gwellsmore wrote:I have seen only Red models affected but havent seen any other coloured models in australia.
I have measured the paint thickness of these affected Kizashi and SX4 models and have found the factory has only applied a thin coat of paint to its surface causing insuffcient bonding to surface when required, therefore, the paint chips off easy. This is definately a factory fault. According to Suzuki Tech the paint is thin for easy deflection of material from roads. I have proven this is not the case. All other Suzuki models and other colours have strong thickness of coating on them with better resistance. I own a 2013 white Kizashi Sport. I love it. It seems Suzuki have improved on its production quality in 12 months, so thats a good thing.
Very interested in this information gwellsmore as I have a 2010 Kizashi in red, or should i say red and white. Despite having an independent assessment of the paint indicating that it was far too thin, Suzuki Australia would not come to the party and insisted that it was within factory tolerances.
This was a couple of years ago now but from what you've described it may be worth another conversation with suzuki if the number of customers reporting this problem is increasing. To add insult to injury, in the middle of the heatwave we are experiencing in Melbourne this week the aircon has failed and suzuki seem very disinterested in this problem as well.
I love my kizashi; but I am over suzuki.
I notice you mentioned that you have disproved suzuki's claim that the paint is thin to ensure easy deflection of material from the road; can these results be accessed anywhere? I'd appreciate any advice you may have on how best to pursue the paint issue with Suzuki
Definitely! In regards to 'Abnormal Paint Chipping' you have a strong case for Suzuki Good Will. You need to find a good Suzuki Dealer and establish a good relationship with. have a spotless car when you go in to have photos taken in which the Service Manager or Warranty Administrator will do when you get there. If your vehicle is dirty don't bother this indicates clearly that you don't take interest in its maintainence. Having a showroom condition car will enhance your chances. Note. Not every dealer will entertain a submission to suzuki for paint goodwill. Give it a go. I have helped 4 people already get paint rectified on kizashi and sx4 models.
As far as your A/C goes if it's not in warranty your screwed! Suzuki will not look at your vehicle if it's outside warranty.
Let me know how you go. regards, G
PS: Ironically, I was driving my Kizashi today and thinking how well the A/C was coping with Adelaide's heat (43 today)- I had to turn the temp up to 25.5 as it was too cold! Hopefully it's something simple? What works and what doesn't?
Thanks for your feed back David. I drive a Kizashi myself and it's currently 41 here in Regional Victoria. My A/C is working awesomely. If that's a word.lol. I love my Suzuki and have full confidence in the brand.
Thanks for the previous comments, we did indeed follow the suggestions back in 2011 when we first approached Suzuki, had photos taken etc. This was our first new car and was looked after, also I will add my husband owns a classic car so we understand detailing. It was to no avail again we were told the paint was industry standard (we knew that the US were having paint chipping problems). also with the a/c have been given the run around from Suzuki, I suppose you see it as you find it, and frankly I have found Suzuki dealers and the Manufacturer to be of little help.
Yes its a world wide issue. Keep on their backs. If you live in Australia talk about the ACCC. If you keeo on their backs you will get somewhere. Trust me!
