or remove it and see if it's just jammed or seized in some way before replacing it. You never know, it may be the answer. Let me know how it goes please. Good luck. 🤞🤞
@@DavidGarside Oh OK David thank you, I'll definitely try that. Have a feeling though that it's had a different key as don't think main one went in past a few centimetres, but will try that. If it doesn't work I won't be rushing to get a new lock and key for boot, but will look into doing that at some point, as would be so handy, and I'm used to opening the boot on my old car with a key. Thanks again for your advice, and will let you know..
wow one of kindest person as an interviewer. lots of useful information included! may i ask a question, im planning to get one, and in my country weather is really hot in the summer. did you have a chance to test air con cooling performance? regards.
Hello. Thankyou. Mine didn't have air conditioning but a friend who's Alto does, says it works really well as long as you have it serviced and the gas checked. He has his done every two years and he says it's fine. Thank you for watching and your very kind comment.😊👍
Дякую, було корисно. Дружина купила такий авто у Польщі, а інформації дійсно мало. Дещо дізнався про поломки (генератор, підшипники та замок бардачку). 👍 Дякую за таке корисне відео!
Hi David The boot release inside the car doesn't seem to work properly recently. Once I pull lever the boot opens but as I release it the boot shuts back in. The key also doesn't turn the outer key slot on the boot. Any advice to fix it? Thanks
Hello. I've not had that problem at all, but I think I would get someone to lift the tailgate as you release it. I would look for any corrosion preventing full movement, and if the cable of any fittings are loose. It may need s bit of lubrication. I wouldn't think the pull lever end is at fault because of it locking back down, but it is possible I suppose. I would also spray the key with a bit of WD40 or GT85 and work it in and out of the keyhole....you may find it will gradually loosen up. Sorry I can't be more sure....good luck with it...let me know how you get on. 👍👍
My now x 2008 vw polo tdi rear wheel bearings went at 80000 miles i think it had its first new battery after 11 years traded in for 2015 Vauxhall Astra 1600 diesel which runs a lot smoother with the extra cylinder and is doing the same mpg l was very happy with my polo but it had done 140,000 miles and wanted some big jobs doing to get it to next 1000000 I find cars have gotten a lot more reliable over the years
Yes, I find they go on for much higher mileage now. My old Ford Anglia and Hillman Minx were just about knackered by 85/90000 miles, and were quite rusty by then anyway. I think they were past it before the wheel bearings went. Bodywork seems much better protected nowadays too.
I have the same car. On the back lights there seem to be a gap between the rear light and the car itself? And their is also wide gap between the trunk and the car itself?
Hello. Thank you for your message. I can only say that mine all lined up ok without any uneven gaps anywhere. Have had the car long, or do you know of any history of a rear end bump at all? It might be worth getting a garage to have a look and they may be able to find a simple solution....maybe something has been removed and not refitted correctly. Please let me know what you find out. Hope it's an easy fix for you. 🤞🤞👍
I can't answer that I'm afraid as I don't have any experience of the Chevrolet. I would say though that the Suzuki takes a lot of beating for the money....I think it's very underrated. Thank you for watching and your comment. 👍
@tesla632 . I'm not sure as I don't own it now unfortunately. It's still on the dvla site, but it's MOT ran out in June, although still showing as taxed.
Hi Jason. To be honest, I've never tried the auto so can't really say. I've not heard of any particular problems though. There's a Suzuki Alto Owners group page on Facebook which is great for information. Thank you for watching.
Thank you for watching and your comment. I only have one covering the clutch cable adjustment myself, but I believe there is one on changing the clutch on RUclips. You will find it if you search I think.
Hi there, just wondering if you've done anymore videos of this model on the controls etc? This may be really silly but I cant seem to find how to turn the front fog lights on?🙈 and cant find any information anywhere.
Hello Chantelle. My particular model (sz) doesn't have front fog lights, only the one rear one. As you may already know, the switch for this is on the same stalk as the lights, a bit further down the stem. It will only turn on if the headlight switch is switched on, (because headlights should be on well before visibility is bad enough to need the foglight). If you have front fog lights, then I think (not 100% sure though) they are on the right side of the dashboard next to the headlight level rotary switch. Again, they may not come on unless the headlamps are switched on too. Hope this helps. Thank you for watching.
@@DavidGarside thank you for your reply. Mine must not have front fog lights either then. I was searching everywhere and couldn't find them. I assumed every car had them and was panicking as lately is it very foggy where I am and I know nothing about cars 🙄. My car is a sukuzi alto 2014.
That's ok.....if you have them on the front, they would be below the bumper in the circular blank holes on each side. I've got several other videos of light maintenance, light bulb changing etc, on here too. They may help you understand and learn a little sbout the car too. If I can help further, please ask....although I'm not a mechanic I will see if I can answer you. Thank you. 🤞👍👍😊
Hi David When I start the car up there's like a whistling noise from startup but it goes away when the cars warned up. Do you know if this is just a characteristic of the 3 cylinder engine?
Hello. Hmm, not being a mechanic I can't be sure, but I would look for air leaks where a tiny gap might close up when it's warmed up....and also check the aux belt as they can squeal a bit. Have a look elsewhere on RUclips of how to check the belt as I believe if you spray a bit of water on it, it can silence it temporarily. Sorry I can't be more helpful. Thank you for watching.
