2009-2020 Suzuki Alto Problems: 1 Issue Every Owner Should Know
2009-2020 model years · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated June 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2009-2020 Suzuki Alto has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $1,200. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 1 Known Issues
On the 2009-2020 Suzuki Alto 1.0 K10B, the K10B 1.0 3-cylinder in Alto, Celerio (early), Splash, and Wagon R uses shim-under-bucket valve adjustment — not the more common hydraulic lash adjusters. Suzuki specifies a check at 96,000 km but many owners (and dealers) skip it; tight valves over time cause burned exhaust valves and failed compression.
Common Symptoms
- rough idle
- misfire
- low compression
- reduced economy
How to Fix
Valve clearance check + adjustment at 96,000 km is in the service book — confirm it has been done. £200-£400 labor + shims. If skipped repeatedly, eventually a leak-down test will reveal valve burn — head rebuild £700-£1,200.