Parts for your 1999 Daihatsu Gran move-Steering rack

1999 Daihatsu Gran Move steering rack — what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move is fitted with a steering rack, and it’s absolutely relevant for this model. Technical sources confirm it’s a rack-and-pinion setup, typically with hydraulic power assistance. This is documented in the Daihatsu Workshop Manual (Chassis—Steering, Section ST) which specifies a rack-and-pinion type gear, and the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for Gran Move/Pyzar (G303/G311, late 1990s) under Group 44, listing the steering gear assembly (rack and pinion) along with inner/outer tie-rods and boots.

The steering rack on a 1999 Gran Move converts the driver’s steering wheel input into the left-right push and pull of the tie-rods, turning the front wheels with accuracy. Rack-and-pinion is compact, light, and gives tidy road feel—ideal for a small MPV that’s zipping around town or cruising out of the city.

As part of regular servicing, it pays to keep the steering rack in good nick. A quick visual check under the bonnet and on a hoist goes a long way: look for perished rack boots, weeping power-steering fluid on the rack housing, and play in the inner or outer tie-rod ends. Top up the power-steering reservoir if it’s low and inspect the fluid colour—dark or burnt-smelling fluid suggests it’s due for a change. On these Daihatsus, the system typically uses ATF Dexron II or III spec fluid, the reservoir cap and workshop manual confirm the correct grade for the vehicle’s market.

Common signs the rack needs attention include a clunk on steering input, vague or wandering steering, uneven front tyre wear, notchy or heavy assistance, or a wet, oily rack boot. If the rack seals are leaking, the owner can consider a quality reconditioned rack or a professional reseal, along with new inner/outer tie-rods and fresh boots. After any rack or tie-rod work, a precise wheel alignment is a must.

Helpful service tips for this Gran Move:

• Bleed the hydraulic assist after fluid changes or rack replacement to avoid aeration and groan.
• Centre the rack and steer wheel before tightening column pinch bolts to keep the wheel straight.
• Torque tie-rod locknuts correctly and recheck after the first few hundred kilometres.
• Flush the power-steering fluid periodically (around 60,000–100,000 km) to protect the pump and rack seals.

Treated well, the Gran Move’s rack-and-pinion steering stays tight, quiet and confidence-inspiring for years of easy motoring across Australia and New Zealand.

Popular questions

Does the 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move have power steering with a rack-and-pinion?
Yes. Most 1999 Gran Move/Pyzar models were built with hydraulic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. It delivers light parking effort and predictable feel at speed, and uses conventional tie-rods and boots you can readily source.

What power-steering fluid should be used?
Daihatsu specifies ATF meeting Dexron II or Dexron III for this hydraulic power-steering system. The reservoir cap and workshop manual confirm the correct spec for local markets. Mixing fluid types isn’t recommended—stick with the stated Dexron grade and replace fluid if it’s dark or contaminated.

How long should a steering rack last, and what else should be replaced?
With clean fluid and intact boots, a rack can easily see well over 200,000 km. If replacing the rack, it’s smart to renew inner and outer tie-rods and boots at the same time, then perform a proper wheel alignment. Expect a few hours’ labour plus parts, varying with condition and whether a reconditioned or new unit is chosen.