Parts for your 2013 Suzuki Splash-Rack boots

2013 Suzuki Splash rack boots: what they do and how to look after them

Rack boots are absolutely fitted to the 2013 Suzuki Splash. This comes straight from technical references: the Suzuki Splash service manual’s steering section calls out inspection of the steering rack bellows/boots, and the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue lists left and right rack boots for the Splash (shared underpinnings with the Opel/Vauxhall Agila B show the same). Even with the Splash’s column‑assist electric power steering, there’s still a conventional steering rack with inner tie rods that rely on protective boots.

What do the rack boots do? They’re flexible bellows that seal each end of the steering rack, keeping dust, water, and road grit away from the inner tie rod joints and the rack’s seals. They also keep the factory grease where it belongs. On the Splash there’s no hydraulic fluid in the boots (it’s EPS), but a torn boot can still let corrosion and abrasive grit in, which accelerates wear, creates play, and can make the steering feel vague.

As part of regular servicing on a 2013 Suzuki Splash, a quick visual check of the rack boots is smart practice. Look for splits, perishing, loose or missing clamps, and grease sling on the subframe. Tell‑tales of a failed boot include a clunk over bumps, inconsistent steering weight, or uneven tyre wear. In NZ a split steering boot can fail a WoF, in Australia it can knock you back on an RWC, because exposed steering joints are a safety issue.

Replacing a rack boot is a straightforward job for a competent tech. Typically the outer tie‑rod end is marked and removed, the old boot and clamps come off, the rack is wiped clean (no solvents on seals), and a new boot is slid on and secured with proper clamps. It’s best to replace boots in pairs if one has perished. After disturbing the tie‑rod, a wheel alignment is recommended to keep the Splash tracking straight and protect those tyres. Choose quality boots that match OE dimensions and use stainless or OE‑style band clamps rather than cable ties. If the inner tie rod shows play or corrosion once the boot is off, plan to replace that joint at the same time to save a second alignment down the track.

• Inspect rack boots at every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km.
• Avoid pressure‑washing directly at the boots and clamps.
• Book an alignment after any steering boot or tie‑rod work.

FAQs

Does the 2013 Suzuki Splash have rack boots?
Yes. Technical documentation for the Splash/Agila B platform shows a left and right steering rack bellows (rack boots) protecting the inner tie rods and rack ends. They’re a normal wear item that should be inspected during routine servicing.

How often should the Splash’s rack boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval, they’re replaced on condition. Have them checked at every service. If there are cracks, splits, loose clamps, or contamination inside the boot, replace promptly. When one fails, consider doing both sides and follow up with a wheel alignment.

Will a torn rack boot fail a WoF or RWC?
Commonly, yes. In New Zealand a split steering boot can fail a WoF because it exposes steering joints to contamination. In Australia it can lead to a failed roadworthy inspection. Sorting the boot and any affected tie‑rod play restores safety and keeps the Splash compliant.