Parts for your 2017 Suzuki Splash-Rack boots

2017 Suzuki Splash rack-boots — fitment, purpose and service advice

Yes — rack-boots are fitted to the 2017 Suzuki Splash (also sold as the Maruti Suzuki Ritz in some markets). The factory documentation specifies a rack-and-pinion steering gear that uses protective bellows-style boots on each end of the rack. This is set out in the Suzuki Splash/Opel Agila B Workshop Manual steering section (Rack and Pinion — Boot/Bellows Inspection), the Maruti Suzuki Ritz Service Manual steering chapter, and Suzuki’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for Splash/Ritz under Group 48 Steering, which lists “Boot, steering gear” for left and right. On that basis, rack-boots are relevant to this vehicle’s servicing.

On a 2017 Suzuki Splash, the rack-boots (also called steering rack bellows or gaiters) do a simple but vital job. They seal the ends of the rack-and-pinion housing and cover the inner tie rod joints, keeping dust, grit and water out while holding the correct grease around the inner joints. Even though this model uses electric power steering assistance (so there’s no hydraulic fluid in the rack), the boots still protect the mechanical parts that give the steering its precise feel. Split or perished boots let contamination in, which can chew out the inner joints and the rack, leading to vague steering, clunks and premature tyre wear.

Best practice for Kiwi and Aussie conditions is to have the boots inspected at every service, especially if the car sees gravel roads, flood water or salty coastal air. Look for splits, loose or broken clamps, grease thrown around the wheel well, or moisture and grit trapped inside a boot. If a boot is damaged, replace it promptly — ideally as a pair — using quality clamps and the correct grease on the inner joint per the workshop manual. Make sure any rack breather arrangement between the two boots isn’t blocked, and don’t over-tighten clamps to the point the boot can’t flex through the steering travel.

While there isn’t a fixed replacement interval, many techs will suggest proactive renewal around the 100,000 km mark if the rubber’s gone hard or shows fine cracking. The job is straightforward with the right tools, but it’s easy to nick a new boot during installation or mis-seat a clamp, so a competent mechanic is the go. Because the tie rod end is often removed to slide a new boot on, it’s smart to book a wheel alignment check afterwards to keep tyre wear in check.

• Watch for: splits, oil/grease spray near the inner guard, new steering noises, or sudden toe change.
• Do: replace in pairs, use new clamps, grease to spec, and check alignment after the work.
• Don’t: leave a torn boot — contamination can quickly wreck an otherwise healthy rack.

Popular questions

Does the 2017 Suzuki Splash actually have rack-boots?
Yes. The Splash/Ritz uses a rack-and-pinion steering assembly with protective bellows boots on each side. This is documented in the Suzuki/Opel workshop manuals and shown in Suzuki’s parts listings under the steering group.

How long do rack-boots last in NZ and Australia?
There’s no fixed lifespan. Many last well past 100,000 km, but heat, UV, gravel roads and coastal air can age the rubber faster. Regular inspections during services catch small cracks or loose clamps before they turn into split boots.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing rack-boots?
Often, yes. The outer tie rod end is usually removed to slide the boot on, which can nudge toe settings. A quick alignment check after the job helps protect tyres and ensures straight-ahead steering.