Generations
A5A — First Generation
2008–2015
1.0 K10B, 1.2 K12B, 1.3 DDiS
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Suzuki Splash problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Brake pipe corrosion and failure (A5A)
The Suzuki Splash suffers from premature corrosion of steel brake pipes, particularly where they pass through the rear beam mounting area and along the fuel tank. MOT data shows this model fails at 18.2 times the national fleet average for brake pipe corrosion, with the problem affecting all engine variants from relatively low mileages. The failure rate is worsening year-on-year, suggesting this is a design or material issue rather than age-related deterioration. Brake pipe failure can result in complete loss of braking ability.
What happens if ignoredComplete brake pipe failure results in total loss of braking ability and is immediately dangerous. Even partial failure significantly reduces braking effectiveness and can cause the car to pull violently to one side under braking. Replacement typically requires multiple sections of brake pipe and professional fitting with system bleeding.
Independent garage
£150–£350
Specialist
£180–£400
Main dealer
£250–£500
Parts only
£30–£80
Major
Suspension bush and joint wear (A5A)
The Suzuki Splash shows exceptional rates of suspension bush and joint wear, with MOT failure rates up to 23.6 times the national fleet average. The problem affects front lower arm bushes, anti-roll bar links, and rear beam mounting bushes. Premature wear appears from as low as 20,000 miles on some examples, suggesting either poor quality components or inadequate design for UK road conditions. The failure rate is worsening year-on-year across all variants.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension bushes cause poor handling, increased tyre wear, and can lead to MOT failure. Severely worn bushes can allow suspension components to move excessively, compromising safety and steering control. Multiple bush replacement is often required due to the interconnected nature of suspension geometry.
Independent garage
£120–£300
Specialist
£150–£350
Main dealer
£200–£450
Parts only
£40–£120
Major
Brake caliper seizure (A5A)
MOT data shows the Suzuki Splash fails at 15.9 times the national fleet average for brake binding, indicating seized or partially seized brake calipers. This typically affects the rear brakes first, where single-piston sliding calipers are prone to seizing on their guide pins due to corrosion or lack of lubrication. The problem can develop gradually, causing increased fuel consumption and brake pad wear before becoming severe enough to fail an MOT test.
What happens if ignoredSeized brake calipers cause rapid brake pad and disc wear, increased fuel consumption, and can lead to brake fade or complete brake failure if the caliper seizes completely. The affected wheel becomes extremely hot and can damage wheel bearings or cause tyre damage. Professional repair requires caliper removal, cleaning, and lubrication or complete replacement.
Independent garage
£80–£180
Specialist
£100–£220
Main dealer
£150–£300
Parts only
£25–£80
Major
Spring fracture (A5A)
The Suzuki Splash shows a 13.6 times higher rate of spring fracture compared to the national fleet average, with failures occurring from relatively low mileages. This typically affects the front coil springs first, where corrosion at the lower coils or stress concentration points cause the spring to crack and eventually break. A broken spring immediately affects handling and safety, and can cause tyre damage or loss of vehicle control.
What happens if ignoredA broken spring causes immediate handling problems, uneven tyre wear, and can damage other suspension components. The affected corner of the car sits lower and can cause the tyre to rub against the wheel arch under load. Driving with a broken spring is dangerous as it compromises stability and steering control, particularly during cornering or emergency manoeuvres.
Independent garage
£80–£150
Specialist
£100–£180
Main dealer
£150–£250
Parts only
£30–£70
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.
Check a specific car →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Suzuki Splash fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Suspension pin, bush or joint worn
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 37x the fleet average
Sample: 2,052 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 26x the fleet average
Sample: 4,105 tests
Suspension pin, bush, joint or bearing worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 16,390 tests
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 18x the fleet average
Sample: 2,861 tests
Parking brake efficiency below minimum requirement
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 17x the fleet average
Sample: 7,268 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 1,284 tests
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Related
Suzuki Splash reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Suzuki Splash?
The Suzuki Splash has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Brake pipe corrosion and failure (A5A).
Is the Suzuki Splash reliable?
The Suzuki Splash has 1 dangerous and 3 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Suzuki Splash problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Brake pipe corrosion and failure (A5A)) costs £150–£350 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.