Suzuki Splash
First generation of the Fiat 1.3 Multijet/Opel 1.3 CDTI in the Suzuki Swift IV and Ignis. Older and less developed than the D13A: tensioner problems appear earlier (from 60,000 km), EGR and DPF issues are more frequent. Very small oil volume (3.3 L) — maximum oil change intervals of 10,000 km must be observed.
Diesel city car without sporting charm
The diesel Splash is economical and torquey, but feels sluggish in urban traffic. Makes sense for high-mileage drivers; not the right choice for driving enthusiasts.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The chain tensioner on the first-generation Multijet often doesn't last 70,000 km. Even a brief moment of low oil pressure can cause the chain to jump. Timing chain jump damage should be considered a write-off.
Symptoms: Clattering noise on cold start, loud knocking when oil level is low, engine suddenly won't start
With only 3.3 litres of oil capacity, even minor leaks or elevated consumption quickly lead to critical oil starvation. Low oil is the most common cause of chain slip and bearing damage on this engine. Weekly oil level checks are strongly recommended.
Symptoms: Oil warning light on, increasing engine noise, timing chain rattles, engine damage in extreme cases
The Z13DT EGR valve housing is prone to cracking, causing air leaks and erratic running. The complete EGR valve must then be replaced.
Symptoms: Rough running, poor throttle response, engine warning light with EGR or lambda fault code, engine stalls after cold start
The small 1.3 CDTi engine does not generate sufficient exhaust temperatures for self-regeneration of the DPF on short trips. Early software versions in particular gave no warning before complete blockage.
Symptoms: Engine jerking badly, power loss, DPF engine warning light, black exhaust smoke, increased fuel consumption
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
The front subframe on winter-driven Splash models rots through at structural points from around 100,000 km. The corroded mounting bolts are often impossible to remove.
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.
The Splash tends to rust around the rear quarter-window pillar and at mounting screws. Workshop reports rate the Splash as above-average for rust susceptibility.
Reverse gear is difficult to engage on the manual gearbox, especially when the gearbox is warm or at low temperatures. No reliable fix is known — this is an inherent trait of the Splash's gearbox.
Suzuki fitted the Splash with a very firm suspension to cope with its tall body. Passengers get a rough ride on poor roads, and the comfort level doesn't match the character of the vehicle.
In the ADAC breakdown statistics, the Splash's starter battery fails at an above-average rate. Typical for city cars used mainly on short trips, but more frequent than comparable models.
The clutch release bearing on the Splash produces a grinding or squealing noise when the clutch is depressed. The problem occurs earlier than on comparable models.