Parts for your 1996 Daihatsu Gran move-Universal joints

1996 Daihatsu Gran Move universal joints — are they used?

Based on Daihatsu factory technical literature for the G300-series Gran Move/Pyzar (workshop manual drivetrain sections) and the Daihatsu electronic parts catalogues used by dealers, the 1996 Daihatsu Gran Move sold in Australia and New Zealand is a front‑wheel‑drive vehicle that uses constant‑velocity (CV) joints on its front drive shafts. There is no longitudinal propeller shaft on these FWD models, so the typical cross‑type universal joints (U‑joints) found on rear‑wheel‑drive or 4WD tailshafts are not fitted. The only places a “universal” coupling may appear are the steering intermediate shaft joints, which are not serviced in the same way as driveline U‑joints and are generally replaced as an assembly if worn.

Why isn’t a U‑joint used on the Gran Move’s front axles? Technically, front axles must transmit drive through a range of steering and suspension angles without speed fluctuation. Cross‑type U‑joints introduce cyclic speed variation at larger angles, which would cause vibration and torque steer. CV joints maintain near‑constant rotational velocity regardless of angle, making them the correct design for a compact FWD like the Gran Move. With no rear differential or prop shaft on AU/NZ FWD models, there’s simply nowhere a traditional U‑joint would be required.

Owners chasing clunks or vibration under the floor on a Gran Move should focus inspections on the front CV joints and their rubber boots, engine and transmission mounts, and the steering column coupling. If the vehicle is a rare 4WD import (some Japanese‑market Pyzar variants existed), a propeller shaft with U‑joints may be present, but that configuration wasn’t typical for Australian or New Zealand deliveries in 1996.

• Check CV boots at each service for splits or grease fling, replace boots promptly to avoid CV joint wear.
• Clicking on full lock when accelerating points to an outer CV joint issue, not a U‑joint.
• Excess play at the steering wheel or a notchiness through the rim can hint at a worn steering intermediate joint, these are usually replaced rather than lubricated.

Popular questions about 1996 Daihatsu Gran Move universal joints

Does a 1996 Gran Move have driveline U‑joints?
Most AU/NZ 1996 Gran Move models are FWD and do not have tailshaft U‑joints. They use CV joints on the front axles. Only certain 4WD Japanese‑market variants used a propeller shaft where U‑joints could be fitted. If yours is a local FWD car, U‑joints aren’t part of regular servicing.

What should be serviced instead of U‑joints on a Gran Move?
Focus on CV joints and boots, checking for splits, grease leaks, and clicking on turns. Also inspect engine and transmission mounts and the steering intermediate shaft coupling for wear. These items are far more relevant to noise, vibration, and harshness on this model.

How can I tell if my Gran Move is the rare 4WD type that might have U‑joints?
Look underneath for a propeller shaft running from the gearbox to a rear differential. If there’s no rear diff or tailshaft, it’s FWD only. The VIN/model code on the build plate and a parts interpreter using the Daihatsu EPC can also confirm the drivetrain configuration.