Parts for your 1998 Daihatsu Gran move-Shock absorbers

1998 Daihatsu Gran Move Shock Absorbers

Yes, the 1998 Daihatsu Gran Move runs shock absorbers. Technical references confirm this: the Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move factory service manual (M100/M110 series) specifies a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coil-sprung torsion beam rear with separate shock absorbers. Major parts catalogues from KYB and Monroe list direct-fit front struts and rear shocks for 1997–2002 Gran Move/Pyzar, and OEM parts databases (e.g., dealer and aftermarket catalogues) carry front strut mountings and rear shock assemblies for this exact model. So shock absorbers are very much part of the package.

On the 1998 Gran Move, the shocks do the heavy lifting when it comes to ride comfort and control. They don’t hold the car up—that’s the springs’ job—but they tame bounce, keep the tyres planted, and stop the body from pogoing over bumps. Up front, the dampers are integrated into MacPherson struts, out back, they’re separate shocks working with the beam axle. When they’re healthy, the Gran Move tracks straight, soaks up corrugations, and pulls up neatly under brakes.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the shocks a look every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service. Check for oil misting on the bodies, perished dust boots, cracked bump stops, and tired top mounts (front). A quick road test tells plenty: excessive bounce after speed humps, floaty behaviour on the motorway, nose-diving under brakes, or choppy tyre wear all point to worn dampers.

Replacement isn’t overly tricky for a competent workshop. Front struts need a spring compressor and an alignment afterwards, it’s wise to replace strut mounts and bearings at the same time. Rear shocks are simpler bolt-off/bolt-on items. Always replace in axle pairs—fronts together, rears together—to keep the handling balanced. Quality oil or gas-pressurised units from reputable brands suit daily use well, and they pair nicely with standard-rate springs for Aussie and Kiwi roads.

There’s no fixed expiry, but many Gran Moves benefit from fresh dampers somewhere around 120,000–160,000 km, sooner if they’ve lived on rough chipseal or carried loads. Keeping shocks in good nick improves braking distances, headlight aim over bumps, and overall safety—plus it saves the tyres from scalloping and keeps Warrant of Fitness inspectors happy in NZ.

• Tell-tales of worn shocks: longer stopping distances, uneven tyre wear, knocking over bumps, wandering in crosswinds.
• After replacement: book a wheel alignment and recheck fasteners after a few hundred kilometres.

Popular question: How can owners tell if their Gran Move’s shocks are due?

Look for oil leaks on the shock bodies, cracked or collapsed strut mounts, and torn dust boots. On the road, excess bouncing after speed humps, vague steering, or the rear stepping out over bumps are classic signs. Uneven or cupped tyre wear is another giveaway.

Popular question: Do front and rear shocks need to be replaced in pairs?

Yes—replace in axle pairs. Fitting one new shock beside one tired unit can make the car feel unsettled under brakes or mid-corner. Doing both fronts or both rears together keeps damping balanced and predictable.

Popular question: Is an alignment needed after changing shocks on a Gran Move?

After front strut replacement, absolutely—camber and toe can shift when the struts come out. Rear shocks alone typically don’t alter alignment, but it’s still smart to check, especially if there’s been prior tyre wear or suspension work.