Parts for your 2002 Daihatsu Gran move-Strut mounts

2002 Daihatsu Gran Move strut mounts — what they do and when to replace

For the 2002 Daihatsu Gran Move (also known as the Pyzar in some markets), strut mounts are absolutely relevant and fitted to the front suspension. Technical sources including the Daihatsu Gran Move/Pyzar G3-series workshop manual (Suspension section, 1996–2002), Autodata Suspension & Steering for this model year, and major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., KYB and Monroe mounting kits) all specify a front MacPherson strut layout with a dedicated top mount and bearing. The rear uses a separate shock/beam arrangement and does not use strut mounts.

On this Gran Move, the front strut mounts do a double job: they isolate road vibration and noise from the body, and they provide the bearing surface that lets the strut pivot smoothly when steering. Inside the mount is a rubber insulator to soak up harshness, and a bearing (often integrated) that keeps steering light and precise. When the rubber perishes or the bearing dries out, owners can notice clunks over bumps, a notchy feel on turn-in, or uneven tyre wear.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the top mounts any time the front wheels, brakes, or struts are off. Look for cracked or mushroomed rubber, torn dust seals, rusty water tracks around the mount, or play when rocking the strut. A quick listen while turning the steering at a standstill can also pick up grinding or twanging sounds that point to a tired bearing.

• Common symptoms: front-end clunks, steering that sticks or self-centres poorly, vibration over small bumps, and scalloped inner or outer tyre wear.
• Typical lifespan: highly variable with roads and loads, but many will show age by 120,000–180,000 km or after a couple of shock absorber cycles.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: the strut is removed, the spring is compressed safely, and the old mount and bearing are swapped. It’s best practice to replace mounts in pairs, and to fit new dust boots and bump stops at the same time. Fresh upper nuts are recommended. After refit, a wheel alignment is essential—camber and toe can shift when the strut has been out, and the Gran Move’s light front end is sensitive to small changes.

Anyone chasing a quieter cabin and sharper steering feel will get great value from new strut mounts matched with quality struts. It keeps the little Daihatsu riding tight, tracks straight on coarse-chip roads, and helps tyres wear evenly—very Aussie and Kiwi-friendly motoring.

• Service tips:
  • Inspect mounts whenever front struts or springs are serviced.
  • Replace both sides together and book an alignment straight after.
  • Use a proper spring compressor and mark camber bolt positions during removal.

Popular questions

How can someone tell if the Gran Move’s strut mounts are worn?
Tell-tales include clunks over speed bumps, a creak or notch when turning the wheel at parking speeds, and a slight wander on coarse roads. Looking under the bonnet, a domed or split rubber around the top of the strut is another giveaway. Uneven front tyre wear can also point to a tired mount or bearing.

Should the strut mounts be replaced when fitting new front struts?
It’s a good idea. The labour overlaps heavily, and older mounts can spoil the feel of brand-new dampers. Replacing mounts, bearings, boots, and bump stops together restores steering smoothness and cuts noise, then a fresh alignment ties it all together.

Do rear struts on the Gran Move use mounts like the front?
No—on this model the rear uses a shock/beam arrangement rather than a MacPherson strut, so the dedicated strut top mount is a front-only item.