2002 Suzuki Swift 1.0L Petrol · HX52 CHO

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift from clean records to emerging mechanical wear and tear. The most recent test in May 2023 at 82,725 miles identified significant faults including a deteriorated nearside front outer drive shaft CV boot and play in the steering rack inner joints. While the car passed after repairs, the appearance of these steering and drivetrain issues indicates that the mechanical components are beginning to fail due to age despite the low annual mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,447 miles per year. Between 2018 and 2021, the car covered roughly 24,000 miles while maintaining a clean inspection record. However, the gap of 4,496 miles between October 2021 and May 2023 coincides with the first recorded mechanical defects. Such low usage often leads to the degradation of rubber components and the seizing of moving parts, which explains the CV boot failure noted in the latest test. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering assembly to ensure the rack inner joints have been properly replaced and adjusted. The previous report of noisy rear wheel bearings in 2020 necessitates a check for continued play or humming, as these components rarely improve over time. Given the vehicle's age, specific attention should also be placed on inspecting structural corrosion on the sills and floor pans, as low-mileage cars often suffer from hidden rust during long periods of stationary use.