Parts for your 2015 Suzuki Splash-Control arms

2015 Suzuki Splash control arms — what they do and when they need attention

Control arms are fitted to the 2015 Suzuki Splash. Factory workshop literature and Suzuki/GM EPC diagrams for the Splash (model EX) and its sister car, the Opel/Vauxhall Agila B, specify a front MacPherson-strut suspension with a single lower control arm (wishbone) per side, while the rear uses a torsion-beam axle without rear control arms. These technical sources confirm the vehicle does use front control arms and associated bushes and ball joints.

On the Splash, the front lower control arms locate the front wheels, set camber and caster geometry, and let the suspension move smoothly while keeping everything pointing straight. Each arm carries key wear parts — a ball joint and rubber bushes — that cop most of the road shock from Aussie and Kiwi streets, speed humps, and the odd gravel run.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to have the control-arm bushes and ball joints checked for cracking, tearing, excessive play, or split boots. Common signs the Splash’s arms are getting tired include:

• Clunks or knocks over bumps, or when braking and taking off
• Steering wander, tramlining, or vague on-centre feel
• Uneven or rapid inner-edge tyre wear
• Vibration under braking

If replacement’s on the cards, most workshops fit complete arms rather than pressing in individual bushes, as this saves time and ensures fresh bushes and ball joints together. Quality aftermarket or OE-spec arms are worth it — they tend to last longer and keep alignment true. Replace in pairs left/right, and always book a wheel alignment straight after. On installation, torquing the arm bolts at normal ride height (with the car’s weight on its wheels) prevents premature bush twist and squeaks down the track.

For city-driven Splash models, inspection every 20,000–30,000 km or at each service is a safe bet, vehicles that see rough roads or carry full loads may need closer attention. In New Zealand, a WOF can flag perished bushes or loose ball joints early, in Australia, keep an eye on tyre wear and steering feel between services. Stay on top of the arms and the little Splash will steer sweetly, brake straight, and keep tyres wearing evenly.

Popular question: How long do the control-arm bushes last on a 2015 Splash?

It varies with roads and driving, but many see 80,000–120,000 km before noticeable cracking or play. Lots of potholes, kerb hits, or heavy loads can bring that forward. Regular inspections catch early wear before it chews out tyres.

Popular question: Can the Splash’s ball joint be replaced on its own?

Some aftermarket options offer separate ball joints, but many workshops prefer fitting the complete control arm. It’s often more cost-effective for labour, renews all wear points at once, and tends to give better long-term results.

Popular question: Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?

Yes. Changing arms alters camber and caster, so an alignment is essential to keep the Splash tracking straight and to protect your tyres from rapid wear.