Suzuki Alto gearbox maintenance and repair guide

Suzuki Alto: simple, efficient and economical

The little Suzuki Alto, which appeared on the Asian market in 1979, made a in Europe between 2008 and 2014a period when the microcity car segment was already saturated. Suzuki designed it in partnership with Nissan, which offered an almost twin version under the Pixo name.

The range is reduced to a single 5-door model and just 2 versions, all for a very attractive price. Under the hood, no jealousy! Only one type of petrol engine powers the city car: a 3-cylinder, 68 hp engine with a 5-speed manual gearbox or, in the GL version, a 4-speed automatic gearbox.

Highly prized for its economy and practicality, the Alto remains very popular on the second-hand market. If you're considering the purchase of one of these models, take a look at the maintenance booklet and check out all the history. Although the mechanics are simple, a lack of maintenance can quickly lead to trouble.

How to spot the signs of Suzuki Alto gearbox problems?

Diagnosis is the first crucial step. If you feel that your Suzuki Alto has lost its vigor, don't let the little worries get the better of you. Depending on the type of gearbox fitted to your vehicle, there are a few simple signs that should alert you.

In the case of a manual gearbox 

This transmission system is an assembly of complex parts that work in harmony. When this harmony breaks down, certain symptoms are unmistakable: 

• Unusual noises Unusual noises: squeaking, hissing or rattling may indicate worn synchronizers, gearbox pinions or gears;
• Shifting difficulties Shifting problems: clutches or skipping gears are often linked to timing problems or worn forks;
• Vibrations Vibrations can indicate a balancing problem, but also misalignment of components;
• Oil leak This problem must be solved quickly, as it can lead to premature wear of internal components;
• Clutch slippage Clutch slippage: this fault leads to overheating, which can spread to the gearbox and damage bearings, gears and seals.

With automatic gearbox 

In this case, the symptoms to watch out for and the resulting problems are slightly different:

• Unusual noises Clunking, knocking or squeaking may indicate solenoid, torque converter or transmission problems.
• Shifting jerks gearshift jerks are often linked to solenoid, sensor or gearbox management ECU failures.
• Slipping on acceleration Slipping on acceleration: this symptom indicates clutch disc wear, or sometimes an oil pressure problem.
• Oil leak As with a manual gearbox, a lack of lubricant can cause serious damage.
• Warning lights If a gearbox-specific warning light comes on, an anomaly requires rapid intervention.

How do I maintain my Suzuki Alto gearbox? 

Prevention is better than cure, especially with an older vehicle! Regular maintenance of your Suzuki gearbox gearbox is the best way to prolong its life. Here's a few simple steps steps to follow.

1. Start with a visual inspection Check the gearbox oil level, look for leaks, check the gearshift bellows and take a look at the seals.
2. Consult your vehicle's service manual for recommended oil change intervals. gearbox oil change (usually every 80,000 km or 5 years). Always use the correct grade of oil for your model.
3. Avoid shocks to the gearbox Drive carefully and keep your foot off the clutch pedal when you don't have to. With an automatic gearbox, come to a complete stop before shifting from D to R or vice versa.
4. Don't hesitate to have your clutch checked from time to time. It's a crucial component that plays a vital role in the smooth operation of your gearbox. If it starts to fail, it's best to replace it as soon as possible.
5. Have your gearbox regularly checked by a by a professional to check the essential mechanical components (synchros, bearings, seals, etc.).
6. 

When to repair or replace the Suzuki Alto gearbox?

Despite your best efforts, your transmission can sometimes play tricks on you. If you notice persistent problemsit's time to contact a qualified technician. The gearbox contains many components, and its repair requires specific know-how and tools.

The mechanic identifies the gearbox part number, the car model and the type of gearbox (manual, automatic) in order to source the appropriate parts. He then proceeds to a complete disassembly, checking the degree of component wear, the flywheel clearance and the general condition of the transmission. Depending on the nature of the problem, you have two options: either a simple repair, or a complete complete exchange of the gearbox.

EDEN BOITES brings you an economical and efficient solution. We take back your old box and recondition it entirely with original original manufacturer parts.

We'll deliver the new one to you, with a one-year one-year warrantyAll your mechanic has to do is reassemble it. We also have a very large stock of gearboxes second-hand or exchangeat the best prices.

Contact us today! We'll guide you step by step to the best solution for repairing your Suzuki Alto.