Just got my one today. First car. Exciting. I’ve driven a Nissan Micra previously which was a good little car to practice in. That car got to 15 years old. Hope this one gives me a good run Looking to get a comp to replace the radio and CD player. Does anyone have any experience with that? Thanks
I was considering getting a cigarette light splitter for my Suzuki alto but was worried about it fusing and melting. Have you had any issues with it? I was gonna use it for my dashcam and my infotainment screen.
@ashh7720 . Hello. I did have my Blackvue dashcam connected to the socket, and occasionally would also use my Tom Tom Satnav with no issues. It would depend on their overall consumption I would think, and the info system could possibly be higher. Sorry I can't be more helpful.
Hi Ernie. They're a great little car with plenty of room for their size. I don't have any experience with the auto, but I think they're generally a reliable make. Loved mine when I had it. The lad who bought mine uses it most days and he loves it too. Good luck with yours. Thank you for watching. David.
Hi David great video useful info for the owners or potential buyers. That was good of Suzuki to put in the dual pedals fro your driving school. I have the same model Alto 2014.I love my Suzuki very nippy if you need it and your right about the third gear has some poke! This might sound a silly question here goes. Was there ever an accelerator pedal included with the clutch and brake dual systems (or did I miss it on the video) I'm gonna guess they don't have them, because you only need the brake and clutch to get out of a sticky situation or emergency. Also it would be too complicated your main thing is to slow the car down, or an emergency stop. Also not to have the gears crunching and helping out nervous driving students and their mistakes.
Thank you Spartacus. Not a silly question at all.....it's not usual for us to have a gas pedal, although I do believe that they're available, but I've not seen one. If one is fitted then they have to be disconnected for driving tests. The only two things I can't do, is accelerate out of trouble, or stop them overbraking which can be very dangerous as you can imagine. Thank you for the nice comments. Mine is just the sz model, is yours the same, or a more upmarket model ? My next video will be on how to find the flasher relay.....it's not where you'd expect it to be......it's just that if it packs up, I may need to sort it quickly wherever I am.....otherwise the main dealer will change it for me.
@@DavidGarside Hi David my Alto is the exact same model as yours and silver in colour. True the third gear is very able as you stated and the Alto is a nippy little car. Shame there is no Haynes manual, I had the basic maintenance book that came with it, but its gone missing. Happy belated New Year to you and your family and your subscribers and viewers
Happy New year to you and yours too. I too wish that Haynes had done a manual for it, although the owners manual does give some useful info. If you need any info from mine, just let me know and I'll pass it on to you. I'm retiring in the summer so the car will most likely be sold on. An old friend of mine ( the one that appears in my Suzuki GT500 video, Paul) may be interested in it. I'll definitely miss the car though.
@@DavidGarside I will take you up on that if I need help thanks, hope you get a good price are you getting something else? Always handy to keep as a back up no tax, cheaper insurance if your no longer teaching.
Ok, no problem. I've got a SEAT Ibiza too as my main car, and as this my work car I won't really need to keep it. I'll let him have it for a good price as we've often bought each other's bikes etc....he still has my old GPZ900R Kawasaki...off road for 12 years.
Thanks.interesting..my car has developed a steering issue..seems to be a lot of play & feels loose..thought it might need steering fluid,when i went to get some was told i can only get it from the dealers.apparwntly it has electric power steering..any advice?
@@DavidGarside thank you so much for ur advice.& prompt response..there are a few videos on utube,but they,re Indian & i cant understand hindi.😆thanks again,Goodluck to you,& stay safe.God Bless
That's ok, I do hope it's something simple and straight forward. Would be interesting to know what the problem is when it's sorted if you'd be kind enough to let me know. I have the same problem when watching videos of the Royal Enfield motorbike... lots in Hindi, which I don't understand either. Thank you for watching.
Yes. I quote you: "A nice reliable little car" The Suzuki Alto is REALLY is the most underrated car of all small- and medium size cars. Why? My Alto - 4, bought it new in 1998, and did all the regular, not extravagant maintenance my self. I drove mainly long distances to my office and back, never faster than 100 km/h. This Alto 1.0 with the G10b engine reached 400.000 km with the original engine and -gearbox and is still up and running...... This value is TRUE, and probably an unique value. Each clutchplate lasts 200.000 km, the homokinetic joints, say 150.000 kms Corrosion is the only illness of this model. After 16 years I had let it weld, near the front suspension. I like the light sensible, precise steering and the short turning circle. The fuel economy is still near the best. And do you know the Alto is near-neutral in very fast turns? you can let it make controlled slides. It has ventilated brakes! You will never get them hot with 730 kg mass. Together it is a very smart, very reliable, affordable car. And not an overstyled-Ipod on rubber wheels, or a modern, fat rip-off of an iconic car such as the mini. It is an Alto: the real Isogonis-Mini successor. Groeten from NL.
Hello Wayne. Thank you for watching and your comment. I don't I'm afraid as I've never had the need to find it. If you're on Facebook, search and join the Suzuki Alto Owners club group page (free). There's some very knowledgeable members on there and someone will be able to tell you. Sorry I can't be more helpful with that.
