Reactions – Suzuki lacking reliability from day one

The two Suzuki SX4 WRCs had to retire from the Rally Mexico due to engine problems similar to those already encountered in Monte Carlo and Sweden, but this time on the very first day.

A defective series of head gaskets is reportedly causing overheating issues that lead to internal damage.

Nobuhiro Tajima, head of the Suzuki World Rally Team, commented at the end of day 1 in Mexico: « It’s an extremely disappointing experience for us. As in Monte-Carlo and Sweden, we are stopped by an engine problem. We suspect the same cause, although we will only be certain after a thorough analysis. »

« It is clear that we have an issue with our engines. But according to current regulations, it is impossible for us to change the engine during or before the rallies to try to understand the issue », explains Tajima.

« As a new team, we need and want to progress. It’s sometimes difficult when the regulations don’t help newcomers. Toni [Gardemeister] hasn’t had much luck and, until his retirement, P-G [Andersson] had done a great job. The potential is there, and we are confident we will bounce back after this disappointment. »

Per Gunnar Andersson made a promising start during the first three stages, finishing in the top 8 each time. He felt a loss of power on the way back to the service park. It was decided not to let the Swede continue so the engine could be analyzed at the factory. It turned out that one of the four pistons had failed due to overheating.

Toni Gardemeister also experienced engine problems from the first loop with a damaged throttle. He rejoined in SS4 but stopped after a few kilometers. The Finn, who was participating in his hundredth rally, was forced to retire. The engines will be sent to Japan for analysis.

Reactions obtained by the WRC