Most 2017 Swift petrol manuals are the naturally aspirated 1.2‑litre petrol, though some markets also had the 1.0 Boosterjet turbo — the 1.2 is very simple and cheap to run while the Boosterjet gives stronger mid-range but needs attentive oil/service intervals. Being a manual, expect wear items like the clutch and gear linkage to be the common repair items on a 9‑year‑old example; overall the model is mechanically straightforward and parts are easy to source in Ireland.

• Clutch engagement and pedal free‑play on a test drive (look for slipping under load and heavy wear after hill starts).
• Gearbox selection and synchro feel (no crunching or loud whine when changing through the gears).
• Suspension knocks and noisy rear torsion beam bushes — listen for clunks over bumps and check front drop‑links/anti‑roll bar joints.
• Rust and paint bubbling around the wheelarches, lower sills and boot floor/drain holes (common on older small cars).
• If the car is the 1.0 Boosterjet turbo variant, check for excessive oil consumption, boost hose condition and turbo whine on acceleration.