Hmm, I didn't try it myself but I think it will be very tight, even if you push the passenger seat right forward and roll the backrest forward too. If it's a small bike it might be possible. Maybe worth a try with both wheels removed. Hope it works for you. 👍👍
Hello. I bought my bonnet stay clip from ebay if I remember correctly. Most of my parts came from the main dealer as its difficult sometimes if the parts are different for different vode models. The video showing how I changed it is in my playlist (the same one as this video), so you should be able to find it easily, if not then I'll reply with the direct link. Thanks for watching. 👍👍
If it's the whole thing you need, try posting a want on the Suzuki Alto owners group on Facebook as someone is always breaking one, or maybe a genuine Suzuki Dealer. The main dealer I always used never let me down. Good luck with your search.
@@DavidGarside I took one out today and its hard to describe how it sounds. It don't whine on decel but kind of has as a sort of zippy sound kind of like a sewing machine
My alto does about 250/280 miles before the fuel light comes on? This seems quite rubbish as its less than 40mpg. I'm light footed and have always been an economic driver. I thought the car was meant to do at least 350/400 miles to a tank?
I didn't ever let the tank go very low so can't say exactly, but my overall average was about 50mpg, which isn't bad considering using the car as an instructor vehicle. Working from my records (I always kept a record of fuel and miles ), a 7 gall tank would give me about 350 miles. Lots of things can affect mpg....is the car regularly serviced, I.e. correct oil, non binding brakes. Any modifications to the engine or bodywork etc.
Hello. It's difficult to find faults from a description, but if you think it's the exhaust I would check the mounting to see if they're loose. If they are the exhaust may move quite a bit if you try to wiggle it about. If the car rattles/knocks over a bumpy road, check my video on the brake calipers...it explains how I used to check mine, it's quite common with these. Good luck, and please let me know how you get on. ☺👍
@@DavidGarside I drive in mumbai city and there is bumper to bumper traffic. Cng price for 1kilo gas is 60p and I get mileage of 28 to 30km for 1 kilo.
An interesting and useful review. I had a 2003 model and found it to be extremely reliable, but had to get rid of it because some numpty drove into it. Anyway, I am considering getting another Alto at a similar age to yours. Do you have any observations on the key differences or improvements between an 03 model and a 13 model? Thanks
Thank you for watching and your kind comment. I don't have any experience of the earlier models myself so don't know the differences. There's a Suzuki Alto Owners group on Facebook with lots of owners of earlier ones, so might be worth going on there to find out more information. It really has been a lovely (If basic) little car, and other than the things mentioned in the video it's been very reliable. I would happily have one again as long as it has a good service record. Hope you find one ok. 😊👍👍
This car is called A-Star in India and for the European market it's Alto. This car had automatic at that time but people didn't like it and was finally discontinued in India.
Hi Gemma. I've just checked on here (link below) and I think yes, but I personally would ask my local dealer to be sure. Thank you for watching. check-vehicle-compatibility-e10-petrol.service.gov.uk/manufacturer/Suzuki
@Miyuiiiiii . Hi Louise. I don't have it now I'm afraid. It was a great little car and I wouldn't hesitate to have one again. Just make sure it gets serviced properly and I'm sure it'll be fine. Good luck!
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you for this review - I've put a deposit on a 2014 SZ3 today and this review came up as part of my search. Useful tip regarding the exhaust in the rain!
Thank you Scott. I'm sure you'll love this little car. The chap who bought this one from me lives across the road, and is always out and about in it...he loves it too. Good luck with yours when you get it. 👍👍
How is it going?
I’m about to buy mine
I'm sure you'll love it, I did with mine.👍👍
@@ogbonnahdaniella7026 It's been great so far - no concerns, nice to drive.
Best car I've ever had!
Very useful as looking at picking one up for a little runaround and it looks perfect for the planned use. Thanks for taking the time to make the video.
Thank you for watching and your comment. Yes, I thought I'd get it done while I still had it. Great little car. 👍
I've also got an Alto, from 2011.
It has run 245.000km's at this moment. It still runs great.
Around 180.000 I changed te gearbox for a used one, for free, and it still changes gears like new.
The only other parts that needed to be renewed, were the brake calipers. I bought a 2nd hand set for 50euro. For the rest, just normal maintenance, oil, filters, wiper blades brakes, tires light bulbs etc.
All the other parts are still original.
Hi Sander. That's what I liked about mine, generally very reliable. You were very lucky with your spares, and they've proved a worthwhile purchase. Your mileage is fantastic compared to mine...long may it run. Thank you for watching, and your comment. 👍👍
@@DavidGarside 1 week after my comment the catalytic converter broke in 2 pieces. And the heating radiator behind the dashboard cracked open (big coolant leak in the interior).
I fixed the cat by replacing it with a barely used one, original Suzuki. And a bypass short-term solution for the coolant problem, everything is working fine, but I don't have heating in my interior anymore. (It's summer, so I don't need it at the moment). But this is very hard to fix, the whole dash needs to come out, incl airbags, steering wheel etc..
Oh no, that's bad news, and the first time I've heard of either of those being a problem. Glad you managed to change the Cat ok, but sorry you have two strip so much down to repair the heater matrix. Hooper you get out sorted ok. 🙏🤞
do you change your gearbox oil? every 45000kms
@harryw9598 . Hi Harry. I had all my servicing done by my local Suzuki dealer. If it was due then they would have done it. If I'm any doubt I would just get it changed as it's not expensive and it gives you peace of mind. Sorry I can't be more help. Thank you for watching.
