Parts for your 1997 Daihatsu Gran move-Struts

1997 Daihatsu Gran Move Struts: What They Do and When to Replace

Technical references including the Daihatsu Gran Move (G300 series) workshop manual, the Daihatsu electronic parts catalogue (EPC), and aftermarket fitment catalogues from KYB and Monroe confirm that the 1997 Gran Move uses MacPherson struts at the front, with a torsion-beam rear that runs separate shock absorbers. So yes—front struts are relevant and fitted on this model.

On the 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move, the front strut is a combined shock absorber and structural suspension member. It supports the vehicle’s weight via the coil spring, locates the wheel hub, and controls bounce, dive, and body roll. In day-to-day driving around Aussie and Kiwi roads—whether it’s speed humps, country lanes, or pockmarked city streets—healthy struts keep steering precise, braking stable, and tyre wear even.

Because the strut also carries suspension geometry, wear creeps in as dull steering response, extra body float, and longer stopping distances. Oil seepage down the strut body, cupped or scalloped front tyres, and clunks over bumps are all tell-tales. If the car fails a WOF or roadworthy for suspension play or leaking dampers, the struts are prime suspects. Most brands and workshops suggest inspection every 20,000–30,000 kilometres and expect replacement somewhere between 80,000–120,000 kilometres depending on use, loads, and road quality.

When replacing struts on a Gran Move, it’s smart to do them in pairs across the front to keep the chassis balanced. Quality options listed in KYB and Monroe catalogues are widely available, with new upper mounts and bump stops recommended at the same time. A wheel alignment is essential after the job—MacPherson setups directly affect camber and toe, so fresh struts can shift alignment just enough to scrub fresh tyres. If the steering still feels vague after new struts, check the top mounts, sway bar links, and lower control arm bushes, as those commonly age alongside the dampers.

• Watch for: oil leaks on the strut tube, knocking over potholes, uneven front tyre wear, nose-diving under brakes.
• Service tips: inspect every service interval, replace in pairs, fit new mounts and boots, finish with a proper alignment.

The upshot is simple: good struts make the Gran Move feel tighter, steer straighter, and stop shorter—well worth the effort at service time.

Does the 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move use struts or shocks?

It uses MacPherson struts at the front and conventional shock absorbers at the rear. That’s confirmed by the G300 workshop manual, Daihatsu EPC, and major suspension catalogues. So if someone mentions “struts” for this model, they’re talking about the front end.

How often should the front struts be replaced?

There’s no hard expiry, but many Gran Moves benefit from fresh fronts between 80,000–120,000 km. If it sees rough roads, heavy loads, or towing, expect earlier wear. Inspect every service, and replace if there’s leaking, poor control, or a failed WOF/roadworthy.

What are the signs the struts are worn on a Gran Move?

Common signs include oil weeping on the strut, knocking over bumps, extra body bounce, vague steering, and cupped front tyres. Longer braking distances and a tendency to tramline are also clues it’s time to book it in.