Parts for your 2022 Suzuki Splash-Steering bushes

2022 Suzuki Splash steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical sources including the Suzuki Splash/Ritz Workshop Manual (Publication no. 99500-51K00, Steering/EPS section), the Opel/Vauxhall Agila B (the platform twin) service literature, and the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue for the RZ/A5 Splash, this model uses a column-assist electric power steering with a rack-and-pinion mounted to the front subframe. The rack is isolated with rubber mounting bushes, and the steering column contains support bushings. So, yes — steering bushes are relevant and fitted to a Suzuki Splash, including vehicles first registered in 2022.

On the Splash, the steering bushes act as small but critical isolators. They cushion vibration from the road and driveline, keep the rack correctly located under load, and help the wheel feel stay tidy and predictable. When they harden, crack, or squash out of shape, the driver can feel looseness through the wheel, hear an annoying knock over sharp bumps, or notice the car tram-tracking more than it used to. Left long enough, the misalignment can accelerate tyre wear and put extra stress on inner tie rods and the column joint.

There isn’t a fixed replacement interval for steering bushes, they’re a “inspect and replace as needed” item. For Aussie and Kiwi conditions, a good rule of thumb is to check them at every service or at least every 20,000 km. Look for oil contamination (engine or rack leaks can attack the rubber), torn or perished rubber, and any rack movement while a helper rocks the steering. With EPS on the column, a light clunk felt in the lower dash area can also be a tired column bush, not just the rack mounts.

• Common symptoms: knock over potholes, vague on‑centre feel, steering pull that comes and goes, or visible rack shift on the subframe.
• Service tips: replace bushes in pairs, torque the rack bolts to spec from the manual, and get a wheel alignment straight after.

Most Splash rack mounting bushes can be replaced without changing the whole rack, though access can be tight. Quality OEM rubber keeps NVH close to factory, while polyurethane options add precision at the cost of a little extra feel through the wheel. If the column bush is worn, it’s often part of (or serviced with) the column assembly — check the workshop manual section for EPS/steering column before ordering parts. A tidy job, fresh alignment, and a quick recheck of tie rods and rack boots will have the Splash steering as it should — light, quiet, and confidence‑inspiring.

Does a 2022 Suzuki Splash actually have steering bushes?

It does. The Splash platform uses a rack-and-pinion with rubber isolator bushes and column support bushings, as detailed in the Suzuki Splash/Ritz workshop manual and the Agila B service docs. While there wasn’t a brand‑new 2022 model run, vehicles registered in 2022 use the same steering hardware.

How long do the steering bushes last, and what are the signs they’re due?

There’s no set lifespan, many last 80,000–150,000 km depending on roads, tyres, and contamination. Tell‑tales include clunks over bumps, vague steering, and visible rack movement on the subframe. Any oil on the bushes speeds up ageing — fix leaks early.

Can the bushes be replaced without changing the whole steering rack?

In most cases, yes — the rack mounting bushes can be pressed in with the rack in situ or after partially lowering the subframe. The lower steering column bush may be integrated, some workshops replace or overhaul the column if that bush is the culprit. Always follow the torque specs from the workshop manual and book an alignment afterwards.