Parts for your 2020 Suzuki Splash-Universal joints

2020 Suzuki Splash universal joints – are they even a thing?

Short answer: universal joints aren’t part of the 2020 Suzuki Splash driveline. The Splash runs a front‑wheel‑drive, transverse engine layout with constant velocity (CV) joints on each front driveshaft, not Cardan-type universal joints. That’s consistent with standard driveline practice for FWD cars documented in widely used technical references like the Bosch Automotive Handbook and SAE driveline texts, which explain that FWD half‑shafts need CV joints to transmit torque smoothly while steering at large angles. Suzuki parts/workshop documentation for the Splash/Ritz platforms also shows complete front shaft assemblies with inner tripod and outer Rzeppa CV joints—no prop shaft and no U‑joints in the driveline.

Why not universal joints? A classic U‑joint doesn’t maintain constant angular velocity when operating at an angle, it speeds up and slows down every revolution, which introduces vibration and wear. That’s fine for many rear‑wheel‑drive prop shafts when paired or phased correctly, but it’s not ideal for a FWD hatchback that needs smooth torque transfer while the front wheels are turned. CV joints deliver true constant velocity at high articulation angles, which keeps NVH low and steering feel tidy—exactly what a compact city car like the Splash is designed for.

What should owners and techs look after instead of U‑joints? The CV joints and their rubber boots. Split or perished boots let grease escape and water/grit get in, which quickly chews out the joint.

• Inspect CV boots at every service (or ~10,000–15,000 km). Look for cracks, grease sling, or clamps that have loosened.
• Listen for clicking on full lock under acceleration—classic sign the outer CV joint is worn.
• Address any boot damage immediately, replacing a boot early is far cheaper than a complete shaft.

Note: there can be a small universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft on many vehicles, including the Splash. That’s a steering component, not part of the driveline. It’s usually maintenance‑free unless there’s noticeable play, stiffness, or corrosion.

Popular questions

Does a 2020 Suzuki Splash have universal joints?
No. The Splash uses CV joints on the front driveshafts. A small U‑joint may exist in the steering column, but there are no driveline U‑joints like you’d find on a rear‑wheel‑drive prop shaft.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a Splash?
Keep an eye on the CV boots and joints. Check boots for splits or grease leaks at each service, and listen for clicking on full lock. Fix boot issues early to avoid replacing the whole shaft.

Can universal joints be fitted to replace CV joints?
Not recommended. The Splash’s geometry and steering angles require constant velocity joints. Swapping to U‑joints would introduce vibration and drivability issues.