Parts for your 2020 Suzuki Splash-Cv joint

2020 Suzuki Splash CV Joint — What It Does and How to Look After It

Yes, a CV joint is absolutely relevant to the 2020 Suzuki Splash. Technical sources including Suzuki workshop literature for the Splash/Ritz (K12-series engines) and Suzuki’s electronic parts catalog show the front drive shafts use an outer ball-type (Rzeppa) CV joint and an inner plunging/tripod joint. The Opel Agila B—its platform twin—uses the same arrangement in factory service documentation, reinforcing that the Splash’s front-wheel-drive layout relies on CV joints to deliver power while steering and riding over bumps.

On the Splash, the constant velocity (CV) joints sit at each end of the front drive shafts. Their job is to send engine torque to the front wheels smoothly, no matter the steering angle or suspension travel. The outer joint handles the sharpest angles during cornering, while the inner joint slides in and out to accommodate suspension movement. Both are packed with high-moly grease and sealed with flexible rubber boots. If those boots split, grease escapes, water and grit sneak in, and the joint can wear fast—often announcing itself with a clicking noise on turns or a shudder under load.

For servicing, it’s smart to treat CV joints as “inspect every time, replace as needed.” The Splash benefits from regular checks of the boots and clamps, especially after long highway runs or gravel-road use common around Aus and NZ. Catching a minor weep early and fitting a fresh boot can save the cost of a full joint or shaft.

• At each service: Inspect boots for cracks, splits, or grease spray on the inner wheel/strut.
• If a boot is damaged: Replace the boot and grease promptly, clean out any contamination.
• If there’s clicking on turns or vibration on acceleration: Plan for a joint or complete shaft replacement.
• During replacement: Use the specified moly grease, new circlips and hub nut, and follow OEM torque procedures. Avoid letting the drive shaft hang unsupported to protect the inner joint.
• Parts choice: OE-style joints or complete driveshafts often give the best fit and durability. Ensure ABS tone-ring compatibility for the Splash’s wheel-speed sensors.

A careful road test after work—checking for noise on lock, smooth take-offs, and no ABS warning—wraps up a tidy CV job on a Splash that’s ready for many more kays.

Popular questions about 2020 Suzuki Splash CV joints

How can someone tell if a Splash CV joint is failing?
Typical signs include a rhythmic clicking or clacking when turning and accelerating, grease flung around the inside of the wheel or under the guard, and sometimes a vibration on take-off. If a boot has split and the joint’s been noisy for a while, it’s usually time for a replacement rather than just a boot.

Is it better to replace just the boot or the whole driveshaft?
If the joint is still quiet and play-free, a fresh boot and correct grease can be a cost-effective save. Once there’s clicking, corrosion, or excess play, fitting a complete shaft assembly is often quicker, more reliable, and can be sharper value once labour is considered.

Does a CV joint job need a wheel alignment?
A straight swap of a driveshaft doesn’t change alignment settings. However, if other suspension components are loosened or replaced at the same time, or the vehicle already shows uneven tyre wear, a quick alignment check is good practice.