Parts for your 2024 Suzuki Splash-Steering rack

2024 Suzuki Splash steering-rack: what’s fitted and how to look after it

Technical sources make two things clear. First, Suzuki ended Splash production globally around 2014, so there isn’t an actual 2024 model on sale. Second, the Splash platform (shared with the Opel/Vauxhall Agila B) uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with electric power steering assistance on the column. That’s documented in the factory workshop manuals for the 2008–2014 Splash (Steering – Rack and Pinion, EPS diagnosis), and mirrored in the Agila B workshop literature. Suzuki model history/parts catalogues also show no current 2024 Splash listing. So while a “2024 Suzuki Splash” isn’t a current vehicle, a steering rack is definitely relevant to any Splash still on the road in 2024.

On the Splash, the rack-and-pinion turns the rotation of the steering wheel into left–right movement for the front wheels. The EPS motor on the steering column provides assist, but the rack itself is a mechanical unit with inner tie rods, boots (gaiters) and mounts. Because the system isn’t hydraulic on most Splashes, there’s no power-steering fluid to top up, instead, owners should keep an eye on wear items and alignment.

As part of regular servicing, a quick look under the front end pays off. Torn rack boots let dirt and water into the rack and inner tie rods, accelerating wear. Per the workshop procedure, any split boot should be replaced promptly and the joint re-greased. Play in the inner or outer tie rods shows up as a clunk over bumps, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear, a technician will feel for free play at 3 and 9 o’clock. If tie rods are replaced, a wheel alignment is a must. After rack or column work, the EPS neutral/steering-angle setting should be recentred and any fault codes cleared with a scan tool.

If the rack mounting bushes are tired or the rack is damaged (impact, corrosion inside from a long-term torn boot), a replacement or professionally reconditioned rack is the sensible fix. The job involves safely supporting the front subframe, disconnecting the column coupler, undoing tie rods, swapping the unit, and torquing everything to spec. Battery off, wheels straight ahead, and care with the clock spring are standard precautions. Budget for new tie-rod end nuts/cotter pins and a fresh alignment afterwards. With decent roads and intact boots, many Splash racks run well beyond 150,000–200,000 kilometres, it’s usually the tie rods and boots that go first, not the rack teeth themselves.

• Check rack boots and tie rods at each service interval.
• Address any steering play, knocking, or pull immediately.
• Always align the wheels after steering work and reset EPS where required.

Popular questions

Does a Suzuki Splash use power-steering fluid?

Most Splashes use electric power steering on the column, so there’s no hydraulic power-steering fluid or hoses on the rack. If there’s a fluid leak at the front, it’ll almost certainly be engine oil or coolant, not power-steering fluid. The key checks are the rack boots for splits and the tie rods for play.

How long should a Splash steering rack last?

On typical Aussie and Kiwi roads, a well-kept Splash rack can go 150,000–250,000 kilometres and beyond. The inner and outer tie rods and the boots are the usual wear points. Keeping the boots intact and getting prompt alignments after suspension or steering work stretches the life of the whole setup.

What needs doing after replacing a rack or tie rods on a Splash?

A proper wheel alignment is non‑negotiable. The steering wheel should be centred, toe set to spec, and the EPS system checked for stored faults. Many scan tools provide a steering-angle or EPS neutral learn function, running that procedure helps the assist feel consistent and keeps stability systems happy.