Honda Acty vs Suzuki Carry
Two of the most popular kei trucks for US buyers, compared on specs, price, and real-world reliability. Here's how they stack up.
| Honda Acty | Suzuki Carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Honda | Suzuki |
| Engine | E07A 656cc 3-cylinder | F6A 657cc 3-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 45 hp | 45 hp |
| Drivetrain | 4WD real-time | 4WD part-time |
| Price range | $6,000 - $14,000 | $5,000 - $12,000 |
| Popularity | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Timing | belt | belt or chain |
| Engine codes | E07A, E07Z | F6A, K6A |
Reliability & common problems
Honda Acty
Staggeringly reliable, especially manual models — the E07 revs hard and lasts. Main weaknesses are transmission synchros and faster rust (thinner panels).
- Gear grinding / worn 2nd–3rd synchros past ~150k km
- Timing-belt tensioner loses tension → belt skips teeth → valve contact
- Spark plug wires run near the exhaust manifold → insulation breaks down → random misfires
- Rusts faster than other kei trucks (thinner sheet metal) — check chassis/body
Suzuki Carry
The most common kei truck in the US and widely considered bulletproof when serviced. Both the carbureted F6A and EFI K6A have strong high-mileage reputations.
- F6A: cracked/worn distributor cap & rotor (low, exposed mount collects moisture) → misfires and hard wet-weather starts
- F6A: carburetor gumming on trucks that sat → rough idle and stalling
- Oil-pan and valve-cover cork gasket leaks (both engines)
- K6A (EFI): electric cooling-fan relay failure → overheating in traffic