2003 Suzuki Ignis 1.3L Petrol · WL03 RVA

A notorious issue affecting first-generation Ignis models produced between 2000 and 2004 is carbonisation of electrical grease inside the ignition switch assembly. Due to contact arcing under electrical load, the lubricating grease inside the switch breaks down, becomes conductive, and overheats. This causes smoke and an acrid electrical burning smell to emit from the steering column shroud, leading to melted switch contacts, intermittent ignition loss, and a serious fire hazard if left unaddressed.

The steering gear on the Ignis is susceptible to premature wear in the inner steering tie rod axial ball joints. Road impacts from potholes and aggressive kerbing transmit shock loads directly through the steering rack ends, creating mechanical play within the joint sockets. This results in an audible clunk or knock through the steering wheel when turning from lock to lock while stationary, alongside wandering steering at higher road speeds and MOT test rejection.