Parts for your 2002 Daihatsu Gran move-Steering bushes

2002 Daihatsu Gran Move steering bushes

Technical references including the Daihatsu Gran Move (M100/M110 series, 1996–2002) workshop manual Steering section and the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (Group 45: Steering) show the model uses a rack‑and‑pinion with rubber mounting bushes (often listed as “steering gear cushion” or “rack bush”) and a column support bush. So steering bushes are absolutely relevant on a 2002 Daihatsu Gran Move.

On this Gran Move, the steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the crossmember, and in the column support. Their job is to locate the rack precisely while soaking up vibration and road shock, so the wheel feels steady and the tyres track straight. When these rubber bushes get tired or oil‑soaked, the rack can shift slightly under load. That’s when owners notice a dull clunk over bumps, a vague on‑centre feel, or the car wandering on cambered roads. Left too long, it can nudge tyre wear and make the steering wheel kick back on rough chip seal.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth giving the steering bushes a look every 10,000–15,000 km. A tech will check for splits, flattening, hardening, or swelling from power‑steering fluid. Any play where the rack meets its brackets is a red flag. If there’s a PS leak, sort that first—fluid degrades rubber and will shorten the new bushes’ life.

Replacement on the Gran Move is straightforward workshop work. The rack is supported, the bracket bolts are removed, and the old bushes slide out. Many cars use one “D”‑shaped and one round bush—orientation matters, so mark them before removal and fit the new ones the same way. Bracket bolts should be tightened to the steering section spec in the service manual, and it’s smart to book a wheel alignment afterwards, fresh, firmer bushes can subtly alter toe.

Choosing parts comes down to feel and longevity. Genuine‑style rubber keeps the original comfort and isolation. Quality polyurethane options firm up the rack for a crisper wheel without going harsh—handy if the car often carries a load or tackles rutted rural lanes. Whatever the choice, spend a minute rechecking bracket torque after a few hundred kilometres as the bushes bed in.

• Service tip: inspect bushes whenever the car is on the hoist for tyres, brakes, or a PS leak.
• Watch for: clunks over speed bumps, vague steering, wandering, or uneven inner/outer tyre wear.
• Good practice: replace bushes in pairs and align the car after the job.

Popular questions

How can someone tell the steering bushes are worn on a 2002 Gran Move?

Typical signs are a dull knock over potholes, a steering wheel that feels loose right on centre, or the car tramlining on coarse roads. With the front end safely raised, a mechanic can lever the rack housing while watching the mounts—visible movement at the brackets usually means the bushes are past it.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing the steering rack bushes?

It’s strongly recommended. New bushes can shift the rack a few millimetres back to where it should live, which can change toe. An alignment locks in straight‑ahead feel and protects the tyres.

Rubber or polyurethane—what suits a Gran Move best?

Rubber keeps the factory ride and isolation, great for everyday commuting. Polyurethane tightens the steering feel and resists oil better, which helps if a small PS seep has been present or the car sees rough roads. Either works, quality and correct installation matter more than the material alone.