Greetings from Ukraine.
This is my first car and thanks to you I can learn at least a little more about it.
Thanks for your meditative reviews :)
Thank you. I do hope these videos are of help. We're fully behind you here in the UK. Stay safe. 👍👍
@@DavidGarside 🤍
I bought Alto 800 2016 model with 28.5k mileage for 2900$. Very happy with it as my first car. Its been a month now and i love it
I bought a new Alto in 2013 (63 plate) - can't fault it! 100% reliable.... Gutted Suzuki discontinued it, as i would certainly buy another! Most reliable car i've ever owned!
How many miles are you getting per tank? I'm only getting about 250 miles before the light comes on :(
I had one of these from new. The engine mounts continually failed and needed replacing. Also the rear washer wipe hose used to pop off and flood the driver's footwell. Both were fixed under warranty several times. Once the warranty expired I got rid of it as the damned engine mounts were squealing again. This all happened within 33,000 miles - which was when I passed it on. On the plus side. This little car had the best air conditioning I have ever had on any car, and I have had many different cars. Suzuki know how to do AC. Nice review Mr Garside. :-)
Thank you Mark for your kind comment. You seem very unlucky with your engine mounts. I know a few other people with these and they've not had that problem at all. My old one is still going strong as it belongs to a lad over the road from me and loves it, as I did when I had it. Thanks again. David.
@@DavidGarside Sounds like Suzuki sorted out the engine mounts. My 2010 model was a sod for them. Suzuki was aware of the problem, so maybe they sorted the problem on later models. Lovely little cars overall though David. Good to hear yours is still going. 😎
@M T Mine was a 59 plate and had the mounts replaced on three separate occasions at three different Suzuki dealerships. Glad to read Suzuki sorted out a permanent fix for this.
This is a brilliant car. Engine smooth as butter. I have Hyundai grand i10 Neos too but I feel more comfortable with Alto. Don't know why but I suffer motion sickness in my Hyundai car. Most importantly it is super economical. Just around 150 € a year for general yearly service excluding parts. Mileage is around 15 km in city in India. But ...there is a but...With AC on, the car seems to struggle a bit for pick up...But overall a very dependable little car for 3 members family...
Great little car. I bought a 2014 Alto with 30 thousand miles. It had been reversed into in 2017 and consequently written off but repaired with a cat applied. We love it, it is economical, comfortable and nippy around town. My usual route is 10 miles to work and back - I would drive it any day over anything larger or more powerful for my daily commute. We are respraying it soon to give it a new lease of life. Great video, thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you Stuart. Yes, a great little car... Very underrated I think. Lots of little light maintenance videos on here too. 👍👍🙂
@@DavidGarside oh really? I'll be sure to check your channel more thoroughly! I'll have a flick through tonight! All the best -
Thanks Stuart. Hope you find some of them helpful. 🤞👍
It's such a great car and it's so inexpensive. It's easy in cheap to maintain....I like your videos
Thank you Bernardo. Much appreciated.
Drove 1600km in it packed to the top, 16hrs in all. This baby goes 🎉
Yep, a great little car. Thanks for watching. 👍👍
Excellent informative video mate, I am currently looking at buying a 63/64 plate 1ltr.
Ah thank you for that. I thought I'd do it while I still had it. When I retire at the end of May it'll be going, will be sorry to see it go. You'll love yours when you get it, great little car. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
We have this car man, such a beauty. It's called A-star here in india.
Thanks for doing Review I got a Suzuki Alto a 2014 . Love my Suzuki Alto .
Thank you for watching and your comment Jeffrey. Much appreciated.
This car has a huge fan base in india.
thank you for this. good to review cars after exceeding warranty mileage
Thank you. 👍
This video is so comprehensive! I'm viewing this car on Saturday and may end up coming home with it so thanks for all the heads ups! 😊
Hello. Thank you for watching. You will love it, it's a great little car! I assume you mean a similar model to mine, not the actual one in the video
@@DavidGarside it'll be my first car 😊 its a 2013 reg as well with 43,000 mileage! Yes I look forward to it 😊
It's a great first car, nothing flash or fancy or over complicated for things to go wrong. Have it serviced regularly and it'll last you well. Drive safely in it and enjoy it.... Nothing like your first car. Lots of photos and maybe consider when you sell it to keep the registration number and transfer it to your new cars when you buy them in future. 😊😊
@@DavidGarside ah thank you so much! Im not a flashy person anyway to be honest, I like simple and efficient! 😁 Will definitely be taking lots of pictures! Thanks again
Thanks for your advice.
Hello my wife has the same exact car but its name is celerio here in Jordan as another car is named alto which is the 800. We have had it for 3 years and its an excellet car with an automatic transmission. Its a nice car and more than enough for work and school runs
Hello. The Celerio model replaced the Alto here I think in 2016, a little more room and more refinement. It was discontinued here in 2019 I believe. Yes, great little cars. Thanks you for watching and your comment. 👍😊
God bless you man
This car went by the name of A Star in the Indian automobile market quite a long back.
