Parts for your 2009 Suzuki Splash-Tail lights

2009 Suzuki Splash tail-lights — purpose, care and easy fixes

Referencing technical sources — the Suzuki Splash Owner’s Manual (2008–2010), Suzuki’s electronic parts catalogue for the Splash/Agila B platform, and ECE Regulation 48 covering rear position lamps — the 2009 Suzuki Splash is factory-fitted with rear combination tail-lights. They’re absolutely relevant to this model and required for roadworthy compliance in Australia and New Zealand.

On the Splash, the tail-lights sit in the rear quarter and hatch area as a combination unit handling rear position (tail) light, stop/brake, indicator, reverse, and rear fog (market dependent). Their job is to make the little Suzuki clearly visible from behind at night and in poor weather, while signalling braking and turning. If they’re dull, patchy or out, visibility tanks and so does its chance of passing a WOF or rego check.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the Splash’s tail-lights a quick once-over. Have someone press the brake and indicate while the other person checks brightness and colour. If one side looks dim, swap the bulbs left-to-right to confirm a dud bulb versus a wiring or earth issue. Most Splash variants use common ECE bulbs: P21/5W dual-filament for stop/tail, P21W for indicator, and W16W for reverse (check the handbook for your trim). Keep a spare set in the glovebox — they’re cheap and save a roadside headache.

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools. Open the tailgate, remove the interior access cover, undo the lamp screws, and ease the cluster straight back. Twist the bulb holders out, change the bulb without touching the glass with bare fingers, and refit. Before buttoning it all up, test every function. If a new bulb still won’t light, inspect the connector for corrosion, clean contacts with electrical cleaner, and confirm the earth wire is secured. For moisture inside the lens, replace the rear seal or the entire cluster if cracked, waterlogged units kill bulbs fast.

To keep them looking sharp: polish the lenses with a plastic-safe polish, avoid high-wattage non-approved bulbs that can melt housings, and if upgrading to LEDs, use CANbus-friendly, E-marked units and ensure the flash rate stays legal.

• Check operation monthly and before long trips.
• Replace bulbs in pairs for even brightness.
• Log tail-light fixes with your regular service items.

Popular questions about 2009 Suzuki Splash tail-lights

What bulbs does a 2009 Suzuki Splash tail-light use?
Most trims use P21/5W for the combined stop/tail, P21W for indicators, W16W for reverse, and H21W or P21W for rear fog (market dependent). It’s best to confirm against the owner’s manual or the marking on the lamp holder before buying.

Why do the tail-lights work but the brake light doesn’t?
On dual-filament bulbs, the tail filament can work while the brake filament is blown. Try a new P21/5W first. If that’s not it, check the brake switch at the pedal, fuse, and the earth connection at the rear cluster.

Can the Splash use LED bulbs and still pass WOF/rego?
Yes, if the LEDs are road-legal for the position, correct colour, and don’t trigger errors or hyper-flash. Use quality, CANbus-compatible, E-marked lamps. After fitting, verify brightness, beam spread and indicator flash rate meet local rules.