The Suzuki K12C is a 1,242 cc, inline‑four DOHC 16‑valve dual VVT petrol engine produced from 2014 onward. It features a lightweight aluminium block with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts, delivering 61–74 kW (83–101 PS) and 113–118 Nm of torque. Its high thermal efficiency and low internal friction support Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform strategy for fuel economy and emissions reduction.
Fitted to models such as the Swift (ZC), Baleno, and Ignis, the K12C was engineered for responsive urban mobility with an emphasis on drivetrain refinement and Euro 6 compliance. Emissions control is achieved through dual VVT, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early production units, highlighted in Suzuki Service Bulletin SB‑K12C‑03. This is often linked to marginal lubricity of low-sulfur fuels and infrequent oil changes in stop-start urban cycles. From 2018 onward, Suzuki introduced an updated HPFP design with hardened internal components in certain markets.
Suzuki
All production years meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Suzuki K12C is a 1,242 cc inline‑four DOHC petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2014–present). It combines dual variable valve timing with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-end torque and excellent fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances urban agility with low running costs and regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,242 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 74.2 mm | |
| Power output | 61–74 kW (83–101 PS) @ 5,500–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 113–118 Nm @ 4,000–4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point electronic fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with dual VVT | |
| Oil type | API SN/SP, SAE 0W‑20 | |
| Dry weight | 87 kg |
The K12C delivers smooth, responsive urban performance with class-leading fuel economy but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using 0W-20 API SN/SP oil to protect the dual VVT phasers and high-pressure fuel pump. Early HPFP units (2014–2017) are sensitive to fuel lubricity—use only EN 228-compliant petrol with detergent additives. Coolant should be replaced every 3 years to maintain EGR cooler integrity. Post-2018 engines feature a revised HPFP; pre-2018 units should be monitored for fuel pressure fluctuations per Suzuki SB-K12C-03.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN/SP 0W-20 (Suzuki Owner’s Manual 2017). Low-viscosity oil is critical for VVT phaser response and chain lubrication.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012). Verified across EU and UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Higher-output variants (74 kW) require 95 RON fuel for optimal performance (Suzuki TIS Doc. K12C‑210).
Suzuki Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K12C‑205, K12C‑210
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
Suzuki Service Bulletin SB-K12C-03
The Suzuki K12C was used across Suzuki's Swift, Baleno, and Ignis platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Baleno and reinforced mounts in the Ignis—and from 2018 the facelifted Swift ZC adopted an updated high-pressure fuel pump and EGR cooler, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the timing cover (Suzuki TIS K12C‑205). The 4th and 5th VIN digits indicate model series ('ZC' for Swift, 'MB' for Baleno). Early engines (2014–2017) have a black plastic valve cover and single fuel rail; post-2018 variants feature a silver HPFP housing and dual vacuum ports on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from K12B: K12C has dual VVT and 11.0:1 compression versus K12B’s single VVT and 10.0:1. Cylinder head casting number 'K12C' confirms identity.
The K12C's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Suzuki internal durability reports from 2019 noted fuel pressure instability in 9% of pre-2018 Swift engines before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows emissions-related MOT failures linked to EGR cooler clogging in short-trip vehicles. Infrequent oil changes and marginal fuel quality make fuel system integrity critical.
Analysis derived from Suzuki technical bulletins (2016–2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SUZUKI K12C.
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