The vehicle identification number (VIN) is composed of 17 characters (digits and capital letters) that act as a unique identifier for the vehicle. A VIN displays the car's unique features, specifications and manufacturer.
The VIN can be found in a couple of places including on the car's registration label (1), on the compliance plate in the engine bay (2) or on the passenger side windshield (3), or on one of the door posts (where the door latches when it is closed) (4). See the image below:
Now is a great time to purchase a compact car, as Australians continue to increase car purchases, and more and more vehicles are getting on the road.1 If you are looking for a compact or subcompact car, the Suzuki Swift is a stylish hatchback that is easy to drive and has a lot of power for a vehicle of its size.2
If you're considering this model, it's worth taking a look at the car details, ratings and awards, what to look for, common issues with the model and how to check the car's history.
Car details
So what are the benefits you'll get when buying a used Suzuki Swift?
The Suzuki Swift continues to be upgraded in safety, power and style. The model now has a 1.4 litre four-cylinder engine with front-wheel-drive and a transmission that is either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.3
Additionally, another version of the small but mighty car was released in 2012, the Swift Sport, which has a bigger engine and a six-speed manual transmission. The Sport also added Bluetooth and cruise control, 17-inch alloy wheels and climate-control air-conditioning.
The Swift Sport is a great option when considering a used Suzuki Swift.
Ratings and awards
The Suzuki Swift was one of six finalists on the annual 2018 Wheels Car of the Year award because of its lightweight handling and dynamic engine.4 The car has an excellent build and smooth ride that makes it valuable for its affordable price.
The vehicle was also at the top of the Canstar Blue Small Car Reviews & Ratings, getting five stars for four categories: overall satisfaction, driving experience, reliability and value for money.5
Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) gave the 2016 and 2017 Suzuki Swift models a five-star safety rating, so if you are buying a used Swift, consider those two years for top-of-the-line safety and security features.6
What you should look for when buying a Suzuki Swift
First, figure out your must-haves as far as amenities and features. These could include the Suzuki's Bluetooth connectivity, audio streaming capabilities, power windows and doors or the full audio system with radio, aux, and USB inputs. Or it could be most important to you to get a model with cruise control and full infotainment system.
Once you figure out your must-haves, take a look at specific models with these features. Check the odometer to make sure the numbers aren't way too high for the vehicle's worth. Compare prices online and at the dealership to find the best value.
You want to ensure that the car you choose meets all of your needs and has no underlying issues that could cause problems later.
Check for any body issues, like dents, scratches or other blemishes. Take the car for a test drive and listen for any strange sounds coming from the engine or brakes.
You want to ensure that the car you choose meets all of your needs and has no underlying issues that could cause problems later.
Common issues with the Suzuki Swift
First, because this car is extra compact, Drive says that the back seat doesn't have too much leg room and the cargo space is limited.7 Also, according to Which Car, the exterior door handles make it hard to see out the back windows. If you go with the manual GL Swift model, you won't get the infotainment screen or satellite navigation system that other trims include. And if you have to drive on the spare tyre, you can't go over 80km/h, as Which Car points out.8
As far as operational problems, there are very few, as What Car reports.9 There have been instances where the suspension squeaks or the battery goes flat if the car isn't driven enough, but these issues appear to be few and far between.
How to check the history of a used Suzuki Swift
After you find the right car for you, the next step is to get a history report on the vehicle.
A CarHistory report provides you with the reported history of a vehicle, which may alert you to common red flags about the vehicle you are interested in. This includes if the vehicle was reported stolen, if it has any registered financial liability attached to it, if there is a potential odometer wind-back (i.e., the reading is inaccurate), or if the vehicle has been reported as written off previously and thus has a downgraded worth.
To obtain a comprehensive report on the used Suzuki Swift that you decide upon, contact CarHistory for more information about all the benefits you'll get from a report.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstance before acting on it, and where appropriate, seek professional advice.
1. Gizmodo. More Australians bought new cars last month than ever before. Accessed July 2018.
2. Car Show Room. 2018 Suzuki Swift - Review. Accessed July 2018.
3. Drive. 2011-2017 Suzuki Swift used car review. Accessed July 2018.
4. Which Car. 2018 Suzuki Swift and Swift Sport Range review. Accessed July 2018.
5. Canstar Blue. Small car reviews & ratings. Accessed July 2018.
6. Howsafeisyourcar.com. Suzuki Swift. Accessed July 2018.
7. Drive. 2011-2017 Suzuki Swift used car review. Accessed July 2018.
8. Which Car. 2018 Suzuki Swift and Swift Sport Range review. Accessed July 2018.
9. What Car. Used Suzuki Swift Hatchback 10-17. Accessed July 2018.