Parts for your 1999 Daihatsu Gran move-Steering bushes

1999 Daihatsu Gran Move steering bushes — what they do and how to look after them

Based on the Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move G3-series steering section in the factory workshop manual and matching diagrams in the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), the 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move uses serviceable steering bushes. The rack-and-pinion steering gear is mounted to the front crossmember with rubber bushes, and the steering column assembly uses bush/bearing supports. So, “steering bushes” are relevant to this model and form part of its normal wear items.

On the Gran Move, the rack mounting bushes keep the steering rack located and aligned while soaking up road vibration. When they’re fresh, the wheel feels connected and precise, when they’re tired, the rack can shift slightly on the crossmember, dulling feedback and letting knocks through the cabin. Rubber is used from the factory for isolation, but age, heat, and oil contamination harden or crack the material, especially on vehicles of this vintage.

Owners and technicians should keep an eye out for these common signs of worn steering bushes:

• Clunks or thuds from the front when hitting sharp bumps or potholes
• Vague on‑centre feel or the need for constant small corrections
• Visible rack movement when a helper rocks the steering wheel
• Shimmy under braking and irregular front tyre wear

Inspection is straightforward: with the car safely raised, watch the rack while a helper gently turns the wheel lock-to-lock. Any lateral rack shift, split rubber, or oil-soggy bushes points to replacement time. Also check for power steering fluid or engine oil leaks—petroleum exposure accelerates bush deterioration.

Replacement is typically done in pairs. Support the rack, unbolt the brackets, swap the bushes, then torque mounts to spec with the vehicle at normal ride height. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards because any change in rack position can nudge toe settings. If you’re chasing longevity and sharper feel, quality polyurethane bushes are a common upgrade on this platform, though they can transmit a touch more vibration than OEM rubber.

As a servicing tip, recheck fastener torque after 100–200 km, keep the power steering system leak‑free, and avoid soaking new bushes in degreasers. Given the Gran Move’s age, many original bushes are well past their best—refreshing them can make the steering feel honest again without spending big.

Popular questions about 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move steering bushes

What’s the typical lifespan of the Gran Move’s steering rack bushes?
There isn’t a strict interval, because lifespan depends on heat, kilometres, and fluid leaks. On a 1999 vehicle, original rubber is often perished. Many owners notice improvement when bushes are renewed around the 150,000–200,000 km mark or simply due to age. If there’s any play or cracking, replace rather than wait for symptoms to worsen.

Do I need an alignment after replacing the steering bushes?
Yes, a front wheel alignment is a smart move. Even if you’re careful, shifting the rack slightly can alter toe. An alignment tidies up the steering wheel position and protects the front tyres from premature wear.

Rubber or polyurethane—what’s better for this model?
For a comfy daily driver, fresh OEM‑style rubber keeps noise and vibration down. If the Gran Move sees rough roads or you prefer a firmer, more direct feel, quality polyurethane bushes add precision and last longer, with the trade‑off of a bit more road texture through the wheel.