SUZUKI SWIFT (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 15,679 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
15,679
Avg Mileage
79,275 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,677
Is the 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 81% of SUZUKI SWIFTs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 15,679 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 79,275 miles.
How does the 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT has 79,275 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a SUZUKI SWIFT?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 99% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 67%. The 2012 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SUZUKI SWIFT by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 99% | 74 | 40,049 mi |
| 2020 | 95% | 1,905 | 24,793 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 17,269 | 32,007 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 15,924 | 39,871 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 12,685 | 44,593 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 16,630 | 52,473 mi |
| 2015 | 87% | 19,751 | 58,999 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 16,455 | 65,097 mi |
| 2013 | 83% | 14,658 | 71,340 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 15,679 | 79,275 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 11,230 | 84,317 mi |
| 2010 | 74% | 11,283 | 85,544 mi |
| 2009 | 71% | 13,433 | 88,317 mi |
| 2008 | 69% | 14,871 | 93,714 mi |
| 2007 | 69% | 14,402 | 95,140 mi |
| 2006 | 67% | 8,309 | 98,000 mi |
| 2005 | 68% | 2,653 | 97,383 mi |
| 2003 | 73% | 120 | 51,322 mi |
| 2002 | 69% | 327 | 51,235 mi |
| 2001 | 73% | 162 | 51,235 mi |
| 2000 | 75% | 77 | 50,390 mi |
| 1999 | 72% | 129 | 61,189 mi |
| 1998 | 80% | 91 | 50,919 mi |
| 1997 | 89% | 37 | 71,511 mi |
| 1996 | 85% | 52 | 61,581 mi |
| 1995 | 80% | 30 | 42,871 mi |
Checking a specific SUZUKI SWIFT?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT
The 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT is a small family car with a 1586cc petrol engine. 15,679 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 79,275 miles at 12 years old, SUZUKI SWIFT owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 SUZUKI SWIFT Fuel Costs
The 1586cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,677 (£140/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SUZUKI SWIFT Reliability Trend
Newer SUZUKI SWIFTs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT
At 12 years old, the SUZUKI SWIFT is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 99%. With 15,679 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2012 SUZUKI SWIFT
The SUZUKI SWIFT is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2014) 76% pass rate (-5%) from 141,747 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (-3%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-9%) from 84,989 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2011) 75% pass rate (-6%) from 79,721 tests