2005 Suzuki Ignis 1.5L Petrol · FM05 AHJ

Running a 2005 Suzuki Ignis is affordable by modern standards. The 1.5-litre petrol engine should return around 40-45 mpg in mixed driving, though real-world figures depend heavily on driving style and condition. With fuel at typical 2026 prices, you can expect annual fuel costs of around £900-£1,100 if covering 5,000 miles. Road tax on a vehicle of this age and emissions bracket falls into the cheapest category — likely £0-£35 per year given pre-2006 emissions standards typically qualify for historic or low VED bands.

Insurance for the Ignis sits in a low group (typically group 4-6), making it one of the cheapest cars to insure. A typical annual premium for an experienced driver should fall in the £300-£450 range, though younger drivers will pay considerably more. Parts are generally inexpensive and widely available, and the Ignis shares mechanicals with other Suzuki models of the era, keeping maintenance costs low.

Estimated annual running costs combining fuel, tax, insurance, and basic maintenance come to approximately £1,400-£1,800. Budget an additional £200-£400 for occasional repairs on a vehicle now over two decades old — older cars inevitably need more attention.

Start with the items flagged as the most common Ignis MOT failures across the model range: tyres, ball joints, and windscreen wipers. Inspect each tyre's tread depth and look for uneven wear patterns which could indicate suspension or steering issues. With the engine running, turn the steering lock-to-lock and listen for clicking or clonking — this suggests worn ball joints or CV joints. Test the wipers in both speeds and check for worn blades or streaking; replacement is straightforward and inexpensive.

Although this particular MOT history does not log specific defect categories for the failures, common age-related Ignis issues include corroded exhaust mounts, perished coolant hoses, and failing front brake hoses on older examples. Inspect the exhaust for blowing joints, check underneath for any signs of corrosion around the rear axle and sill areas, and verify the coolant level and condition. On a 1.5-litre variant, also check the condition of the ignition coils and spark plugs, as misfires become more common with age.

For a thorough inspection, place the vehicle on a ramp or use a torch to examine the underside. Pay particular attention to the rear beam axle bushings, front suspension wishbone bushes, and the condition of the fuel lines. Check that all lights function correctly (common Ignis MOT failure items include bulb failures and headlamp lens deterioration), and verify the operation of the horn, mirrors, and seatbelts. Finally, confirm the VIN on the V5C matches the vehicle and that the MOT certificate is current.