Parts for your 2008 Suzuki Splash-Steering bushes

2008 Suzuki Splash steering bushes

Yes, the 2008 Suzuki Splash does use steering bushes. Technical references including the Suzuki Splash Steering System service manual, the Suzuki electronic parts catalogue (listing the rack “mounting cushion/insulator”), and the sister-model Opel/Vauxhall Agila B workshop documentation all show a rack-and-pinion setup with rubber rack-mount bushes, plus support bushes within the steering column assembly. On this model the electric power steering is column-assist, and while the column’s internal bush is typically serviced with the column as a unit, the rack mounting bushes are separate wear items.

On a Splash, the steering bushes keep the rack properly located on the subframe while soaking up vibration and harshness. That means less kickback through the wheel, sharper on-centre feel, and fewer rattles over rough Kiwi and Aussie roads. When these rubber insulators age, harden, or tear, the rack can shift slightly under load. Drivers then notice a vague or wandering feel, a clunk when turning or hitting potholes, and sometimes uneven tyre wear from the extra movement.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the steering bushes annually or every 20,000 km—look for cracking, delamination, or softened rubber (often from oil contamination). Any play when prying the rack at its mounts is a red flag. Because the Splash uses EPS, there are no hydraulic leaks to chase, but spilled engine oil or coolant can still perish rubber over time.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: the rack is supported, mounting hardware is removed, and the old bushes are pressed or prised out and replaced. Torque settings and alignment marks from the Suzuki manual should be followed, and a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards to keep the steering true. Quality OE-style rubber bushes generally give the best balance of comfort and control on this light hatch, firmer polyurethane options can sharpen feel but may raise NVH a touch.

If the steering column’s internal bush is noisy or notchy, the official repair is usually a complete column assembly replacement per workshop guidance. Most owners won’t need that unless there’s clear play in the column or EPS fault codes. Keep the underbody clean, avoid soaking the mounts in oils, and those Splash steering bushes will typically run well past 100,000 km before needing attention.

• Common signs: clunks over bumps, vague steering, wheel not self-centring, uneven tyre wear
• Service tip: inspect annually, replace in pairs, align the front end after

Popular questions

Does a 2008 Suzuki Splash actually have steering bushes?
Yes. The rack-and-pinion is mounted to the subframe with rubber insulator bushes, and the column has internal support bushes. This setup is documented in the Suzuki service manual, the Suzuki EPC (rack mounting cushions), and the Opel/Vauxhall Agila B workshop data for the platform twin.

What are the symptoms of worn steering bushes on a Splash?
Owners usually report a dull clunk on turn-in or over bumps, a light wandering feel on the motorway, and the wheel not recentring crisply. Visual checks often reveal cracked or perished rubber. Left long enough, you can see uneven front tyre wear.

When should they be replaced and do I need an alignment?
Replace when there’s visible damage, movement at the rack mounts, or the above symptoms appear—commonly somewhere after 100,000–200,000 km depending on use. Yes, a wheel alignment is recommended after bush replacement to keep the Splash tracking straight and protect the tyres.