Malfunctional

I wonder if you can help? We have a Suzuki Wagon R, 2003. We've had her since February 2008. About 8/9 times we've had to take her back to the garage because the 'Malfunction Indicator Light' has come on. The handbook says it indicates that the emission control system needs servicing. We had a new unit fitted at the latter end of last year but still the light keeps coming on. The garage people say they don't know why it happens and that they have two other Wagon Rs that it happens to. I have spoken to customer services at Suzuki and they were surprised that the garage hasn't contacted their technical department. The garage says they need the car in for the day to strip it down and then ring the helpline. I'm going into hospital on Friday and the car will be needed for visiting so we can't make an appointment yet but, we are a bit worried about cost and would love to know if you have heard of this happening. Is it really such a rare thing to happen?

Asked on 29 May 2010 by CM, Cranleigh

Answered by Honest John
It's probably because the car isn't being driven far enough. If all it is used for is short runs from cold starts then what has happened will inevitably happen. It might be curable just by filling it with decent petrol (Shell V-Power) and taking it for a 50 - 100 mile run using 4,500rpm occasionally.
Similar questions
My X reg Mondeo failed the emissions test of its MOT and had a diagnosis done, which came back as a faulty cat and failed lambda sensor, which were replaced. When I bring the revs up to 3100 for the test...
I've read with some dismay of the shocking stories of Mazda 2.0 diesels spewing fuel into the engine lubricant with understandable and catastrophic results. Does this level of stupidity and oversight by...
Further to the information that you gave to the Mazda owner last week, I would like to add the following in your defence. The owner did not state what mileage he had covered. Generally, engines tend to...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer