Parts for your 2016 Suzuki Splash-Steering bushes

2016 Suzuki Splash steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Referencing the Suzuki Splash/Ritz Service Manual (Power Steering/EPS section, late-model revisions) and the Opel Agila B Electronic Parts Catalogue (the Agila B is the Splash’s platform twin), the 2016 Suzuki Splash uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear that’s column‑assist EPS. The steering rack is secured to the front crossmember with rubber insulator bushes. So yes — steering bushes are fitted on this model, even though many catalogues don’t list them as a routine service item and some dealers supply them only with a complete rack.

On the Splash, the steering bushes isolate vibration and road noise from the cabin while keeping the rack located precisely on the subframe. That balance of comfort and control is vital on a light city car, good bushes help keep steering feel tidy, reduce kickback over potholes, and prevent the rack from shuffling about under load.

As part of regular servicing on a 2016 Splash, it’s smart to inspect the steering rack mounts for cracking, compression set, or any signs of the rack shifting on the crossmember. Typical clues a driver might report include a faint clunk when nudging into driveways, vague on‑centre feel, or a knock felt through the column on rough roads. If those show up, a visual check with the car safely lifted and the rack gently levered can reveal excessive movement at the bush locations.

When replacement is needed, most workshops will:

• Support the rack, remove the mounting bolts and brackets, and press out the tired bushes.
• Fit new OEM rubber bushes (quiet, OE feel) or quality polyurethane options (sharper response, slightly more road feel).
• Reinstall hardware and torque with the subframe settled at normal ride height.
• Carry out a wheel alignment afterwards, as any change in rack position can nudge toe settings.

Owners who drive on coarse-chip or corrugated roads, or who often park with wheels hard against kerbs, may see earlier wear. A practical approach is to have the bushes checked at major services (around every 20,000–30,000 km) or whenever front-end noises or steering feel changes appear. Replacing in pairs keeps handling consistent left to right, and fresh hardware (where specified) helps prevent fastener stretch or loosening.

Bottom line: the Splash does run steering bushes, and keeping them in good nick preserves that light, accurate steering feel people expect from this tidy little Suzuki.

• Do 2016 Suzuki Splash models actually have steering bushes?
  Yes. Technical documentation for the Splash/Ritz and its twin, the Opel Agila B, shows the rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember via rubber insulator bushes. They’re not always listed as a standalone service item, which is why some parts searches can be confusing.
• How long do the steering bushes usually last on a Splash?
  There’s no fixed interval. In typical Aussie and Kiwi city use they often last well beyond 80,000–100,000 km. Frequent rough-road driving, heat, fluid contamination, or parking with the wheels hard at full lock can shorten their life. Inspection during major services is the best call.
• Can the bushes be replaced without changing the entire steering rack?
  In many cases, yes. Workshops can press out the old bushes and fit new ones. Some dealer channels sell the bushes only with a complete rack, but reputable aftermarket suppliers offer individual bush kits. After any bush work, a wheel alignment is recommended.