Parts for your 2020 Suzuki Splash-Steering rack

2020 Suzuki Splash Steering Rack

Based on technical references including the Suzuki factory service manual for the Splash/Agila B platform, the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), and Vauxhall/Opel Agila B technical data sheets, the Suzuki Splash uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with electric power steering (column-assist). That means a steering rack is relevant and fitted to any 2020-registered Splash, even though the model’s production ended earlier in some markets.

The steering rack in a 2020 Suzuki Splash is the heart of its precise, city-friendly handling. It converts the rotation of the steering wheel into the left-right movement that turns the front wheels, while the electric motor on the column provides assist so it’s light at parking speeds and settled at highway pace. It’s a simple, robust rack-and-pinion setup that rewards gentle inputs and keeps the little Suzuki tracking straight on Kiwi and Aussie roads.

As part of routine servicing, a visual and functional check of the steering rack is a smart move. While the Splash’s assist is electric (so there’s no power-steering fluid to change), the mechanical rack still relies on intact boots (gaiters), healthy inner tie rods, and tight outer tie rod ends. Torn boots let grit in and grease out, accelerating wear. Any free play, clunks over bumps, notchy feel off centre, or uneven tyre wear can point to rack or tie-rod issues. A proper inspection on a hoist with the wheels unloaded will quickly reveal play at the inner joints or ends.

Replacement is straightforward in capable hands but needs care to keep everything centred. Always:

• Mark and centre the steering before removal, then re-centre on install.
• Fit new rack boots and clamps, and replace inner tie-rod lock washers where specified.
• Torque all fasteners to Suzuki specs and perform a wheel alignment.
• Calibrate the steering angle sensor/EPS with a scan tool if required.

Quality matters here: go for genuine or reputable aftermarket/re-manufactured racks, and don’t mix tired old tie rods with a fresh rack. Kerb strikes are a common cause of early wear, so avoiding hard hits and checking alignment after pothole encounters will extend life. In Australia, a loose or leaking steering system can fail a roadworthy, in New Zealand it’ll raise flags at WOF time. Look after the rack, and the Splash will keep its tidy, predictable steering feel for many kilometres.

Popular questions about 2020 Suzuki Splash steering rack

Does the Splash use electric or hydraulic power steering?
The Splash uses electric power steering (column-assist) working with a mechanical rack-and-pinion. There’s no hydraulic fluid or pump to service, but the rack, inner tie rods, and boots still need regular inspection. If the steering feels heavy or notchy, it’s usually wear in the rack joints or a column-assist fault rather than a fluid issue.

How long should a Splash steering rack last?
With tidy driving and intact boots, many racks run well beyond 150,000 km. Harsh roads, frequent kerb knocks, or torn gaiters can shorten that. If there’s play, clunks, or uneven tyre wear that won’t align out, it’s time for deeper checks and possibly a rack or inner tie-rod replacement.

Can inner tie rods be replaced without changing the whole rack?
Yes. Inner tie rods are serviceable items and can often be replaced on their own if the rack body is sound. Always fit new boots and clamps, torque to spec, and book a wheel alignment straight after.