2001 Suzuki Swift problems

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The Suzuki Swift (Japanese: スズキ・スイフト, Suzuki Suifuto) is a supermini car (B-segment) produced by Suzuki. The vehicle is classified as a B-segment marque in the European single market, a segment referred to as a supermini in the British Isles. Prior to this, the "Swift" nameplate had been applied to the rebadged Suzuki Cultus in numerous export markets since 1985 and for the Japanese-market Suzuki Ignis since 2000. The Swift became its own model in 2004. Currently, the Swift is positioned between Ignis and Baleno in Suzuki's global hatchback lineup.

Predecessors

International (1985–2003)

The Suzuki Swift nameplate began in 1985 as an export name for the Suzuki Cultus, a supermini (or subcompact) manufactured and marketed worldwide since 1983 across three generations and four body configurations—three-door hatchback, four-door sedan, five-door hatchback and two-door convertible—and using the Suzuki G engine family. The third generation was only sold in North America; the second generation remained in production for other markets across the world.

The Swift was marketed in the Japanese street domestic market (JDM) as the Cultus and elsewhere as the Suzuki SA310, Suzuki Swift, Suzuki Forsa, Chevrolet Swift, Chevrolet Sprint and Sprint Metro, Geo and Chevrolet Metro, Pontiac Firefly, Maruti 1000, Holden Barina and Subaru Justy. Versions of the second generation Cultus were also produced until 2007 in India and the car remained in production until 2016 in Pakistan and China.

2001 Suzuki Swift

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Common 2001 Suzuki Swift problems

The Suzuki Swift 2001, part of the third generation of the model, is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues span across engine, transmission, and electrical components.

  • Transmission Problems:
    • Gear Shifting Issues: Some Swift 2001 owners have reported difficulty shifting gears, including slipping gears and difficulty getting the car into reverse. These issues can be caused by worn out synchronizers, clutch problems, or transmission fluid leaks.
    • Transmission Fluid Leaks: Transmission fluid leaks can occur in the Suzuki Swift 2001, leading to decreased transmission performance and potential transmission failure if not addressed.
    • Clutch Problems: Clutch issues, such as clutch slipping or juddering, have been reported by some Swift 2001 owners. These issues can be caused by worn out clutch components or a faulty clutch master cylinder.
  • Electrical Problems:
    • Battery Drainage: The Suzuki Swift 2001 has a complex electrical system that can sometimes experience issues, such as battery drainage. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty wiring, a malfunctioning alternator, or parasitic draw from electrical components.
    • Alternator Failure: Some Swift 2001 owners have reported alternator failure, which can lead to a dead battery and ultimately leave the car stranded. Additionally, a faulty alternator can sometimes overcharge the battery, leading to damage to the electrical system.
    • Starter Problems: Starter motor issues, such as the starter failing to engage properly, have been reported by some Swift 2001 owners. This issue can be caused by a faulty starter solenoid or other starter components.

In summary, the Suzuki Swift 2001 has several common problems, including engine misfiring, oil leaks, overheating, gear shifting issues, transmission fluid leaks, clutch problems, battery drainage, alternator failure, and starter problems. These issues can significantly impact the performance and reliability of the vehicle and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

2001 Suzuki Swift engine

What is the top speed of a 2001 Suzuki Swift?

Engine & Performance

  • Automatic | Manual, 3 | 5-speed.
  • Rear Brakes. Drum Brakes.
  • Performance. Top Speed. 156 – 165 km/h. Acceleration, 0-100 km/h. 13 sec.

What is the most common problem with Suzuki?

Poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, hesitancy when accelerating, and even engine misfires have all been noted by owners. This issue often results from an air/fuel sensor that needs to be fixed. This sensor measures the air-to-fuel ratio during engine combustion.

What are the disadvantages of Suzuki Swift?

Disadvantages of owning a Swift ZXI:

  • No Rear View Camera.
  • No Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels.
  • No Auto Dimming IRVM (Not present in top model ZXI+ too)
  • Less interior space (all variants)
  • Only 2 Front Airbags.
  • And last of all but should be the top one - Disastrous Global NCAP Safety Rating of 1 star each for Adult and Child Safety.

What is the common problem of Suzuki Swift?

Some common problems with the Suzuki Swift include: Clutch slipping. Handbrake problems. Loss of power.

2001 Suzuki Swift car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Suzuki Swift problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Latches/locks/linkages problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Suzuki Swift vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2001 Suzuki Swift complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Suzuki Swift.

2002-08-26

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-08-09
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING 55MPH FRONT BRAKES LOCKED AND VEHICAL PULLED SHARPLY TO THE LEFT.*AK
2002-08-26

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-02-15
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING 45MPH HATCHBACK LATCH OPENS.*AK
2002-08-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-03-01
  • VIN: 2S2AB21H716
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: MARCH '02, TOOK VEHICLE IN FOR ENGINE STALLING PROBLEM AT LOW SPEEDS AND PROBLEM WAS FIXED. TWO MONTHS LATER (5/18/02 AT 12,349 MILES ON ENGINE), TOOK MY VEHICLE IN FOR THE SAME STALLING PROBLEM AT HIGHER SPEEDS UP TO 65MPH. LEFT THE VEHICLE WITH THE SAME AUTHORIZED SUZUKI SERVICE DEALER (CORPORATE MOTORS OF HAYWARD) FOR A FULL WEEK. UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE STALLING PROBLEM. SEVERAL WEEKS LATER AFTER MANY STALLS AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, I THOUGHT IT WAS A PERFECT TIME FOR CORPORATE MOTORS TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. LEFT THE VEHICLE FOR 2 FULL WEEKS, BUT STILL COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE STALLING PROBLEM. WROTE TO SUZUKI AND LEFT 2 VOICE MESSAGES AND RECEIVED A PHONE RESPONSE SAYING THAT IF THE SERVICE DEALER CAN'T DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM THEN THERE'S NO PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE. FRUSTRATED, I TOLD THE SUZUKI REP LORAIN THAT I WOULD CONTACT A LEMON LAWYER ON THE ISSUE. CALLED UP A LEMON LAWYER (RANDY) WHO IS NOW ASSISTING ME WITH THE CASE. TWO WEEKS LATER, ANOTHER SUZUKI REP (RICH REGDON) CALLED AND WANTED ME TO TAKE MY VEHICLE AGAIN FOR TEST DRIVE TO SEE IF CORPORATE MOTORS COULD DUPLICATE THE STALLING PROBLEM. RANDY ADVISED ME TO TAKE MY VEHICLE TO GIVE SUZUKI A CHANCE TO FIX IT AND I DID FOR 10 DAYS (8/2/02 TO 8/12/02). RESULT: UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE STALLING PROBLEM. ON 8/12/02, ONLY 20 MINUTES AFTER I PICKED UP MY VEHICLE AND FILLED IT UP WITH GAS, THE ENGINE STALLED. NO STALLING FOR THE LAST 3 DAYS NOW. THE PROBLEM IS VERY INTERMITENT. I CALLED SUZUKI AGAIN FOR 5 TIMES AND LEFT 2 VOICE MESSAGES. I AM STILL WAITING FOR SUZUKI TO CALL ME BACK. QUESTIONS: WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT? WHAT IF MY WARRANTY RUNS OUT BEFORE THE PROBLEM CAN BE DUPLICATED? IT SEEMS LIKE IT IS MY WORDS AGAINST THEM -- NO PROOF. THANK YOU.*AK

Negative 2001 Suzuki Swift car reviews

  1. Gardner Maggio 2025-01-08

    I owned a '99 Suzuki Swift for 7 years without any issues, except for replacing brake pads. This car was exceptional and completely trouble-free for 7 years straight. Undoubtedly, it is the best car I have ever owned, and I am disappointed that Suzuki no longer produces it. Although it may not be luxurious, it is an excellent little car that will take you from Point A to Point B with ease.

  2. Jamison Haag 2024-08-25

    I bought my car back in 2007 when gas prices were skyrocketing and I needed to get rid of my 16 mpg pickup. It was a great decision! My car gets an impressive 38 mpg and is perfect for when I don't need to haul anything large. As someone who spends a lot of time on the road (I drove 18,695 miles last year!), I appreciate that my annual maintenance costs are below $200. Performing maintenance on this car is a breeze, too. It's easy to drive and maneuvers well in tight parking lots. Despite its small size, the car has no problem accelerating on freeway on-ramps. I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking to save money on commuting and around town costs. The only downside is that some drivers feel the need to pass me because of its size...

  3. Damon Hackett 2024-08-22

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car - a red 2000 model that I bought back in April. I find that it costs me an average of $25 to fill up once a week, which is pretty reasonable considering I stay in town. The highway mileage is excellent too! I did have to replace the battery and tires recently, and unfortunately, my catalytic converter is going out. But overall, I'm still really happy with my purchase!

  4. Scot Carroll 2024-08-14

    I found my Swift after it had been sitting on the lot for over a year. I was looking for a commuter car with great mileage and a bit of style. While most Swifts are driven by senior citizens due to their ease of use, mine came with a 5-speed and air conditioning. I thought it had everything I needed without any unnecessary features. I immediately switched to synthetic oil and installed Bosch platinum 4 plugs, which made my 1895 lb Swift even more peppy! Changing the brakes and air filter is a breeze. I consistently get 37mpg, even in mostly city traffic! However, it's important to note that the interior is generic and the brakes are a bit soft. At 50,000 miles, the interior light and lower fan speeds stopped working. Despite these minor issues, I still love my Swift.

