Parts for your 1997 Daihatsu Terios-Steering rack

1997 Daihatsu Terios Steering Rack: what it does and how to look after it

The 1997 Daihatsu Terios (J100/J100G) runs a rack-and-pinion steering rack with hydraulic power assist. That’s confirmed by the Daihatsu Terios J100G Workshop Manual (Steering section) and the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (Group 44 – Steering Gear & Linkage), both of which list a power-assisted rack assembly and associated inner/outer tie rods for this model. Industry data services used by workshops in AU/NZ likewise specify rack-and-pinion for the J100 series.

On this Terios, the steering rack converts the driver’s rotation of the wheel into linear movement to turn the front wheels. It’s the bit that gives the small SUV its tidy on-road feel while still coping with light off-road work. The rack’s job is to keep steering precise, reduce play, and maintain consistent toe settings, so tyres wear evenly and the car tracks straight.

Given the age of a 1997 vehicle, regular checks of the steering rack are a smart move. Inspect the rack boots (gaiters) for splits, look for power steering fluid weeping at the pinion and end seals, and feel for free play at the wheel. If the boots are torn, grit can chew out the inner tie rods and rack bar, so replacing boots early can save a rack rebuild later. Use the fluid grade specified in the owner’s handbook (commonly an ATF such as Dexron II/III for many Daihatsus) and keep the reservoir clean—milky or burnt-smelling fluid points to trouble.

• Signs the Terios steering rack may need repair or replacement: clunks over bumps, loose or wandering steering, fluid leaks, uneven tyre wear, binding or heavy steering, and poor self‑centring.
• Good service practice: renew inner and outer tie rods and boots as a set when there’s play, then perform a full wheel alignment. Recheck torque on mounting hardware after a short shakedown drive.

When replacing the rack, centre the steering and lock the wheel, disconnect the column correctly, and cap hydraulic lines to keep contamination out. A quality remanufactured rack is often cost‑effective, if the rack bar is pitted or the housing worn, replacement beats a basic reseal. After installation, bleed the hydraulic system per the workshop manual and verify there’s no interference at full lock both directions.

Those technical references—Daihatsu Terios J100G Workshop Manual (Steering) and Daihatsu EPC (Group 44)—are the go‑to sources confirming the rack-and-pinion setup and correct service procedures for this model.

Popular questions about 1997 Daihatsu Terios steering racks

Does the 1997 Terios have power steering?
Yes. The first‑gen Terios uses a hydraulic power‑assisted rack‑and‑pinion system. That’s detailed in the Daihatsu Terios J100G Workshop Manual and the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue, which list the power steering pump, lines and rack assembly for the J100 series. Most AU/NZ‑delivered cars of this era were equipped with power steering as standard.

What fluid should go in the Terios power steering?
Check the owner’s handbook or workshop manual for the exact spec, but many Daihatsu systems of this period call for ATF meeting Dexron II/III. Don’t mix fluid types. If the fluid is dark, burnt, or contaminated, a careful flush and refill with the correct grade helps protect the pump and rack seals.

Do I need an alignment after steering rack or tie‑rod work?
Absolutely. Any time the rack, inner tie rods, or outer tie rod ends are replaced or adjusted, a proper four‑wheel alignment is needed. It restores correct toe and steering wheel centring, prevents uneven tyre wear, and makes the Terios track straight.