Parts for your 1998 Daihatsu Gran move-Steering bushes

1998 Daihatsu Gran Move steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Steering bushes are used on the 1998 Daihatsu Gran Move (also known as the Daihatsu Pyzar, G3-series). The factory workshop literature for the G3 platform identifies “steering gear mounting cushions/bushes” for the rack-and-pinion assembly, and Daihatsu’s electronic parts catalogue lists cushion-style mounts for the steering gear and a bush at the steering column support. Independent suspension suppliers also catalogue rack-mount bushes for related Daihatsu G2/G3 platforms, backing up their presence on the Gran Move. So yes—steering bushes are relevant and fitted to this model.

On this Gran Move, the steering bushes isolate the steering rack from the subframe, dampening vibration and stopping the rack from shifting under load. That little bit of engineered compliance keeps the wheel feel tidy while preventing kickback through the column on rough Kiwi or Aussie roads. Over time, those rubber bushes harden, crack, or squash, and the result can be vague steering, a clunk on turn-in, or the wheel not quite re-centring the way it used to.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth a quick check. With the front safely supported, an experienced tech will watch the rack while a helper gently swings the steering left-right. Any noticeable rack movement against its mounts, or a dull knock you can feel through the column, points to tired bushes. Oil contamination from a weeping rack seal accelerates bush deterioration, so if there’s fluid around the mounts, sort the leak and the bushes together.

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop: the rack stays in the car on most jobs, the mounting brackets come off, and the old bushes press out. New OEM-style rubber is comfy and quiet, polyurethane options sharpen response and last longer, but can add a trace more road feel. A smear of the correct grease on poly helps prevent squeaks. Always refit brackets evenly and torque to spec from the service manual. Because the rack location can shift a whisker with new bushes, a wheel alignment afterwards is a smart move to keep tyre wear even and steering straight.

If the Gran Move shows these symptoms, it’s time to act:

• Knock or thud when turning or hitting bumps
• Steering feels floaty or inconsistent on centre
• Visible cracking or deformation of the rack bushes

Look after the bushes, and the little Daihatsu keeps that light, honest steering feel it’s known for—no dramas, just tidy tracking and confidence on everyday commutes.

Popular questions

Do all 1998 Daihatsu Gran Moves have replaceable steering rack bushes?
Yes. The model uses rubber mounting bushes (often called steering gear cushions) to secure the rack to the subframe. They’re serviceable items and can be replaced without overhauling the entire rack, provided the rack housing and seals are in good nick.

What are the tell-tale signs the steering bushes are worn on a Gran Move?
Common signs include a dull clunk on turn-in or over bumps, vague or wandering steering at highway speeds, and the wheel not re-centring crisply. If someone cycles the steering while you watch the rack, you may see the rack shift against its brackets—another giveaway.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing the steering bushes?
It’s highly recommended. Even small changes in rack position can nudge toe settings. A post-job alignment keeps tyres wearing evenly and restores straight-ahead feel, which is especially noticeable on light steering cars like the Gran Move.