Parts for your 2017 Suzuki Splash-Power steering fluid

Power Steering Fluid and Its Role in the 2017 Suzuki Splash

The 2017 Suzuki Splash is a practical and efficient small hatchback, popular for its city-friendly size and straightforward engineering. When it comes to power steering, one common question that pops up is whether the Splash uses power steering fluid and, if so, what the maintenance requirements are. After checking technical resources and service manuals specific to the 2017 Suzuki Splash, it turns out that this particular vehicle does not use traditional hydraulic power steering fluid at all.

Instead, the 2017 Suzuki Splash is equipped with an electric power steering system, often referred to as EPS. Electric power steering systems do not rely on hydraulic fluid to assist with steering. Rather, they use an electric motor to provide steering assistance, making the system simpler and less maintenance-intensive compared to conventional hydraulic power steering setups.

So why does the Splash not use power steering fluid? The switch from hydraulic to electric power steering in many modern cars, including the Splash, is largely driven by efficiency and environmental benefits. Hydraulic systems use a pump driven by the engine, which circulates fluid under pressure. This setup can result in some energy loss and requires ongoing maintenance such as checking for fluid leaks, topping up fluid levels, and sometimes flushing the system to remove old fluid and contaminants.

Electric power steering systems eliminate the need for hydraulic fluid entirely. Instead, a computer-controlled electric motor adds steering input to the rack and pinion mechanism. Since no fluid is involved, there is no risk of leaks or fluid degradation, meaning no fluid changes are necessary. This contributes to lower running costs and less hassle for the driver when it comes time for servicing.

It is important for owners of a 2017 Suzuki Splash to understand this difference. Unlike traditional power steering systems where checking and changing power steering fluid is a routine part of scheduled maintenance, the Splash's EPS requires different kinds of attention. Typically, regular inspections focus on the electrical components, the steering column, and ensuring no mechanical issues within the steering rack itself. Since there is no fluid to monitor or replace, maintenance is often more straightforward and less frequent.

However, that does not mean the steering system is entirely maintenance-free. Owners should be mindful of symptoms like unusual noises when turning the steering wheel, stiffness or lack of responsiveness, which could indicate electrical or mechanical faults. In such cases, a thorough diagnostic by a qualified technician is recommended to check sensors, wiring, motor function, and the overall integrity of the steering system.

For those who might still wonder about power steering fluid in a similar model or older versions of a small hatchback, here is a brief overview of what power steering fluid does in the traditional sense. Power steering fluid acts as a hydraulic medium, transferring the force from the power steering pump to the steering gear, thereby easing the effort needed to turn the wheels. It also lubricates moving parts and helps dissipate heat generated by the system.

Maintaining fluid cleanliness and correct levels is crucial in cars that use hydraulic power steering. Over time, the fluid can get contaminated or degrade, affecting steering performance and potentially damaging components. This is why regular checks and fluid replacements are part of maintenance schedules for such vehicles.

Since the Splash uses electric power steering, there is no need to buy power steering fluid or incorporate fluid checks into servicing. Instead, focusing on electronic system diagnostics and physical steering inspections is the way to keep your Suzuki Splash steering smooth and reliable.

In practical terms, an electric power steering system generally improves fuel efficiency too, because it only draws power when steering assistance is needed, unlike hydraulic pumps which run continuously. For the urban driver, this means a more responsive and economical ride with less upkeep hassles.

Owners should still follow the manufacturer's recommended service intervals for the 2017 Suzuki Splash, even though these do not include power steering fluid maintenance. Regular services typically include oil changes, brake checks, tyre inspections, and other key areas. Steering checks will be part of the overall vehicle safety inspections but won't involve working with any power steering fluid.

To wrap it up, the 2017 Suzuki Splash's lack of hydraulic power steering fluid is actually a bonus in many ways. By having an electric power steering system, it avoids the common pitfalls related to fluid maintenance like leaks and contamination. This design choice aligns well with the car's ethos of being low-maintenance, efficient, and easy to drive.