Hi David, your videos on changing Alto bulbs are great! love my Alto. any videos on how to change Alto licence plate light assembly? (not just bulb)
Morning Greg. Thank you, I'm pleased you like them. Unfortunately I've never had to do that job and I don't now have the car. From memory, I suspect that the bumper may have to be dropped, although it's possible it's accessible from behind. There's a Suzuki Alto Owners Club page on Facebook if you'd like to join, where someone will definitely be able to tell you. Sorry I can't be more helpful. Thanks again.
@@DavidGarside thanks David will check it out. Your videos have been more than enough help, thanks for them!
You're very welcome. Thanks you for the kind comments.
.You have sod me on the idea of buying on of these. Thank you
God bless you. Superb review
Thank you, much appreciated. 👍👍
Hi
Sir can you explain me how is remove headlite bulb please
Hello. Yes, if you search my other videos there's one showing how to do that. Thank you for watching and your kind comment. ☺
@@DavidGarside thank you sir
where is the fuel filter and what it looks like . suzuki alto 1.0 2009
Hi Kamil. I can't answer that im afraid as I don't know, and I don't have the car now so can't check for you. Facebook has a Suzuki Alto group so if you join that I'm sure someone will be able to tell you. Thanks for watching.
thank you@@DavidGarside
What is the real fuel exonomy on the auto?
@@addeade231. I can't tell I'm afraid as I've only had experience with the manual , sorry. Thank you for watching and for your comment!
Your car is in amazing condition David really smart , not many good cars as old as yours looks that good ☺
Thank you Freda. X
@@DavidGarside welcome 😀
Can you please tell me why there is a keyhole in the boot door, but yet the main key does not fit? Just bought my Suzuki Alto 63 reg at the weekend. but confused why there's a boot keyhole but even the garage didn't know why as there is no other key for this?
On mine the same key opened the boot from the outside. Maybe the lock has been changed at some time and the key not handed in. You may be able to get another rear door lock with a key from a breaker or on line. Fingers crossed for you.
@@DavidGarside Thank you David, I'll try doing that as would be so much better having a key that opens the boot.
Hello Ann. It may be worth trying to lubricate the lock or remove it and see if it's just jammed or seized in some way before replacing it. You never know, it may be the answer. Let me know how it goes please. Good luck. 🤞🤞
@@DavidGarside Oh OK David thank you, I'll definitely try that. Have a feeling though that it's had a different key as don't think main one went in past a few centimetres, but will try that. If it doesn't work I won't be rushing to get a new lock and key for boot, but will look into doing that at some point, as would be so handy, and I'm used to opening the boot on my old car with a key. Thanks again for your advice, and will let you know..
@@DavidGarside ps meant to say millimetres, not centimetres 🙈😁
You are a sound bloke no nonsense
Video direct to all pointers
Hi Brian. Wow, thank you for that, really appreciated. I hope it helped, and if you have one yourself I think you'll love it. Thanks again. David.
wow one of kindest person as an interviewer. lots of useful information included!
may i ask a question, im planning to get one, and in my country weather is really hot in the summer. did you have a chance to test air con cooling performance?
regards.
Hello. Thankyou. Mine didn't have air conditioning but a friend who's Alto does, says it works really well as long as you have it serviced and the gas checked. He has his done every two years and he says it's fine. Thank you for watching and your very kind comment.😊👍
Дякую, було корисно. Дружина купила такий авто у Польщі, а інформації дійсно мало. Дещо дізнався про поломки (генератор, підшипники та замок бардачку). 👍
Дякую за таке корисне відео!
Thank you Artem, glad it was useful to you. 👍👍
I got a sz3 2013 alto with 25k miles and it’s a beauty
Yes, a cracking little car. 👍😊
Hi David
The boot release inside the car doesn't seem to work properly recently. Once I pull lever the boot opens but as I release it the boot shuts back in. The key also doesn't turn the outer key slot on the boot.
Any advice to fix it?
Thanks
Hello. I've not had that problem at all, but I think I would get someone to lift the tailgate as you release it. I would look for any corrosion preventing full movement, and if the cable of any fittings are loose. It may need s bit of lubrication. I wouldn't think the pull lever end is at fault because of it locking back down, but it is possible I suppose. I would also spray the key with a bit of WD40 or GT85 and work it in and out of the keyhole....you may find it will gradually loosen up. Sorry I can't be more sure....good luck with it...let me know how you get on. 👍👍
My now x 2008 vw polo tdi rear wheel bearings went at 80000 miles i think it had its first new battery after 11 years traded in for 2015 Vauxhall Astra 1600 diesel which runs a lot smoother with the extra cylinder and is doing the same mpg l was very happy with my polo but it had done 140,000 miles and wanted some big jobs doing to get it to next 1000000 I find cars have gotten a lot more reliable over the years
Yes, I find they go on for much higher mileage now. My old Ford Anglia and Hillman Minx were just about knackered by 85/90000 miles, and were quite rusty by then anyway. I think they were past it before the wheel bearings went. Bodywork seems much better protected nowadays too.
I have the same car. On the back lights there seem to be a gap between the rear light and the car itself? And their is also wide gap between the trunk and the car itself?
