Parts for your 1999 Daihatsu Gran move-Universal joints

1999 Daihatsu Gran Move universal joints — what’s actually fitted

The 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move (also known as the Pyzar, M100/M101G series) doesn’t use universal joints in its driveline. It’s a front‑wheel drive layout with a transaxle and front half‑shafts that run constant velocity (CV) joints at both ends. There’s no rear propeller shaft on this model, so there’s no need for cross‑type U‑joints in the drivetrain. This is confirmed in technical references such as the Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move M10#G Workshop Manual (Chassis/Drivetrain), the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue for the M10#G series (which lists front drive shafts with CV joints and no propeller‑shaft group), and standard automotive references outlining that U‑joints are typically used on rear‑wheel drive or 4WD prop shafts.

Why aren’t U‑joints used here? Universal joints don’t transmit constant rotational speed when operating at an angle, which can introduce vibration. On a front‑drive vehicle that steers and articulates through large angles, CV joints are preferred because they maintain constant velocity, giving smooth power delivery while turning and over suspension travel. The Gran Move’s packaging and weight priorities also make a compact FWD transaxle with CVs the sensible choice.

What should owners focus on instead? For this model, the key is CV joint and boot maintenance. Split or perished boots fling out grease, letting water and grit in, which quickly chews out the joint. That’s when clicking on full lock, shudder under load, or grease spatter inside the wheel starts to show up.

• Inspect CV boots every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service, checking for cracks, clamps that have loosened, or grease seepage.
• If a boot is damaged but the joint is quiet and play‑free, replace the boot and repack with the correct moly CV grease ASAP.
• If there’s clicking on turns, vibration on acceleration, or noticeable play, organise a CV joint or complete half‑shaft replacement.
• Torque driveshaft nuts to spec after any front hub work and recheck after a short run, this protects bearings and joints.
• Keep tyres matched and aligned, uneven angles and vibrations accelerate CV wear.

Note: the steering column may use small universal joints for the column linkage, but these are unrelated to the drive shafts. If there’s notchiness or free play felt at the wheel, have the column joints inspected separately.

Popular questions about 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move universal joints

Does a 1999 Gran Move have driveline universal joints?
No. The Gran Move is front‑wheel drive and uses CV joints on its half‑shafts instead of prop‑shaft U‑joints. Any “universal joint” references generally relate to other driveline types or the steering column, not the front drive shafts.

What should be serviced instead of U‑joints on a Gran Move?
Focus on the CV joints and boots. Regular checks for split boots, fresh grease where needed, and timely replacement of noisy or loose joints will keep the front end smooth and reliable over Kiwi and Aussie roads.

Can universal joints be retrofitted to the Gran Move’s drive shafts?
No. The shafts and hubs are engineered for CV joints. Swapping to U‑joints would create harshness and vibration under steering angles and isn’t compatible with the vehicle’s design.