Parts for your 1999 Daihatsu Gran move-Control arms

1999 Daihatsu Gran Move Control Arms

Based on technical sources, control arms are absolutely relevant on the 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move. The factory workshop manual for the Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move (suspension section) specifies a MacPherson strut front suspension with a lower arm (control arm) and stabiliser link, and the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) lists front lower arm assemblies, bushes and ball joints for this model. The rear uses a torsion beam/trailing arm layout rather than conventional upper and lower control arms, so when people talk “control arms” on this vehicle, they’re mainly talking about the front lower arms.

On a 1999 Gran Move, the front control arms locate the front wheels and let the struts move up and down while keeping alignment angles where they should be. Each arm pivots on bushes at the chassis and connects to the steering knuckle with a ball joint. When these components wear, the car can wander, clunk over bumps, or chew through tyres faster than it should. Keeping them in good nick makes a big difference to steering feel, braking stability and overall ride comfort.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the control arm bushes and ball joints every 20,000–30,000 kilometres, especially if the car sees rough roads. Look for cracked or split rubber, leaking ball joint boots, and any free play when the wheel is levered. If there’s movement, noise on take-off or braking, or uneven tyre wear, it’s time to act.

Owners have two main options: replace just the bushes and ball joint, or fit complete arm assemblies. Swapping the whole arm can be the quicker, more reliable fix if the originals are corroded or the bush housings are tired. If pressing bushes, use quality rubber or polyurethane (noting that poly can sharpen handling but may add a touch of vibration). Always torque the inner pivot bolts at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bushes, and book a proper wheel alignment straight after the job—caster and camber on these cars are largely set by the arm position, so alignment locks in the handling.

Practical tips locals appreciate: avoid mixing old and new arms side-to-side, replace in pairs where possible, check the sway bar links at the same time, and keep an eye on rear trailing arm bushes too, as rear-end steer can feel like a front-end issue.

• Common symptoms: clunks over bumps, vague steering, pulling under brakes, uneven tyre wear.
• Service interval guide: inspect at each major service, replacement often falls between 80,000–150,000 km depending on use.

Popular questions about 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move control arms

Do the rear wheels on a Gran Move have control arms?
The rear of the Gran Move uses a torsion beam with trailing arms, not separate upper and lower control arms like the front. That said, the rear trailing arm and beam bushes can wear and cause rear-end steer, knocks or tyre wear, so they’re worth inspecting during suspension checks.

Can the front control arm bushes be replaced without changing the whole arm?
Yes. The front bushes and ball joint are serviceable items and can be replaced on their own if the arm itself is sound. Many workshops, however, fit complete arm assemblies to save time and ensure fresh bushes and ball joints in one hit—handy if the originals are rusty or the bush seats are tired.

How long do control arm bushes typically last on a Gran Move?
With normal Aussie and Kiwi driving, it’s common to see 80,000–150,000 kilometres, but gravel roads, heavy loads and coastal conditions can shorten that. Regular inspections and a post-replacement wheel alignment help maximise lifespan and keep tyre wear even.