Parts for your 1997 Daihatsu Gran move-Power steering fluid

1997 Daihatsu Gran Move power steering fluid — what it is and how to look after it

The 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move is fitted with a hydraulic power steering system, so power steering fluid is absolutely relevant for this model. Technical references that confirm this include the Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move Workshop Manual steering section (which details a belt-driven hydraulic pump and integral reservoir) and the 1997 Owner’s Manual fluid specifications, which call for ATF meeting DEXRON-II (or later) for the power steering. Many factory reservoir caps on these models are also marked “Use ATF DEXRON-II.”

On this Gran Move, the fluid’s job is to transmit hydraulic pressure from the pump to the steering rack, making low-speed manoeuvres light and predictable while also lubricating internal components and protecting against corrosion. Fresh fluid helps keep the pump quiet, the steering feel consistent, and the rack seals healthy.

Recommended fluid: a quality ATF meeting Dexron II or Dexron III. Avoid mixing with generic PSF that doesn’t meet Dexron spec.

Service advice for Aussie and Kiwi owners:

• Check level at every service. With the car on level ground, read the reservoir’s HOT/COLD lines as per the manual. Top up only with clean Dexron II/III ATF.
• Inspect condition. Fluid that’s dark, smells burnt, or looks foamy suggests it’s due for replacement or there’s air in the system.
• Preventative change. Even if not strictly time-based in the book, a refresh every 60,000–80,000 km or about 4 years helps keep the pump and rack happy, especially on older hoses and seals.
• Bleeding after top-up or a change. Start the engine and slowly turn the wheel lock-to-lock several times, then recheck the level. Don’t hold it on the stops.
• Avoid “flushing” with the engine running and lines open, you can starve the pump. A safe method is repeated drain-and-refill from the reservoir or a professional exchange.
• Keep an eye out for leaks at the high-pressure hose, pump shaft seal, and rack ends. Any wetness or groaning on cold mornings warrants a look.
• Check the drive belt for cracks or glaze. Correct belt tension is key to quiet, consistent assistance.

Technical sources referenced: Daihatsu Gran Move/Pyzar Owner’s Manual (1997) — Recommended Fluids, Daihatsu Workshop Manual — Steering (Power Steering) for Pyzar/Gran Move (late-1990s editions), factory reservoir cap labelling on period Daihatsu hydraulic systems specifying ATF Dexron II.

Popular questions about 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move power steering fluid

What power steering fluid does a 1997 Gran Move use?
Daihatsu specifies ATF meeting Dexron II (Dexron III is acceptable). Using the correct ATF keeps pump noise down and ensures proper lubrication. Mixing with non-Dexron fluids isn’t recommended.

How often should the power steering fluid be changed?
While many owners’ manuals focus on inspection rather than a strict interval, changing it every 60,000–80,000 km or about 4 years is a sensible preventative step on older vehicles, or sooner if the fluid looks dark, smells burnt, or the steering feels notchy or noisy.

Where’s the reservoir and how do you check it?
The reservoir sits in the engine bay near the power steering pump and has HOT/COLD marks on the side. With the car on level ground, check when cold unless the manual says otherwise. Top up with Dexron II/III ATF, then bleed by turning the wheel lock-to-lock and recheck the level.