A Year with My Suzuki Alto: An Unforgettable Journey
Introduction
Owning a car can be a thrilling experience, especially when it becomes part of your everyday life. For me, driving nearly 30,000 miles in just one year was a significant achievement and an enjoyable experience—thanks to my Suzuki Alto, known as the A-Star in India. This article takes you through my journey with this remarkable little car while studying in the UK.
Getting My Driver’s License
After moving to England to pursue a master’s degree, my first priority was obtaining a UK driver’s license. I started the process six months after I arrived, which involved clearing several tests and facing long waiting times. I successfully acquired my license on my first attempt without making any mistakes. Initially, I had been renting cars with my international license, but my passion for driving motivated me to buy my own vehicle.
The Need for My Own Car
Having always had access to cars and bikes in India, I found it challenging to live without a vehicle. Although renting cars was an option, I felt the need for my own reliable transport. With a tight student budget, I knew I had to find something affordable and practical—a vehicle that would not strain my finances.
Checklist for Finding the Right Car
To streamline my search, I made a checklist for the car I wanted:
- Small Engine: Ideally around 1,000cc to minimize taxes.
- Two-Door Option: Lower insurance costs compared to bigger cars.
- Fresh MOT: Ensuring no immediate maintenance issues.
- ULEZ Compliance: No additional costs while driving in major cities.
- Brands: I focused on Toyota, Ford, Suzuki, Citroën, and Peugeot for their affordability and low running costs.
The Car Search Begins
The search for the right car had no set timeframe. If I found a suitable option, I would buy it; otherwise, I could happily continue without one. I enjoyed this search process, which often led me to disappointing options: many cars had over 100,000 miles on the odometer and were in poor condition. Despite being okay with older models, I wanted a car that had been well cared for.
Ultimately, I found a 2011 Suzuki Alto with only 30,000 miles on it at an unbelievable price. Although the car had previously been written off due to a minor accident, it was repaired by a reputable garage. After a short test drive, I decided to purchase it.
The Purchase and Initial Fixes
Once I completed the paperwork and arranged insurance, I took delivery of the Alto with some friends. After a quick stop for fuel, the car needed minor repairs, including wheel bearings and brake adjustments. After this, I had a perfectly functional vehicle that I could rely on.
Living with the Suzuki Alto
Owning the Alto was truly a fantastic experience. I managed to drive almost 30,000 miles in just a year—my highest mileage with any vehicle. The car felt familiar and performed excellently for its size, handling highway speeds comfortably.
Maintenance Experience
Care for the car was simple and hassle-free, consisting only of oil and filter changes every 5,000 miles. The previous crash did not cause any issues, and I learned to accept the minor quirks, such as a malfunctioning air conditioning system. Since the UK weather is mostly mild, I hardly felt the need to fix it.
To be prepared for any emergencies, I always kept a basic toolkit and some spare parts in the car. Luckily, I only needed to replace some bulbs and wipers throughout my time with the vehicle.
Daily Maintenance Tasks
I took my Alto to a local garage run by a friendly older gentleman. After driving the first 1,000 miles, I had all fluids, filters, and spark plugs replaced. Besides regular oil changes, I completed a few other maintenance tasks:
- Replaced tires as needed.
- Occasionally changed blown bulbs.
- Replaced the blower resistor.
- Changed the wipers multiple times.
Interestingly, many parts of the Alto differed despite being manufactured in India. For instance, parts like the gearbox drain plug didn’t fit this particular model.
Insurance Choices
To keep costs low, I opted for third-party insurance. The value of the car didn’t justify the expense of comprehensive coverage. I even had to adjust my mileage limits as my driving increased. I also installed a dashcam, which added a layer of safety.
Highlights of My Alto Experience
There were several things I loved about my Suzuki Alto:
- Great Value for Money: The primary reason for my purchase.
- Highway Capable: It handled 70 mph comfortably.
- Fuel Efficiency: Best fuel economy of 14 miles per liter on motorways.
- Low Maintenance Costs: Annual tax was only £20.
- ULEZ Compliance: No extra fees when driving in London.
Farewell to the Alto
Eventually, my time in the UK came to an end as I completed my master’s degree and secured a job back in India. It was bittersweet to say goodbye to the Alto and the memories created during our journey together.
After creating wonderful memories with the car and driving more than 30,000 miles, I sold the Alto to a friend for nearly what I paid for it—an incredible outcome. I still cherish those experiences, and I even keep a keychain of the Alto as a reminder.
Conclusion
Now back in India, I decided instead of purchasing another car, I would venture into the world of motorcycles. I’ve recently acquired an RE Hunter 350 and am enjoying a new kind of freedom on the road. Though riding alone is different from the joyful camaraderie I had with friends in the UK, the peace of the open road provides its own kind of joy. The memories created with the Suzuki Alto will always remain dear to my heart.
