How a belt issue forced me to replace my Ciaz's entire hybrid system

The hybrid ECM cost Rs 13,000 while the hybrid alternator was replaced for Rs 45,000.

BHPian cherub recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I own a Ciaz diesel (currently at 1,35,000 kms). My service centre forgot to change the belt at 30k and at around 40k kms, it broke off and fell off somewhere on the way at night. Firstly the power steering stopped working and the battery stopped charging but thankfully the car reached home, probably because it is a diesel. Once the ignition was switched off, I could not start the car. The next morning the service centre executive came with a charged battery and took the car to the service centre and changed the belt. He charged me for the belt and the emergency service. Later on, I realized that it was their fault, but since I had already made the payment, I did not protest. If I had known at the time of repair that it was their fault, I would have gotten it done for free. Maruti is very responsive if you protest (if have the time to follow up) and they do make you feel like they care I have felt they actually do care about their customers and products. Additionally, the service/parts costs are usually so nominal that it seems easier to just pay than to protest.

I think the belt issue damaged the hybrid system. The hybrid ECM was replaced around 65k kms (approx. Rs 13,000) and the hybrid alternator had to be replaced around 80k kms (approx Rs 45,000).

To check the damage in the belt, wrap it around your finger in the opposite direction with the grooves on the outside and you will see the cracks.

Another two Important things to change that are not in the service manual.

1. The radiator fan assembly (dual fans) should be changed every 60k kms. Only one of the fans will fail and it is very difficult to diagnose this failure as one fan manages quite well, but it will create issues driving on slopes and other engine stress situations (fan assembly approx Rs 5,500). Mine has already failed twice and damaged my engine due to overheating. Two service centres could not catch the fault, then my FNG caught it. It takes a long time to diagnose the issue as one has to wait for the engine to heat up.
2. The gear cable connection to the gearbox should also be replaced around the 100k mark, mine failed around 120k kms. (approx Rs 250)

Despite my poor experience a few times, I love Maruti for providing niggles free cars and good customer care.

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