2017 Suzuki Swift 1.0L Hybrid electric (clean) · CV67 JNO

The 2017 Suzuki Swift presents a mixed motoring record where the most recent MOT on 2026-04-03 resulted in a pass, yet the vehicle has accumulated two distinct failures within the past two years—including a nearside front drive shaft constant velocity boot that became split or insecure, and a separate failure concerning headlamp aiming. While the latest test cleared the vehicle, the presence of these earlier failures indicates that certain systems require remedial work before the car is considered fully roadworthy, and the pattern of intermittent failures suggests the need for a thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on the identified components. At 41,267 recorded miles, the vehicle's usage profile deviates significantly from typical expectations for a nine-year-old compact, averaging approximately 4,585 miles per year—a figure substantially lower than would be anticipated for regular daily driving. The gap between the 2024-01-16 and 2026-04-03 tests spans nearly fourteen months, which may correspond to reduced driving activity or storage periods rather than continuous high-use operation. This slower accumulation rate may mask underlying wear that would otherwise appear faster, particularly in suspension bushings and brake components, meaning the current mileage alone does not guarantee equivalent longevity across all subsystems. The constant velocity boot on the nearside front drive shaft showed signs of deterioration by the April 2026 test, presenting a clear failure point that requires immediate attention. During a test drive, the buyer should monitor the steering for any looseness or play when turning corners, and listen for a grinding or clicking noise specifically from the front drive axle area. Additionally, the same test revealed that the nearside front drive shaft joint itself exhibited instability, which could manifest as a clunking sensation over rough pavement or increased vibration transmitted through the chassis when accelerating hard. Two other flagged items merit close examination during the test drive: the headlamp alignment, which was deemed too far to the right (noticeable on the passenger side and outboard edge), and the rear tyres, which were reported as slightly damaged or cracking on the 2024-01-16 test. When checking the tyres, look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear patterns around the 185/55/16 specification mentioned in the advisory. The headlamp should be verified visually or via a quick field check to ensure proper horizontal alignment, as misalignment can affect visibility and increase wear on adjacent components if left uncorrected.