What's the 2009 Suzuki Alto like?

Hi,

I wanted to know more about the 2009 Suzuki Alto automatic - does it come with timing chain or belt and has there been any history of problems with its automatic gearbox? How is the car overall?

Arunita Burman (Dublin)

Mar 2016 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Arunita,

If it’s the 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine (and that was really the only version sold in Ireland) then it should have a timing chain, rather than a belt, which shouldn’t need regular replacement, but it’s a good idea to have it regularly inspected for any possibly defects or stretching. Other than that, the Alto’s a good little car – Suzukis tend to be reliable, it’s not bad at all to drive and runs on a whiff of petrol. A good choice as a city-centric runaround.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe