Parts for your 2015 Suzuki Splash-Rack boots

2015 Suzuki Splash rack-boots: what they do and how to look after them

Based on technical documentation, rack-boots are absolutely fitted to the 2015 Suzuki Splash. The Suzuki Ritz/Splash workshop manual (K12B) steering section illustrates a rack-and-pinion assembly with protective bellows (rack boots) on both ends, Suzuki’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2015 Splash (EX series) lists “Boot, Steering Gear/Bellows” left and right, and the Opel/Vauxhall Agila B (the Splash’s sister model) parts diagrams also show steering rack bellows. The Splash typically runs column-assist electric power steering, but it still uses a mechanical rack-and-pinion that relies on these boots.

On the Splash, rack-boots are the 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 bar. They help the steering feel stay light and consistent, and they prevent premature wear of the inner joints. If a boot splits, grit gets in, grease gets out, and the inner tie rod can wear quickly—hello clunks, vague steering, and uneven tyre wear.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to have the rack-boots inspected every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service. Under the bonnet, technicians look for cracks, perishing, loose clamps, or grease misting. Because the Splash’s EPS is column-mounted (not hydraulic at the rack), you won’t see power-steering fluid weeping from a torn boot—but you may spot dirt-laden grease or hear a light knock over bumps.

• Replace any torn or perished rack-boot immediately to protect the inner tie rod and rack teeth.
• Use the correct-length boot with the proper inner and outer diameters, and quality clamps—no cable ties if they don’t hold pressure evenly.
• Avoid twisting the boot on install, make sure it isn’t stretched at full lock and that any breather path isn’t blocked.
• If the inner tie rod is removed, have the wheel alignment checked afterwards—toe can shift even if you mark the threads.

A tidy rack-boot job is a quick win: typically under an hour per side if nothing’s seized. Catching splits early saves the inner joints and keeps the Splash tracking straight, steering quietly, and wearing tyres evenly—no dramas.

Technical references (no external links): Suzuki Ritz/Splash Workshop Manual (K12B), Steering Section, Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue (2015 Splash EX series), Steering Gear illustration, Opel/Vauxhall Agila B EPC/TIS Steering Gear diagrams.

• Do all 2015 Suzuki Splash models have rack-boots?
  Yes. Regardless of trim, the Splash uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with protective bellows on both ends. Even with electric power assist at the column, the mechanical rack still needs boots to keep dust and water out.
• How often should rack-boots be replaced on a Splash?
  There’s no fixed kilometre interval—replace on condition. Inspect at each service and change them as soon as cracks, splits, or loose clamps are found. Acting early protects the inner tie rod joints and saves money down the track.
• Is it safe to drive with a torn rack-boot?
  It’ll drive, but it’s not a good idea. A split boot lets grit in, which can quickly chew out the inner joint and affect steering feel and tyre wear. Book a replacement promptly and get the alignment checked if the tie rod was disturbed.