lsampath

Hi all, Thanks for your replies, and sorry for the extended delay. I wanted to fix as many issues as possible before writing anything new. I wanted to address the clanging sound coming from the wheels/suspension (when I going down a bumpy road), and the control arm issue pointed out by iRage (OC). I checked with two local mechanics, and the control arm was not deformed, but everything else was worn out. Initially, we replaced both link rods, the outer tie rods, and the ball joint of the passender side lower control arm. (I am not sure there are upper control arms in Demio model). We only replaced passenger side control arm ball joint, for two reasons. First, After inspecting the vehicle, the mechanic confirmed that the ball joint on the driver's side is not yet worn out. Second, Suspension systems on the passenger side often experience premature wear due to their exposure to road edges, which are more prone to damage compared to the middle of the road. (Something I learnt recently). Then we fine-tuned the wheel alignments. Steering wheel balancing was better, but I feld like something was still off. Resting positoin of the steering wheel was still a slightly tilted position. After few test rides and few days, it became apparent that even the clanging sound was still there. And I had to go for a second round. This time a different garage. In second round, we replaced driver side control arm ball joint, and both front shock absorber bushes. Yet, after few rounds of test rides, clanging sound is still there. (This is not a metallic clanging sound, more like two rocks hit each other). Assume that I have addressed all the commonly replaceable components in the front suspension system. Kindly inform me if I have overlooked any item. Mean time I have done some experiments with the steering system. I am hearing a slick ticking sound coming from within the dashboard whenever I attempt to turn the wheel, while the car remains stationary. Furthermore, when I swiftly turn the wheel, I notice a faint clanging sound, which is similar to the sound I tried to address earlier. Perhaps the sound is indeed originating from the steering system. If you do not have any specific recommendations, my next course of action will be to inspect and repair the steering system. Here are the prices for anyone who is interested: Outer tie rod (pair) - LKR 8950 Lower control arm ball joint (each) - LKR 7000 Link Rods (pair) - LKR 7300 Front shock absorber bushes (pair) - LKR 5900 That is all for now. Please let me know if you have any suggestions as I am new to this context. Thank you.

Thanks for the quick response. I can name a few, There is a fracture behind a headlight. The glass is foggy, and there are water drops within the light. Today I talked with a mechanic, and he said I have to vaporize the water drops and seal the fracture. Couldn't do it today somehow. Some power mirror switches are not working. The whole switch board needs to be replaced as some buttons are not working properly. Something is wrong with the wheel alignments. I guess. When I release my hands while driving, the steering wheel tends to slightly turn left. Some noise comes from tires or suspensions when I drive through bumpy roads. My father said it is coming from rear wheel "shocks". Actually, I don't know what it is. The car struggles when it downshifts on hills. I guess it happens when it downshifts from 3-to-2 or 2-to-1. Planning to change gearbox oil before addressing this issue. Need a full service.

Thank again. Yeah I had the same feeling of starting a new thread to share maintenance details. At least until I fix those initial repairs. So here it is...

Hi all, A few months ago, I was looking for a good hatchback to buy as my first car. Here is a link to the thread where I got some help from fellow car experts. Thanks to them and a few others who are closer to me, I bought a 2009 manufactured Demio last week. It was a girl-owned vehicle with only 88K mileage. This number was great compared to other cars (2008–2011) I have checked recently. Felt like a good bargain for the money, and I bought it after a quick inspection. I have encountered a few issues with this car that require attention, and I intend to keep this discussion going by sharing details of its maintenance with you all. Cheers...

Hi again, Thanks for your help, everyone. Last week I bought a 2009 manufactured Demio. A lady owned car with only 88K milage for 37.50 laks. Felt like a good deal, so I immediately bought it. But there are some maintenance issues and I need to work on them. Thanks again.

What do you mean by Vitz is more comfortable but not as good as swift/demio when it comes to handling? Comfortable means better suspension and interior quality? And does Vitz 1000cc model has higher vibration due to 3 piston engine design? And is it true Vitz 1300cc is more fueld efficient than 1000cc model, cause 1000cc model has to run on higher RPM most of the time.

Thank you for the reply. Honestly, reason for hatchback is more of a personal choice than parking issues. But I would like to consider sedans as well, but arent they less fuel efficient compared to hatchbacks? Normally i will be traveling with two passengers and a luggage is not a big concern for me? And regarding vitz, arent they less fuel efficient? I heard it is not comfortable as swift or demio. Please suggest me some sedans as well if have something in your mind, which can cater my requirements.

Hi all, I am currently looking to purchase a Japanese hatchback within a budget of 4 million. The car will be used for a weekly commute from Deniyaya to Colombo, and needs to be capable of handling hilly terrain as well as city traffic. To meet my requirements for both fuel economy and engine power, I am considering purchasing a car with a 1000CC+ engine and a fuel consumption rate of 12-18 km/L. There are two options in my mind, 1. Demio 2008-2010 2. Swift 2007-2009 (Swift second generation cars won't be affordable in my budget) What do you guys think about buying a pre-2010 Japanese car these days? Or should I go for something like Perodua or Hyundai? I went through old threads for both of these cars. But there are few questions they won't address in those threads 1. Most of the discussions I found were from the years 2010-2015, but those cars are now around 15 years old. I believe that expert opinions and answers may have changed since then. 2. Given the current fuel restrictions and expenses, I am concerned about the fuel economy of most cars and whether they will be cost-effective in the long term. 3. I am also curious about the impact of import restrictions on spare parts for these cars. Is it still possible to maintain older cars these days, or will it be difficult to find parts and keep them in good condition? Thank you.