Hello. Thank you for your message. I can only say that mine all lined up ok without any uneven gaps anywhere. Have had the car long, or do you know of any history of a rear end bump at all? It might be worth getting a garage to have a look and they may be able to find a simple solution....maybe something has been removed and not refitted correctly. Please let me know what you find out. Hope it's an easy fix for you. 🤞🤞👍
What is better cheverlote spark or suzuki
I can't answer that I'm afraid as I don't have any experience of the Chevrolet. I would say though that the Suzuki takes a lot of beating for the money....I think it's very underrated. Thank you for watching and your comment. 👍
Excellent review, thanks
I have the 2012 alto about 171000 I love it, parking is easy.
Wow, that's some mileage. They last well with proper servicing! Thank you for watching and your comment. 👍🙂
171000KM
Is still running?
@tesla632 . I'm not sure as I don't own it now unfortunately. It's still on the dvla site, but it's MOT ran out in June, although still showing as taxed.
Any idea whether the auto makes sense? Quite like autos since I started driving them from 1998. Rover 216sli which served me well.
Hi Jason. To be honest, I've never tried the auto so can't really say. I've not heard of any particular problems though. There's a Suzuki Alto Owners group page on Facebook which is great for information. Thank you for watching.
Nice Video. Do you have the video for the clutch?
Thank you for watching and your comment. I only have one covering the clutch cable adjustment myself, but I believe there is one on changing the clutch on RUclips. You will find it if you search I think.
Sorry, of I've read that wrong... You'll find my clutch adjustment video in my playlist for Suzuki Alto, or by scrolling down through my videos.
Hi there, just wondering if you've done anymore videos of this model on the controls etc? This may be really silly but I cant seem to find how to turn the front fog lights on?🙈 and cant find any information anywhere.
Hello Chantelle.
My particular model (sz) doesn't have front fog lights, only the one rear one. As you may already know, the switch for this is on the same stalk as the lights, a bit further down the stem. It will only turn on if the headlight switch is switched on, (because headlights should be on well before visibility is bad enough to need the foglight). If you have front fog lights, then I think (not 100% sure though) they are on the right side of the dashboard next to the headlight level rotary switch. Again, they may not come on unless the headlamps are switched on too. Hope this helps. Thank you for watching.
@@DavidGarside thank you for your reply. Mine must not have front fog lights either then. I was searching everywhere and couldn't find them. I assumed every car had them and was panicking as lately is it very foggy where I am and I know nothing about cars 🙄. My car is a sukuzi alto 2014.
That's ok.....if you have them on the front, they would be below the bumper in the circular blank holes on each side. I've got several other videos of light maintenance, light bulb changing etc, on here too. They may help you understand and learn a little sbout the car too. If I can help further, please ask....although I'm not a mechanic I will see if I can answer you. Thank you. 🤞👍👍😊
@@DavidGarside thank you so much. I've checked and my model is also a sz.
Where can I get a windshield?
Mine was supplied and fitted by National Windscreens.
I'm an old driver and just bought one. It seems basic and drama free.
Hi David
When I start the car up there's like a whistling noise from startup but it goes away when the cars warned up.
Do you know if this is just a characteristic of the 3 cylinder engine?
Hello. Hmm, not being a mechanic I can't be sure, but I would look for air leaks where a tiny gap might close up when it's warmed up....and also check the aux belt as they can squeal a bit. Have a look elsewhere on RUclips of how to check the belt as I believe if you spray a bit of water on it, it can silence it temporarily. Sorry I can't be more helpful. Thank you for watching.
Just got my one today. First car. Exciting. I’ve driven a Nissan Micra previously which was a good little car to practice in. That car got to 15 years old. Hope this one gives me a good run
Looking to get a comp to replace the radio and CD player. Does anyone have any experience with that? Thanks
You'll love it, it's a great little car. Look after it and I'm sure it'll last the 15 years. Good luck. 👍
I was considering getting a cigarette light splitter for my Suzuki alto but was worried about it fusing and melting. Have you had any issues with it? I was gonna use it for my dashcam and my infotainment screen.
@ashh7720 . Hello. I did have my Blackvue dashcam connected to the socket, and occasionally would also use my Tom Tom Satnav with no issues. It would depend on their overall consumption I would think, and the info system could possibly be higher. Sorry I can't be more helpful.
thanks for video thiking of buying one only automatic as i have a very bad damaged left knee and clutch hurts me,gr ernie in holland
Hi Ernie. They're a great little car with plenty of room for their size. I don't have any experience with the auto, but I think they're generally a reliable make. Loved mine when I had it. The lad who bought mine uses it most days and he loves it too. Good luck with yours. Thank you for watching. David.
Hi David great video useful info for the owners or potential buyers. That was good of Suzuki to put in the dual pedals fro your driving school. I have the same model Alto 2014.I love my Suzuki very nippy if you need it and your right about the third gear has some poke! This might sound a silly question here goes. Was there ever an accelerator pedal included with the clutch and brake dual systems (or did I miss it on the video) I'm gonna guess they don't have them, because you only need the brake and clutch to get out of a sticky situation or emergency. Also it would be too complicated your main thing is to slow the car down, or an emergency stop. Also not to have the gears crunching and helping out nervous driving students and their mistakes.
