Parts for your 1997 Daihatsu Gran move-Suspension bushes

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

Suspension bushes are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move (G300 series). Technical references including the Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move factory service manual (G300 Suspension section), the JPNZ New Zealand repair manual for Pyzar/Gran Move (1996–2002), and aftermarket bush catalogues from brands such as SuperPro and Whiteline all list front lower control arm bushes, stabiliser (sway) bar bushes and links, plus rear torsion-beam/trailing arm bushes for this model. That means the Gran Move relies on multiple rubber bushes to isolate vibration, keep alignment stable and let the suspension articulate smoothly.

On this compact MPV, the bushes sit wherever metal suspension arms bolt to the body or crossmembers: up front at the lower control arms and sway bar mounts, and at the rear where the torsion beam/trailing arms pivot. Their job is to cushion noise, absorb small bumps, and hold geometry under braking and cornering. When they’re tired, the car can feel vague, crashy over bumps, and noisy.

For servicing in Aussie and Kiwi conditions, it’s worth inspecting the bushes every 20,000–30,000 km or at each major service, especially if the Gran Move sees rough roads, corrugations, or beachside exposure.

• Tell-tales of wear: clunks over speed humps, steering wander, shimmy under brakes, uneven tyre wear, cracking or oil-soaked rubber.
• Hot spots: front lower control arm rear bushes, sway bar D-bushes and links, and rear beam/trailing arm bushes.

Replacement tips your mechanic will follow on this model:

• Replace bushes in axle pairs to keep handling consistent.
• Tighten pivot bolts at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading the rubber.
• Book a wheel alignment straight after any control arm or major bush work.
• If choosing polyurethane upgrades, expect firmer feel and sharper response, with a touch more road feel, quality rubber keeps it comfy and quiet.

A quick clean-and-check during regular servicing helps the bushes live longer. Look for perished rubber, split sway bar D-bushes, or elongated inner sleeves. Keep an eye on any fluid leaks (engine or power steering) that can degrade rubber. In coastal areas, a rinse of the underbody and hardware helps stave off corrosion around sleeves and bolts.

Done right, fresh bushes make a Gran Move feel tight, predictable and quiet again—well worth the effort before chasing shocks or tyres.

Popular questions about 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move suspension bushes

What symptoms show the bushes are worn?
Owners usually notice clunks over bumps, vague steering, a pull under braking, or uneven tyre wear. A visual check often reveals cracked or oil-soaked rubber, and on the front lower arms you might see the inner sleeve sitting off-centre.

How often should they be checked or replaced?
Have them inspected every 20,000–30,000 km, or annually if the car does short trips on rough roads. Replacement timing depends on use, but many original bushes are tired by 150,000–200,000 km, sooner if exposed to heat, oil, or harsh surfaces.

Rubber or polyurethane—what’s better for AU/NZ roads?
Quality rubber keeps the Gran Move quiet and comfy for daily use. Polyurethane offers crisper turn-in and durability, handy if carrying loads or tackling country roads, but can transmit a bit more vibration. Mixing options is common: poly for sway bar and link bushes, rubber for control arms.