Parts for your 2020 Suzuki Splash-Shock absorbers

Understanding Shock Absorbers on the 2020 Suzuki Splash

The 2020 Suzuki Splash, a compact city car, is indeed fitted with shock absorbers as part of its suspension system. Shock absorbers play a vital role in ensuring a smooth and controlled ride, making them an essential component of this vehicle. Let's take a closer look at what shock absorbers do, why they are necessary for the Suzuki Splash, and some handy tips on when and how to maintain or replace them as part of regular servicing.

Shock absorbers, also known as dampers, are built to control the up-and-down movement of the vehicle's suspension. When driving, the wheels encounter bumps, potholes, and uneven surfaces. Without shock absorbers, the car would bounce uncontrollably every time it hits a bump, making it uncomfortable and difficult to handle. For the Suzuki Splash, which is designed primarily as a city runabout, having reliable shock absorbers ensures that even over rough city roads or speed bumps, passengers enjoy a comfortable ride and the driver maintains better control of the car.

The basic function of shock absorbers is to absorb and dissipate the energy generated from the suspension springs compressing and rebounding. This dampening effect stops the car from swaying excessively or bouncing after hitting a bump. The 2020 Suzuki Splash typically uses hydraulic shock absorbers filled with oil to slow down the spring movement. When the wheel hits a bump, the shock absorber compresses and fluid is forced through small valves inside the unit, effectively slowing the motion.

Without shock absorbers, the tires would lose contact with the road surface, which reduces grip and compromises safety. For a smaller car like the Suzuki Splash, which often handles tight urban corners and frequent stops, maintaining proper tyre contact is crucial for responsive steering and braking.

When it comes to maintaining or replacing the shock absorbers on the 2020 Suzuki Splash, there are a few things to keep in mind. Over time, shocks wear out due to constant movement and exposure to road conditions. Signs that the shocks might be wearing include excessive bouncing after hitting bumps, a feeling of instability in corners, or even leaking fluid visible around the shock units.

Manufacturers often recommend checking the shocks as part of regular servicing, typically around every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometres depending on driving conditions. For someone driving mainly on city roads, the shocks might last longer due to generally smoother surfaces, but rougher routes or heavy loads can speed up wear.

Maintaining the shock absorbers on a 2020 Suzuki Splash is not just about ride comfort. Good shocks help preserve tyre life by reducing uneven wear, and they contribute to overall vehicle safety by stabilising braking and steering performance. They also support other suspension components, reducing strain and the risk of premature failure elsewhere.

During servicing, mechanics will usually perform a visual inspection by checking for leaks, broken mounts, or damaged boots that protect the shock unit's mechanism. They might also carry out a bounce test by pushing down on a corner of the car and releasing it - if the car continues to bounce more than once or twice, it's a sign that the shocks may need replacing.

If replacement is required, it is often best to replace shocks in pairs (both front or both rear) to maintain balanced handling. The 2020 Suzuki Splash generally uses MacPherson strut type shock absorbers up front and simpler dampers or struts at the rear, depending on the specific model variant. Keeping matched shocks ensures predictable and safe vehicle behaviour.

In terms of cost and effort, replacing shock absorbers on the Suzuki Splash is usually a straightforward job for a qualified mechanic. While it might not be the cheapest repair, investing in new shocks pays off by restoring ride quality, improving safety, and even helping with fuel efficiency to some degree as the car rides more smoothly over the road.

To keep your 2020 Suzuki Splash in great shape, regular suspension checks including shock absorbers should be a part of your servicing routine. Whether you're cruising through suburban streets or tackling the occasional uneven patch, good shocks mean a more enjoyable, safe and reliable drive.