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Suzuki · Supermini · 2008–2014

Suzuki Splash 1

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.7 / 5.0 · Based on 3 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

86–94 PS

1.2L Benzin

Surprisingly lively for a city car

Decent
Most Reliable Engine

86–94 PS

1.2L Benzin

3 weaknesses

Good Choice

Engine Overview

The Suzuki Splash 1 is available with 3 engine variants — from 65 to 94 hp.

1.3L DDiS · Diesel· 75 PS
2008 2012
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.0L · Benziner· 65–68 PS
2008 2012
Be Careful 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.2L · Benziner· 86–90 PS
2008 2014
Good Choice 3 weaknesses

The Suzuki 1.3L DDiS (Diesel, 75 PS) has the Z13DT (1.3L DDiS) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

The Suzuki 1.0L (Benziner, 65–68 PS) has the Z10XE (1.0L) — rated: "Be Careful", 3 known weaknesses.

The Suzuki 1.2L (Benziner, 86–90 PS) has the K12B (1.2L) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Rear brakes: severe premature wear

The rear brakes on the Suzuki Splash wear heavily by 30,000–40,000 km and frequently fail the MOT inspection. Workshop reports and Gebrauchtwagenberater.de confirm this as a known weak point.

Symptoms: Squealing from the rear axle, poor rear braking performance, MOT failure
from 35,000 km
Ad Suzuki Splash brake pads rearSplash brake discs rear
 Low

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Suzuki Splash 1 (2008–2014) — 10 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Brakes, Gearbox, Rust, Suspension. Considered reliable: K12B (1.2L).

Splash (Z13DT, 2008–2012) — Be Careful: Chain tensioner failure from 60,000 km, Critically low oil level due to small sump capacity, EGR valve housing cracks. Power: 75 PS.

Splash (Z10XE, 2008–2012) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretches and guide rails break, Increased oil consumption and head gasket, ECU failed. Power: 65–68 PS.

What to watch out for with the Suzuki Splash? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Suzuki Splash 1 have? +
The Suzuki Splash 1 has 10 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Suzuki Splash 1? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: K12B (1.2L). The most reliable engine is the K12B (1.2L) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the K12B (1.2L).
Which Suzuki Splash 1 engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Suzuki Splash 1. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Suzuki Splash 1 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Suzuki Splash 1 — rated: "Decent". {description} The Splash uses the Swift platform and impressed testers with its agile character. The small engine sets clear limits, but the chassis is entertaining.
Is the Suzuki Splash 1 worth buying used? +
The Suzuki Splash 1 is a good choice as a used car — 1 of 3 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Suzuki Splash 1? +
The Suzuki Splash 1 is available with engine variants from 65 to 94 hp. Petrol: K12B (1.2L), Z10XE (1.0L). Diesel: Z13DT (1.3L DDiS).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee