I purchased a new 2005 Suzuki Forenza August 25, 2005. The vehicle was deceptively presented as having a "maintenance-free timing chain" prior to purchase. All recommended maintenance has been performed by the selling dealer. The vehicle had 9759 miles at the most recent maintenance interval. Less than 20 miles later, when proceeding forward from a redlight, ascending a bridge, for no aparent reason whatsoever, the engine failed along with all power assisted accessories including steering and brakes. The vehicle began to roll backwards into oncoming and merging traffic to the rear. Quick thinking to use the emergency brake and brute strength to steer avioded a certain multiple car accident. Had my wife been driving, the accident would not have been avoided. The dealer did not immediately know the cause of the failure, but said they would call as soon as they knew something. I called the following day and was told that they contacted Suzuki technical support. Technical support told the dealer to order several parts including a water pump and head assembly. The dealer was informed that some water pumps had the pulley installed backwards allowing the timing belt to skip over the cogs causing extensive engine damage. The dealer wanted to know if this was a common failure, but technical support denied it. How then, did they know exactly which parts to recommend to repair the engine? the dealer showed me the broken retaining ring from the water pump, but has yet to disassemble the engine further because they are waiting on the parts. The vehicle has not been repaired yet. I no longer have confidence in the vehicle either way. I do not believe it is safe to travel american highways with this vehicle.

- Haughton, LA, USA