Parts for your 1996 Daihatsu Gran move-Steering bushes

1996 Daihatsu Gran Move steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references, steering bushes are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 1996 Daihatsu Gran Move (also known as the Pyzar, G300 series). The Daihatsu workshop manual for the G30# Gran Move/Pyzar Steering section specifies a rack-and-pinion assembly mounted to the crossmember using rubber “insulator” bushes, and details a lower steering column bush. The Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for the G30# series lists a “Bush, Steering Gear Mounting” and a column bush, but no idler arm components (because the vehicle isn’t a recirculating-ball system). These sources confirm the vehicle uses steering bushes.

On this Gran Move, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the subframe. Their job is to locate the rack securely while isolating vibration and road harshness. Over time, the original rubber can harden, crack, or swell from oil exposure, which lets the rack shift under load. That’s when the steering starts to feel vague, knocks are heard over bumps, and the car can wander a bit at highway speeds.

Common signs the bushes need attention include a dull clunk when turning or hitting potholes, visible rack movement when someone rocks the steering wheel, uneven or accelerated front tyre wear, and a loose, slightly delayed steering response. During a service, a quick check on a hoist with a torch and a pry bar—watching the rack while the steering is gently rocked—usually reveals any excessive movement or perished rubber. Also check for power steering fluid leaks, oil can swell and soften rubber bushes prematurely.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent technician. Typical steps are to safely support the vehicle, remove any undertrays, support the rack, undo the rack-mount bolts, swap the bushes in the correct orientation, and torque everything to the workshop manual spec. Because the rack’s location can shift slightly, a wheel alignment afterwards is smart practice. Owners can choose OEM-style rubber for factory comfort and NVH, or quality polyurethane bushes for sharper feel and longevity (with a small increase in vibration). There’s no idler arm bush on this model—being rack-and-pinion, the focus is on the rack mounts and the column bush.

As part of regular servicing, it’s sensible to inspect the steering bushes every 20,000–40,000 km or annually, re-check fastener torque to spec, and fix any fluid seepage that might attack the rubber. Keeping the rack securely mounted helps the Gran Move steer cleanly and stops minor play turning into bigger tyre and suspension costs.

• Check steering rack mounting bushes for cracking, softness, or oil swelling
• Inspect the lower steering column bush for play
• Schedule a wheel alignment after any steering bush replacement

Popular questions about 1996 Daihatsu Gran Move steering bushes

Does the 1996 Daihatsu Gran Move actually have steering bushes?

Yes. The Gran Move/Pyzar (G300 series) uses rack-and-pinion steering with rubber mounting bushes holding the rack to the subframe, plus a lower steering column bush. Daihatsu’s workshop manual Steering section and the Daihatsu EPC list these bushes and do not list an idler arm (that’s for recirculating-ball systems).

How often should steering rack bushes be replaced on a Gran Move?

There’s no fixed interval. They’re replaced when inspection finds cracking, perishing, softness from oil exposure, or measurable rack movement. A quick look every 20,000–40,000 km or annually during routine servicing is a good habit, especially if the vehicle has seen fluid leaks or rough roads.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for the Gran Move—what’s better?

Rubber keeps the original comfort and noise isolation, ideal for daily use. Polyurethane is tougher and resists oil and age better, sharpening steering feel, but can transmit a touch more vibration. For a tidy commuter, rubber is sweet, for a crisper, longer-lasting setup, poly is a solid upgrade.