Parts for your 1998 Daihatsu Terios-Power steering pump

1998 Daihatsu Terios Power-Steering Pump

Based on technical references, the 1998 Daihatsu Terios (J100/J100G, 1.3 HC-EJ) is fitted with a hydraulic power-steering system that uses a belt-driven vane-type pump. This is documented in the Daihatsu Terios J100 Series Workshop Manual (Power Steering section), and corroborated by the Toyota/Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue for the related Toyota Cami/J100 series (listing a complete pump assembly under the 44310-**** family), as well as accessory belt catalogues from major belt makers that include a drive belt path for the power-steering pump on this model.

On a 1998 Terios, the power-steering pump’s job is to pressurise fluid and make steering light and predictable at parking speeds while still feeling stable on the open road. The pump is driven by the engine’s V-ribbed belt and feeds the steering rack via high-pressure hoses. When it’s healthy, there’s minimal noise, no groaning at full lock, and smooth assistance across the whole sweep of the wheel.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth giving the pump and the rest of the hydraulic system a bit of love:

• Check the fluid level and condition every 10,000–15,000 km. The workshop manual specifies ATF meeting Dexron II (or compatible Dexron III) – stick to that spec.
• Inspect the drive belt for cracking, glazing or slack. A slipping belt causes intermittent assist and squeal.
• Look for dampness around the pump, high-pressure hose crimps, and the rack boots – any pink/red misting or weeping means it’s time to sort seals or hoses.
• Flush the fluid every 2–3 years or if it’s gone dark or smells burnt. Fresh fluid keeps the pump vanes and rack spool happy.

Typical warning signs that the pump’s on the way out include whining that gets louder with revs, heavy steering when cold, aerated or foamy fluid in the reservoir, and metal glitter in the fluid. Don’t keep driving it like that – a failing pump can send swarf through the system and take the rack with it.

If replacement’s on the cards, it’s a straightforward driveway job for a confident DIYer: disconnect the battery, relieve belt tension, cap the lines, catch fluid, swap the pump and O-rings, then refill and bleed. To bleed, front wheels off the ground, turn lock-to-lock slowly about 10–15 times engine off, top up, then repeat with the engine idling until bubbles are gone and assist is consistent. Always torque the mounting bolts and hose unions to spec from the service manual.

Look after the pump and fluid, and the Terios will keep its easy, light steering feel for heaps of kilometres.

Popular questions about 1998 Daihatsu Terios power-steering pumps

What fluid should be used in a 1998 Terios power-steering system?
The factory specification calls for automatic transmission fluid meeting Dexron II, and Dexron III-compatible fluid is commonly used today. Mixing types isn’t ideal, so if you’re unsure what’s in there, plan a full flush. Use a quality brand and keep the level between the HOT and COLD marks as indicated.

How do you bleed the Terios power-steering after replacing the pump?
With the front wheels off the ground, fill the reservoir, then slowly turn the wheel from lock to lock 10–15 times with the engine off. Top up, then start the engine and repeat until no bubbles appear and the fluid level stabilises. Don’t hold the wheel hard against the stops, that can spike pressure and aerate the fluid.

How long does a Terios power-steering pump typically last?
With regular fluid changes and a healthy drive belt, many pumps run well past 200,000 km. Premature failures are often caused by contaminated fluid, a slipping belt, or leaks that allow the pump to run low on fluid.