Thank you Spartacus. Not a silly question at all.....it's not usual for us to have a gas pedal, although I do believe that they're available, but I've not seen one. If one is fitted then they have to be disconnected for driving tests. The only two things I can't do, is accelerate out of trouble, or stop them overbraking which can be very dangerous as you can imagine. Thank you for the nice comments. Mine is just the sz model, is yours the same, or a more upmarket model ? My next video will be on how to find the flasher relay.....it's not where you'd expect it to be......it's just that if it packs up, I may need to sort it quickly wherever I am.....otherwise the main dealer will change it for me.
@@DavidGarside Hi David my Alto is the exact same model as yours and silver in colour. True the third gear is very able as you stated and the Alto is a nippy little car. Shame there is no Haynes manual, I had the basic maintenance book that came with it, but its gone missing. Happy belated New Year to you and your family and your subscribers and viewers
Happy New year to you and yours too. I too wish that Haynes had done a manual for it, although the owners manual does give some useful info. If you need any info from mine, just let me know and I'll pass it on to you. I'm retiring in the summer so the car will most likely be sold on. An old friend of mine ( the one that appears in my Suzuki GT500 video, Paul) may be interested in it. I'll definitely miss the car though.
@@DavidGarside I will take you up on that if I need help thanks, hope you get a good price are you getting something else? Always handy to keep as a back up no tax, cheaper insurance if your no longer teaching.
Ok, no problem. I've got a SEAT Ibiza too as my main car, and as this my work car I won't really need to keep it. I'll let him have it for a good price as we've often bought each other's bikes etc....he still has my old GPZ900R Kawasaki...off road for 12 years.
If you drive it for uber eats , will engine get heated, like 10am till 1pm and 4pm till 9pm. Is it Indian origin made?
I used mine for driving instruction and I was in the car all day sometimes. I never had a problem with overheating. Thank you for watching.
Thanks.interesting..my car has developed a steering issue..seems to be a lot of play & feels loose..thought it might need steering fluid,when i went to get some was told i can only get it from the dealers.apparwntly it has electric power steering..any advice?
Yes, it has electric power steering. I would get it checked at a garage as it could be something wearing out like a ball joint or similar. Good luck.
@@DavidGarside thank you so much for ur advice.& prompt response..there are a few videos on utube,but they,re Indian & i cant understand hindi.😆thanks again,Goodluck to you,& stay safe.God Bless
That's ok, I do hope it's something simple and straight forward. Would be interesting to know what the problem is when it's sorted if you'd be kind enough to let me know. I have the same problem when watching videos of the Royal Enfield motorbike... lots in Hindi, which I don't understand either. Thank you for watching.
@@DavidGarside of course i,ll let u know ,thanks again,take care
@@saoirsehaslonglegs2313 . Thank you. You take care too. ☺
Yes. I quote you: "A nice reliable little car"
The Suzuki Alto is REALLY is the most underrated car of all small- and medium size cars. Why?
My Alto - 4, bought it new in 1998, and did all the regular, not extravagant maintenance my self.
I drove mainly long distances to my office and back, never faster than 100 km/h.
This Alto 1.0 with the G10b engine reached 400.000 km with the original engine and -gearbox and is still up and running...... This value is TRUE, and probably an unique value.
Each clutchplate lasts 200.000 km, the homokinetic joints, say 150.000 kms
Corrosion is the only illness of this model. After 16 years I had let it weld, near the front suspension.
I like the light sensible, precise steering and the short turning circle. The fuel economy is still near the best.
And do you know the Alto is near-neutral in very fast turns? you can let it make controlled slides.
It has ventilated brakes! You will never get them hot with 730 kg mass.
Together it is a very smart, very reliable, affordable car. And not an overstyled-Ipod on rubber wheels, or a modern, fat rip-off of an iconic car such as the mini. It is an Alto: the real Isogonis-Mini successor.
Groeten from NL.
Wow, that is a very nice review itself. It would be nice to see one by yourself regarding your car on RUclips too. Thank you for watching. 👍👍😊
Hello David. Videos very helpful mate. I was wondering if you have any idea where the fuel filter is located.
Hello Wayne. Thank you for watching and your comment. I don't I'm afraid as I've never had the need to find it. If you're on Facebook, search and join the Suzuki Alto Owners club group page (free). There's some very knowledgeable members on there and someone will be able to tell you.
Sorry I can't be more helpful with that.
Can you fit a bicycle with the front wheel off inside this car please?
Hmm, I didn't try it myself but I think it will be very tight, even if you push the passenger seat right forward and roll the backrest forward too. If it's a small bike it might be possible. Maybe worth a try with both wheels removed. Hope it works for you. 👍👍
@@DavidGarside thanks for the reply. I think I'll look for a bigger car. I enjoyed the review you did. Good luck with the channel
That's no problem. I hope the info helped you with your decision. Thank you for watching and your comments. Take care. ☺👍
@@DavidGarside ruclips.net/video/ZQYnYKxOJ1w/видео.html came across this 👍. Bike fits in
What petrol is good to use ? E5 or E10 ?
I used E10 in mine and didn't have any problems. If you google E10 fuel vehicle compatibility you should be able to tell from there. Thank you.