  5. Maurice Barrows 2024-06-13

    Hi there! I purchased this car used back in 2010 with 58K miles on it. Since then, it has been running really well. In June of 2012, I had to rebuild the transmission, but other than that, it has been smooth sailing. Lately, I have noticed that some white smoke comes out of the exhaust for about 10 to 15 seconds every time I turn it on in the morning. However, considering that this car now has 178K miles on it and still gets 30 MPG in the city and up to 36 MPG on highways at 65-70 miles/hr, I am thinking of investing a little more money into it and having the engine rebuilt. What do you think?

Positive 2001 Suzuki Swift car reviews

  1. Isac Goldner 2025-01-06

    I am so glad I bought this car new! I have been driving it for 17 months without any trouble, and I am getting an average of 42mpg in the city. It's the perfect commuter transportation for those who want to take it easy on the road. The front seats are really comfortable and the controls and gauges are ergonomically designed. Although it doesn't have ABS brakes, it makes for some fun cornering if you're in the mood. However, don't expect to accelerate past much of anything on the road with 4 wheels and a motor. With only 79 horsepower, it's the price you pay for that great fuel economy.

  2. Lewis Cummerata 2024-11-21

    I just love this little car...

  3. Marvin Walsh 2024-11-03

    This car may not be very popular in the US, but it is a great vehicle for everyday driving. It is fuel efficient, reliable, dependable, and easy to park and drive.

  4. Jeramy Hahn 2024-09-26

    This is my first Swift but I have had two Geo Metros (same car). The mechanicals are bulletproof. The car is very economical, comfortable and easy to drive. I have even made 1500 mile trips in two days in these vehicles.

  5. Percy Fay 2024-09-16

    I bought this car as a backup vehicle in 2004 and was pleasantly surprised by how well it performs! It has great gas mileage and is fun to drive. Even after 12 years and 38k miles, it still drives like new! I was also impressed by how well it handles in the snow - it drives just like a 4WD vehicle because all the weight is in the front. The only downsides are that Suzuki made these cars with 'power-assisted' steering rather than power steering (so you have to put your shoulder into it), and when you open the driver's window, you break the vacuum seal and will feel air coming in through the floor speaker grill. However, I feel confident letting my teen use this as her first car next year.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2001 Suzuki Swift problems:

2001 Suzuki Swift 1.3l Engine Power Troubles : r/MechanicAdvice
2001 Suzuki Swift 1.3l Engine Power Troubles : r/MechanicAdvice
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/15kri5j/2001_suzuki_swift_13l_engine_power_troubles/

Aug 7, 2023 ... Then it had issues starting so I changed out spark plugs and ignition coils/wires and now it starts. But now there's a massive lack in power, ...

2001 Suzuki Swift Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
2001 Suzuki Swift Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/suzuki/swift/2001

Most Common 2001 Suzuki Swift Problems ... The brake pedal may pulsate on apply due to warped brake rotors. this condition is commonly caused by uneven lug nut...

Suzuki Swift Misfire and Start-up Idle Issues | Suzuki Forums
Suzuki Swift Misfire and Start-up Idle Issues | Suzuki Forums
https://www.suzuki-forums.com/threads/suzuki-swift-misfire-and-start-up-idle-issues.62329/

Apr 21, 2013 ... All coil packs, leads and plugs were replaced. Issue went away for a couple of months. Misfire returns. Same symptoms, intermittent misfire, no ...

Suzuki Swift GLS 1.3: Common Faults & Troubleshooting | JustAnswer
Suzuki Swift GLS 1.3: Common Faults & Troubleshooting | JustAnswer
https://www.justanswer.com/uk-car/3qp0l-suzuki-swift-1-3-gls-1998-car-running.html

Jul 13, 2010 ... I have a suzuki swift 1.3 gls 1998. The car has been running without any faults last 10 years. I now have an - Answered by a verified UK ...

Thinking of buying a 2000 Esteem. Need input. | Suzuki Forums
Thinking of buying a 2000 Esteem. Need input. | Suzuki Forums
https://www.suzuki-forums.com/threads/thinking-of-buying-a-2000-esteem-need-input.30690/

Apr 28, 2009 ... ... issues jump out at me right now.. 2008 suzuki SX4 sport sedan 5spd FWD 2007 suzuki boulevard C50 SE 2001 suzuki swift 1.3 5spd blue. Save ...

Other years of Suzuki Swift

suzuki swift 2002 photo
Swift 2002
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suzuki swift 1989 photo
Swift 1989
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suzuki swift 1990 photo
Swift 1990
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suzuki swift 1991 photo
Swift 1991
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suzuki swift 1993 photo
Swift 1993
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suzuki swift 1994 photo
Swift 1994
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