Here in India this car is known as Maruti Suzuki A- Star
Hello David, my Alto is missing its bonnet stay. Can you send me the link to where you mended your stay. Thanks
Hello. I bought my bonnet stay clip from ebay if I remember correctly. Most of my parts came from the main dealer as its difficult sometimes if the parts are different for different vode models. The video showing how I changed it is in my playlist (the same one as this video), so you should be able to find it easily, if not then I'll reply with the direct link. Thanks for watching. 👍👍
Here we are.... ruclips.net/video/2fl70y93buE/видео.htmlsi=4AjRsRByg_9qS7gd
@@DavidGarside Thank you David. To get a 'genuine' Suzuki Stay rod seems to be a bit of a lottery.
If it's the whole thing you need, try posting a want on the Suzuki Alto owners group on Facebook as someone is always breaking one, or maybe a genuine Suzuki Dealer. The main dealer I always used never let me down. Good luck with your search.
that''s a celerio in other regions
Yes, the Celereo replaced the Alto here. Thank you for watching and your comment. 👍
Would you say these are quite winey cars?
No, mine didn't whine at all. The engine was almost like a sewing machine and the gearbox etc was very quiet!
@@DavidGarside I took one out today and its hard to describe how it sounds. It don't whine on decel but kind of has as a sort of zippy sound kind of like a sewing machine
@@Baphomet_biker . I think I'd take a mechanic to have a look and listen.
Blessed
i bought a used alto 2011,80k miles ,price is 2000USD
My alto does about 250/280 miles before the fuel light comes on? This seems quite rubbish as its less than 40mpg.
I'm light footed and have always been an economic driver. I thought the car was meant to do at least 350/400 miles to a tank?
I didn't ever let the tank go very low so can't say exactly, but my overall average was about 50mpg, which isn't bad considering using the car as an instructor vehicle. Working from my records (I always kept a record of fuel and miles ), a 7 gall tank would give me about 350 miles. Lots of things can affect mpg....is the car regularly serviced, I.e. correct oil, non binding brakes. Any modifications to the engine or bodywork etc.
Grt vid thanks
Is this car good for taxi on bad roads?
Much too small to be a taxi I would say!
Does this car have an AUX Input?
Morning. No, my sz model doesn't, but I'm not sure about the models further up the range. I do believe they use the same unit though.
How much miles can u get with a full tank ?
As I said in the video I was getting about 50mpg, so with a tank capacity of 7 galls, about 350 miles. Obviously it depends how you drive it though!
Hi David. I've just bought a used alto. The car seems to make a loud rattling sound from the exhaust. Is this normal?
Hello. It's difficult to find faults from a description, but if you think it's the exhaust I would check the mounting to see if they're loose. If they are the exhaust may move quite a bit if you try to wiggle it about. If the car rattles/knocks over a bumpy road, check my video on the brake calipers...it explains how I used to check mine, it's quite common with these. Good luck, and please let me know how you get on. ☺👍
thanks my friend very nice video
In india this model called A star ⭐
I run this car on cng in india .20% power loss but one km cost 2p.
Maintenance free car .
That's really cheap to run. How does it cope with everyday driving that bit less power ? 👍👍
@@DavidGarside I drive in mumbai city and there is bumper to bumper traffic.
Cng price for 1kilo gas is 60p and I get mileage of 28 to 30km for 1 kilo.
This Car is Called Suzuki A-Star in my Country 🤣
An interesting and useful review. I had a 2003 model and found it to be extremely reliable, but had to get rid of it because some numpty drove into it. Anyway, I am considering getting another Alto at a similar age to yours. Do you have any observations on the key differences or improvements between an 03 model and a 13 model? Thanks
Thank you for watching and your kind comment. I don't have any experience of the earlier models myself so don't know the differences. There's a Suzuki Alto Owners group on Facebook with lots of owners of earlier ones, so might be worth going on there to find out more information. It really has been a lovely (If basic) little car, and other than the things mentioned in the video it's been very reliable. I would happily have one again as long as it has a good service record. Hope you find one ok. 😊👍👍
This car is called A-Star in India and for the European market it's Alto. This car had automatic at that time but people didn't like it and was finally discontinued in India.
by the its not the same engine just the body the engine is designed as to England standards so much quicker then india
Thanks for this video, considering purchasing one as a cheap run around. Does this engine run on a chain or a belt?
I believe it has a chain. It's a great little car, I'm sure you'll love it. Thank you for watching and for your comment. Good luck. 👍👍
Will the E10 fuel work in this make
Hi Gemma. I've just checked on here (link below) and I think yes, but I personally would ask my local dealer to be sure. Thank you for watching.
check-vehicle-compatibility-e10-petrol.service.gov.uk/manufacturer/Suzuki
If you don't want to brake down get a suzuki
Just bought my first car that’s a Suzuki alto I’ve had my license for almost a year but only just getting a car now.
@@louiseh6054 can you tell me how the car is feeling for you right now, is it good? Im really curious i want to buy one aswell.
@Miyuiiiiii . Hi Louise. I don't have it now I'm afraid. It was a great little car and I wouldn't hesitate to have one again. Just make sure it gets serviced properly and I'm sure it'll be fine. Good luck!
@@Miyuiiiiii it’s been great no major problems just had it serviced and everything is brill
Drivers seat base collapses. Sponge disintegrated on mine
Oh! How old and how many miles has it covered?